Why Indian Investors Are Choosing The Bahamas for Residency (2025)

Why Indian Investors Are Choosing The Bahamas for Residency (2025)

Tax-efficient living • Western Hemisphere base • Luxury lifestyle

Updated & fact-checked for 2025 One-Page Guide

1) Tax Advantages

  • 0% personal income, capital gains, inheritance/estate, and wealth taxes in The Bahamas. Government revenue relies on VAT, stamp duties, customs/imports, and property taxes.
  • India has no DTAA with The Bahamas—only a Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA). Any India-side relief depends on your Indian tax residency status and specific income streams. Obtain India-qualified tax advice before changes.

2) Residency by Real-Estate Investment (EPR)

  • Minimum investment: USD $1,000,000 (effective Jan 1, 2025) in Bahamian real estate or Central Bank zero-coupon bonds for Economic Permanent Residence.
  • Hold period: Qualifying asset must be held for at least 10 years.
  • Accelerated consideration: Applications linked to residences of about $1.5M+ are commonly expedited (priority processing, not a separate status).
  • Work rights: PR does not automatically grant an open right to work; you may work in your own business or apply for authorization.

3) Lifestyle & Connectivity

  • Fast U.S. access—Nassau–Miami is ~50–65 minutes nonstop, with frequent flights to major U.S./EU hubs.
  • English-speaking, common-law jurisdiction with international schools and strong private healthcare.

4) Business & Asset Structuring

  • International finance hub (trusts, foundations, IBCs/LDCs) for asset protection and estate planning.
  • Exchange controls exist, but registered non-resident investors can typically repatriate capital and profits—coordinate with advisors/authorized dealers.

5) Strategic Benefits for Indian Families

  • Establish a tax-efficient base outside India (subject to Indian residency rules).
  • Diversify assets into Western Hemisphere real estate with U.S. adjacency.
  • Enjoy lifestyle, education, and travel convenience with close U.S. access.

Quick Reference

  • EPR Minimum: USD $1,000,000 (real estate or approved bonds)
  • Hold: 10 years (qualifying asset)
  • Expedited Path: Often around $1.5M+ residences
  • Taxes: 0% personal income / capital gains / inheritance / wealth
  • Caveats: Exchange controls exist; PR ≠ open work permit

This summary is general information and may change. Always confirm current policy and seek India-qualified tax advice.

Speak with Glenn Ferguson, Bahamas Realtor & Residency Consultant

Speak with Glenn - Your Architect to Luxury Island Living in the Bahamas

24+ years experience • Licensed Bahamas Real Estate Agent • Residency Consultant

Website: homesforsaleinnassaubahamas.com

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FAQ

What is the minimum investment for Bahamas residency in 2025?

USD $1,000,000 in qualifying Bahamian real estate or Central Bank zero-coupon bonds for the Economic Permanent Residence (EPR). The qualifying asset must be held for at least 10 years.

Does Bahamas permanent residence grant the right to work?

PR does not automatically grant an open work permit. You can typically work in your own business or apply separately for authorization.

Is there a tax treaty between India and The Bahamas?

No DTAA exists between India and The Bahamas. There is a TIEA. Any India-side tax outcome depends on your Indian tax residency and the nature of your income.

How fast is processing if I buy a $1.5M+ residence?

Applications tied to residences around $1.5M+ are often given accelerated (expedited) consideration, which prioritizes processing rather than granting a different status.

© 2025 Glenn Ferguson. Information provided for general guidance. This is not legal, tax, or immigration advice.

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