Aqualina Bahamas — Luxury Beachfront Condos for Canadian Investors & Snowbirds
Direct beachfront on Cable Beach, zero income tax, zero capital gains tax, and a clear path to Bahamas residency — all structured for Canadians. Guided by BREA-licensed agent Glenn Ferguson, 24+ years on the ground.
Aqualina Bahamas — Cable Beach luxury residences by Aristo Development
Why Canadian Investors & Snowbirds Are Choosing The Bahamas Over Florida
If you're based in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, or Montreal, you're likely weighing the same three goals: escaping winter, protecting capital, and building long-term lifestyle and legacy. Aqualina on Cable Beach sits exactly at that intersection — direct beachfront, resort-level amenities, and a stable US-dollar market with zero income tax, zero capital gains tax, and zero inheritance tax.
Unlike Florida or Arizona, The Bahamas eliminates the IRS complications that Canadian snowbirds face. No Substantial Presence Test, no Form 8840, no US estate tax exposure (which can reach 40% on US-situated assets for non-residents). You get the same warm winter lifestyle, the same USD currency exposure — without the American tax machinery.
Bahamas vs Canada: Property Tax Comparison for Canadian Investors
Understanding exactly where taxes apply — and where they don't — is the first step in structuring your Bahamas investment. The table below compares the two jurisdictions across every major tax category relevant to property ownership.
| Tax Category | 🇧🇸 The Bahamas | 🇨🇦 Canada (for residents) |
|---|---|---|
| Income Tax | 0% | Up to 54.8% (combined federal + provincial, 2025) |
| Capital Gains Tax | 0% | 50% inclusion rate (proposed 66.67% above $250K deferred to Jan 1, 2026) |
| Inheritance / Estate Tax | 0% | Deemed disposition at death (capital gains apply) |
| Rental Income Tax | 0% (business license required) | Taxed at marginal rate as worldwide income |
| Annual Property Tax | 0.625%–2% based on value & occupancy | Varies by municipality (typically 0.5%–2.5%) |
| Property Transfer Tax (VAT) | 10% flat for foreign buyers | Land transfer tax (varies by province, 0.5%–4%) |
| Wealth Tax / Net Worth Tax | 0% | 0% (though AMT may apply) |
| Currency | BSD pegged 1:1 to USD | CAD (floating) |
Sources: Bahamas Department of Inland Revenue; Canada Revenue Agency (CRA); Dept. of Finance Canada (Jan 2025 capital gains deferral announcement).
CRA Form T1135: Do You Need to Report Your Aqualina Property?
Canadian residents who own specified foreign property with a total cost exceeding $100,000 CAD must file Form T1135 (Foreign Income Verification Statement) annually with their tax return. Here's how it applies to an Aqualina purchase:
When T1135 Applies
If you rent your Aqualina unit — even for part of the year — with a reasonable expectation of profit, the property is classified as specified foreign property and must be reported. At Aqualina's price point ($2.65M+ USD / approximately $3.6M+ CAD), you fall into Part B detailed reporting, which requires maximum fair market value during the year, year-end FMV, and all income and gains.
When T1135 Does Not Apply
If your Aqualina unit is used primarily (more than 50%) for personal use and is never rented for profit, it qualifies as personal-use property and is exempt from T1135 filing. The CRA evaluates this on a case-by-case basis — casual cost-recovery rental without expectation of profit may still qualify as personal use.
| T1135 Scenario | Filing Required? | Reporting Level |
|---|---|---|
| Personal vacation home only — never rented | No (personal-use exemption) | N/A |
| Used 7 months personal, rented 5 months for profit | Yes (rental = specified foreign property) | Part B (cost >$250K CAD) |
| Rented year-round through Aqualina rental program | Yes | Part B (detailed) |
| Rented casually, no expectation of profit, just covering expenses | CRA may exempt (case-by-case) | Consult tax advisor |
Bahamas vs Florida: Why More Canadian Snowbirds Are Switching
Florida has been the default snowbird destination for decades. But for Canadian investors, The Bahamas eliminates several costly complications that come with US property ownership.
| Factor | 🇧🇸 The Bahamas | 🇺🇸 Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Income Tax on Rental | 0% | US federal + potentially state (FL has no state income tax, but federal applies) |
| Capital Gains Tax | 0% | US federal CGT (15%–23.8% depending on income) |
| US Estate Tax Risk | Not applicable | Up to 40% on US-situated assets above $60,000 for non-residents |
| Substantial Presence Test | Not applicable | IRS 3-year weighted formula — can trigger US tax on worldwide income |
| IRS Filing Required? | No | Form 8840 (minimum), possibly 1040NR |
| New 2025 US Rules | Not applicable | 30-day registration requirement for Canadians staying 30+ days (DHS, effective April 2025) |
| Currency | BSD pegged 1:1 to USD | USD |
| Residency Pathway | EPR from $1M property investment | No direct property-to-residency program |
| Flight from Toronto | ~3.5 hours direct | ~3 hours direct (to Miami/Fort Lauderdale) |
| Commonwealth / Legal System | Yes — English common law | US legal system |
Sources: IRS Publication 519; Cardinal Point Wealth Management (Jan 2026, re: new DHS rules); USCIS alien registration rules; Bahamas Immigration Dept.
Canadian Investor? Talk to Glenn
Get Aqualina availability, pricing, and a Canadian-specific closing cost breakdown — no obligation.
Inside Aqualina: What Canadian Buyers Need to Know
Aqualina is a $100 million ultra-luxury development by Aristo Development (Jason Kinsale) on Cable Beach, adjacent to the $3.5 billion Baha Mar Resort. With just 27 residences across 11 stories, it's one of the most exclusive addresses in The Bahamas.
| Aqualina Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Developer | Aristo Development (Jason Kinsale) — $250M+ Bahamas portfolio |
| Location | Cable Beach, Nassau — adjacent to Baha Mar Resort |
| Total Units | 27 residences across 11 stories |
| Bedrooms | 3 and 4 bedroom configurations |
| Size Range | 2,577 sqft – 7,500+ sqft |
| Entry Price | From approximately $2.65M (USD) |
| Penthouse Record | $11M+ (Cable Beach record — Nassau Guardian, Aug 2021) |
| Amenities | Infinity pool, beach club, boat club (43' Midnight Express), tennis/pickleball, yoga/fitness, 24hr concierge, EV charging |
| Rental Program | Optional, professionally managed, short + long-term, no blackout periods |
| EPR Eligible | All units exceed $1M minimum; most qualify for accelerated processing ($1.5M+) |
Total Closing Costs for a Canadian Buyer at Aqualina
As a non-Bahamian purchaser, you pay a flat 10% VAT on conveyance (typically split 50/50 with the seller), plus legal fees and title insurance. All amounts are in USD (BSD pegged 1:1).
| Cost Item | Rate / Range | On $2.65M Unit |
|---|---|---|
| VAT on Conveyance (buyer's 50% share) | 5% of purchase price | $132,500 |
| Legal Fees | ~2.5% of purchase price | $66,250 |
| VAT on Legal Fees | 10% of legal fees | $6,625 |
| Title Insurance | 0.5%–1% | $13,250–$26,500 |
| Recording Fees | Nominal | ~$500 |
| Total Estimated Closing (Buyer) | ~8%–9% | $219,125–$232,375 |
VAT split is market convention (50/50) and negotiable. Legal fees vary by firm. Confirm all costs with your Bahamas attorney before signing. Source: BREA; Bahamas VAT Act (Amendment) 2022.
Annual Holding Costs for Aqualina Owners
Your ongoing costs depend on whether you occupy the unit or use it as an investment property. Non-owner-occupied rates are higher for real property tax.
| Annual Cost | Owner-Occupied | Non-Owner-Occupied (Investment) |
|---|---|---|
| Real Property Tax | ~$23,500/yr (first $300K exempt, 0.625% on $300K–$500K, 1% above) | ~$48,000/yr (1% on first $500K, 2% above $500K) |
| HOA / Condo Fees | ~$1.00–$1.25/sqft/month ($31,000–$39,000/yr for 2,600 sqft) | |
| Building Insurance | Included in HOA | |
| Contents Insurance | ~$2,000–$4,000/yr | |
| Business License (if renting) | N/A | $250–$1,250/yr |
| Estimated Total/Year | ~$56,500–$66,500 | ~$81,250–$92,250 |
Real property tax rates: Real Property Tax (Amendment) Act, 2022. HOA fees are estimated based on comparable Cable Beach developments. Confirm current fees with Aristo Development.
Rental Income Strategy for Canadian Aqualina Owners
Aqualina's Cable Beach location — adjacent to the $3.5 billion Baha Mar Resort — positions it in one of Nassau's highest-demand rental corridors. The optional rental program provides professional management, aggressive online marketing, and flexibility.
How Rental Income Works for Canadians
In The Bahamas: Rental income is tax-free. You need a business license ($250–$1,250/year) if you rent commercially. Short-term rentals under 45 days attract 10% VAT; rentals over 45 days are VAT-exempt.
In Canada: Bahamas rental income must be reported on your Canadian return as worldwide income (Line 12600). Since The Bahamas charges no income tax, you cannot claim a foreign tax credit — the full amount is taxed at your Canadian marginal rate. You can deduct expenses including property management fees, HOA fees, insurance, property tax, depreciation (CCA), and travel costs to inspect the property.
Bahamas EPR: Permanent Residency Through Your Aqualina Purchase
Every Aqualina unit exceeds the minimum property investment required for Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency (EPR). This is one of the most compelling advantages for Canadian buyers seeking long-term lifestyle and tax planning flexibility.
| EPR Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum Property Investment | $1,000,000 (increased from $750,000 on Jan 1, 2025) |
| Accelerated Processing | $1,500,000+ — reviewed within 21 days |
| Property Hold Period | 10 years minimum |
| Annual Presence | 90 days per year in The Bahamas |
| Family Coverage | Includes spouse and dependent children |
| Work Permit | Separate application required (EPR ≠ work rights) |
| Canadian Citizenship Impact | None — Canada permits dual residency |
Sources: Bahamas Immigration Department; Dept. of Immigration (Jan 2025 threshold update).
Capital Gains When You Eventually Sell Your Aqualina Unit
The Bahamas charges zero capital gains tax. However, Canada taxes 50% of your capital gain as income (the inclusion rate for 2025; the proposed increase to 66.67% on gains above $250,000 was deferred by the Department of Finance to January 1, 2026).
Key Rules for Canadian Sellers
The principal residence exemption does not apply to foreign investment or vacation properties. You must report the disposition on Schedule 3 of your Canadian return, with all amounts converted to CAD using Bank of Canada spot rates on the purchase and sale dates. Since no Bahamas CGT is paid, no foreign tax credit is available — the full taxable portion is subject to Canadian income tax.
8-Step Aqualina Purchase Process for Canadian Buyers
Step 1 — Initial Consultation with Glenn
Tell me what you already own in Canada and elsewhere, your target budget in USD, and whether you're focused on winter lifestyle, rental income, residency, or all three. I'll send you current Aqualina availability and floor plans.
Step 2 — Virtual or In-Person Tour
I provide video walkthroughs, floor-plan comparisons with ONE Cable Beach and Goldwynn, and real-time construction updates. Many Canadians reserve a unit virtually before visiting.
Step 3 — Reserve Your Unit
A reservation deposit secures your chosen unit. I'll coordinate with Aristo Development on timing and payment terms.
Step 4 — Engage Bahamas Attorney
Your attorney handles title search, due diligence, SPA review, and Bahamas Investment Authority registration. I recommend firms experienced with Canadian cross-border transactions.
Step 5 — CAD→USD Transfer & FX Planning
Canada has no capital controls — you can transfer unlimited funds. I recommend using a specialist FX provider for better rates than retail banking. Track every exchange rate for your adjusted cost base.
Step 6 — Sign SPA & Pay Deposits
The Sale and Purchase Agreement outlines payment milestones, completion timeline, and closing conditions. Deposits are held in an escrow arrangement.
Step 7 — Closing & Title Transfer
Your attorney completes conveyance, VAT payment, and title registration. I coordinate the timeline so everything aligns with your Canadian tax planning.
Step 8 — EPR Application (If Desired)
With property ownership confirmed, I assist with your Bahamas EPR application — including spouse and dependent children. Learn more about EPR →
Get Aqualina Availability & Canadian Investor Package
Tell me where you're based in Canada, your target investment range in USD, and whether you're focused on a winter home, rental income, residency — or all three. I'll send a tailored shortlist with closing cost estimates and tax-planning notes.
Prefer a Conversation Instead?
Canadian Buyer FAQs: Aqualina & Bahamas Property Investment
Can a Canadian citizen legally buy a condo at Aqualina Bahamas?
Yes. Canadian citizens and permanent residents can purchase freehold property at Aqualina and hold title in their own name, a Canadian corporation, or a trust. The Bahamas imposes no restrictions on foreign property ownership for condos. Your acquisition is registered with the Bahamas Investment Authority as a formality — no special permits are required. Glenn coordinates the entire process from Canada. Can a foreigner buy in The Bahamas? →
Do I need to file CRA Form T1135 after buying at Aqualina?
It depends on how you use the property. If your Aqualina unit is used primarily (more than 50%) for personal enjoyment and is never rented with a reasonable expectation of profit, it qualifies as personal-use property and is exempt from T1135. If you rent it — even part of the year — the property becomes specified foreign property and must be reported annually. At Aqualina's cost ($2.65M+ USD ≈ $3.6M+ CAD), you'd use Part B (detailed reporting). Late filing triggers penalties of $25/day up to $2,500. Always discuss with your accountant before closing. Bahamas real estate tax guide →
How is Bahamas rental income taxed in Canada?
The Bahamas charges 0% income tax on rental earnings. However, as a Canadian tax resident, you must report worldwide income — including Bahamas rental income — on your Canadian return at your marginal rate. Since no Bahamas tax is levied, you cannot claim a foreign tax credit. You can deduct allowable expenses: property management, HOA fees, insurance, property tax, depreciation (CCA), and reasonable travel to inspect the property. Ask Glenn about rental projections →
What are the total closing costs for a Canadian buyer at Aqualina?
For non-Bahamian buyers: VAT on conveyance is 10% (typically split 50/50, so your share is 5% of purchase price). Legal fees run ~2.5% plus 10% VAT on legal. Title insurance is 0.5–1%. On a $2.65M unit, expect approximately $219,000–$232,000 in buyer-side closing costs. All transactions are in USD. There are no Canadian-side taxes on the purchase itself — only your ongoing CRA reporting obligations. Complete buying guide →
Can buying at Aqualina give my family Bahamas permanent residency?
Yes. Every Aqualina unit exceeds the $1,000,000 EPR minimum (increased from $750,000 on January 1, 2025). Units above $1.5M qualify for accelerated 21-day processing. EPR includes your spouse and dependent children, requires a 10-year property hold and 90 days annual presence, and grants the right to live and bank in The Bahamas. Glenn handles both the purchase and EPR filing. Residency by investment guide →
How does owning Bahamas property affect my Canadian tax residency?
Owning foreign property alone does not change your CRA tax residency. The CRA determines residency by your residential ties: home in Canada, spouse/dependents in Canada, bank accounts, driver's licence, provincial health coverage, and social connections. If you sever significant ties and establish Bahamas residency, departure tax may apply (deemed disposition of worldwide assets at FMV). Since no Canada-Bahamas tax treaty exists, there are no treaty tie-breaker rules. This is specialist territory — consult a cross-border tax advisor before making changes. Discuss residency strategy with Glenn →
What happens when I sell — capital gains in Canada?
The Bahamas charges 0% capital gains tax. In Canada, 50% of your capital gain is included in taxable income (2025 inclusion rate; proposed increase to 66.67% above $250K deferred to Jan 1, 2026 per Dept. of Finance announcement). The principal residence exemption does NOT apply to foreign vacation/investment property. Convert all amounts to CAD at Bank of Canada rates on purchase and sale dates. Track your adjusted cost base from day one — it includes purchase price, closing costs, and capital improvements. Tax guide →
How does Bahamas compare to Florida for Canadian snowbirds?
The Bahamas eliminates IRS complications: no Substantial Presence Test, no Form 8840, no US estate tax (up to 40% for non-residents), and no new 2025 DHS 30-day registration rules. Both offer warm weather and USD currency exposure. The Bahamas adds 0% income tax, 0% CGT, 0% estate tax, and EPR residency from $1M. Flight times from Toronto/Montreal are comparable. The Bahamas is a Commonwealth nation with English common law — a familiar legal framework for Canadians. Compare options with Glenn →
Can I use Aqualina part of the year and rent it the rest?
Yes. Aqualina's optional rental program has no blackout periods — use it when you want, rent it when you don't. Both short-term and long-term rentals are permitted with professional management. Important CRA note: renting with expectation of profit makes the property specified foreign property (T1135 required). Rental income is tax-free in The Bahamas but fully taxable in Canada at your marginal rate. You can deduct expenses against the income. Bahamas Airbnb profit guide →
Is there a tax treaty between Canada and The Bahamas?
No Double Taxation Treaty exists (The Bahamas doesn't levy direct taxes, so there's nothing to treaty over). A Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA) does exist, allowing CRA and Bahamas authorities to share tax-related information per the agreement signed under the Department of Finance. In practice, the lack of a treaty has minimal impact because there's no double taxation — Bahamas taxes are zero. Your obligation is simply to report worldwide income to CRA. Ask Glenn about tax planning →
What annual holding costs should I budget for Aqualina?
For an investment unit at $2.65M: real property tax ~$48,000/yr (non-owner-occupied rates: 1% on first $500K, 2% above), HOA/condo fees ~$31,000–$39,000/yr, contents insurance ~$2,000–$4,000/yr, business license ~$250–$1,250/yr. Total: approximately $81,000–$92,000/yr. Owner-occupied rates are significantly lower (~$56,000–$66,000/yr). EPR holders spending 90+ days annually may qualify for owner-occupied rates. Property tax calculator →
How do I start the Aqualina purchase process from Canada?
WhatsApp or call Glenn Ferguson at +1-242-395-8495. BREA licensed agent #1247, Bahamas MLS member, Residency Consultant — 24+ years helping international buyers. Glenn provides current Aqualina availability, pricing, floor plans, coordinates your Bahamas attorney, advises on CAD→USD timing, and manages the entire process from offer through closing and EPR application. Glenn's full credentials →
Related Guides for Canadian Buyers
Sources & References
- CRA — Form T1135 Foreign Income Verification Statement (canada.ca/en/revenue-agency — current)
- CRA — Determining Your Residency Status (canada.ca — current)
- CRA — T1135 Questions and Answers: personal-use property exemption (canada.ca — current)
- Dept. of Finance Canada — Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Deferral Announcement (Jan 31, 2025)
- Dept. of Finance Canada — Canada-Bahamas Tax Information Exchange Agreement (fin.gc.ca)
- Bahamas Immigration Department — EPR $1M minimum effective January 1, 2025
- Bahamas Real Property Tax (Amendment) Act, 2022 — owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied rates
- Bahamas VAT Act (Amendment) 2022 — 10% flat rate for non-Bahamian purchasers
- AqualinaBahamas.com — 27 units, 11 stories, $100M development, from $2.65M
- Nassau Guardian (Aug 2021) — Aqualina penthouse sold $11M+ (Cable Beach record)
- Cardinal Point Wealth Management (Jan 2026) — New DHS 30-day registration rules for Canadian snowbirds
- IRS Publication 519 — US estate tax for non-residents ($60,000 threshold, up to 40% rate)
- Croner-i Worldwide Tax Treaties — Bahamas has no double tax treaties (does not levy direct taxes)
Glenn S. Ferguson
Licensed Bahamas Real Estate Agent (BREA #1247) · Bahamas MLS Member · Licensed Marriage Officer · WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner · Residency Consultant · 24+ Years in The Bahamas
📞 1-242-395-8495 · 💬 WhatsApp
To add this web app to your homescreen, click on the "Share" icon
![]()
Then click on "Add to Home"

To add this web app to your homescreen, click on the "Share" icon
![]()
Then click on "Add to Home"

It looks like your browser doesn't natively support "Add To Homescreen", or you have disabled it (or maybe you have already added this web app to your applications?)
In any case, please check your browser options and information, thanks!
It looks like your browser doesn't natively support "Add To Homescreen", or you have disabled it (or maybe you have already added this web app to your applications?)
In any case, please check your browser options and information, thanks!
