If you’re planning a trip to the Bahamas, you might be wondering what to expect when you arrive. Whether you’re arriving by boat or plane, all visitors must clear customs and immigration before entering the country. This process involves presenting your passport and other relevant documents, as well as declaring any goods you are bringing into the country.

Overall, customs and immigration in the Bahamas are pretty hassle-free, but it’s important to be aware of any requirements before arriving. The Bahamian government provides helpful resources to guide visitors through the process, so you can be prepared and ensure a smooth entry into the country.

Forms

If you arrive in the Bahamas by boat, there are several forms that you will need to fill out in order to comply with Bahamian regulations. These forms typically need to be completed by the captain of the vessel and submitted to Bahamian authorities upon arrival. Here are some of the most common forms you may need to fill out:

1. Bahamas Immigration Card: All visitors to the Bahamas, including those arriving by boat, are required to fill out a Bahamas Immigration Card upon arrival. This form collects basic information about each person on board, such as name, nationality, and passport number.
2. Customs Clearance Form: All vessels arriving in the Bahamas must complete a Customs Clearance Form. This form is used to declare any items or goods that are being brought into the country and to pay any applicable duties or taxes. The form includes information about the vessel, the crew, and any passengers on board, as well as a list of all items being brought into the country.
3. Maritime Declaration of Health: This form is used to report any illnesses or health issues that may be present on board the vessel. It is typically completed by the captain of the vessel and submitted to Bahamian health officials upon arrival.
4. Advance Notification Form: If you are arriving in the Bahamas on a private or commercial vessel, you may need to submit an Advance Notification Form to the Bahamian authorities prior to your arrival. This form includes information about the vessel, the crew, and any passengers on board, and is used to facilitate the clearance process upon arrival.

 

It’s a good idea to consult with the Bahamian authorities or a qualified agent before you arrive to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and forms in order.

https://www.bahamascustoms.gov.bs/visitor-info/marine-vessel-declarations-cruising-permits/

Permits

If you arrive in the Bahamas by boat, there are several permits that you may need to obtain in order to comply with Bahamian regulations. These permits typically need to be obtained before you arrive in the Bahamas, and you will need to have them on board with you when you arrive. Here are some of the most common permits you may need to obtain:

1. Cruising Permit: Under customs regulation, captains sailing pleasure vessels not carrying cargo and operated for pleasure and recreation only, must apply for a cruising permit in order to sail from island to island within The Bahamas.This permit is valid for up to one year and allows you to sail freely throughout the Bahamas. You can apply for a cruising permit in person at one of the Bahamas Customs offices or marinas located throughout the islands. You can also apply for a cruising permit online through the Bahamas Customs Department’s Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA). 
2. Fishing Permit: If you plan to fish in the Bahamas, you will need to obtain a Fishing Permit from the Bahamas Department of Marine Resources. This permit is required for both recreational and commercial fishing.
3. Temporary Importation Permit: If you are bringing a foreign-registered vessel into the Bahamas for a temporary period of time, you will need to obtain a Temporary Importation Permit from the Bahamas Customs Department. This permit allows you to bring in the vessel without paying any import duties, provided that the vessel will not be sold or leased while in the Bahamas.
4. Transit Log: If you are stopping in the Bahamas on your way to another destination, you may need to obtain a Transit Log. This document provides information about the vessel and its crew, and must be presented to Bahamian authorities upon arrival.

It’s important to note that the specific permits you will need to obtain may vary depending on the type of vessel you are arriving in, the length of your stay, and other factors. Therefore,we recommend you  to consult with the Bahamian authorities or a qualified agent before you arrive to ensure that you have all the necessary permits in order.

https://www.bahamascustoms.gov.bs/visitor-info/marine-vessel-declarations-cruising-permits/ 

Forms

If you arrive in the Bahamas by plane, there are several forms that you will need to fill out in order to comply with Bahamian regulations. Here are some of the most common forms you may need to fill out:

1. Immigration Arrival Card: All visitors to the Bahamas are required to fill out an Immigration Arrival Card upon arrival. This form collects basic information such as name, nationality, and passport number.
2. Customs Declaration Form: All passengers arriving in the Bahamas must complete a Customs Declaration Form. This form is used to declare any items or goods that are being brought into the country and to pay any applicable duties or taxes.

It’s important to note that the specific forms you will need to fill out may vary depending on the purpose and length of your stay, as well as other factors. Therefore, it’s a good idea to consult with the Bahamian authorities or a qualified agent before you arrive to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and forms in order. https://www.bahamascustoms.gov.bs/visitor-info/arriving/#:~:text=All%20returning%20residents%20are%20required,items%20are%20required%20for%20processing.