Bahamas•North AmericaEconomic Permanent Residence (EPR)
At a Glance
Varies
USD $20,000
10 years
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Lifetime permanent residence for foreign nationals who invest a minimum of BSD $1 million in Bahamian real estate or Zero Coupon Bonds held for at least 10 years, with no right to work.
The Economic Permanent Residence (EPR) program was integrated into the Immigration Act to attract high-net-worth individuals to contribute to the nation's economic development. By requiring a minimum investment of BSD $1 million in approved real estate or government-issued zero-coupon bonds, the program provides a streamlined pathway to permanent status for affluent investors. It fills the gap for international investors seeking a stable, tax-neutral environment for their assets while securing a lifetime right to reside in the country.
This program is for foreign nationals who are at least 18 years old, possess good character, and have the financial capacity to invest significantly in the Bahamian economy. It is particularly attractive to retirees, investors, and business professionals who do not intend to seek local employment but wish to establish a primary or secondary home. Its most distinctive feature is the lifetime nature of the status, which offers long-term security and flexibility for investors and their families without requiring them to work locally.
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must be of good character.
Must be in good health.
Must make a minimum investment of USD 1,000,000 in approved real estate or Central Bank Zero Coupon Bonds.
Investment must be held for at least 10 years.
Must intend to reside in The Bahamas for at least 90 days per year.
Must be able to verify economic worth and self-sufficiency.
KEY CRITERIA
Investment
1,000,000 USD
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Police certificate
Medical certificate
Passport photographs
Bank statements
Employment history
Family documentation
Investment documentation (sponsor)
Proof of ownership (sponsor)
Financial statements (sponsor)
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Lifetime permanent residence status.
- Access to a tax-neutral environment (no personal income, capital gains, or inheritance tax).
- Spouse and dependent children can be endorsed on the certificate.
- Accelerated consideration available for investments of USD 1.5 million or more.
- Right to reside without the need for annual renewals.
Worth Knowing
- Does not grant the right to work (requires a separate work permit).
- Does not confer citizenship or the right to vote.
- Requires a 10-year commitment to the investment.
- Must file a declaration every 10 years confirming no material changes.
- Processing can take 6 to 18 months.
Application Process
Identify investment opportunity
Select real estate property ($750,000+) or Central Bank Zero Coupon Bonds ($1 million+)
Secure investment
Complete property purchase or bond acquisition to secure minimum $1 million investment
Prepare application
Compile documentation including investment proof, criminal background check, medical evaluation
Obtain police certificate
Get criminal background clearance from country of residence
Medical examination
Complete medical screening
Submit application
File complete application to Department of Immigration
Attend interview
Interview scheduled within 2-3 months of application submission
Final processing
Application decision made, can take 6-18 months total
Receive residency certificate
Permanent residency certificate issued upon approval
Related visas
More visas in Bahamas
- Home Owner Identification Card
Residency
- Annual Homeowner's Residence Card
Residency
- Permanent Residence Certificate
Family
Investment visas in other countries
- Golden Visa - Real Estate Investment (Χρυσή Βίζα Ακίνητης Περιουσίας - B.5)
Greece
- Golden Visa (5/10 Year)
United Arab Emirates
- Citizenship by Investment - Real Estate
Antigua and Barbuda
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