Visa for the Bahamas: All Requirements in 2025

If the Maldives are too crowded but you’re still dreaming of a luxurious beach vacation, choose the Bahamas. Here you will find everything needed for a perfect beach getaway — pristine waters, white sandy beaches, lush greenery, comfortable resorts, and breathtaking natural scenery. Unique experiences are even on offer — where else can you swim in the sea with wild pigs? Only in the Bahamas. Read on for information on how to enter this amazing country. In the meantime, feel free to book your hotels on the islands.

Do I Need a Visa for the Bahamas?

Belarusians must apply for a Bahamian visa in advance. For tourism and country exploration, a tourist visa (which allows you to stay on the islands for up to 90 days) is recommended, although transit and business visas are also available. The latter can be useful when organizing business trips. 

Application Process

Travelers need to obtain an electronic visa for the Bahamas. You can apply for it through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal of the Bahamian Government. First, the system will determine your visitor category, then it will ask for the necessary personal information. Fill in all the fields according to the instructions on the site. 

On the same portal, you can pay the consular fee online using a credit card. There is also an option to save a partially completed application and resume it later. Separate tabs allow you to add new photos or documents if necessary after your application is reviewed, as well as to track the status of your claim. All of this is required when applying for a work visa or group tours.

Documents for the Visa:

Scanned digital copies of the following documents must be dated within the last six months. All certificates such as marriage or birth certificates must be translated into English. Documents should be provided in PDF format:

• One digital photograph (the portal includes a link to a guide with full requirements);
• Completed and signed application form;
• A photocopy of the passport pages with your photo and personal information;
• A letter from your employer stating your position and salary;
• A bank statement or a recommendation letter from your bank confirming your financial stability;
• A police certificate proving the absence of any criminal record;
• A medical certificate detailing your health condition;
• The anticipated address where you will be staying in the Bahamas or the location of the yacht during a cruise;
• The proposed itinerary and travel dates;
• A copy of your children’s birth certificate (when applying for a visa for a child);
• Confirmation of legal status in your country of residence — a work permit, spouse’s residency permit, or a residence card.

How Much Does a Visa for the Bahamas Cost?

The cost of a tourist visa depends on the exchange rate and whether you submit your documents on your own or via a visa agency. If you hire professionals, the process will cost between $200 and $400 (including the consular fee). If you handle the e-visa application yourself, it will cost $160.

Processing Times

Submitted documents are processed within seven to ten days, but it is wise to start the visa process well in advance — roughly one month before your departure date. Once you receive a positive response, be sure to buy your airline tickets immediately.

Visa Extension

If you find yourself wanting to extend your stay while on the island, you can contact the country’s immigration authorities. However, it is important to do this before your current entry permit expires.

Visa Denial

The consul’s decision can be negative, and permission to enter may be denied. This can happen if:

• You submitted an incomplete set of documents or there are mistakes in them; 
• There is no proof of financial stability;
• There are suspicions of violations of migration laws or involvement in illegal activities.

You can avoid any complications by confirming all document requirements in advance and double-checking them before submitting.

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