New Providence Bahamas
No income tax
35 min to Miami
Foreign buyers welcome
English common law

Buyer Guide II

Bahamas Permanent Residency Through Real Estate

How a property purchase supports residency — and why the threshold changed in 2025.

A real estate purchase can support your path to Bahamas residency. A purchase from $250,000 supports an annual residency application, while $1,000,000 or more qualifies you to apply for Economic Permanent Residency.

What thresholds apply in 2026?

The thresholds are tied to your property investment. Note that the Economic Permanent Residency threshold rose to $1,000,000 on January 1, 2025 — the older $750,000 figure is outdated.

  • $250,000+ supports an annual residency application
  • $1,000,000+ qualifies you to apply for Economic Permanent Residency
  • $1,500,000+ may qualify for expedited review

What are the practical requirements?

Permanent residents are generally expected to spend around 90 days per year in the Bahamas, and the qualifying asset is typically held for about 10 years. Residency is not the same as citizenship.

What should US and Canadian buyers know?

US citizens are taxed on worldwide income regardless of residency — consult a cross-border advisor before making changes. Canadian buyers should get Canadian tax advice before changing their tax status.

This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Confirm details with a licensed Bahamian attorney and, for tax matters, a qualified cross-border tax advisor before purchasing.

Questions

Frequently asked

A purchase from $250,000 supports an annual residency application; $1,000,000+ qualifies you to apply for Economic Permanent Residency.

Have a question this guide didn't answer?

Paul works with international buyers every week and can walk you through your specific situation — no obligation.

Contact Paul · (242) 424-7100