In 1993, the International Persons Land Ownership Act was put in place to encourage foreigners to purchase a second home in the Bahamas. And it couldn’t be simpler. If a foreigner buys a single-family home or a vacant lot to use for the construction of said home, he no longer needs to obtain a permit from the Government before the purchase. He just needs to register the acquisition later with the Board of Investments. Permanent residents of the Bahamas and foreigners who inherit property in the Bahamas do not have to obtain a permit before acquiring the land, but must register afterwards.

However, there are instances where a Bahamas real estate permit will be required. First, if the property is undeveloped land and five acres or more. Second, if the property is not a private residence, or is not intended for development as such, a permit is required.

When dealing with mortgages, the law is not meant to be an obstacle. In fact, it states that licensed banks, trusts, and insurance companies that acquire an interest or take possession of property pursuant to a court order must register that acquisition. Acquisition by way of foreclosure or of land acquired by an authorized foreign state will not require a permit but must be registered.

With leases, foreigners are not required to obtain permits, register leases or lease agreements unless they are for business or commercial purposes and the term can exceed 21 years.

The government has not only made it easier for foreigners to own a second home, but has also included a condition that a foreigner no longer pay a double rate of stamp duty; now he pays the same flat rate as a Bahamian.

Stamp duty is a tax that is paid on the surrender of all real estate based on value as follows: Stamp duty starts at 2% for real estate valued at less than $20,000 USD, but increases at 10% for real estate over $250,000 USD. The payment of this tax is usually divided equally between the seller and the buyer. There is also a 1% stamp duty on mortgages paid by the borrower. The usual practice in the Bahamas is that the tax is shared equally between the buyer and the seller, unless otherwise agreed.

If you enter the Bahamas, you must complete an embarkation-disembarkation card that is usually provided by your travel agent, the airline or the ship you are traveling on. No visa or passport is required if you are a Canadian citizen or UK national, unless the stay exceeds three weeks. US citizens on scheduled airlines, pre-cleared for return at US Customs and Immigration at Nassau International Airport, also do not require a visa (although proof of citizenship is required).

You are allowed a maximum stay of eight months with the proper documents including a return ticket and evidence of financial support. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for temporary residence to the Director of Immigration. However, if you want to make the Bahamas your permanent residence through a Bahamas real estate investment, you will need to apply for permanent residence. If you plan to work in the Bahamas, you must apply for a separate work permit.

There are different levels of residency. The first is permanent residence which requires the purchase of a residence of more than $500,000, subject to a one-time payment of $10,000. Another level of residency is homeownership where there is no minimum purchase required, however your card must be renewed each year for a $1000 fee. And the last level of residency is an annual residency where, again, there is no minimum purchase required, but you must renew each year for a fee of $1000.

Owning real estate in the Bahamas sounds spectacularly easy and that’s because it is. But there are a few things to keep in mind when making an investment of this size. Here are some guidelines to help you when buying property in the Bahamas:

-Think about location: Depending on where you shop, prices will vary. On the main islands, such as New Providence and Grand Bahama, prices are more than double the prices in Florida. If you are looking for an investment property, these would be good options. If you’re looking to buy a quiet retreat, consider something on the family islands, as they’re less expensive.

-Take a look: Once you have decided where you would like to buy a property, the next step is to take a look at more than one property so you can get a general idea of ​​the market.

-Take a second look: It’s a good idea to have the property checked out by a certified professional in case there are any hidden surprises!

So whether you’re making an investment or buying a vacation home, the Bahamas will welcome you with open arms. All you have to do is make your ticket to paradise!