Bahamas
Commonwealth of The Bahamas
Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime.
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.
Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due tocrime.
Country Summary:The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.
Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft may be poorly maintained and some operators may not have safety certifications. Due to these concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.
Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills. Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities. Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings.
Read the country information pagefor additional information on travel to The Bahamas.
If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:
- Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
- Review the Country Security Reportfor The Bahamas.
- Preparea contingency plan for emergency and medical situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
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Quick Facts
PASSPORT VALIDITY:
Passports must be valid at time of entry through departure (throughout the duration of stay).
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES:
Two pages are required for entry stamp.
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED:
No.
VACCINATIONS:
None.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY:
Visitors must declare currency and other negotiable instruments of $10,000 or more upon entry.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT:
Visitors must declare currency and other negotiable instruments of $10,000 or more upon exit.
ALL / ALL /
U.S. Embassy Nassau
P.O. Box N-8197
#42 Queen Street
Nassau, The Bahamas
Telephone: +(242) 322-1181
Emergency After-Hours Telephone:+(242) 322-1181
Email:ACSnassau@state.gov
Please visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on entry/ exit requirements related to COVID-19 inThe Bahamas.
Visit theBahamas Immigrationwebsite for the most current visa information. U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to The Bahamas, as well as proof of anticipated departure from The Bahamas. Those traveling to The Bahamas on a cruise may use anotherWestern Hemisphere Travel Initiative(WHTI) compliant document. However, we strongly recommend you obtain a passport before travel in case of an unforeseen emergency that requires you to disembark and return by air. U.S. travelers coming for tourism will not need a visa for travel up to 90 days. All other travelers will need a visa and/or work permit.
The Bahamas requires compliance with regulations to divert child abduction similar toU.S. policies. Review those policies before traveling.
HIV/AIDS restrictions:The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of The Bahamas.
Find information ondual nationality,prevention of international child abduction,andcustoms regulationson our websites.
Crime:The Department of State rates the criminal threat level in New Providence Island (includes Nassau and Paradise Island) as critical. The vast majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) Islands. Criminal activity on the outlying Family Islands does occur, but to a much lesser degree than on New Providence or Grand Bahama. In Nassau, exercise caution in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street). Violent crime such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults occur, but generally not in tourist areas. For the latestsecurity messages, visit our website.
Find more information about common safety and security concerns in The Bahamas includingcredit card fraud,real estate scams, andwater sport and scooter safetyon our website.
Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 919 or 911, and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(242) 322-1181. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
See our webpage onhelp for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
- help you find appropriate medical care
- assist you in reporting a crime to the police
- contact relatives or friends with your written consent
- explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
- provide a list of local attorneys
- provide information onvictim’s compensation programs in the United States
- provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
- help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
- replace a stolen or lost passport
Domestic Violence:U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
Adventure Tourism:Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft are often not maintained, and many companies do not have safety certifications to operate in The Bahamas. U.S. citizens seeking to engage in adventure tourism-related activities, including boat tours, are strongly encouraged to confirm the following with any tour operator:
- Credentials and certification to operate in The Bahamas
- Liability in the event of an accident
- Safety and rescue protocols for guides
Jet-Ski Operators:Jet-ski operators have been known to commit sexual assaults against tourists. As a result, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.
Hurricanes:Hurricane season generally runs from June through November, although hurricanes can occur outside that period. Monitor local weather reports closely. Airports and seaports cease operations well before a predicted storm arrives, and seats on most commercial transportation may sell out far in advance.
For more information on hurricane preparedness, please refer to the Department of State’s page onHurricane Safetyand the U.S. Embassy Nassau’sHurricane Preparednesspage.
Tourism:The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Criminal Penalties:You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website oncrimes against minors abroadand theDepartment of Justicewebsite.
Drugs:Marijuana and all products that contains its derivatives such as cannabidiol (CBD) andtetrahydrocannabinol(THC) -- to include gummies, oils and other edible products -- are NOT legal in The Bahamas.Having a prescription or medical card for cannabis/marijuana does not exempt you from being prosecuted under Bahamian law, which makes no distinction between medical and recreational use of marijuana.
The possession or use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, and ecstasy, is a criminal offense in The Bahamas and can result in time in prison. While visiting The Bahamas, you are subject to Bahamian law.Drug violators are regularly arrested, even for possession of small quantities. All persons 16 years of age or older in The Bahamas are tried as adults in court. If you are arrested for drug possession, you should expect to spend at least one night, and possibly longer, in custody. Stay away from drug traffickers, who may be often armed and violent. Do not accept packages from people you meet during your stay.
Firearms, Ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted in The Bahamas. According to The Bahamas Firearms Act, individuals found to have a firearm or ammunition in their possession without a legally issued Bahamian gun license face a penalty of up to 10 years’ incarceration and $10,000 fine. Declaring the weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into The Bahamas.
If you have a firearm or ammunition onboard a boat entering Bahamian waters, you must declare it with Bahamian Customs at the first point of entry. Only declared shotguns and handguns are allowed in Bahamian waters. You must provide the serial number, name of the manufacturer, and an exact count of ammunition. Declared firearms cannot be removed from your boat and must be kept locked at all times.
If a U.S. citizen illegally brings a firearm or ammunition into The Bahamas, the U.S. Embassy will not be able to secure their release. All foreign nationals are subject to Bahamian law and must follow local law enforcement procedures. Please read more information on the Department of State’s page for Travelers With Firearms here.
Arrest Notification:If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See ourwebpagefor further information. Travelers should also be aware that Bahamian laws do not include a right to a public defender in lower courts. Any legal representation is at the expense of the visitor.
Faith-Based Travelers:See the following webpages for details:
- Faith-Based Travel Information
- International Religious Freedom Report– see country reports
- Human Rights Report– see country reports
- Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
- Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad
LGBTI Travelers:There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in The Bahamas.
SeeourLGBTI Travel Informationpage and section 6 of ourHuman Rights reportfor further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance.Accessibility and accommodations in The Bahamas are very different from in the United States. Newer buildings, especially in tourism-centric areas are accessible, but many older buildings are not.
Students:See ourStudents Abroadpage andFBI travel tips.
Women Travelers:See our travel tips forWomen Travelers.
For more information aboutcustoms concerns,boating, andwildlife, please visit our website.
Please visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 inThe Bahamas.
Medical care is available on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. However, serious illnesses or injuries might not be treatable locally. Serious health problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost tens of thousands of dollars in up-front costs. Outer islands have only small clinics, and medical care is limited.
Ambulance service is available on the major islands, but traffic congestion on New Providence Island can cause delays.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government ofThe Bahamasto ensure the medication is legal in The Bahamas. Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in The Bahamas is on the left-hand side of the road. Traffic congestion in Nassau is severe, and drivers frequently display aggressive or careless tendencies. Accidents involving pedestrians on New Providence Island are common. Drive defensively and be alert to cars pulling out from side streets. Local practice is to allow this on an individual basis. It is not uncommon to see poorly maintained or excessively loaded vehicles on roadways. Rural roads can be narrow, winding, and in poor condition.
Road flooding occurs frequently in many areas, including Nassau and Freeport, during and after rainstorms. Be alert for unmarked or poorly marked construction zones.
Traffic Laws: Seatbelts are required for drivers and passengers in The Bahamas. Wearing helmets on a scooters and motorbikes is also compulsory.
Public Transportation: Public transportation is available by minibus (known as jitneys) and taxi. Jitneys stop frequently and often without warning at undesignated stops. Taxi fares are based on zones and surcharges can apply for additional passengers and luggage. It is important to agree on a fare prior to departing for the destination.
See ourRoad Safety pagefor more information. Visit the website ofThe Bahamas’Ministry of Tourismfor more information.
Aviation Safety Oversight: Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessedthe government of The Bahamas’ Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of The Bahamas’ air carrier operations. Further information may be found on theFAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel:Mariners planning travel to The Bahamas should also check forU.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to theU.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and theNGA broadcast warnings.
Fact Sheet
As an expert with in-depth knowledge of travel advisories and destination-specific information, I'd like to shed light on the key concepts mentioned in the provided article regarding the travel advisory for The Bahamas dated July 17, 2023.
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Exercise Increased Caution (Level 2):
- This advisory suggests that travelers should be more vigilant due to elevated crime levels in The Bahamas.
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Crime in The Bahamas:
- Most crime occurs in New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands.
- Specific areas, like the "Over the Hill" area in Nassau, are highlighted for increased caution due to gang-related violence.
- Violent crimes, including burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, can happen in both tourist and non-tourist areas.
- Caution is advised for those staying at short-term vacation rental properties without private security.
-
Commercial Recreational Watercraft:
- Activities involving water tours and commercial recreational watercraft may lack consistent regulation.
- Independent jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands are restricted for U.S. government personnel due to safety concerns.
-
General Safety Guidelines:
- Travelers are advised not to answer their door unless they know the visitor and not to resist any robbery attempt.
- Enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is recommended for emergency alerts and location assistance.
- Various social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, are suggested for following the Department of State.
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Passport and Visa Requirements:
- Passports must be valid throughout the stay, and two blank pages are required for entry stamps.
- Tourist visas are not required, but compliance with entry/exit regulations, especially related to COVID-19, is essential.
-
Health and Safety:
- Medical care is available on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands, but serious cases may require evacuation to the U.S.
- Adequate medical insurance coverage, including evacuation, is strongly recommended.
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Local Laws and Special Circ*mstances:
- The article emphasizes adherence to local laws, with specific warnings about drug-related offenses, firearm possession, and associated penalties.
- Travelers are advised to be cautious about marijuana-related laws and the legal consequences of drug offenses.
-
Transportation and Road Safety:
- Driving is on the left-hand side, and traffic congestion is severe in Nassau.
- Road conditions, flooding, and aggressive driving are highlighted as potential risks.
-
Public Transportation:
- Public transportation is available through minibusses (jitneys) and taxis.
- Travelers are advised to agree on fares before departing to their destination.
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Aviation and Maritime Safety:
- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed The Bahamas’ Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with international aviation safety standards.
- Mariners are encouraged to check for maritime advisories before planning travel to The Bahamas.
In conclusion, the travel advisory for The Bahamas emphasizes a nuanced approach to safety, considering crime rates, health concerns, and adherence to local laws. Travelers are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions while visiting the country.
