adminee
From: United States
11/25/2008 12:08 EST
We're going to be putting together an article entitled, 10 Tips for Living in Bahamas, and we need your help. Please post a reply to this thread with as many tips as you'd like (or as few) for expats living in Bahamas. Whether you're a newcomer yourself or a seasoned expats whose lived abroad for many years, share your favorite tips for expats living in Bahamas. If you want to discuss or expand upon someone elses tip, feel free! We'll use your posts to compile the articles.
Thanks, in advance, for your help!
Betsy Burlingame
ExpatExchange.com
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lerichrd
2/1/2009 12:17 EST
Hi Betsy-
I will be a retiree seeking part-time work with a long-term rental place to live. I'd like pointers on both those things. Thanks.
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dolfie
5/20/2009 23:57 EST
As expat to the Bahamas you can be:
Single
Married
With partner
with or without children
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one employed
both employed
self employed
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different situations and solutions with Immigration appear for each particular situation.
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H.M.Customs Department:
What you import, old, new has a tax to be paid on. Because no tax on income is due in the Bahamas, this is the source of income for the nation. Different rates appear according the item.
There is no specific law for vehicles, technical inspection is easy. Road tax and insurance are moderate.
Food an drinks, due to transportation, tax, lack of consumer representation and competition is expensive and needs selection.
Power, telephone and cable are very expensive for the same reasons.
Cable internet is very good and reliable - what I cannot say about the DSL connection of Batelco.
Schools are many, but the level of education needs to be checked, especially if you consider a temporary stay.
Religion: Churches of all kind all over the island. Most Christian but also Synagogue- Masons- Roman Catholic- Reformed.
No Greek Orthodox or Mosque by my knowledge.
When renting - security and hurricane protection might pose an issue to consider.
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colorado01
6/17/2009 10:08 EST
Hi Betsy,
I am moving in August to live with my fiance. He is there on a work permit. I have tried to find a job, but to no avail. If I am living with him and depending on him financially, what considerations for immigration, driving, banking (for bills in the states) etc. must I take into account?
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dolfie
6/17/2009 22:30 EST
when your fiancee is on a work permit he is able to work in the Bahamas for the company he's hired for and for the job described. As a fiancee you can come with him. subject to a letter that he will take care of you (meaning financially) - Tou obtain your permits he needs to apply (or you - or even someone else) cheapest is to do it yourself or someone who doesn't charge for it.
A permit will probably be $1000.00 a year plus $100.00 application fee. You will need:
bank reference- 2 char, references- police certificate less than 6 months ago. You cannot
"engage in any gainfull occupation" as the official words are. You can fill your day with??? helping someone e.g. if you do not take a job away a Bahamian can do.
This is a grey zone...
There are bypasses but not for publication.
I have my bills scanned and mailed and have a online banking system with my homeland.
Paying from here is somewhat restricted - the currency here is B$, "in par" wih the US, but to pay here abroad, you need permission from Central Bank and change money (not totally free)
When you are married, your permit is a lot cheaper. (application fee is $100 (almost for everything) but the last time I paid $25.00 for the spouse permit.
Normally as US Citizen, you can have 90 days to stay without permit - ring a bell??
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dolfie
6/17/2009 22:37 EST
Driving for a "tourist" can with a lot of foreign driving licenses. Normally as a permit holder (you should get a license here?)
That is affordable and doable. The first time for one year. An extension can go further up to the time of your permit. But many don't get a Bahamian drivers license- with no problems so far.
The driving itself: the right way to drive in the Bahamas is on the left side of the road. Where your steering wheel is doesn't matter - (best in the car of course)
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colorado01
6/20/2009 18:56 EST
Wow...there really is so much to think about! Your responses are very helpful thank you.
The clock is ticking for my move and I am feeling panic!
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