Non-Bahamian nationals who are holders of Long Term Work Permits / Visas must have them renewed annually.  This renewal is not automatic and requires the employers of work visa holders to apply for renewal, which is granted at the discretion of the Department of Immigration.

Eligibility

In order to qualify for renewal of a long term work permit, the applicant must be the holder of a current long term work permit, with all of his or her fees and National Insurance contributions being current and paid up.

Process

This process is led by the employer who must:

1. Prepare a letter addressed to the Director of Immigration requesting that the employee’s work visa be renewed
2. Attach the letter to supporting documents
3. Submit to the Department of Immigration

Application Form(s)

A renewal request letter from the employer stating reasons for the application, the position and the period of time required.

Supporting Documents

• A copy of the bio-data page of the applicant's passport
• 2 passport-sized identical colour photographs of the applicant, with the applicant’s name printed on the reverse side
• A police certificate of character covering 5 years residence in The Bahamas (issued not more than six months) prior to the submission of the application
• A medical certificate dated not more than 30 days prior to the submission of the application
• A letter from the National Insurance Board stating that the applicant’s contributions are current and paid up to the permit’s expiration date.
• A copy of the bio-data page of the employer’s passport
• LABOUR CERTIFICATES & NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENTS ARE FUNDAMENTAL TO THE WORK PERMIT PROCESS, AS THIS IS KEY TO THE EMPLOYMENT PROSPECT OF SUITABLY QUALIFIED BAHAMIANS. These documents should be submitted for all positions with the exception of the top position in your company (e.g. Chief Executive Officer, Chairman, Managing Director ). In the case of renewals Labour Certificates are not required for Maids, Handymen, Handywomen, Gardeners, and Farm Labourers.

Turn-around time

Once the actual application has been accurately and completely submitted, applicant should contact the Inquireis Unit @ 502-0550 within a 3 to 4 week period for an update on the progress of the application.

Deadline

All applicants must ensure that applications for the renewal of work permits are submitted to the Department of Immigration at least 2 months prior to the expiration of the permit.

Related Fee(s)

There is a non-refundable processing fee of BS$100.00.  Please note that where employers have arrears from previous periods, these must be fully paid as well.

For more information please contact