The Department of Immigration maintains a “Restricted List”, which contains the names of persons who must seek special permission to enter the Bahamas.   These are typically persons who would have been deported or removed from the Bahamas.   Persons whose names are on the “Restricted List” who wish to visit the Bahamas must seek special permission to do so from the Director of Immigration.  If granted, this permission is in the form of a “Special Permit”, which is issued for a specified purpose and for a specified maximum period of 28 days, at the discretion of the Director of Immigration.  Once granted, holders must have the Special Permit on their person at all times and must surrender it on departing the country.

Eligibility

Any non-Bahamian visitor whose name is on the “Restricted List” can apply for this.

Process

Submit request letter along with supporting documents to the Customer Service Department.

Application Form(s)

Not applicable

Supporting Documents

• A letter of request, addressed to the Director of Immigration, giving details of reason for visiting and proposed duration of visit.
• Two (2) passport size photographs (in Colour) with name printed on the reverse side.
• An employment letter.
• Two character reference letters.
• An original police certificate (issued not more than six (6) months prior to the submission of the request).
• A copy of the biodata page of the applicant’s valid passport.

Turn-around time

A decision to grant or deny is made within 3 to 4 weeks.

Deadline

Not applicable

Related Fee(s)

There is a BS$100.00 non-refundable processing fee.

For more information please contact

The following Department locations, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.