If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful islands of The Bahamas, it’s essential to understand the entry and exit requirements, as well as the safety measures recommended by the U.S. Department of State.
This helpful guide provides the most relevant information for U.S. travelers on everything from passport validity to travel advisories, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your stay in The Bahamas. Whether you’re traveling by air or sea, our guide will help you navigate the requirements and recommendations for a safe and enjoyable visit. Let’s get started!
Why a US Passport is Required for Visiting The Bahamas
The Bahamas entry requirements state that everyone entering The Bahamas must have a valid passport. A valid U.S. passport is a must-have for all travelers, regardless of age. This requirement ensures border agents to not only verify your identity and citizenship, but it also helps authorities maintain accurate records of arrivals and departures.
The Bahamas also requires that all visitors have at least 6 months of validity remaining in their passport from the date of entry in addition to at least 2 blank pages for stamps.
Additionally, a US passport is required for entry back into the United States as per the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)—a joint plan by the Department of State (DOS) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that was implemented to strengthen border security.
The WHTI requires “all travelers, U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike, to present a passport or other acceptable document that denotes identity and citizenship when entering the United States.” This requirement applies to all modes of travel—air, land, and sea.
- For more information on the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) and WHTI-compliant documents, visit our Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative page.
If you need a passport or a passport renewal for travel to the Bahamas, act now. The following step-by-step guides can ensure you get your travel documents as quickly as you need for your trip:
- How to Expedite a New Passport Application: A Complete Guide
- Expedite Passport Renewal – Forms, Fees & Processing Times
- Expedite Your Child’s Passport: A Comprehensive Guide
Passport for Air Travel to The Bahamas
Requirements for Entering The Bahamas by Air
If you’re planning to fly to The Bahamas, you’ll need a valid U.S. passport book. This is a requirement for all air travel, domestic or international to both enter and exit The Bahamas. The passport book serves as proof of your identity and U.S. citizenship, which is essential for international travel.
Requirements for Exiting The Bahamas by Air
All U.S. citizens and foreign nationals are required to show a valid US passport to enter the United States.
So, before you book that flight, make sure your passport book is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date so that it is ready for your trip and your return home.
Passport Requirements for Bahamas Cruise Passengers
Requirements for Entering The Bahamas by Sea
For those who prefer to travel by sea, whether on a private yacht or a cruise ship, a U.S. passport card or a passport book can be used. The passport card is a more compact, wallet-sized version of the passport book that is valid for 5 years after issuance. It’s valid for entering the United States at land border crossings and sea ports of entry from The Bahamas.
If you’re in the process of applying for a new passport or a passport renewal, you can apply for a passport card using the same application forms you would to apply for a passport book. To obtain a US passport card, check out our Essential Guide to U.S. Passport Cards: How to Apply and FAQs.
Requirements for Exiting The Bahamas by Sea
As for returning to the United States by sea, as per the WHTI, U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (i.e., cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port) can enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID.
Be advised, you may still be required to present a passport to enter the countries your cruise ship is visiting. Many closed-loop cruises still make these stops at ports of call. Without a valid passport, you will be stuck on the boat. Be sure to check with your cruise line ahead of your trip to ensure you have the appropriate documents.
Special Considerations For Emergencies That Require Air Travel Back To The U.S.
If an emergency arises while you are staying in The Bahamas that requires you to return to the U.S. by air, a passport card will not be sufficient. To enter or exit The Bahamas by air, you must have a valid passport book.
- To request a passport card with a new US passport, complete the DS-11 application form.
- To request a passport card with a US passport renewal, complete the DS-82 application form.
Should you need to leave The Bahamas by air, you will need to either visit the U.S. Embassy in Nassau, or enlist the help of a passport expediting service to get an emergency passport book issued.
Tourist Visa Information
According to the entry requirements outlined by the Government of The Bahamas Department of Immigration, United States citizens entering as visitors for a stay not exceeding eight (8) months do not require a tourist visa to enter The Bahamas.
Also, non-U.S. citizens residing in the United States, who hold U.S. Alien Registration Cards, do not need a tourist visa for The Bahamas if their visit is less than 30 days.
To obtain a tourist visa for The Bahamas, U.S. citizens can follow our guide on Tourist Visas. For all other types of visas—business, work, study, transit, or multiple-entry—see our information on visa types, requirements, and how to apply.
Minors Traveling to The Bahamas
Traveling with kids can create lifelong memories. When planning a trip to The Bahamas with children or infants from the U.S., it’s crucial to keep these key points in mind:
- Passports Are a Must: All U.S. citizens, regardless of age, need a valid passport for international travel by air or on cruises that are not closed-loop. No matter the traveler’s age, a valid US passport with at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages for stamps are required for entry and exit for The Bahamas.
Need a passport for a minor? Follow our guide on how to get a passport for a minor (age 15 and under). - Entry Rules for The Bahamas: Children aged 2 to 11 must have a negative COVID-19 test (Rapid Antigen Test or PCR) taken within 3 days of arrival. Children under 2 are exempt from testing requirements.
- Traveling Without Parents: If a child is traveling without a parent or with someone other than a parent, The Bahamas requires a notarized, signed letter from the absent parent granting permission for the child’s travel. Visit our Minor Travel Consent Form page to learn more and get a free form to use.
- Cruise-Specific Guidelines: For children on a closed-loop cruise (one that starts and ends at the same U.S. port), a passport isn’t required for re-entry to the U.S. However, individual cruise lines may have their own document requirements, so it’s best to check with them when booking.
- Policies Can Change: Always remember to check the latest entry requirements before your trip to The Bahamas.
Safety and Security Tips for Adults and Children
When it comes to safety and security while traveling abroad, it is critical to stay up-to-date on current travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State.
Security Tips for Parents and Guardians Visiting The Bahamas
It is important for parents and guardians to understand that The Bahamas complies with the United States’s policies regarding child safety and abduction protocols. As a result, there is little flexibility when it comes to proper documentation and accountability for visiting children and their parents.
The Bahamas is a participant in the Hague Abduction Convention, an international agreement that establishes a legal process for the swift return of children who have been wrongfully taken or kept away from their home country.
- To file a Hague Application, please visit the DOS website page for more detailed information.
When visiting The Bahamas with children, parents and guardians need to follow these 3 safety tips:
1. Travel Documents: Parents should keep their children’s passports and travel documents with them in case they are required to demonstrate legal custody (copies are usually ok for this purpose if cross-border travel isn’t on the itinerary.
Similarly, if a child is traveling without one of their parents, a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent is required.
2. Respect Strict Legal Custody Rules: A U.S. custody order granting custody or visitation rights to a parent may not be recognized in The Bahamas. If you plan to take a child out of The Bahamas without the other parent’s consent, seek advice from a lawyer.
3. Emergency Contacts: Child should aways be in possession of a copy of vital emergency information including their identity, parental contacts, home contacts, and itinerary so a child could be reunited with their families should they get separated.
Security Tips for All American Citizens Visiting The Bahamas
At this time, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution for American citizens visiting The Bahamas. If you’re a U.S. citizen planning a trip to The Bahamas, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Embassy in The Bahamas, and we at the U.S. Passport Service Guide recommend the following safety measures:
- Register for travel alerts. Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important alerts and make it easier for authorities to locate you in an emergency.
- Stay alert. Be extra careful due to crime, particularly in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau) and on Grand Bahama Island (Freeport). Be cautious when walking or driving after dark and do so in groups, never alone.
- Steer clear of dangerous areas. Pay special attention to the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) in Nassau, where gang violence has led to a high rate of homicides.
- Choose safe lodging. Exercise caution when staying at short-term vacation rentals that lack private security.
- Keep a low profile. Stick to tourist spots and travel in groups when possible so as to attract as little attention as possible.
- Prioritize personal security. Don’t open your hotel or residence door unless you know who’s there. If a robbery attempt occurs, do not physically resist. Alert the local authorities immediately. Contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.
For U.S. citizens in an emergency, call State Department – Consular Affairs at:- 1-888-407-4747 (when dialing from within the U.S.)
- 1 (202) 501-4444 (when dialing from overseas)
- Have a personal security plan. Create a security plan for yourself or all members of your party before you travel. Have an agreed-upon meeting place in case any member of your party gets separated from the rest of the group. Make sure that all members of your party have a means to or a list of numbers for contacting each other.
- Remember that travel conditions change often. Always remember to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before your trip.
Health and Medical Information
It is always important to consider your destination country’s local health and medical care when traveling if you or a member of your party should seek health or medical attention while abroad.
As per the CDC, here’s a simplified guide to healthcare considerations for U.S. citizens traveling to The Bahamas:
1. Follow Vaccination Guidelines: The CDC advises all travelers to be current on routine vaccines before any trip. These include vaccines for:
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- Flu (influenza)
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) – Infants aged 6 to 11 months should receive one dose of the MMR vaccine before travel.
- Polio
- Shingles
Additionally, Hepatitis A and B vaccines are suggested for all unvaccinated travelers, regardless of age.
The Typhoid vaccine is also recommended, particularly for travelers staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Currently, the U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of The Bahamas.
At this time, the COVID-19 vaccination is not mandatory to enter The Bahamas; however, travelers must be aware of COVID-19 testing and U.S. entry requirements:
- COVID-19 Testing Requirements: All travelers, whether fully vaccinated or unvaccinated, who wish to enter The Bahamas must take a COVID-19 test (either Rapid Antigen Test or PCR) and receive a negative result within 5 days of their arrival.
- U.S. Entry Requirements: Since May 11, 2023, U.S. citizen air travelers are no longer required to present proof of full vaccination with an approved COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States.
Please bear in mind that these requirements are subject to change. Stay up-to-date with the most current travel requirements and recommendations via the U.S. Embassy in The Bahamas COVID-19 Information page, the CDC’s list of required vaccines and medicines for entering The Bahamas, or through the Office of the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
2. Health Care in The Bahamas: The Bahamian government offers a broad range of healthcare services to both Bahamian and non-Bahamian residents.
Plan how you will access health care during your trip, if necessary. It’s a good idea to carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
3. Health Insurance Review: Check your health insurance plan to understand what medical services it covers during your trip abroad. Consider buying travel health and medical evacuation insurance. Carry a card that, in the local language, identifies your blood type, any chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- For more information, see the U.S. Department of State’s Your Health Abroad page.
Health Tips for All Visitors to The Bahamas
The Bahamas is a gorgeous tropical destination with beautiful weather, ample sunshine, stunning beaches, and warm waters making it the perfect destination to either relax or participate in outdoor activities.
Whether you’re spending your time in The Bahamas sunning on the beach, lounging by the water, or seeking outdoor adventure, here are a few important safety tips to follow:
- Sun Safety: The Bahamas experiences an average daily temperature of 83ºF (28ºC). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you shield yourself from UV rays by applying sunscreen with at least SPF 15, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.). Extra caution is advised during summer months and at high altitudes.
- Water Safety: Always pay attention to local weather and marine alerts before participating in water-based activities. Stick to designated swimming areas, do not dive in shallow waters, obey lifeguards, and heed beach warning flags. When boating, adhere to all safety laws, avoid alcohol if you’re at the helm, and always wear a life jacket.
Additionally, the CDC warns: Steer clear of freshwater swimming in areas that are developing or have poor sanitation; be careful not to ingest water while swimming, as untreated water can contain harmful germs; and avoid potential infections by wearing water shoes on beaches that may be contaminated with animal waste. - Adventure Sports Safety: Adventure tourism activities in The Bahamas may lack strict regulation. Always choose a reputable company that offers liability and personal insurance coverage. A good rule of thumb is to book tours through your accommodations, many reputable hotels offer safety-regulated tours and activities for tourists.
Local Laws and Considerations
When traveling to any international destination, you need to be aware of local laws and proper etiquette to avoid unnecessary violations.
When visiting The Bahamas, visitors must be aware of the following:
- Local Laws: All visitors are subject to Bahamian laws, even unknowingly, you could face penalties, including expulsion, arrest, or imprisonment, for any violations. Additionally, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of Bahamian law.
- Drug Laws: All marijuana products, including those containing CBD or THC, are illegal in The Bahamas. This applies even if you have a prescription or medical card. Possession or use of illegal drugs in The Bahamas can lead to imprisonment.
- Firearms: Firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted in The Bahamas without a legally issued Bahamian gun license. If you’re entering Bahamian waters with a firearm or ammunition on board a boat, you must declare it at the first point of entry.
Please be aware: If you’re arrested or detained in The Bahamas, you must request that the U.S. Embassy be notified immediately. Be aware that Bahamian laws do not include a right to a public defender in lower courts, so any legal representation will be at your own expense.
See the U.S. Embassy in The Bahamas Arrest of a U.S. Citizen page for further information as well as a list of attorneys and American citizen services in The Bahamas.
For more information on local laws and special considerations for U.S. citizens visiting The Bahamas, see the U.S. Department of State’s The Bahamas International Travel page.
Travel to The Bahamas: FAQs
For over 20 years, we have helped readers with their passport and international travel questions. Here are some of the most common and interesting questions we have received about travel to The Bahamas.
Below, we share our answers to many of these reader’s questions along with important resources to help them, and you, prepare for the travel requirements.
Q: “I’m traveling to The Bahamas. Do I need a passport book or passport card?”
A: Your travel document requirements for a trip to The Bahamas hinge on your mode of transportation. Here’s what you need to know:
- Air Travel: If you’re flying, a passport book is mandatory.
- Sea Travel: For sea journeys, a passport card is sufficient.
Regardless of how you travel, ensure that your passport is valid from the moment you enter until you leave The Bahamas. Also, it should have 2 empty visa pages for the entry stamp.
To apply for a passport book, passport card, or both, you’ll need to fill out the DS-11 Application Form. For comprehensive instructions and to download the form, please view our instructions for How to Apply for a New Passport.
Q: “We are planning on taking our teenage grandson on a cruise this summer to The Bahamas. Does he need a passport?”
A: If you’re a U.S. citizen heading to The Bahamas by sea, here’s what you need to know:
- Private or Commercial Vessels: A valid passport is required.
- Closed-Loop Cruises: If your cruise starts and ends at the same U.S. port, you can use a passport, passport card, or other WHTI-compliant document. However, it’s wise to have a passport in case you need to fly back due to an emergency.
Always check with your cruise line about the cruise type and necessary travel documents.
Q: “Does my 6-year-old daughter require a passport to visit The Bahamas by cruise?”
A: If your daughter is planning a cruise to The Bahamas, she will typically need a passport. However, there are exceptions for what’s known as a “closed-loop cruise”—a cruise that starts and ends at the same U.S. port.
For these closed-loop cruises, U.S. citizens can depart and re-enter the U.S. with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
If your daughter is 15 years old or younger, she can present:
- an original or a copy of her birth certificate, or
- a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State,
- a Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
However, be aware that even on a closed-loop cruise, your daughter might need to present a passport at foreign ports your cruise ship visits. This depends on the specific requirements of the islands or countries you’ll be docking at.
It’s always a good idea to check with your cruise line for the most accurate information on required travel documents for your specific cruise.
If you need to get a passport for your child, follow our complete instructions on How to Get a Child’s Passport.
Q: “My daughter will be 13 at the time of travel. We will be leaving Florida and going on a 3-day cruise to the Bahamas. We will then be returning to Florida. Does she need a passport for a cruise to The Bahamas?
A: When planning a cruise, consider these key points:
1. U.S. Exit and Re-entry – For closed-loop cruises (those starting and ending at the same U.S. port), U.S. citizens can use proof of citizenship like a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID to exit and re-enter the U.S.
For those under 15, a birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or Certificate of Naturalization is enough. For non-closed-loop cruises, a passport is necessary.
2. Foreign Entry and Departure – Even on a closed-loop cruise, docking at a foreign port may require a passport, depending on the country. While The Bahamas only requires proof of citizenship and identity, check the foreign entry requirements for other countries your cruise may visit.
3. Cruise Line Requirements – Some cruise lines require all passengers to have a valid passport due to varying interpretations of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Always check with your cruise line for document requirements.
Q: “I am traveling to Nassau, Bahamas, and need to get a passport. How do I get a passport expedited in 3 days by visiting a regional agency? What can I do?
A: Visit the nearest regional agency without an appointment. If you arrive at the regional agency when it opens and are allowed in, then you should get your passport the same day. If you are not allowed to submit your application, then you would still have time to submit it through a professional expediting service.
Q: “If we are traveling to The Bahamas from the US, will a passport card work fine? And will it last for 5 years like the passport book does for minors?
A: A passport card can only be used for land or sea travel. If you plan to travel by air, you must obtain a passport book. The requirements for both are the same and there is one application form for both.
Also, the minor’s passport card is valid for 5 years just like the passport book. Once it expires, you will have to apply for a new Child Passport.
Q: “I will be taking a cruise to The Bahamas. I was made aware that one now needs a U.S. passport or passport card to travel to The Bahamas. My passport expires on the day I return from the cruise; will I still be allowed to re-enter the United States? I read somewhere that a passport is valid until midnight of the expiration date. Thanks!
A: Your U.S. passport remains valid until midnight on its expiration date, so you can re-enter the U.S. on that day without issues.
For trips to The Bahamas, you’ll need a passport book or card to re-enter the U.S., unless you’re on a closed-loop cruise (one that starts and ends at the same U.S. port). In this case, a passport isn’t necessary for re-entry to the U.S.
However, the countries your cruise visits may require a passport. For The Bahamas, you’ll need:
- proof of citizenship (a passport, or an original/certified birth certificate with photo ID, can serve as proof of citizenship)
- evidence of your return journey,
- and proof of funds for your visit.
It’s always best to check with your cruise line for specific document requirements.
Q: “We are traveling with a 4 and 2-year-old on a Disney cruise. We fly from Maryland to Florida where we board our ship and sail to The Bahamas. Four days later, we sail from the Bahamas back to Florida and then fly from Florida to Maryland.
The information on the Disney website states we need to obtain passports for our children. I saw the information about the passport card instead of a passport book and wondered if that would work as identification for our children or if we need to get them actual passports.
A: For U.S. citizens on a closed-loop cruise (one that starts and ends at the same U.S. port), passports aren’t needed for re-entry to the U.S. Children under 16 can use an original or certified copy of their birth certificate. It’s advisable to confirm passport requirements with your cruise line.
The U.S. Passport Card, a more convenient and cheaper alternative to the passport book, can be used for entry into the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda via land or sea. However, it’s not valid for international air travel.
The application process and requirements for the passport card are the same as for the passport book. If you foresee a need for a passport book for your children in the future, consider applying for it now. Otherwise, the passport card should be sufficient for your Bahamas trip.
Given the high demand for passport cards, it’s recommended to apply well ahead of your trip. Regular processing takes 4-6 weeks, while expedited service takes 2-3 weeks. If you need the passport cards in less than 2 weeks, you’ll need to visit a regional agency or use a professional expediter.
For more details, see our guide on obtaining a child’s passport.
Q: “My passport expires in April next year, so I need to get it renewed. However, I cannot be without my passport for any length of time, as I often travel to other countries such as The Bahamas by sea or air with little warning.
How can I get my passport renewed while keeping my current passport in my possession? I live in East Central Florida, so going to the Miami passport office is not an option.
A: It is not possible to renew your current passport without submitting it with the application form. That is one of the requirements.
Requesting expedited service by mail takes 2-3 weeks. The only way to obtain a passport renewal quicker is to personally visit the Miami agency or employ the services of a professional expediter who can get the passport renewed as quickly as the same day.
Q: “My son’s passport is valid until August of this year but his photo is 5 years old and, at 16, the difference between then and now is significant. When traveling on an exchange program to Germany two years ago, German Officials questioned him regarding the validity of his photo.
Now, as we prepare to travel to The Bahamas in April, I’m concerned we’ll encounter trouble.
I have been unable to get this concern addressed via FAQs on web pages. Can you advise?
A: If your son was questioned about his passport photo two years ago, there is a good chance that border agents in The Bahamas could do the same.
There is no way to update a passport photo other than applying for a new passport. Since your son’s passport will expire this year, you may want to do this even though he will lose some of the remaining validity.
Since your son is 16, parents are not required to appear with him. Also, his new passport will be valid for 10 years. One suggestion, if you prefer to wait, is to carry some photos of your son taken from the time he received his passport until now.
Q: “My daughter was born in the USA. I am a permanent US resident. My daughter is 6 years old. She has a birth certificate. Does she require a passport to visit The Bahamas by cruise?
A: Your daughter does require a passport to go on a cruise to the Bahamas UNLESS it is a closed-loop cruise AND one is not required by the cruise line.
U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same port in the U.S.) can depart and re-enter the country with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID.
A United States citizen age 15 or younger can present:
- either an original or a copy of his or her birth certificate,
- a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by DOS, or
- a Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Please note that your daughter may still be required to present a passport when you dock at a foreign port, depending on the islands or countries that your cruise ship is visiting.
It is best to check with your cruise line. They can better inform you concerning the documents required for the cruise you will be on.
For instructions on how to get a passport for your child, visit How to Get a Child’s Passport.
Get Your Passport and Enjoy Your Trip to The Bahamas
Understanding the entry and exit requirements for traveling to and from The Bahamas is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free journey. Whether you’re traveling by air or sea, a valid U.S. passport is a must. Remember to check the validity of your passport to make sure that it has at least 6 months from the date of entry to The Bahamas as well as 2 blank pages for stamps.
Need a passport fast? Visit our curated list of the top passport expediting services. These professionals can help you get a passport as quickly as 24-48 hours in some cases and help make sure your trip to The Bahamas goes off without a hitch.
Once you are sure your passport is in order, remember to stay informed of the most current travel advisories as well as health and travel requirements to help ensure your safety during your visit to The Bahamas.
The Bahamas, with its tropical weather, stunning beaches, and warm waters, is a wonderful destination, and being well-prepared can help you make the most of your trip abroad.
