Bahamas Investor Guide

Navigate the International Persons Landholding Act, stamp duty, VAT, and the path to Economic Permanent Residence

Updated May 22, 2026Intermediate14 min read

Rental yield
10.4%
Gross, indicative
Price growth
5.0%
Year on year · Jun 2026
Transfer tax
10.0%
Currency
BSD (pegged 1:1 to USD)
Population
412,000
Inflation
2.4%

Market Overview

The Bahamian economy is stabilising in 2026 with GDP growth of around 2.2% and inflation moderating to 2.4% as global supply chains normalise. Tourism continues to anchor the economy (over 50% of GDP including indirect effects), with cruise and stopover visitor numbers reaching record levels in 2024-2025. Financial services remain the second pillar. The BSD-USD peg eliminates currency risk for USD-denominated investors. Hurricane risk and insurance pricing pressure post-2024 storms are real medium-term headwinds for coastal real estate.

Country
Bahamas
Currency
BSD (pegged 1:1 to USD)
Population
412,000
GDP growth
2.2% (2026 forecast; typically 1.5-3.0%)
Inflation
2.4%

Key industries

  • Tourism & Hospitality
  • Financial Services & Offshore Banking
  • Real Estate & Construction
  • Maritime Shipping & Ship Registration
  • Aragonite Mining

On INTRIC now — Residences on INTRIC are open to enquiry straight from this page.

View all listings

Restrictions

International Persons Landholding Act (IPLA)

Open

Non-Bahamians can purchase property in The Bahamas with relatively few restrictions under the International Persons Landholding Act (IPLA) 1993. Properties under 5 acres for residential use generally do not require government approval; only registration of the conveyance is needed. Properties of 5+ acres, undeveloped land, or properties intended for commercial development require an IPLA Permit from the Bahamas Investment Authority.

  • Properties under 5 acres for personal residential use: registration only, no permit required
  • 5+ acres OR undeveloped land OR commercial use: IPLA Permit required
  • Permit applications go to the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA)
  • As of 1 July 2025, IPLA Permits must be acted on within 180 days or extended (max 2 extensions of 180 days each)
  • Same stamp duty rate now applies to foreign and Bahamian buyers (the prior double-rate for non-residents was abolished)
  • Permit fees scale with property value; refer to BIA fee schedule

AML / KYC Requirements

Open

All real estate transactions are subject to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know-Your-Customer (KYC) requirements administered through licensed Bahamian attorneys and financial institutions. Source-of-funds documentation is mandatory for all buyers regardless of nationality. The Bahamas has implemented enhanced beneficial ownership reporting following its removal from the EU tax-cooperation grey list.

  • Buyers must engage a Bahamian attorney for AML/KYC compliance
  • Source of funds documentation required (typically 6-12 months of bank statements + employment/business income verification)
  • Beneficial ownership disclosure for corporate purchasers
  • Politically Exposed Person (PEP) screening
  • Stricter scrutiny for high-value transactions and certain source jurisdictions

Unlock the full guide. It's free.

You've read the preview. 8 more sections are open to Explorer members, instantly, with just an email.

No spam, no password, unsubscribe any time.

Already a member? Sign in

  • Taxes & Fees
  • Requirements
  • Purchase Steps
  • Property Types
  • Investment Drivers
  • Market Trends
  • Visa & Residency
  • Financing

Figures are indicative and subject to change. Regulations, taxes and market conditions vary by jurisdiction. Do your own due diligence and seek independent legal and financial advice.

Keep reading

All country guides