Risk level

Safety and security

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, may occur in tourist areas.

Robberies also occur in cruise ship terminals and in and around popular resort areas in Nassau and Freeport, even in daylight hours. Crime increases during the holidays, festivals and regattas.

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• do not show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
• do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs and is often related to gang activity. Most crime occurs on the islands of New Providence and Grand Bahama. The Bahamas has a high murder rate, but incidents mostly occur in downtown Nassau in non-tourist areas after dark. High incidences of violent crime occur in neighborhoods outside of high tourist areas.

The most common crimes committed against travellers in Nassau and Freeport are:

• armed robberies
• burglaries
• fraud
• sexual assaults
• theft

There is an increase in break-ins and theft. Do not exit your vehicle to remove objects blocking the road, as robberies and carjackings can take place.

During your trip:

• always remain vigilant
• stay in tourist areas
• avoid isolated areas, including beaches, especially at night
• keep your doors and windows locked
• avoid walking alone after dark
• be wary of strangers offering to help you
• if you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and do not resist

Women’s safety

Sexual assaults have occurred, including against foreign women. In some cases, the victim was drugged before being assaulted. Reported incidents have happened:

• near hotels and in hotel rooms
• in casinos
• on cruise ships
• on the beach
• by jet ski operators

While you’re in The Bahamas:

• exercise caution at all times, especially during jet ski rides
• avoid walking alone after dark
• avoid unattended beaches
• do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
• do not accept drinks or drugs from strangers

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food, drinks and other items

Criminals sometimes add drugs to items that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery.

Items include:

• food and drinks
• gum
• cigarettes

Incidents are most likely to occur:

• on beaches
• in casinos
• on cruise ships
• in and around hotels
• on jet ski rides
• in nightclubs
• in bars and restaurants
• on public transportation, including taxis

While you’re in The Bahamas:

• be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• order drinks in sealed bottles or cans instead of in plastic cups

Fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently, especially in Nassau.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Swimming

Across The Bahamas, sharks pose a risk to swimmers. Do not swim in waters where fishermen use bait to attract marine life.

• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards, the presence of dangerous species and safe swimming areas
• Keep a safe distance from areas reserved for recreational boating

Water activities

The water sports rental industry is poorly regulated and reputable operators are limited. Boating accidents occur frequently, particularly on jet skis.

• Only rent water sports equipment from reputable registered operators
• Insist on proper training before using the equipment
• Ensure that beach and aquatic equipment is safe and in good condition

Water safety abroad

Boating

Boaters could encounter watercraft operated by illegal drug traders. Remain vigilant and only use officially recognized docking and berthing facilities.

• Have life jackets available for all passengers
• Keep a safe distance from areas reserved for certain activities such as snorkeling
• Make sure you have a good understanding of local regulations

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Power outages and water shortages

Power outages occur frequently and water shortages occur occasionally, during and after hurricanes.

Local authorities may limit electricity usage and impose water rationing measures.

Power outages and rationing could impact essential services, such as:

• transportation
• power distribution
• water and food supply
• telecommunications networks
• emergency services
• medical care
• banking transactions
• the supply of basic necessities

Not all buildings are equipped with generators and drinking water may be difficult to find.

• Keep a supply of water, food, fuel and an emergency kit on hand
• Monitor local media for the latest information

Roads

Road safety

Fatal accidents are very frequent. Fatal accidents involving pedestrians are common on New Providence Island.

There is severe traffic congestion in Nassau and drivers are often reckless in traffic.

Road construction is not always well marked.

Bicycles, mopeds, four wheelers and pedestrians can be hazards, particularly on the busy streets of Nassau and Freeport.

• Keep your car doors locked and your windows rolled up
• Never get out of your car to remove objects blocking the road, as this could be a ploy by armed assailants to rob you
• Do not leave valuables within reach or in plain sight

Road conditions

Roads are generally in good condition in and around major cities, but in rural areas, they are poorly maintained and dangerous due to:

• traffic jams and heavy traffic
• narrow and winding roads
• poorly marked construction sites
• flooding
• various hazards on the road
• insufficient lighting

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws. Drinking and driving is prevalent. Always drive defensively.

Public transportation

Pickpocketing may occur on public transportation.

Minibuses

After dark, avoid travelling on local minibuses on routes outside of the main tourist areas.

Taxis

Taxis don’t use meters. There are standard taxi fares based on zones.

• Only use officially marked taxis with “TN” on yellow license plates
• Confirm the fare in advance
• Never share a taxi with strangers

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Bahamian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave The Bahamas.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 8 months
Business visa: not required
Student visa: required

Other entry requirements

You must complete and sign an immigration card upon entry to The Bahamas. This card will be stamped by officials at the point of entry.

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay

If travelling by private vessel, certain documentation is required for entry into The Bahamas.

You can obtain a cruising permit online or in-person at The Bahamas Customs Department at your port of entry.

Useful links

• Department of Immigration – Government of The Bahamas
• Pleasure vessel clearance – The Bahamas Customs Department
• Boating regulations and FAQ – The Islands of The Bahamas

Departure tax

You must pay a departure tax when you leave The Bahamas. It is usually included in your fare if you travel by commercial means.

Departing – The Bahamas Customs Department

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is good in Nassau and Freeport but limited elsewhere. There are fewer clinics in areas less frequented by tourists, with occasional visits by nurses and doctors.

You may need to make a deposit for medical treatment, even if you have travel insurance. If you do not have travel insurance, clinics may require payment upfront or credit card information as a guarantee of payment prior to providing medical care.

Ambulance services are available on the islands of New Providence and Grand Bahama. Response times to emergency calls may be slow on New Providence due to traffic congestion and the lack of availability of ambulances.

If you require specialized care or sustain a serious injury, you may be evacuated to Miami or another island for treatment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in The Bahamas.

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in The Bahamas.

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and The Bahamas are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in The Bahamas to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Bahamian authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Bahamian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, the legal age for sexual relations is 18 years old.

Homosexuality is not widely socially accepted. 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in The Bahamas.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of The Bahamas, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and The Bahamas.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in The Bahamas, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Bahamian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in The Bahamas to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Drones

Recreational and commercial drone flying is regulated. You must register your drone with The Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority.

Useful links

• Drone registration – The Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority
• Drones FAQs – The Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority

Long-line fishing

Long-line fishing is illegal in Bahamian waters. All long-line fishing gear must be stowed below deck while transiting Bahamian waters. You could face severe penalties for catching lobster or other marine life in protected areas or out of season.

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan to buy property or make other investments in The Bahamas:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in The Bahamas before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Driving

Traffic drives on the left.

You can drive in The Bahamas with your valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to 90 days. If you intend to stay longer in the country, you must obtain a Bahamian driver’s licence.

In case of an accident, you must remain at the scene and not move your vehicle until the police arrive.

You should carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency of The Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (BSD).

U.S dollars are accepted.

You can exchange Canadian dollars, U.S. dollars and euros for the Bahamian dollar in banks and currency exchange bureaus in The Bahamas.

It’s illegal to leave The Bahamas with more than 10,000 BSD.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting The Bahamas. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Severe storms outside Canada
• Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center