Document checklist
U.S. Virgin Islands → Bahamas: Permit To Reside
What you need before you submit, checked against official requirements, not guesswork.
Checked by our automated verification on 20 Oct 2026: every source on this page resolves and the data is structurally complete. This does not confirm a person re-read the source text for accuracy.
Required documents
12 itemsIdentity
Two passport photos
RequiredTwo current passport photographs on a white background, with your name printed on the back, taken within the last 6 months (2 x 2 inches).
Valid copy of your passport biodata page
RequiredA signed, readable copy of the biodata page of your passport, valid for at least 2 more months.
Financial
$200.00 non-refundable processing fee
RequiredA $200.00 non-refundable processing fee, payable by credit/debit card, postal money order, or bank certified cheque.
Reference from your financial institution
RequiredA reference from your bank or other financial institution stating a figure range, or a statement prepared by a Certified Public Accountant. Required for adult or independent applicants.
Purpose of travel
Completed First Schedule Form 1, with $10 postage stamp
RequiredThe First Schedule Form 1 application, fully completed, with a $10.00 Bahamian postage stamp attached, legible and notarized.
Letter confirming your enrolment in a Bahamas school
RequiredA letter confirming you're enrolled in a school in the Bahamas. If you're home schooled, you must instead show proof you're registered with the Ministry of Education.
Letter of request to the Director of Immigration
RequiredA letter addressed to the Director of Immigration asking for a Permit to Reside so you can attend school, college or university.
Other
Certified English translations of foreign-language documents
Any document you submit that isn't in English needs a certified translation, prepared by someone proficient in that language, with a $10.00 Bahamian postage stamp attached.
Completed Annual Permit Questionnaire
RequiredThe Annual Permit Questionnaire, filled in completely.
Original medical certificate
RequiredYour original medical certificate, dated no earlier than 30 days before you submit your application.
Original police certificate
RequiredYour original police certificate, issued no earlier than 6 months before you apply, covering the 5 years before your application. Required for applicants aged 14 and older.
Two character references
RequiredTwo character references from reputable people or people of good standing in your community, with their phone numbers and email addresses.
Why applications on this route get refused
Incomplete application
The Permit to Reside application requires a long list of documents submitted together, including the letter of request, Form 1, medical and police certificates, photos, references, and school enrolment letter.
How to avoid it: Check every item on the Department of Immigration's list is included before you submit your application.
Applying for status while in the country for the first time
The page states that people applying for status for the first time should not be in the Bahamas while their application is being processed.
How to avoid it: If this is your first Permit to Reside application, apply from outside the Bahamas and wait for a decision before travelling.
Uncertified copies or laminated/photocopied certificates
Marriage and birth certificates must be certified copies, and other documents (like police and medical certificates) must be originals, not photocopies.
How to avoid it: Submit certified copies of certificates and original police and medical certificates, not laminated or photocopied versions.
Sources
- Bahamas Department of Immigration, Permit To Reside · checked 19 Sept 2026
Check your documents against this list before you pay the Bahamas application fee.
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