What to keep mind?
Now that you have secured your resident or work permit, purchase your tickets, and are ready to pack, be careful of import duties. One may wish to bring personal goods from their home countries; however, beware this may be costly. The Bahamas government levies high custom duties on certain item brought into the country, notably cars, furnishing, dry goods, etc. See import rate here: Frequently Imported Items Listing 2022 – The Bahamas Customs Department. Add shipping costs and the prospects of importing items, may not be the best strategy, particularly if one is considering a short-term stay of 1 – 3 years. It is recommended that you travel light, as it will make the repatriation process smoother. The less items you have to export or sell at the end of your stay, the better the repatriation process will be.
If you plan to bring your pet along when moving to The Bahamas, you’ll need to apply to the Ministry of Agriculture, Trade and Industry for an import permit for your animal. Pets must:
- Be at least six months old
- Have valid health papers indicating immunization against common ailments
- Have recent rabies vaccinations
- Be accompanied by a veterinary health certificate from their home country
- Be microchipped
Upon arrival in The Bahamas, area orientation will be key to reducing anxiety and acclimating to your new environment. Landing in a foreign country can be a daunting experience. It is important to familiarize yourself with a trusted guide that can show you the ins and outs of the country and provide you with helpful tips that can make your integration seamless. Depending on your cargo, moving-in support may prove beneficial to keeping your sanity.