The USA, 14 April 2025    

SUMMARY 

Take normal security precautions when traveling to the United States. This advisory contains important information regarding entry requirements, enhanced border screening, and other essential travel information for Bahamian citizens visiting the United States.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 

Bahamians require the following documents for travel to the United States.

By Air: – Police certificate OR Valid U.S. visa (note: Bahamians traveling on to another country and expecting to transit the United States on their return will need a visa)

By Sea: – Valid U.S. visa only

Additional information is available at the U.S. Embassy in Nassau and accessible online here.

Police Certificate Travel

Non-immigrants traveling on a police certificate are legally admitted to the United States and issued an electronic I-94 (Arrival/Departure record) after submitting fingerprints and clearing inspection formalities. These I-94 records can be viewed here.

Visa Travel Information

Most Bahamian visitors can stay in the United States for up to 6 months without a visa when traveling directly from The Bahamas for tourism, business, transit, or other specific purposes. Declare your intended length of stay upon entry to the United States.

Border Screening

Expect thorough examination at ports of entry, including inspection of electronic devices. U.S. border authorities have wide discretion and strictly enforce entry requirements. Be cooperative and honest in all interactions with border authorities. Refusal of entry could result in detention while awaiting removal.

It is important to note that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) has the final authority to determine your eligibility to enter the United States. A refusal by US CPB at the airport means that you will not be allowed to enter the United States. Some common reasons for refusal are: security concerns, visa issues, and criminal history. If you are denied entry, remain calm, ask for the reason you were denied entry, and follow-up with the U.S. Embassy Nassau.

Electronic Device Searches

U.S. CPB officers have broad authority to inspect electronic devices at ports of entry, including:

• Mobile phones
• Laptops
• Tablets
• Social media accounts
• Email messages
• Text messages

While you are not under any obligation to unlock your devices or provide passwords, the US authorities reserve the right to enforce any of the following outcomes:

• Prolonged interrogation;
• Device confiscation; and/or
• Denial of entry
• Criminal Records

If you have a criminal record, regardless of the offence or when it occurred, you may be denied entry to the United States, even when travelling with a police certificate. Be prepared to provide context for any past offences. Additional information is available here.

Permanent Residents and Extended Travel

Bahamian permanent residents of the United States should be aware of heightened scrutiny when returning from international travel. If you plan to be outside the United States for more than six months, apply for a re-entry permit before leaving. Officials are increasingly monitoring time spent outside the country and may question permanent resident status if you spend excessive time abroad. Additional information is available here.

Airport Detention/ Arrest 

If you are detained or arrested at an airport or any other port of entry, remain calm and cooperate with officials. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney and/or consular officer; please exercise this right. Your personal belongings, including mobile phone, may be confiscated. If you need prescription medication, advise officials before your belongings are confiscated.

SAFETY AND SECURITY 

Race-Related Considerations

As a predominantly Black country (around 90% of the population), Bahamian travellers should be aware that they may experience varying treatment in certain regions of the United States. While most experiences will be positive, some travellers may encounter bias or discrimination. Exercise situational awareness and familiarise yourself with local customs and expectations. Additional information from the UN Human Rights Council is available in the most recent report of the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance in the United States available here.

Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur, particularly in urban centres and tourist areas. Violent crimes are more common in poorer urban neighbourhoods, especially from dusk to dawn, and are often associated with alcohol or drug consumption. The FBI’s crime data explorer (CDE) is available here.

Firearms

Gun ownership rates in the United States are high, and open carry of firearms is legal in many states. Mass shootings can occur, though tourists are rarely involved.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations can turn violent without warning and may significantly disrupt traffic and public transportation. Avoid demonstration areas and large gatherings, and follow directions from local authorities.

Terrorism

There is an ongoing terrorist threat in the United States. Potential targets include government buildings (including schools), places of worship, transportation hubs, tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, shopping centres, and hotels.

HEALTH 

Medical care in the United States is particularly good, but comes at great cost. All hospitals must accept emergency cases regardless of ability to pay, but services will be billed to the patient. Foreign nationals without travel health insurance must pay for medical treatment themselves. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers hospitalisation abroad and medical evacuation.

LAWS AND CUSTOMS  Legal Status and Identity Verification

U.S. authorities may request proof of your legal status at any time. Always carry documentation proving your lawful presence in the United States, such as your I-94 form.

Alien Registration Requirement 

All foreign nationals present in the United States for more than 30 days must register with the U.S. federal government, in application of the Alien Registration Act. Failure to comply with this new rule will be counted as a criminal offense punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both. The U.S. Government has stated that individuals who fail to register may face arrest, deportation, and permanent inadmissibility to the United States.

Verify if you were automatically registered upon entry by checking your I-94 form on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (as cited above). Additional information on registration is available here.

Border Control and Restricted Items

During passage through U.S. Customs and Border Protection, certain categories of products receive heightened scrutiny:

Medications

Prescription medications require proof of prescription and should be:

• In original containers with pharmacy labels
• Limited to amounts needed for your stay plus one week ● Accompanied by a copy of your prescription
• If necessary, include a doctor’s note explaining your condition

⚠️ All substances classified as controlled or illegal under U.S. federal law, including cannabis and other homeopathic drugs, are strictly prohibited regardless of their legal status in The Bahamas or other countries. Previous cannabis use or any association with the cannabis industry could result in being denied entry to the United States. Possession may result in immediate denial of entry, fines, deportation, cancellation of visa or travel privileges and/or future inadmissibility to the United States. Note that although some U.S. states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use, it remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which governs all border crossings.

Agricultural and Phytosanitary Products

The U.S. maintains strict regulations on importing agricultural products to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Bahamian travellers should be aware of the following restrictions:

Seafood and Marine Products:

• Conch and other Bahamian seafood must be declared to CBP
• Personal quantities may be allowed if properly packaged and for personal consumption only
• Commercial quantities require proper permits and may be subject to inspection by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Some marine species may be protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) and may require special permits. Additional information is available here.

Fruits, Vegetables, and Plants:

• Most fresh fruits and vegetables from The Bahamas are prohibited from entering the U.S. and all plants and plant products must be declared and are subject to inspection

    Failure to declare agricultural items can result in penalties of up to $10,000

Always declare all food, plant material, and animal products to CBP officers. When in doubt, declare it. Undeclared prohibited items may result in significant fines and penalties.

Contact(s) for Overseas Offices 

A full list of Consulates and Honourary Consulates based in the United States of America is available on the Ministry’s website here.

The Ministry encourages all Bahamians who are travelling or living abroad to register here.

Last updated 14 April 2025.