
Immigration and Health Insurance Requirements in the Bahamas
Immigration Requirements
Non-Bahamian nationals or ‘Expats’ and their dependents who are desirous of living for any purpose other than working in the Bahamas, must seek authorization from the Department of Immigration. This comes in the form of a Residence Permit, also commonly known in the Bahamas, as an Annual Permit.
This official government link in the Bahamas that provides the updated requirements:
Health Insurance Requirements in the Bahamas
Health insurance is not mandatory in the Bahamas, but the government strongly recommends that all residents have health insurance to ensure access to local medical care.
State Health Insurance System in the Bahamas
The state health insurance system in the Bahamas is called the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bahamas. It is a universal healthcare system that provides coverage to all residents of the Bahamas, including expats. NHI Bahamas is funded through taxes and is free of charge for most medical services.
The advantages of AccessHMO and Private Health Insurance membership in the Bahamas
Although NHI Bahamas provides decent coverage for basic medical services, most foreigners choose to have private medical insurance for higher coverage and benefit levels with faster customer service.
Here are the advantages of AccessHMO private health insurance for foreign residents in the Bahamas:
Access to private doctors and specialists including pediatrics
AccessHMO health insurance plans provide access to higher quality, English speaking medical facilities with board certified specialists who do not participate in the NHI.
Shorter waiting times for appointments and to schedule medical procedures
AccessHMO health insurance plans usually provide shorter waiting times for appointments and scheduling medical procedures. This saves our clients precious time to enjoy more of the Bahamas.
Flexibility and Coordination
AccessHMO health insurance plans are tailored to the budget and needs of the individual clients which allows greater flexibility and choice of benefit and coverage levels.
In conclusion, while health insurance is not mandatory for all legal residents in the Bahamas, most foreigners choose to have additional private health insurance for greater coverage and benefits. It is important to compare different insurance options to find the plan that best fits your budget and needs.
AccessHMO’s licensed professionals stand ready to answer your questions and address your individual needs to find the most suitable health insurance plan with options such as medical evacuation and coverage for medical treatment back in the U.S., Canada or Europe.