Conditions for Importation of Cats and Dogs

Important Age Requirement

All pets must be at least 6 months old to receive a permit. This is a mandatory requirement for all pet import permits to The Bahamas.

BAHFSA Vaccination Record Requirements

The BAHFSA department is asking for Vaccination Records to Meet the following Criteria:

Official clinic logo or letterhead
Stamp and signature of the attending veterinarian
Veterinarian's registration number
Pet bio-data: name, species, breed, sex, color, age, and microchip number (if applicable)
Owner's details: full name and contact information
Vaccine details: name of vaccine, manufacturer, batch/lot number, date of administration, and expiry date
Next due date for vaccination
Rabies vaccination records
Clear, recent photograph of the pet (recommended for identification and record matching)
Valid Vaccination records

Required Vaccinations:

Dogs:

Rabies
DHPP
Leptospirosis

Cats:

Rabies
FVRCP
FELV

Bahamas Cruising Permit Requirements

Complete guide for private vessels entering Bahamian waters (Updated 2025)

Annual Cruising Permit Fees (2025)

Vessel Length	Annual Permit Fee	Validity Period
Under 50 feet	$500 USD	12 months
50 - 99 feet	$1,000 USD	12 months
100 feet and over	$3,000 USD	12 months

Required Documents

📄 Documents Required

Failure to upload correct documents can result in delayed application processing.

Vessel Registration - Valid vessel registration certificate
VALID Passports - Valid passport for each crew member on board
Pet Documents (if applicable): Pet health certificate and valid pet permit (pet permits can be used for ONE entry only)

For All Vessels:

Vessel Documentation: U.S. Coast Guard documentation OR state registration certificate
Passport Copies: For all passengers and crew members

NEW Requirements (2025):

AIS (Automatic Identification System): Mandatory for vessels 50 feet and over
Fishing Permit: Now separate from cruising permit if you plan to fish
Anchoring Fees: Apply if not docking at a licensed marina

Entry Procedure

Step-by-Step Process:

Apply for Your Permit: Submit your application online - We handle the entire permit application process, including submission to the government and all paperwork
Pay for Your Permit: Pay for your cruising permit through us - We handle all payment processing
Fly Yellow Quarantine Flag: Upon arrival in Bahamian waters
Contact Customs: Call on VHF Channel 16 to announce arrival
Proceed to Port of Entry: Go directly to a designated clearance port
Complete Clearance: Present all required documents to customs and immigration
Receive Clearance: Get your cruising permit and clearance documents

Designated Ports of Entry

Major Ports:

Nassau - New Providence
Freeport - Grand Bahama
Bimini - Bimini Islands
Georgetown - Great Exuma
Marsh Harbour - Abacos

Other Ports:

Spanish Wells - Eleuthera
Harbour Island - Eleuthera
Chub Cay - Berry Islands
Staniel Cay - Exumas
Great Harbour Cay - Berry Islands

Important: You MUST clear customs at your first port of entry, even if traveling to a different final destination.

Important Notes for Cruisers

Firearms & Weapons:

Must be declared upon entry and will be sealed by customs until departure. Failure to declare can result in vessel seizure.

Pets on Board:

All pets require a valid import permit. Apply for your pet permit here.

Fishing:

Separate fishing licenses are now required and can be purchased at the time of clearance or online.

Marine Parks:

Some areas require additional permits or moorings. Always check local regulations.

Recommended Application Timeline:

Apply for your cruising permit at least 2-3 weeks before departure to allow for processing and any unexpected delays.

Need Help with Your Cruising Permit?

We can guide you through the application process and ensure all your documents are in order.

Apply for Cruising Permit View Pricing

Pet Import Requirements