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Pet Import Requirements

Complete guide to bringing your pets to The Bahamas

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

Low Risk Countries (WOAH Rabies-Free)

Dogs

A health certificate (within 48 hours of importation) is required and must attest that the dog(s):

  • Have been continuously in the country of export for the previous six months, or if less than six months of age, since birth.
  • Was actively immunized against the following diseases:
    • Rabies
    • DHPP
    • Leptospirosis
  • Is free of internal parasites as determined by a negative fecal test.
  • Is free of external parasites.

Cats

A health certificate (within 48 hours of importation) is required and must attest that the cat(s):

  • Have been continuously in the country of export for the previous six months, or if less than six months of age, since birth.
  • Was actively immunized against the following diseases:
    • Rabies
    • FVRCP
    • FELV
  • Is free of internal parasites as determined by a negative fecal test.
  • Is free of external parasites.

High Risk Countries (Not WOAH Rabies-Free)

Dogs

An international veterinary certificate (within 48 hours of importation) is required and must attest that the dog(s):

  • Have been vaccinated against rabies by either:
    • One-year duration vaccine – administered within not more than 10 months and not less than one month prior to importation.
    • Three-year duration vaccine – administered within not more than 34 months and not less than one month prior to importation.
  • Have been continuously in the country of export for the previous six months, or if less than six months of age, since birth.
  • Was actively immunized against the following diseases:
    • Rabies
    • DHPP
    • Leptospirosis
  • Is free of internal parasites as determined by a negative fecal test.
  • Is free of external parasites.

Cats

An international veterinary certificate (within 48 hours of importation) is required and must attest that the cat(s):

  • Have been vaccinated against rabies by either:
    • One-year duration vaccine – administered within not more than 10 months and not less than one month prior to importation.
    • Three-year duration vaccine – administered within not more than 34 months and not less than one month prior to importation.
  • Have been continuously in the country of export for the previous six months, or if less than six months of age, since birth.
  • Was actively immunized against the following diseases:
    • Rabies
    • FVRCP
    • FELV
  • Is free of internal parasites as determined by a negative fecal test.
  • Is free of external parasites.

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

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:
  1. Apply for Your Permit: Submit your application online - We handle the entire permit application process, including submission to the government and all paperwork
  2. Pay for Your Permit: Pay for your cruising permit through us - We handle all payment processing
  3. Fly Yellow Quarantine Flag: Upon arrival in Bahamian waters
  4. Contact Customs: Call on VHF Channel 16 to announce arrival
  5. Proceed to Port of Entry: Go directly to a designated clearance port
  6. Complete Clearance: Present all required documents to customs and immigration
  7. 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

Bahamas Pet & Boat Permits

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