Last Updated: April 15, 2024

Travel Advisory

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

Crime Environment

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Nassau as being a CRITICAL-threat location, and Freeport as being a HIGH-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for The Bahamas, indicating that there may be widespread violent crime and/or organized crime present in the country, and/or that local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes. The crime emergency line in The Bahamas is 911. Review the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.

Crime: General Threat

There is serious risk from crime in Nassau, and considerable risk in Freeport. However, incidents of violent crime generally do not occur in tourist areas. Gang-on-gang crime represents the country’s primary security threat.

The Bahamas has experienced an increase in homicides in 2024, registering 25 homicides to in January and February. However, these homicides did not target tourists, and mostly occurred as retaliation between people with links to crime. According to sources, homicides decreased by 14% in 2023. There were 128 homicides in 2022 and 110 homicides in 2023. Reported armed robberies decreased by 35% in 2023.

According to police statistics that encompass the roughly 700 islands and 2,000 cays of The Bahamas, the number of murders in 2021 increased by 63%, with armed robberies increasing by 33%. Most of murders and armed robberies have historically occurred in the Northeastern, Southern, Southwestern, and South-Central portions of New Providence (the island home to Nassau and Paradise Island). These are not areas generally frequented by tourists. Retaliatory gang violence was the leading motive for most murders. There was a rise in incidents of rape, attempted rape, manslaughter, attempted murder, and unarmed robberies. There was an overall drop in property crime with decreases in incidents of house break-ins, burglaries, and thefts, but an increase in auto theft. Drug trafficking continues to be the major concern in the northern islands.

Most incidents involving U.S. citizens residing in The Bahamas are robberies or property crimes.

There was an increase in incidents of crime targeting tourists in 2022. While final 2023 statistics have not been released, this trend is thought to have remained consistent or decreased slightly. Several armed robberies involving U.S. victims occurred in Nassau, including some incidents occurring in areas tourists frequent. In two of these incidents, criminals pistol-whipped their tourist victims during the robbery. Most of these robberies occurred during hours of darkness, but some did occur in broad daylight. If someone demanding valuables confronts you, comply and make the encounter as brief as possible. Remain calm, be observant, clearly display your hands, and do not make any sudden moves that criminals could interpret as resistance.

The police continue to practice assertive policing methods, which include high-visibility checkpoints, focused raids, and the implementation of shot spotter technology in high-crime areas. The police maintain a robust presence in tourist areas during the day, and have improved the lighting in areas frequented by cruise ship passengers. Public CCTV systems are located in several areas throughout New Providence Island, and police are due to introduce aerial drones for law enforcement purposes in the near future.

Many criminals carry weapons. Most murders involved firearms, including fully automatic rifles and pistols illegally modified to shoot in fully automatic mode. Unless provoked, criminals committing property crimes typically do not engage in gratuitous violence.

Instead of carrying large amounts of cash, use a debit/credit card for payments when possible. Avoid using ATMs in isolated areas. ATM skimmers are active throughout Nassau. According to the RBPF, criminals commonly use two types of skimmers – a fake overlay device or a deep insert skimming device – along with a hidden camera to capture pin numbers. Skimmers create duplicate cards with stolen information, and then withdraw money from the victim’s account. If you observe a skimming device on an ATM, take a picture of it (if it is safe to do so) and contact police immediately.

Residential security remains a major concern. Crime ranging from theft of personal property to burglary occurs, even in gated communities where vacation or temporary rentals are common. Do not leave belongings unsecured outside your residence. Vehicles, bicycles, generators, and other property will attract criminals. If you cannot store items inside, visibly secure them with a chain and lock as a deterrent.

It is difficult to assess residential crime numbers accurately, in part because some property owners compensate tenant victims personally without reporting incidents to the police to protect the reputation of communities and maintain property values. Although forced entry into residences is a concern, the combination of a residential alarm, anti-burglar grilles, neighborhood watches, security lighting, and roving security patrols serve as deterrents, pushing criminals to softer, less protected targets. Home invasions are generally not random. Do not answer your door unless you know who it is. Secure your residence even when inside. Have an escape plan for you and your family and know how to get out of the house or hotel room.

For long-term absences, consider using timers to turn on lights automatically throughout the day, especially if you are off-island. Arrange to have your lawn cut periodically and arrange to have a friend/colleague check on your home and pick up newspapers or other deliveries daily.

Home invasion, theft, and robbery happens throughout the island. Innocent bystanders can be at risk from criminal activity. The U.S. Embassy receives reports of assaults, including sexual assaults, at residences, in casinos, on hotel property, and aboard cruise ships.

There have been armed robberies at supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, banks, and residences. Perpetrators typically conduct pre-attack surveillance. There were several reports of criminals following victims after they had closed business for the day in an attempt to steal the nightly deposit.

The Global Organized Crime Index is a tool designed to measure levels of organized crime in a given country and assess its resilience to organized criminal activity. The most recent index ranks the Bahamas 161 out of 193 worldwide for criminality, with 1 being the worst possible ranking; and 59 out of 193 worldwide for resilience, with 1 being the best possible ranking.

Crime: Areas of Concern

While some criminal activity occurs in the outlying Family Islands, it does so to a far lesser degree than on New Providence and Grand Bahama Islands.

Exercise caution in areas of Nassau referred to as “Over the Hill,” especially after sunset. “Over the Hill” is generally south of the downtown Nassau area, from the entirety of Shirley Street as far south as Robinson Road. This area does not have distinct boundaries, but encompasses many lower-income areas on New Providence. Historically, violent crime in the Bahamas does not occur in areas that tourists and other visitors to the country frequent. Recent homicide-related trends follow this pattern, with such violent episodes largely occurring in areas outside of tourist regions. However, Nassau only covers a small area. For instance, the Over the Hill neighborhood, if measured from Shirley Street, is located approximately one mile from the bridges to Paradise Island, home to thriving tourist facilities. It is only blocks from the Nassau cruise terminal and Straw Market at Prince George Wharf, where robberies have occurred in broad daylight. A major tourist destination, the Queen’s Staircase, is located in the northern part of the neighborhood, and it wouldn’t be unusual for more intrepid travelers to enter the area by foot without appreciating the increased risk. (The high-crime Coconut Grove neighborhood is a bit further afield, a bit over two miles south of the cruise terminal.)

Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, and Taking Credit.

Kidnapping Threat

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for The Bahamas. Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.

There is minimal risk of kidnappings in The Bahamas. The U.S. Embassy is unaware of any recent cases of kidnappings.

Drug Crime

The Bahamas has a long history of being a route for smugglers of narcotics, illegal immigrants, and weapons. Drugs, including marijuana, are illegal. U.S. organizations should be attentive to avoid conducting business with questionable persons or enterprises.

Marijuana and all products that contain its derivatives such as Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – to include gummies, oils, and other edible products – are NOT legal in The Bahamas. Having a prescription or medical card for cannabis/marijuana in the United States or another country does not exempt you from being prosecuted under Bahamian law, which makes no distinction between medical and recreational use of marijuana.

The possession or use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, and ecstasy, is a criminal offense in The Bahamas and can result in time in prison. While visiting The Bahamas, you are subject to Bahamian law. Drug violators are arrested regularly, even for possession of small quantities. All persons 16 years of age or older in The Bahamas are tried as adults in court. If you are arrested for drug possession, you should expect to spend at least one night, and possibly longer, in jail, and/or pay a substantial fine. Stay away from drug traffickers, who are often armed and violent. Do not accept packages from people you meet during your stay. Entrapment is a frequently used law enforcement technique in The Bahamas. Individuals offering drugs for sale may very well be undercover police officers.

Consult with the CIA World Factbook’s section on Illicit Drugs for country-specific information.

Terrorism Environment

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Nassau and Freeport as being LOW-threat locations for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for The Bahamas.

Terrorism: General Threat

There is minimal risk from terrorism in The Bahamas. A reasonable threat of transnational terrorism exists due to the porous borders. Terrorist groups native to the Western Hemisphere do not typically operate in the northeastern Caribbean.

Political Violence and Civil Unrest Environment

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Nassau and Freeport as being LOW-threat locations for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for The Bahamas. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.

Elections/Political Stability

The Commonwealth of The Bahamas is a constitutional parliamentary democracy. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis’ Progressive Liberal Party won control of the government in September 2021. International observers found the electoral process to be free and fair.

Protest & Demonstration Activity

There is minimal risk from civil unrest in The Bahamas. Limited law enforcement resources make rapid response to public disorder difficult, particularly on islands other than New Providence. Strikes are generally limited to industrial actions or work-to-rule actions and slowdowns.

Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Law Enforcement Concerns: Security Agencies

The Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) is the primary agency that handles all law enforcement matters for the Bahamas (Tel: 242-322-4444). Officers regularly walk foot patrols or ride bicycles in areas tourists frequent. In some cases, they may carry automatic weapons. Civilian authorities maintain effective control over the security forces. There are no reports of significant abuses by the security forces.

Police Response

There have been complaints that police are slow to respond to emergency calls in residential areas. In general, the RBPF responds to reports of crime and takes crimes against tourists seriously. The current police command structure is proactive about deterring crime. However, a lack of resources or physical constraints, such as geography, infrastructure, and traffic, can hinder police response. Unmarked streets and houses can impede first responders from locating affected residences or victims quickly. To ensure a faster response, victims may need to go to the local police station. Reporting crime can be a cumbersome and time-consuming process.

It is lawful for the RBPF to use some law enforcement techniques illegal in the United States, such as the undercover sale of narcotics.

Unregistered firearms and ammunition are illegal. Check local laws before bringing any firearms into The Bahamas by boat or by plane. Possession of unregistered firearms can lead to arrest, fines, and/or imprisonment.

If police detain or arrest you, cooperate. U.S. citizens should identify themselves and request to contact the U.S. Embassy immediately.

Police harassment of U.S. citizens is rare. Attempting to bribe an RBPF officer is a serious offense; strictly avoid doing so. Do not attempt to tip police officers for their services.

Report crime to the RBPF as soon as possible. Prompt reports to the police increase the prospect they can identify and arrest the perpetrators. The police respond rapidly to crime reports from hotels and establishments foreigners frequent.

Law Enforcement Concerns: Emergency Contact/Information

General emergency numbers are 911 or 919 for police/fire/ambulance.

Transportation Security

Road Safety

Traffic fatalities are a major concern in The Bahamas. It is a misdemeanor offense in The Bahamas to have an open alcohol container in your vehicle or to operate a handheld communication device while driving. Additionally, all drivers must present their driver’s license and proof of registration if a police officer requests to see it. Traffic moves on the left side of the road in The Bahamas. Cars have struck tourists who failed to check properly for oncoming traffic; vehicles have struck runners and cyclists. Traffic circles are common, and traffic in the circles has the right of way. Traffic congestion in Nassau is prevalent. Drivers occasionally display antagonistic tendencies and drive recklessly, passing on the right into oncoming traffic. Many motorists disobey stop signs, speed limits, and traffic signals.

Police have increased enforcement of traffic laws, but it is less than U.S. standards. Visitors, particularly pedestrians, cyclists, and runners, should exercise extreme caution. While it is against the law, drinking and driving is common; police infrequently enforce the ban, resulting in numerous traffic accidents and fatalities, including some involving tourists on foot or on motor scooters.

Traffic accidents pose a safety hazard in some parts of The Bahamas, primarily due to intolerant drivers speeding and driving recklessly. On many islands, the roads are two-way, poorly illuminated, in need of maintenance and repair, and not designed for high-speed travel. Some major streets do not have adequate shoulders or even passable sidewalks, compelling pedestrians to walk in oncoming traffic. Motorcyclists frequently swerve through slow traffic and drive between lanes of moving vehicles. Poorly maintained or excessively loaded vehicles also use the roadways. Passengers regularly ride in the back of trucks without any safety restraints; and although required by law, motorcyclists often do not wear helmets. Roads on the outer Family Islands can be narrow, winding, and in poor condition.

Bahamian law requires individuals who intend to stay in country longer than three months to obtain a Bahamian driver’s license. Individuals over the age of 18 who are driving must obtain a driver’s license. Third-party liability insurance is also required for individuals residing in The Bahamas.

If involved in a traffic accident, do not move vehicles until a police officer arrives to investigate the accident. The police can be slow to respond to vehicle accidents. The police may issue a “Notice of Prosecution” form letter to each involved driver with an initial court hearing scheduled within a week of the accident to determine fault. Roadside assistance is widely available through private towing services.

Flooding frequently occurs on roads, including in Nassau and Freeport. This flooding sometimes makes roadways impassable.

Drivers should be alert for unmarked or poorly marked construction zones.

Exercise caution when renting vehicles. Travel by scooter or bicycle can be quite hazardous, especially in heavy traffic conditions. Those who choose to ride a motorcycle, scooter, or bicycle should follow Bahamian helmet laws and drive defensively. The Embassy continues to see a significant number of serious injuries from accidents in which the operator suffered from alcohol/drug impairment, lack of experience, or inattention operator and/or other motorists.

For detailed, country-specific road and vehicle safety information, read the World Health Organization’s Global Status Report on Road Safety.

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Safety

Do not accept rides from strangers or from unlicensed taxi drivers. Only use taxis with “TN” on yellow license plates. When using a taxi, be clear where you want to go. There have been anecdotal reports of taxi drivers colluding with criminals to drive tourists to known high-crime areas where the criminals target them.

Public buses, particularly the #10 bus on West Bay Street, are popular with tourists. This line is generally safe to use.

Aviation Concerns

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration enjoy a close working relationship with the Bahamian Civil Aviation and Airport Authorities. TSA PreCheck is now available for qualified passengers at Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS).

There are no major aviation security concerns in The Bahamas.

Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights; and consider the European Union Air Safety List.

Maritime Security

Persons who operate their own watercraft or boats should be alert to the possibility of encountering vessels operated by armed smugglers engaged in illicit activities.

Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications.  Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities. Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.   Outboard engines on boats are an attractive item for thieves, particularly on Family Islands. Boats should be stored in safe locations, preferably under CCTV camera coverage to deter thieves.

Personal Identity & Human Rights Concerns

The Embassy has not received recent reports of persecution or hate crimes motivated by race, religion, or citizenship. There is no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. There have been reports of harassment and crime against persons based on sexual orientation.

Significant human rights issues included credible reports of: cruel or degrading treatment of prisoners by prison officers.

Safety Concerns for Women Travelers

Sexual harassment is a serious problem. The law prohibits sexual harassment in employment and authorizes moderate penalties and a maximum of two years’ imprisonment. The government generally enforces the law effectively; however, sexual harassment is underreported. The government has not executed any permanent programs on sexual harassment but conducts educational campaigns. Marital rape remains legal in The Bahamas despite movements to criminalize it.

Women are generally free from economic discrimination within public service, and the law provides for equal pay for equal work. The law provides for the same economic legal status and rights for women as for men. The government generally enforces the law within the public sector; however, it does not enforce the law within the private sector.

The Solo Female Travel Safety Index combines the experiences of solo female travelers with other reliable indices to award a single rating indicating the relative security female travelers might experience in a given country. The qualitative portion of the index examines risk of scam, theft, and harassment, as well as the country’s perceived attitude towards women. As of the date of this report’s publication, The Bahamas has a score of 1.9 on a scale of 1.0 (safest) to 4.0 (least safe). All solo female travelers are able to share their solo travel experiences by signing up with the Solo Female Travelers portal; the organization draws qualitative data from women traveling solo, depending on active participation and honest information.

Consider composite scores given to Bahamas by the UN Development Program (UNDP) in its Gender Development Index, measuring the difference between average achievement in three basic dimensions of human development, and Gender Inequality Index, measuring inequality in achievement in reproductive health, empowerment, and the labor market. For more information on gender statistics in Bahamas, see the World Bank's Gender Data Portal.

Review the State Department’s webpage for female travelers.

Safety Concerns for LGBTI+ Travelers

The August 2023 Protection Against Violence Act provided some antidiscrimination protections to victims of violence based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. Laws against domestic violence cover only violence in a heterosexual relationship. Societal discrimination existed against members of the LGBTQI+ community, with some persons reporting job and housing discrimination based on sexual orientation.

NGOs reported LGBTQI+ individuals faced social stigma and discrimination and did not believe they were adequately protected by law enforcement authorities. There was generally low social tolerance for same-sex relationships, and same-sex marriage is not legal. Homophobic epithets were both common and socially acceptable.

The Equaldex Equality Index measures the status of LGBTI+ rights, laws, and freedoms, as well as public attitudes towards LGBTI+ people around the world. As of this report’s publication date, Bahamas has a score of 32/100, ranking 128 out of 198 countries on the index.

Consider information from Destination Pride, a data-driven search platform associated with PFLAG Canada that visualize the world's LGBTQ+ laws, rights, and social sentiment; as well as from ILGA World, a worldwide federation that produces an annual map showing sexual orientation laws from around the world, available in multiple languages.

There are no known issues with travelers entering on nonbinary X passports.

Review OSAC’s report, Supporting LGBT+ Employee Security Abroad, and the State Department’s webpage on security for LGBTI travelers.

Safety Concerns for Travelers with Disabilities

The law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, including their access to education, employment, health services, information, communications, public buildings, transportation, the judicial system, and other state services. The government does not enforce these provisions effectively.

Review the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.

Safety Concerns for Travelers Based on Race, Religion, & Ethnicity

Human rights organizations allege that bias against migrants, particularly those of Haitian descent, continues, including through eviction notices in informal settlements. The government generally enforces its immigration policies equally on all irregular migrants, regardless of nationality or origin. Review the latest U.S Department of State Report on International Religious Freedom for country-specific information.

Review OSAC’s report, Freedom to Practice, and the State Department’s webpage on security for faith-based travelers.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

There are no serious concerns about Anti-U.S. sentiment in The Bahamas.

Concerns involving the Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption &/or Transparency

The constitution prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention, and the government generally observed these requirements. The constitution provides for the right of persons to challenge the lawfulness of their arrest or detention in court, although this process sometimes takes several years.

The Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index ranks The Bahamas 30 out of 180 worldwide, where 1 means most transparent.

The World Justice Project Rule of Law Index measures how the rule of law is experienced and perceived worldwide based on surveys in 140 countries and jurisdictions, and is the leading source for original, independent data on the rule of law. The most recent index ranks Bahamas 30 out of 140 worldwide, where 1 means the strongest perceived rule of law.

Communication Issues

The constitution provides for freedom of expression, including for the press, and the government generally respects this right. An independent press, an effective judiciary, and a functioning democratic political system combines to promote freedom of expression. Independent media are active and express a wide variety of views without restriction.

The law criminalizes negligent and intentional libel alike, with a penalty of six months’ imprisonment for the former and two years for the latter. The government did not apply the criminal libel law during the past year.

The government does not restrict access to the internet or censor online content, and there are no credible reports that the government monitors private online communications without appropriate legal authorization.

There are no known issues traveling with satellite phones.

The Freedom House Freedom in the World report rates Bahamas’ freedom of speech as free.

Health Concerns

To call an ambulance or rescue squad within The Bahamas, dial 919. 

The level of available medical assistance and facilities vary throughout the country. While there are hospitals and/or clinics on the major islands, medical facilities are limited or even non-existent on many smaller islands. Medical facilities may accept U.S. health insurance, but will require a deposit up front for non-emergency care. A patient will most likely have to pay the full charge to the hospital and request reimbursement from the insurance company after returning to the United States.

Trauma care is especially problematic throughout the archipelago. Transportation to a medical facility can use up valuable time in an emergency. There are no local helicopter evacuation service like that typically found in major U.S. metropolitan areas. Medical transport is often via boat, fixed-wing aircraft, or — if available — U.S. Coast Guard craft. Ambulances on New Providence Island are hampered by its endemic traffic congestion, while on many islands, ambulances are merely means of transportation to where medical help is available, and may have little or no advanced life support and stabilization equipment.

No serious, prevalent, endemic diseases exist in Nassau. In case of serious injury or illness, many U.S. nationals consider the possibility of medical evacuation (medevac) back to the U.S.

Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the State Department’s webpage on health insurance overseas.

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for the Bahamas. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.

See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the State Department’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.

Vaccinations

There are no vaccines required for entry.

Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.

Issues Traveling with Medications

There are no major issues traveling with prescription medication. For medications not available in The Bahamas, carry a prescription or a letter from a medical doctor.

Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.

Water Quality

Water is potable. There are some reports of high chlorine content at times.

Sanitary standards for food handlers, barbers, and beauticians are high. Food is imported from the U.S., Europe, and New Zealand and subject to inspection by the country of origin. Locally produced dairy foods meet U.S. health and sanitary standards. No special preparation of fruit and vegetables is required. Sewage is adequate but, in some low areas where drainage is poor, septic tanks and drainage pits require frequent wastewater removal.

Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?

Environmental Hazards

Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills. Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities. Be mindful of sharks when swimming and engaging in water activities, as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks. Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings.

Hurricanes and tropical storms frequently hit The Bahamas; hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season was the most active hurricane season on record. Consider devoting resources and time to emergency planning for the possibility of inclement weather, particularly during hurricane season. Pay close attention to the weather forecast during hurricane season. Airports and seaports cease operations well before a predicted storm arrives, and seats on most commercial transportation may sell out far in advance. 

Although New Providence has no poisonous snakes, it is home to poisonous insects, such as black widow spiders and scorpions. Certain types of coral formations can cause severe skin irritation and spiny sea urchins can cause severe foot infections if stepped on. No known cases of rabid animals have been reported on New Providence Island.

Cybersecurity Concerns

Cybercrime decreased to 105 incidents in 2022 then increased in 2023 to 115.

Instead of carrying large amounts of cash, use a debit/credit card for payments when possible. Avoid using ATMs in isolated areas. ATM skimmers are active throughout Nassau. According to the RBPF, criminals commonly use two types of skimmers –a fake overlay device or a deep insert skimming device – along with a hidden camera to capture pin numbers.  Skimmers create duplicate cards with stolen information, and then withdraw money from the victim’s account. If you observe a skimming device on an ATM, take a picture of it (if it is safe to do so) and contact police immediately.

The Financial Crime Unit and the Anti-Corruption Unit continue to conduct financial crime investigations, money laundering, terrorist financing investigations, and parallel investigations into proceeds of crime. Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.

Counterintelligence Issues

This country has no known issues with counterintelligence.

Other Security Concerns

Landmines

This country has no known issues with landmines.

Import/Export Restrictions

Prohibited items include food that is unfit for human consumption, indecent or obscene images, underwater guns, counterfeit money, and items in violation of copywrite laws.

In addition to typical restrictions on firearms and agricultural products, The Bahamas has restrictions on certain fishing gear. Long-line fishing in Bahamian waters is illegal. All long-line fishing gear must be stowed below deck while transiting through Bahamian waters. Fishermen should note that the Bahamian Government imposes significant penalties for catching crawfish (lobster) or other marine life out of season, taking undersized catch, or fishing in protected areas.

To enter the Bahamas with a drone and to operate it, you must first obtain permission from the Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority, whether you fly privately or commercially.

Visiting boaters must clear Customs and Immigration at the nearest designated Port of Entry. As you enter each port, fly the yellow quarantine flag and notify Customs of your arrival.

If you have a firearm on board, you must declare it with Bahamian Customs. Only shotguns and handguns are allowed in Bahamian waters. You must provide the serial number, name of the manufacturer, plus an exact count of ammunition. While you are allowed to have a firearm on your boat, you cannot remove it. Weapons must be under lock and key at all times. In cases of emergencies, which require your departure by air, you must notify Bahamian Police or Customs. They will accompany you to retrieve the firearm and present you with a receipt. Upon your return to the island, Bahamian Police or Customs will escort you to your vessel and return your firearm. Any infraction of this law will be dealt with severely and The Bahamas has recently increased both the penalties and sentencing for violators of local firearm laws.

A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.

Photography

Generally, photography of public places is allowed.

Review OSAC’s report, Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.

ID Requirements

Under current Emergency Powers Orders, adults must always carry government-issued ID. All drivers must present their driver’s license and proof of registration if a police officer requests to see it.

Critical Infrastructure Concerns

Parts of Grand Bahama and Abaco Islands are still recovering from Hurricane Dorian. Travelers should research desired areas before arrival to those parts of The Bahamas.

OSAC Country Chapters

Nassau has an active OSAC Country Chapter. Contact OSAC’s Americas team with any questions.

Embassy Contact Information

U.S. Embassy: 42 Queen Street, Nassau, next to the downtown McDonald’s and across the street from the British Colonial Hilton. Tel: (242) 322-1181.

The Bahamas Country Security Report