What Travellers Need to Know Before Visiting The Bahamas
NASSAU, Bahamas, July 20, 2020 – The Bahamas is looking forward to safely welcoming back visitors. With 16 islands to choose from, there is something to appeal to all interests, no matter how social or distant travellers prefer to be. Visitors will find secluded stretches of beaches and turquoise waters, accommodations to satisfy every type of family, and outdoor adventures like boating, fishing and diving.
The health and wellbeing of both residents and visitors remains the number one priority, and even greater emphasis is being put on ensuring The Bahamas is a safe and clean destination for all to enjoy. Out of an abundance of caution, commercial flights and vessels from the United States are prohibited at this time, while private flights and charters as well as pleasure craft and yachts will be permitted. Additionally, travellers from Canada, the United Kingdom and the European Union will be approved for entry, pending they meet the country’s travel requirements.
When planning a visit, here are a few things travellers need to know before they go:
- Negative COVID-19 Test Results Required: All incoming visitors must show proof of a COVID-19 RT-PCR Negative (Swab) Test, taken no more than ten (10) days prior to the date of travel. Upon arrival, any person presenting a test older than ten (10) days will not be allowed entry into The Bahamas. Children under the age of ten (10) do not need a test.
- Electronic Health Visa Required: All travellers must complete an electronic Health Visa application form prior to departure at travel.gov.bs where they will upload their test results and provide contact information. Health Visa applications take up to 72 hours to process and should be completed with adequate lead time. An approved Health Visa will receive a green code, and proof of confirmation must be presented at check-in and upon arrival in their destination.
- Face Mask Requirements: Travellers will be required to wear a face mask in any situation where it is necessary to enforce physical distancing guidelines such as navigating air and sea terminals, collecting luggage, the full duration of taxi rides and while waiting to be seated at dining establishments.
It is recommended that all travellers review requirements and Frequently Asked Questions at Bahamas.com/travelupdates before booking to determine what steps need to be taken to be granted entry. For all questions regarding the Health Visa application process, or to check on status of your application, contact healthvisa@bahamas.com.
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PRESS INQUIRIES
Anita Johnson-Patty
General Manager, Global Communications
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation
Weber Shandwick
Public Relations