This year will go down as the year of working remotely, and for some, that meant working from Mexico or the Caribbean. Now you have another option…really 16.
First, if you’re working virtually and will continue to do so in 2021, then this is another option to work in paradise with the added bonus of island hopping (walks on the beach, colorful evening sunsets, and immersing yourself in the culture of the islands).
How does BEATS work?
The BEATS permit is valid up to 12 months from the date of issue – so if you have the financial means and flexibility to do so – living in the islands for a year sounds pretty enticing. Heck, a few weeks would be sublime.
The application fee is $25 BSD per applicant + each dependent and the student application fee is the same, $25 BSD. Make note that the USD amount is the same as BSD.
You’ll need the following to apply:
- Valid Passport
- Medical Insurance Card
- Proof of employment for remote workers
- Student ID to study remotely
Once your application is approved you’ll be redirected for payment for the following permit fees:
- The total cost for individual professionals to apply for and obtain a BEATS permit is $1,025 BSD
- College student? When you apply you will be required to pay $525 BSD and this is inclusive of the application and permit fee.
The processing time is about 5-days.
Once payment is received you’ll receive a confirmation QR code to show upon arrival to The Bahamas.
Travelers are also required to complete a Travel Health Visa. This is required for all visitors traveling to The Bahamas.
“What has always been unique about The Bahamas and even more so significant today, is that we are home to 700 islands and cays with 16 unique island destinations viable for travel,” said Joy Jibrilu, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation. “This means that you can essentially choose your own work, study and play adventure. If you’re seeking serenity and seclusion, you can head to Mayaguana or San Salvador, or if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten path stay, you can opt in for Grand Bahama Island, Eleuthera or Long Island. The opportunities are endless.”
Explore the area with these ideas:
- Learn new skills: Head to Long Island, home of Dean’s Blue Hole, the second deepest blue hole in the world, where the learning extends far beyond the classroom at diving school.
- Outdoor Physical Education: Master the art of bonefishing across the flats of Andros; hike to the top of Cat Island’s Mount Alvernia, which is the highest point in The Bahamas, or snorkel through the shipwrecks of Bimini.
- Lunch break: Your remote “cafeteria” gets a serious upgrade on New Providence, where the local Fish Fry at Arawak Cay or Potter’s Cay serves the best seafood in town.
- Happy Hour: Cool off with one of these Bahamian favorites from the Bahama Mama and Goombay Smash cocktails to a refreshing Kalik or Sands beer.
- Make friends: The swimming pigs, iguanas and nurse sharks on Exuma or the flamingos on Inagua can’t wait to meet you.
Keep in mind that all visitors must follow all current COVID-19 government protocols that are in place to ensure the safety of visitors and residents of The Bahamas. Stay informed about The Bahamas.
Discover more about The Bahamas and watch this spectacular video.
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