The Tribune

THE Ministry of Financial Services announced yesterday that short-term work visas are not required as part of the Immigration and entry procedure for individuals arriving in the Bahamas on international business, and for client meetings where there is no financial gain.

The Ministry said in a statement yesterday: “The Ministry of Financial Services and the Department of Immigration are committed to maintaining the Bahamas as a world-class international financial centre.

“In this regard, the movement of foreign persons through and within the Bahamas to facilitate international business, finance and trade is expected and encouraged.

“The Ministry of Financial Services and the Department of Immigration are pleased to advise the public of the Immigration and Entry Procedures for short-stay (less than two weeks) business and client meetings in the Bahamas, where there is no financial gain - for instance, employment involved.

“With respect to entry to the Bahamas for said purposes, be informed that short-term work permits are not required. However, to facilitate the ease of entry into the Bahamas, the Department of Immigration recommends that the travel details of such visitors be advised to the airport superintendent of immigration at least 72 hours prior to the expected date of entry.”

Financial Services Minister Ryan Pinder said: “Through consultations with the financial services industry we became aware of the need for clarification of certain matters related to Immigration policy, and especially for those who come to the Bahamas for short-term business trips who don’t come for any kind of compensation or remuneration.

“They may be Board meetings, meetings with a lawyer but nothing related to compensation or employment in the Bahamas.”