How to get approval for a business license in the Bahamas?

To get a business license in the Bahamas, non-Bahamians must first submit a Project Proposal to the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA). Non-Bahamians must have a minimum capital investment of BS$500,000 outside of “Bahamians only” areas.

The BIA will examine the application and forward it to the National Economic Council for review as well as these Government Ministry or Agency depending on the nature of the proposed commercial activity:

• Ministry of the Environment.
• Ministry of Works and Transport.
• Ministry of Housing.
• Respective Family Island Local Government.

The BIA will notify the applicant in writing once a decision has been reached. They also collaborate with other government departments and support the project after permission is granted.