Bahamas entry requirements for Rwanda passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 30, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Rwandan passport holders need an eVisa to enter the Bahamas for tourism or business in 2026. The eVisa must be approved before you travel, and you'll need to show it along with your passport and onward ticket when you arrive in Nassau.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Required before travel | Apply for a Bahamas eVisa at the Bahamas Immigration Department portal. The eVisa is a single-entry permit valid for the duration of your stay. Submit your application at least 2 weeks before departure to allow processing time.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover entire stay | Your Rwandan passport must be valid for at least the full duration of your stay in the Bahamas. No minimum validity beyond departure is required by Bahamian law, but airlines may enforce 6 months — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at Nassau and Freeport airports will ask for a confirmed return or onward ticket before granting entry. Have a printed or digital copy ready — they check this at the counter. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended to carry | Hotel booking confirmation or a letter of invitation from your host in the Bahamas. Officers may ask for it if you look uncertain about where you're staying. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended to carry | Bank statements or a credit card showing you can cover your stay. No fixed minimum is published, but having at least $500 USD equivalent for a short trip avoids questions. | Recommended |
No visa on arrival
Rwandan passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival in the Bahamas. You must have an approved eVisa before you board your flight. Airlines may also check this before letting you check in.
US transit visa likely needed
Most flights from Rwanda to the Bahamas connect through the US. Even if you stay airside, you'll need a US transit visa (C-1) or a valid US visitor visa. Plan for this well in advance.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Bahamas immigration eVisa portal (if available) or check with the nearest Bahamas embassy. Fill out the application, upload your passport scan and photo, and pay the fee. Processing typically takes a few business days to a couple of weeks.
2
Pack your documents
Print or save digital copies of your eVisa approval, passport, return ticket, and accommodation confirmation. Keep them in a folder or on your phone for easy access.
3
Arrive at Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS)
Most flights from Rwanda will connect through the US or Canada. At Nassau airport, go to the immigration counter for foreign visitors. Present your passport, eVisa, and return ticket. The officer may ask about your stay and accommodation.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, proceed to baggage claim, then customs. If you have nothing to declare, use the green channel. You're free to go once cleared.
Download Bahamas Entry Checklist
PDF · Rwanda Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 30, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$40 USD (approx. $40 USD)
Standard option for short visits.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable 30 days
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$80 USD (approx. $80 USD)
Ideal for multiple trips within validity.
Long-stay visa
Max stay1 year, renewable
Validity1 year
Cost$200 USD (approx. $200 USD)
Requires proof of sufficient funds and purpose.
work visa
Work Permit
1 year, renewable
$500 USD (approx. $500 USD)
For those with a job offer in the Bahamas. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications.
investor visa
Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
$1,000 USD (approx. $1,000 USD)
For individuals investing a minimum of $500,000 in Bahamian business or real estate. Requires proof of investment.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable
$100 USD (approx. $100 USD)
For enrollment in a recognized educational institution in the Bahamas. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for Rwanda passport holders applying online. | $40 USD (approx. $40 USD) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)Same as eVisa; no separate single-entry tourist visa. | $40 USD (approx. $40 USD) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | $80 USD (approx. $80 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day over the authorized stay. | $50 USD per day |
| Overstay fine maximum capMaximum fine for overstay, regardless of duration. | $500 USD |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Bahamas
No transit visa needed
Rwanda passport holders transiting through the Bahamas do not require a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid US, Canada, UK, or Schengen visa may transit without visa for up to 48 hours.
Transit hubsLynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) · Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO)
Health & vaccines for Bahamas
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission, as per WHO guidelines.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialInfluenzaConsider
Health risks
Dengue feverModerate risk
Mosquito-borne disease present in the Bahamas; use insect repellent.
Zika virusLow risk
Rare but possible; pregnant women should take precautions.
Foodborne illnessLow risk
Standard food hygiene is good; avoid street food if sensitive.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Nassau
Department of Immigration
P.O. Box N-831, Nassau, Bahamas
Mon–Fri 09:00–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and inquiries.
Freeport
Grand Bahama Immigration Office
East Mall Drive, Freeport, Grand Bahama
Mon–Fri 09:00–16:30
Handles extensions for visitors in Grand Bahama.
Practical information for RW travellers
Country basics
CapitalNassau
LanguageEnglish
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US driver's license for up to 90 days.
Money
CurrencyBahamian dollar (BSD)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1 BSD
Time zone
Local timeUTC-5
vs New Yorksame timezone
vs Los Angeles+3h
Electricity
Voltage120V / 60Hz
Plug types
A,BType A (two flat pins) and Type B (two flat pins with grounding pin)
✓ No adapter needed for US plugs
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is generally not safe to drink; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you need an eVisa. There is no visa on arrival for Rwandan citizens. Apply online before you travel.
Processing times vary, but typically a few business days to two weeks. Apply at least 3–4 weeks before your trip to be safe.
The official fee is not listed in the current database, but eVisa fees for the Bahamas usually range from $40 to $100 depending on the type. Check the official immigration website for the exact amount.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave by the date your visa allows. Overstaying can result in fines or future entry bans.
You will likely need a US transit visa (C-1) or a valid US visa, even if you don't leave the airport. Check US visa requirements for Rwandan passport holders before booking.
The Bahamas does not require yellow fever vaccination for travelers from Rwanda, but it's always a good idea to have your routine vaccines up to date. Check with your doctor.
You will be denied entry and sent back on the next flight. There is no way to get a visa at the airport. Always have your eVisa approved before you travel.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 30, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.