Looks like San Salvador here in the Bahamas is going to get some serious rain and wind over the weekend.
Read more at http://www.tribune242.com/photos/2016/aug/24/43552/
San Salvador Bahamas, storm is comming.
Tag: San Salvador Bahamas
San Salvador home for sale on the tip of the Island
Where have you ever seen a house that has views onto the sunrise in the morning and also the sunset in the evening? Usually you have to pick either one of these views. NOT this time !!! 
The home sit in a very unique location on the southern tip of the Island of San Salvador in the Bahamas.
It is built on two lots covering and acre and a half and hovers about 25 feet above ocean level on a solid rock foundation.
The views are incredible, with a panoramic view of the ocean of over 230 degrees. Look to your east and you see French Bay with it’s beautiful rock and cliff formations.
Look to the west and see the incredible beach of Sandy Point
and look straight out and you will be amazed by the crystal clear blue waters of the Bahamas.
On both sides of the rock formation, there are sandy beaches which provide easy access for swimming, snorkeling and shore diving. These waters contain numerous coral heads, coral formations, swim troughs etc that provide for fantastic snorkeling and diving experiences. Not to mention the abundant sea life.
The home has about 1500 square feet on the living level with consist of 2 bedrooms, 2 bath and an open floor plan with kitchen, dining room and living room. High Ceilings. On the lower level it has a storage room, laundry room and oversized garage.
This San Salvador Island home is pretty much self reliant in that it has a solar/wind/battery system plus connection to the island electrical grid and a whole house generator.( The solar system provides enough electricity that the island electricity is use rarely) It also has a UV water filtration system and 8000 gallon of rain water storage.
I have to say it again, the location is one of a kind and the home has walls of windows to soak up the views and let in lots of natural light and nearly constant beautiful sea breezes. The views are absolutely stunning !!!
And if you enjoy fishing, San Salvador here in the Bahamas will fulfill your wildest expectations, with some of the best Wahoo fishing in the world, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Grouper, Jack, Bone fish, Marlin, Snapper etc. And of course lots of conch and lobster, where the tail is measured in pounds not in ounces. Do I need to say more ? Only on San Salvador here in the beautiful Bahamas. The asking price is $399,000
Direct beachfront lot for sale in San Salvador, the Bahamas
Direct beachfront lot for sale in San Salvador, the Bahamas
Dreaming of an affordable gorgeous direct beachfront lot with long white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise and blue waters? Well you might have just found it on San Salvador, Bahamas. This piece of land is just absolutely beautiful.
Situated on the west coast of San Salvador with breathtaking sunsets every night. What are you waiting for?
This is your chance to finally own a piece of paradise and built the house of your dreams on a far away yet so close secluded charming little island. The lot is huge, about half an acre, 100 feet direct oceanfront. Unlike most oceanfront lots, this one has access to electric, water, internet and phone service. One for the things that is special to this oceanfront lot is what I call “the natural seawall” The lot itself is covered in lush tropical landscaping from the access road to the oceanfront. The beachfront itself is very unique, you have white sandy beach then a little formation of rocks between 2 and 10 feet deep and about 3 feet high and then white sandy beach again leading into the beautiful waters. I personally really like this setting because the rocks protect you when a storm and big waves are coming in.
Only minutes away from town and maybe 10 minutes from Club Med, the marina and the airport. The location could not be better.
San Salvador here in the Bahamas is about 180 miles south east of Nassau, probably 1200 people living on the Island, a few grocery stores, bars and restaurants but hardly any tourism other than the people that come from France, Canada and a handful from the US but they spend all their time in the all inclusive Club Med, they never venture out on the Island. San Salvador is very special and unique, come see for yourself !!! Check out my website to learn much more about the Island. The asking price on this beautiful lot for sale is $179,900 US
Below just find a few pictures of San Salvador here in the Bahamas. Sometimes a photo says more than 1000 words. There are a lot of different sides to San Salvador, you actually have to come and see for yourself.
Listing by McCarroll Real Estate
Sashimi dinner on San Salvador Bahamas
Sashimi dinner on San Salvador Bahamas
San Salvador here in the Bahamas is famous for fishing and diving and snorkeling and all kinds of things that have to do with water. I am not the biggest fan of Sushi or Sashimi but this appetizer was out of this world, the best I ever had Sashimi. The pictures tell the whole story.
I do not fish, wouldn’t even know how to but I am lucky enough to know people that fish !!!
Please do not ask me the names of the fish…….. have no idea just know that they were delicious !!!
San Salvador is a beautiful place and yes, you only have 3 or 4 little grocery store with limited inventory so you got to be creative when you cook dinner but who needs a big Publix if fish like this swim around in your backyard and you can pick the “sours” (mix between a lemon a lime a grapefruit and an orange if you ask me) from the trees.
Information about San Salvador Bahamas, homes, land, people and more
Information about San Salvador in the Bahamas. Here you will find answers to a lot of questions about San Salvador, Island of the Bahamas. Shopping, buying property, weather, boating, just scroll down.
How do you get to San Salvador Bahamas?
Direct daily fights out of Nassau,
Direct weekly flights from Paris (France)
Direct weekly flights from Montreal (Canada)
Direct weekly flights from Fort Lauderdale
Or you can come over on the mail boat. $40 from Nassau to San Salvador trip takes 12 hours. Also air taxi and air charters from Nassau
Is electricity available on the Island of San Salvador in the Bahamas?
San Salvador has a power plant and most inhabited areas are connected to public electricity remote areas run on generator and or solar panels which is common for the Bahamas
What is the drinking water source on San Salvador?
Public Reverse osmosis plant is on the island. Some areas are connected. Others have a well and or cisterns.
Where can I go for dinner on San Sal Bahamas?
There are several restaurants on the island that offer home cooked Bahamian food. Club med is also a wonderful place to have a great dinner and spend an unforgettable evening. It is open to the public but you should make reservations for dinner or lunch.
Is there a cab or taxi service on San Salvador?
Sorry, no cab service on the island but there are several rental car companies and shooter and bike rentals.
Is there a doctor on the Island?
Yes, actually there is a walk in clinic sometimes with a doctor on duty and always a registered nurse.
Club med also has a physician on call specializing in diving emergencies.
What kind of fish can you catch on the island of San Salvador in the Bahamas?
San Salvador is famous for Wahoo fishing. Grouper, Tuna and Conch are also common catches.
What is the water temperature on San Sal?
Depending on the time of the year the water temperature varies between mid seventies to high eighties, it is wonderful all year around.
When was the San Salvador lighthouse built?
Built by the Imperial Lighthouse Service in 1887, it is one of the last hand-operated, kerosene-lit lighthouses in the world and the last of its type in The Bahamas. You can climb 160 feet to the top of the lighthouse, which has a visibility of 19 miles.
Can I get phone and or internet connection on San Salvador?
Yes, there are different possibilities. Land line, Satellite, and fiber optic cable.
What travel documents do you need to travel to San Sal?
Passport
Are there any fishing charters on the island of San Salvador?
Yes, two local fishing charter companies.
Where is the Island situated in the Bahamas Island Chain?
About 180 miles south-east of Nassau
How is the diving on San Salvador Bahamas?
Absolutely fantastic, crystal clear water and wonderful reefs. Supposed to be one of the best diving spot in the world. Club Med and Riding Rock offer diving tours and equipment.
How big is the island?
About 12 miles long and 5 miles wide
I hear there is an Olympic Monument on San Sal?
Yes, that is correct. Mexican Monument commemorating the transferring of the Olympic flame from Greece to the New World for the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City.
If I buy a piece of property on San Salvador in the Bahamas will I own it free and clear?
You have to be a little careful, make sure a lawyer does a title search and guaranties that it is free and clear.
And for the peace of mind in some cases I also recommend getting title insurance.
Is there a church on the island?
Oh yes, there are a lot of churches on San Salvador and each one is unique.
How difficult is it to get a building permit?
Not difficult at all, when you go with the right contractor he will arrange everything for you.
How much is income tax in the Bahamas?
Zero, doesn’t´t exist, you do not have to pay income tax.
Are the roads paved on San Salvador in the Bahamas?
Yes, Queens Highway which goes around the whole Island is paved. Most other roads are dirt roads and some of them are in need of repair.
How much is it to build a house on San Salvador?
Well, it all depends, but for an average house it will cost you about
$200 per heated square feet and up.
How many boat slips and what size boats can dock in the marina?
At the present time about 20 slips at the Riding Rock marina for boats up to 70 feet.
Is there an insect problem on San Salvador?
No, there are mosquitoes of course like on every other Bahamian island but they only come out at dusk and dawn, use a regular mosquito spray with deed and you will not be bothered. for your home you can buy the coils or the new “OFF” candle lamps, they really work well. No see umms or sand flies or whatever you want to call the little annoying things are also at home on the island but with baby oil or Avon skin so soft you can keep them in check. Nobody has ever seen snakes or other poisonous creatures.
How long does it take from the day an offer is made on a property on San Salvador till it closes and title is transferred?
It can take somewhere between 3 and 6 month.
Can I watch TV while on the island?
Yes, absolutely, there are some areas that are connected to cable and others have satellite dishes.
Can small private plan also land on San Salvador?
Yes, San Salvador airport is a port of entry with an 8000 feet paved runway which is the third largest in all of Bahamas. Big and small plans can land here. Jet fuel is also available.
What is the population of San Salvador?
Well, my guess is as good as your. Somewhere between 1200 and 1600 people.
How about schools on San Salvador?
Pretty much everything from daycare for babies to high school.
What language do they speak on San Salvador?
English……. with a really cute slang. For example, the locals do not use the word “arrive” they say “reaches”
What are the immigration rules for the Bahamas?
Please see our link for immigration. immigration Bahamas
What is the official currency?
Bahamian dollar but it is no problem at all to pay with US dollar. Exchange rate is 1 to 1
If I buy a vacant lot on San Salvador and want to build a house where do I get the building material?
You can either ship it from Florida or Nassau or buy some of it in the new building material store directly on the island
Is there a police station on the Island?
Yes, not that they need it but yes there is one.
How does San Salvador get supplies?
Usually per ship The “mail boat” comes once a week and “Seacore shipping” and “Tropical” brings containers, cars, equipment etc. as needed.
Is San Salvador one of these rocky, sandy Islands with hardly any vegetation?
No, not at all. In fact it is very green with lots of lakes and shrubs and little hills, really wonderful.
Can I only buy one lot or vacant land or is there any restriction on San Salvador?
No restriction at all. Buy as lots or vacant land as you want. Doesn’t matter if it is oceanfront property or inland. You will need investment board approval but your lawyer will walk you through this. It is easy.
Are there any monthly or yearly fees like home owners association on San Salvador in the Bahamas?
Yes and No. Only if you buy a property or vacant land in the south part of the island which is named Columbus Landings then you have to pay about $30 per year. There is also a beautiful new development called SeaBreeze going up on San Salvador with 20 new homes right on the ocean and there will also be an association fee. Other than that I am not aware of any fees.
Can I bring my boat to San Salvador?
Absolutely, docking is currently available at the “Riding Rock marina” but you can also just anchor a few hundred feet off the island..
What is the “Gerace Research Center”
(GRC, formerly the Bahamian Field Station) is located on the shore of Graham’s Harbor on the north coast of San Sal. The center has been in operation since 1971 and offers facilities for students, professors, and researchers from around the world to study in a tropical environment. More info at Gerace
What else can I do on San Salvador when I am on vacation?
There are lots of things to do, diving is very popular and fishing and kite surfing and jet skiing and boating and taking beautiful tours to High key or Pigeon creek. You can visit the light house and go to the caves or just relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches and crystal clear water of San Salvador here in the Bahamas.
If I rent a condo or house on the Island of San Salvador, where do I buy my groceries?
There are a few little grocery stores/convenience store on the island where all the locals shop and you can get all your basic food there, but you can also bring a cooler with your “favorite food” for home. No shops in Sandy Point or Columbus Landings but 3 in Cockburn town and some in Victoria Hill and United Estates.
Can a non-Bahamian purchase property in the Bahamas?
Yes, you can buy a house or home or condo or vacant land here on San Salvador. The International Persons Landholding Act, 1993, provides for non-Bahamians to be able to purchase real property in the Bahamas. In addition, under the above named act, a non-Bahamian who purchases land that does not require the issuing of a permit must register their purchase with the Foreign Investment Board.
Am I required to register my San Salvador property purchase?
Yes, your lawyer will help you with it. Non-Bahamians should register their investment with the Exchange Control Department at the Central Bank of the Bahamas so that in the event that they choose to sell their property, they will be able to repatriate the proceeds in the currency of their original investment.
Click on the link http://www.opm.gov.bs/legislation.php to view the following:
The International Persons Landholding Act
The International Persons Landholding Act Guidelines
Application for Permit
Application for Certificate of Registration
What form of property title is given in the Bahamas?
Most of the properties are sold on a Freehold basis; however, there are some properties that are sold on a leasehold basis which are usually Crown Lands (Government owned properties). Although the Government of the Bahamas does not usually sell its property, it sometimes leases some of its Crown Lands for agricultural / development purposes.
Will I be required to use a local attorney when purchasing property in the Bahamas?
It is essential, that all real estate transactions be handled by a Bahamian attorney, or the transaction will not be registered and the sale will not be considered final.
In addition to making sure that the title documents are prepared properly and that they are in good order, the attorney will give an Opinion on the title to the property. This Opinion is considered to be the same as title insurance and the lawyer is held liable should the purchaser find that there is a defect in the title. Local Bahamian lawyers carry indemnity insurance.
What are the costs related to buying or selling properties in the Bahamas?
There are the principal costs in buying and selling real estate. There are other considerations and expenses related such as the conversion from Bahamian Dollars to U.S Dollars and vice versa, surveying fees if boundary markers are not in place or a survey plan is needed. Appraisal or valuation if required is charged by the extent of the job.
Will I be able to repatriate the proceeds if I choose to sell my property in the Bahamas?
If you registered the purchase of your property with the Exchange Control Department at the Central Bank of the Bahamas at the time of purchase and later decide to sell your land you will be able to repatriate the proceeds.
Is there financing locally available to non-Bahamians / permanent residents for the purchase of property?
Local financing is available however, the loan facility may only be given in US$ at international rates and the down payment required is usually in the area of 40% of the value
What taxes are there in the Bahamas?
The Bahamas has no income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax or sales tax with the exception of the Stamp Duty on the conveyance of real property.
The government’s primary source of revenue is from duties charged by customs on all imported goods into the Bahamas. There is also Real Property Tax. The following are the Real Property Tax Rates: In respect to owner-occupied property:
The first $250,000 is tax exempt.
On that portion in excess of $250,000 and less than $500,000 the rate of tax is 0.75% (¾%) of the market value of the property.
On the portion in excess of $500,000 the tax rate is 1% of the market value of the property.
The maximum annual tax shall not exceed $35,000.00.
In respect to unimproved property other than unimproved property exempt by virtue of Section 39 of the Real Property Tax Act:
Upon that part of the market value that does not exceed $3,000 a fee of $30.00.
Upon that part of the market value which exceeds $3,000 but does not exceed $100,000 a tax rate of 1% per annum of the market value of the property.
In respect to any other property:
Upon that part of the market value that does not exceed $500,000 a tax at the rate of 1% per annum of the market value.
Upon that part of the market value in excess of $500,000 a tax at the rate of 2% of the market value of the property.
Market Value is defined as the amount the property would realize, if sold in the open market, without any encumbrances or restrictions. If the return is not filed, the owner is guilty of an offense, and upon conviction thereof, may be fined up to $3,000. Persons knowingly making false statements may be liable upon conviction to a fine of up to $3,000 or six months imprisonment, or both fine and imprisonment. If the tax is not paid on or before the last day the tax becomes due, a 10% surcharge is added.
In the case of an extension of time, the Chief Valuation Officer may postpone the date on which the tax is payable in a particular case, by notice in writing.
Exemptions
Property owned by Bahamians and situated in the Family Islands is exempt from property tax. Property approved as commercial farmland (by the Ministers of Agriculture, Trade and Industry and Finance) is eligible for property tax exemptions.
Also exempt from property tax are:
Unimproved property owned by Bahamians, meaning property without physical additions or alterations, or any works benefiting the land which have not increased the market value thereof by $5,000 or more;
Places of religious worship; school buildings and their gardens and playing areas;
Property owned by foreign governments;
Property owned by foreign nations used for consular offices or residences of consular officials and employees;
Property used exclusively for charitable or public service from which no profit is derived.
Can I establish residency ?
As with many emerging nations, the policies of The Bahamas Government are aimed at ensuring reasonable security, well-being and economic progress of The Bahamas and its people. However, due to our status as an offshore financial center which is utilized by persons from various parts of the world, The Government does give consideration to application for citizenship, permanent residency and work permits subject to applicable immigration laws and governmental policies.
Persons seeking permanent residence must be of good character and prepared to show evidence of financial support. Application is made to the Ministry of Public Safety and Immigration and must be accompanied by the necessary information. Accelerated consideration may be given to fit and proper applicants for permanent residence who demonstrate a genuine intention to reside in The Bahamas at least part of the year and which applicants either already own or intend to purchase a home in The Bahamas with a value in excess of $500,000. Any successful applicant, where applicable, may have his spouse and/or minor children endorsed on his permanent residence certificate.
Non-Bahamians are at liberty to apply for work permits but they must be able to demonstrate a special skill or expertise such that at the time of application there are no suitable Bahamian persons capable of holding the position for which the permit is being applied for. Certain categories of Work Permit applicants may request a permit for longer periods than the standard one-year period. Upon each renewal sought the criteria that was applicable to a new applicant will be required to be met. Should Work Permit applicants wish to be accompanied by their spouse and/or minor children, separate Residency Permit applications must be made.
Bahamas Real Estate
Insurance Policies in The Bahamas
Revised by Star General Insurance
Insurance in The Bahamas is as much a necessity as in other parts of the world. Banks require various kinds of insurance to finance purchases of buildings, equipment, motor vehicles, boats, business interests or other material things.
SECURITY
If one were interested in buying a house on San Salvador here in the Bahamas, the bank manager would normally ask one to provide satisfactory security in the form of a mortgage over the property and building, backed up by life insurance to cover the full amount of the loan and insurance on the building, with both policies endorsed to pay any losses arising to the bank. Similar requirements apply to other purchases for which one must borrow money.
The Bahamas covers quite a large area, but much of the Commonwealth is under water, with some 700 islands, cays and rocks spotted over an area of some 15,000 square miles. Consequently, the number of houses, businesses, motor cars, vessels and aircraft is relatively few in number compared to our big neighbor to the west, Florida, and her other sister states. This scarcity in numbers means that the volume of insured risks is small and the overall premium base for The Bahamas is minuscule compared with the world insurance markets. (Insurance premium income for the whole of The Bahamas, the Caribbean Islands and Central America has been reported as being only one 15th of one percent of premiums payable worldwide, whereas the cost of claims for the region is about 2.5% of worldwide losses.)
Premium rates, therefore, may be somewhat higher than those available for similar risks in Florida or the states to the north, but their premium base is vast in comparison to ours. Nevertheless, coverage available from insurers is quite sophisticated and very much in line with what is available elsewhere in the world.
FIRE & HOUSEHOLD
Fire and household policies will all contain the “Pro Rata Condition of Average” (commonly called the “Average Clause”), which requires the policy holder to insure for full values if he wishes to receive “full value” for any claim made for loss or damage caused by an “Insured Peril”. Reinstatement, public authorities, and a variety of other clauses amending and/or extending the standard policy coverage are available. The possibility also existed that full cover from windstorm may not have been available to all properties to be insured. With the visit of Hurricane Andrew in August 1992 and Hurricane Floyd in September 1999, the Bahamas could no longer claim to be “specially” favored, as the last serious hurricane to hit major inhabited areas of The Bahamas previously was in 1929.
CATASTROPHIC PERILS
Because of a variety of factors, primarily the cost of reinsurance protection purchased by primary (or direct) underwriters who retail insurance to the general public, the inclusion of any of the “perils of Hurricane, Windstorm, Earthquake or Tidal Wave” (known as “catastrophe perils”), puts premium costs at the top level of the rates agreed by underwriters participating in the local market.
PROPERTY RATES.
Market rates in 1999, for full cover on a typical building constructed of concrete and roofed with wood or fiber-glass shingles in New Providence equal 0.80% on buildings and 1.10% on contents. In the Family Islands: buildings-1% and contents-1.35%. Therefore, the premium on a building in New Providence valued at B$100,000 with contents of B$25,000 would be B$1,075.00 or B$1,337.50 in the Family Islands. A building valued at B$500,000 with contents of B$50,000 in N.P. would have a premium of B$4,550, or B$5,675 in the Family Islands. In practice, however, premiums of B$1,000(N.P)/B$1,250(Fam. Is.) and B$3,675(N.P.)/B$4,600(Fam. Is.) respectively, could be obtained. A shop retailing non-hazardous merchandise in a similar building with similar sums insured will attract a similar premium on the same values. Wooden buildings attract higher rates of premium throughout the Bahama Islands.
What You Need To Know About Immigration to San Salvador Bahamas.
Bahamian immigration rules are designed with the view that everyone wants to immigrate to the tiny Bahamas? which, if this were to occur, would sink under the weight. Consequently, while tourism and investment are encouraged, true immigration is possible but tightly controlled. Visas, work permits and residency permits are available.
GENERAL
Everyone entering The Bahamas MUST fill out an embarkation-disembarkation card usually provided by the travel agent, airline or ship. Non-residents surrender the specified part when departing.
VISAS & PASSPORTS NOT REQUIRED FOR:
Canadian citizens, United Kingdom subjects and those of British Colonies unless stay exceeds 3 weeks.
U.S. Citizens on regularly scheduled airlines, pre-cleared for return at U.S Customs and Immigration at Nassau International Airport. Proof of citizenship is required, however, and may include: U.S. Passport, Unacceptable document
NO VISA REQUIRED:
Persons possessing a valid Bahamian residence or work permit from the Director of Immigration; persons in transit including stateless persons with valid refugee and stateless person documents if they have tickets onward and stay no longer than three days.
VISAS REQUIRED:
Applications should be made to the nearest Bahamian or British Consular Office. Citizens of Haiti and South Africa ALWAYS require visas, even in direct transit by air.
VISAS & PASSPORTS REQUIRED:
All Communist countries, Dominican Republic except in transit, Haiti, South Africa. If in doubt, check with the Immigration Department, P.O. Box N-831. Nassau, The Bahamas. Tel. (242) 322-7530.
MAXIMUM STAY:
Eight months with proper documents including a return ticket and evidence of financial support. Those wishing longer stays may apply for temporary residence to The Director of Immigration Department, P.O. Box N-831. Nassau, The Bahamas. Tel. (242) 322-7530. Visitors and temporary residents may not engage in gainful employment while in The Bahamas.
CITIZENSHIP, RESIDENCY & WORK PERMITS
Bahamian Immigration Department permits are needed for those who wish to reside, work or engage in business, including selling. Applications must be supported with these documents: A police certificate covering the last five years or in the UK, a sworn affidavit of good character; two character references from responsible persons in the home country or The Bahamas; two full face photographs signed on the back by the applicant (max size 3 x 3 inches; min. size 2 x 2 inches) and a valid health certificate not more than 30 days old.
CITIZENSHIP
The Bahamas Constitution and the Bahamas Nationality Act, 1973, detail the acquisition and loss of citizenship. Persons born in The Bahamas before July 10, 1973, or outside The Bahamas to a Bahamian father became Bahamian Citizens on Independence Day, July 10, 1973, as did most persons registered as a citizen of The Bahamas under the British Nationality Act of 1948. Persons born in The Bahamas after Independence are citizens if either parent is a Bahamian citizen and are entitled to register as a citizen if born here, subject to interests of national security or public policy, by making application within 12 months after his or her 18th birthday. Persons born legitimately outside The Bahamas after July 9, 1973 to a Bahamian mother and illegitimate children born outside The Bahamas to Bahamian women are entitled to apply between the ages of 18 and 21 years subject to interests of national security or public policy. Any woman married to a Bahamian is entitled to be registered as a citizen upon application provided she is still married to that person and subject to interests of national security or public policy.
Others who are not entitled to be registered or naturalized by virtue of an existing status may apply for citizenship under the Nationality Act. Residence for a period, English proficiency and the intention to make The Bahamas a permanent home are among the qualifications.
RESIDENCY
Annual Residency
A head of household pays $1,000 plus $25 per dependent. Applicants for annual residency status must show evidence of financial support.
Male spouses of Bahamians pay a one time fee of $250 with no charges for dependents, and with proper documentation, may work here on a spousal permit.
Permanent Residency for San Salvador Bahamas
Those who wish to settle in The Bahamas by investing in property, retiring here or opening a business usually apply for this status. Accelerated consideration for Permanent Residency can be obtained with a minimum property investment of $500,000. Applicants must be of good character, show evidence of financial support, and say in writing that they wish to live permanently in The Bahamas. Wives and dependent children (under age 18) usually resident in a household can be endorsed on the certificate when the original application is made or later, subject to conditions which may be made by the Immigration Board.
Persons with this status prior to the Immigration Act (1975) continue to hold the status automatically. Spouses of Bahamians can receive a Certificate of Permanent Residence with the right to engage in gainful employment at any time for females and after five years of marriage for males. Spousal permits may be obtained in the meantime at a cost of $250. Permanent residency can be revoked for cause including divorce. Cost of Permanent Residence is $10,000 before issuance, with endorsements free.
Work Permits for San Salvador Bahamas
The Bahamas Government tries to ensure that Bahamians are given fair consideration for employment. A work permit application is not considered if a suitably qualified Bahamian is available or if the prospective employee is already in the country and entered as a visitor. If the Immigration Board considers the prospective non-Bahamian employee will be an asset to the Bahamas it reviews the application, but only after the prospective employer advertises and interviews locally and obtains a certificate from the Labour Exchange stating there is no qualified Bahamian registered who could fill the post. Permits for longer than one year may be given for key personnel on contract, often with an endorsement that the employee will be replaced by a Bahamian or will train a Bahamian to perform the job in a specified time.
Each work permit is for a specified person and job. A permit holder may apply for a new permit for a new post without leaving the island
https://www.facebook.com/SanSalIsland/?ref=hl
The information on this website is believed to be true and accurate but I urge you to do your own research and verify the facts.
Conch dinner on San Salvador Bahamas
We had an awesome dinner of cracked conch and conch salad at “The Bohemian” here on San Salvador in the Bahamas.
Andre was the chef and he did a fantastic job. The evening was a lot of fun and the food was out of this world. Not only did Andre prepare and cook all the food but him, Tommy and Rodney went out on a boat the same morning and dove for conch. So, it could not have been any fresher !!!
The guys came back to the house around 6 pm and brought a cooler full of conch.
We all got a drink and now the work started. We chopped the conch, tomatoes, onions, red and green peppers and hot pepper and squeezed a bunch of lime and sours and to finish it all off we add just some salt. This is probably my most favorite dish in the world and it can’t get any healthier.
After that Andre made Cracked Conch. He pounded the conch very thin and then dipped it in eggs and floured it and put it in hot oil.
Fresh out of the pot we eat conch with a tomato based hot sauce and a spicy mayonnaise dip. It was sooooo good.
See, to me this is Island living at it finest. No fancy white table-cloth and sitting still at the dinner table, no, flip flops, shorts, nice friends, good conversation, a few drinks and lots of laughter !
It was a beautiful meal. Thank you again to Andre and Tommy. Things like this can happen on this beautiful Island of San Salvador in the Bahamas !!! Life feels so real here………..not sure how to say this. You got to come and visit San Salvador and see for yourself.
Arts and Crafts festival in San Salvador Bahamas
Arts and Crafts festival in San Salvador Bahamas on Labor Day.
The night before Labor day me and some friends went to the Club Med for some great food and drinks and entertainment.
Right before the show the chef of the village announced that there will be free bus rides from Club Med to the Almond tree park that people can take to visit the San Salvador Arts and Crafts festival. I was surprised that neither me nor my friends, living on the island, even knew about the festival but I was also very excited and we made plans to go there the next day.
So, all made up and ready to go, we left the house the next day about 10.30 in the morning. As always, parking is never a problem on San Salvador. Guess we were a little too early, the food and the drinks had not arrived yet but some vendors had already set up.
The arts and crafts festival was held at the Almond tree park which has a beautiful water view.
People were selling home-made guave jam and hot goat sauce and beautiful island bracelets and earrings and necklaces from “island glass” and now I am the proud owner of my first piece of real San Sal Island jewelry.
We also bought the jam and the sauce and I can only say they are REALLY good.
For me the music was the best part of the festival, it never fails, the Bahamian rhythm always puts me in a fun mood and it is such a joy and pleasure to watch the guys play.
This is the little fire the guys need to prepare their instruments.
Another fun part of the festival was a little contest of “which one of the tourists is the most Bahamian” 3 guys out of the crowed were picked and they had to play the cow bells, it was so funny.
Here are two Island ladies enjoying the show.
Here are two tourists enjoying the show.
We stayed for 2 hours or so and had a good and fun time. Hope to see another Arts and Crafts festival on in San Salvador here in the Bahamas soon and maybe next time more vendors will set up their awesome and unique creations. (This last sentence is to motivate Mr. Kenny, the wood-carver )
This is the new Setup at Juice, the local bar here in San Salvador where the party continued after hours.
Boat rescue on this little Island of San Salvador in the Bahamas.
Never a dull moment on this little Island of San Salvador in the Bahamas.
You wonder what I do all day? Well here is a story from last week.
For years, Tommy had a little aluminum fishing boat about 16 feet with a 9 horse power motor. When he wasn’t using it, he kept the motor in the garage and the boat in Pigeon creek, the east side of the San Salvador coast line. One day he was all excited to go fishing with a friend, packed up his motor and fishing gear and went to Pigeon creek, only to find out that his boat was gone !!!
Well other than cigarettes and booze people do not really steal anything on San Salvador. Keep in mind, it is a little island in the Bahamas and everybody knows each other and stealing and keeping it a secret is impossible. Especially something as big as a boat.
BUT where is the boat ???
A few month ago Tommy somehow found out that a guy from the Island had “borrowed” the boat without asking and then abandoned it somewhere ……. Just recently and by accident a friend of Tommy’s found the boat on Treasure beach , FULL of sand and imbedded into the beautiful beach.
So, today was the day, off we went to resume the boat. Two cars, seven people and six shuffles, beer and egg salad and home-made bread.
7.30 in the morning we left the house (which was a real challenge since we all had way too much to drink in Club Med the night before)
The pictures will tell the rest of the story from our boat rescue operation on San Salvador In the Bahamas.
T&T (Tommy and Tony) arriving at Brian’s boat dock in Pigeon Creek on San Salvador’s east coast.
Loading up the Boat in Pigeon creek and getting ready for our San Salvador boat rescue mission.
After a beautiful boat ride we arrived and Brian is pointing out the boat. Yes, I do understand if you can’t see it, it is this tiny little sliver of red sticking out of the beach by a few inches. To this day I have no idea how Brian spotted it. Treasure beach in San Salvador is a very special place, you can find all kinds of things from all over the world that somehow make their way onshore.
Boat is beached and we are unloading the shuffles and some refreshing drinks like water and maybe some beer…… Everybody is in high spirits, ready to rescue Tommy’s boat and bring it back to the west coast of San Salvador for much needed maintenance.
And the digging begins ! Didn’t really go as fast as we hoped.
Can you see it, we are making progress ! Well maybe I should not say “we”, I was taking the photos and the guys were doing all the hard work. San Salvador is a special place, if you get in trouble you will always find people to help you out. Even if it involves digging out a boat in 86 degrees temperature.
How awesome, the boat is nearly empty.
First try to get it out but this boat was still so heavy.
Yes, everybody is feeling good, boat is moving.
Some more digging but we are nearly done.
Boat is out, the guys flipped it a few times to get the last bit of sand out.
That is me, bringing egg salad and fresh baked bread to the “digging site”
Breakfast is served, San Salvador style in the rescued boat.
Happy Tommy (on the left) he has his boat back and was fed, what more can you ask for on a Saturday morning in San Salvador?
Before launching the boat in the water we all took a well deserved break, This is Andre, he found a brand new drum while walking on the beach and he was determined to bring it home.
Stefan and Brian took a walk up the hill to one of San Salvador’s Lookout towers and took this beautiful picture of Treasure Beach.
All set, ready to leave but wait a minute, Brian (boat spotter) and Tommy (happy boat owner) wanted one last picture of the “boat hole”
Getting ready to leave, bringing everything back.
This is the big test, will the boat float? answer is YES. San Salvador boat rescue mission successfully accomplished. (drum made it on board too)
On our way back we took the time to admire Pigeon creek and the crystal clear waters of San Salvador here in the Bahamas.
We stopped the boat and walked through the shallow water and soak in the beautiful scenery
Here is Brian, playing with some star fish.
Time to leave, guys are walking back to the boat.
It was just another awesome day on this beautiful little island of San Salvador
with a bunch of friends.
When I left Florida mid February my friends were taking bats on how long it would take till I get totally bored and rush back to Fl. Most of them thought it would be two month and only a few had three month, nobody gave me more than that. By now it is beginning of June and I am still not bored….. And this was one of the stories that keeps things interesting here on San Salvador in the Bahamas.
Timeline of Key Historical Events in the Bahamas
Timeline of Key Historical Events in the Bahamas
| 1492 | Christopher Columbus discovers the Bahamas by landing on the Island called Guanahani. Which was renamed to San Salvador |
| 1647 | The Company of Eleutheran Adventurers, founds the first republic in the New World, in order to colonize the Bahama Islands and claim them for Great Britain. They took over an island the Arawaks called Cigatoo, renaming it Eluthra, after the Greek word for freedom. |
| 1670 | Six Lord Proprietors of South Carolina were granted the Bahama Islands by King Charles II of England. |
| 1695 | The Lord Proprietors authorized construction of a fort/ city on the island of New Providence. The city, called Charles Town in honor of King Charles II, was renamed Nassau in honor of King William III. |
| 1717 | Captain Woods Rogers was named first Royal Governor of the Bahama Islands and restored order by ending the rule of pirates. |
| 1729 | The Bahamas House of Assembly officially convenes. |
| 1741 | Construction of Fort Montagu begins at the eastern entrance to Nassau Harbor. Completed in 1742, it stands today as a tourist site. |
| 1776 | During the American War for Independence from Great Britain, eight colonial warships captured Fort Montague and Fort Nassau. |
| 1782 | Spaniards takeover the Bahamas, disgusted by pirate raids on their ships, |
| 1783 | The Bahamas is restored to Great Britain by treaty with Spain. |
| 1783 | The immigration of American Loyalists begins as they bring slaves to set up a plantation economy. |
| 1789 | Completion of the main portion of Fort Charlotte overlooking the western entrance to Nassau Harbor. |
| 1793 | Fort Fincastle was built at New Providence Island’s highest point. |
| 1838 | Slavery is abolished in the Bahamas. Wrecking, controlled by licenses, flourished until lighthouses are built on the major islands. |
| 1861-1865 | The American Civil War brought great wealth to Nassau, a major supply base for the Confederacy (which was fighting for slavery!). |
| 1892 | The first telegraph underwater cable is laid from Florida to Nassau. |
| 1914 | John Ernest Williamson shoots the first underwater motion picture in the Bahamas. |
| 1920 | The American prohibition of liquor brings an economic boom to the Bahamian economy, where liquor was legal and plentiful. |
| 1930s | Famous writers come to live and work in the Bahamas, such as Ernest Hemingway and John Steinbeck. |
| 1950s | Nassau becomes a hot spot for the jet-set rich and famous. |
| 1955 | Signing of the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, which paved the way to establishment of Freeport/Lucaya. |
| 1962 | Bahamian women are permitted to vote. |
| 1964 | The Bahamas gains internal self-rule as Sir Roland Symonette is named Premier. |
| 1967 | The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) wins the majority of House of Assembly seats as Lynden O. Pindling became the new Premier. |
| 1969 | The Bahamian Constitution is revised. The Colony of the Bahama Islands became the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, and the Premier becomes the Prime Minister. |
| 1973 | The Bahama Islands gain independence from Great Britain, and became a sovereign nation on July 10, ending 325 years of British rule. |
| 1983 | Lynden O. Pindling is knighted by her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II , Bahamas head of state. |
| 1990 | The $300-million Crystal Palace Resort and Casino, Cable Beach opens. |
| 1992 | The Free National Movement (FNM) was voted in as the new government August 19, ending the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)’s 25-year rule. The Hubert A. Ingraham became Prime Minister. |
| Bahamian Frank Rutherford wins a bronze medal at the Olympics for the triple jump. | |
| The Bahamas celebrates the 500th anniversary of the landing of Christopher Columbus at San Salvador. | |
| 1993 | The Bahamas celebrates 20 years of independence from Great Britain |
| 1995 | Sun Intl. Hotels Ltd., of South Africa, opens the Atlantis-Paradise Island resort and casino, featuring the world’s largest outdoor aquarium. |
| 1996 | Huchinson Whampoa plans to develop Freeport Harbor into a major world transshipment hub with development of the multi-million dollar container port. |
| At the Olympics held in Atlanta, The Bahamas track and field team wins the silver medal in the women’s 4×100 meter relay. | |
| The Bahamas have their best tourism year on record with 1.6 million stopover visitors. | |
| 1998 | According to Caribbean Travel Organization and the Ministry of Tourism, The Islands Of The Bahamas is recognized as “The Most Popular Destination Among All Caribbean Islands.” |
| 2000 | At the Olympics held in Sydney, The Bahamas women’s track and field team wins the gold medal in the women’s 4×100 meter relay! |
San Salvador Bahamas 
