Travel Advisory For The United States
21 June 2025 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA – TRAVEL ADVISORY
SUMMARY
Take normal security precautions when traveling to the United States. Exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Washington DC and other major cities. This advisory contains important information regarding entry requirements, enhanced border screening, and other essential travel information for Bahamian citizens visiting the United States.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Bahamians require the following documents for travel to the United States.
By Air: – Police certificate OR Valid U.S. visa (NOTE: Bahamians traveling on to another country and expecting to transit the United States on their return will need a visa)
By Sea: – Valid U.S. visa only
Additional information is available at the U.S. Embassy in Nassau and accessible online here.
Police Certificate Travel
Non-immigrants traveling on a police certificate are legally admitted to the United States and issued an electronic I-94 (Arrival/Departure record) after submitting fingerprints and clearing inspection formalities. These I-94 records can be viewed here.
Most Bahamian visitors can stay in the United States for up to 6 months without a visa when traveling directly from The Bahamas for tourism, business, transit, or other specific purposes. Declare your intended length of stay upon entry to the United States.
Visa Travel Information
Both immigrants and non-immigrants may travel to the U.S. with a visa, which will be physically attached to their passport. Additional information on visas can be found here.
Starting 9 June, 2025 the Presidential Proclamation on Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats will be enforced. Applicants subject to the Presidential Proclamation may still submit visa applications and attend scheduled interviews, but may be ineligible for visa issuance or admission to the United States. Additional information can be found here.
Border Screening
Expect thorough examination at ports https://id.mu.edu.iq/ of entry, including inspection of electronic devices. U.S. border authorities have wide discretion and strictly enforce entry requirements. Be cooperative and honest in all interactions with border authorities. Refusal of entry could result in detention while awaiting removal.
It is important to note that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) has the final authority to determine your eligibility to enter the United States. A refusal by US CPB at the airport means that you will not be allowed to enter the United States. Some common reasons for refusal are: security concerns, visa issues, and criminal history. If you are denied entry, remain calm, ask for the reason you were denied entry, and follow-up with the U.S. Embassy, Nassau.
Electronic Device Searches
U.S. CPB officers have broad authority to inspect electronic devices at ports of entry, including:
- Mobile phones
- Laptops
- Tablets
Inspection of electronic devices can include a review of social media accounts, email messages, text messages, and other online communication.
While you are not under any obligation to unlock your devices or provide passwords, the US authorities reserve the right to enforce any of the following outcomes:
- Prolonged interrogation;
- Device confiscation; and/or
- Denial of entry
If you have a criminal record, regardless of the offence or when it occurred, you may be denied entry to the United States, even when travelling with a police certificate. Be prepared to provide context for any past offences. Additional information is available here.
Permanent Residents and Extended Travel
Bahamian permanent residents of the United States should be aware of heightened scrutiny when returning from international travel. If you plan to be outside the United States for more than six months, apply for a re-entry permit before leaving. Officials are increasingly monitoring time spent outside the country and may question permanent resident status if you spend excessive time abroad. Additional information is available here.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Race-Related Considerations
As a predominantly Black country (around 90% of the population), Bahamian travellers should be aware that they may experience varying treatment in certain regions of the United States. While most experiences will be positive, some travellers may encounter bias or discrimination. Exercise situational awareness and familiarise yourself with local customs and expectations. Additional information from the Human Rights Council is available in the most recent report of the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance here.
Crime
Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur, particularly in urban centres and tourist areas. Violent crimes are more common in poorer urban neighbourhoods, especially from dusk to dawn, and are often associated with alcohol or drug consumption. The FBI’s crime data explorer (CDE) is available here.
Firearms
Gun ownership rates in the United States are high, and open carry of firearms is legal in many states. Mass shootings can occur, though tourists are rarely involved. Information and advice from the US Department of Homeland Security on active shooter incidents can be found here.
Demonstrations
Large demonstrations across several major US cities have been ongoing. Demonstrations can turn violent without warning and may significantly disrupt traffic and public transportation. Avoid demonstration areas and large gatherings, account for disruptions, and follow directions from local authorities by monitoring local media.
Terrorism
There is an ongoing terrorist threat in the United States. Potential targets include government buildings (including schools), places of worship, transportation hubs, tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, shopping centres, and hotels. Additional information as well as current alerts within the US can be found here.
Natural Disasters and Climate Change
Natural disasters such as snowstorms, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions, flooding, landslides, and wildfires can occur depending on the geographic region and season of your stay in the United States. Climate change is increasing the frequency and extremity of these events. Monitor local media and weather reports during and in anticipation of your stay. Follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders. Additional information on preparation and response to extreme weather and natural disasters can be found here.
HEALTH
Medical care in the United States is particularly good, but comes at great cost. All hospitals must accept emergency cases regardless of ability to pay, but services will be billed to the patient. Foreign nationals without travel health insurance must pay for medical treatment themselves. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers hospitalisation abroad and medical evacuation.
LAWS AND CUSTOMS
Legal Status and Identity Verification
U.S. authorities may request proof of your legal status at any time. Always carry documentation proving your lawful presence in the United States, such as your I-94 form and your passport.
Alien Registration Requirement
All foreign nationals present in the United States for more than 30 days must register with the U.S. federal government, in application of the Alien Registration Act. Failure to comply with this new rule will be counted as a criminal offense punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both. The U.S. Government has stated that individuals who fail to register may face arrest, deportation, and permanent inadmissibility to the United States.
Verify if you were automatically registered upon entry by checking your I-94 form on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (as cited above). Additional information on registration is available here.
Border Control and Restricted Items
During passage through U.S. Customs and Border Protection, certain categories of products receive heightened scrutiny:
Medications
Prescription medications require proof of prescription and should be:
- In original containers with pharmacy labels
- Limited to amounts needed for your stay plus one week
- Accompanied by a copy of your prescription
- If necessary, include a doctor’s note explaining your condition
⚠️ All substances classified as controlled or illegal under U.S. federal law, including cannabis and other homeopathic drugs, are strictly prohibited regardless of their legal status in The Bahamas or other countries. Previous cannabis use or any association with the cannabis industry could result in being denied entry to the United States. Possession may result in immediate denial of entry, fines, deportation, cancellation of visa or travel privileges and/or future inadmissibility to the United States. Note that although some U.S. states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use, it remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which governs all border crossings.
Agricultural and Phytosanitary Products
The U.S. maintains strict regulations on importing agricultural products to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Bahamian travellers should be aware of the following restrictions:
Seafood and Marine Products:
- Conch and other Bahamian seafood must be declared to CBP
- Personal quantities may be allowed if properly packaged and for personal consumption only
- Commercial quantities require proper permits and may be subject to inspection by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Some marine species may be protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) and may require special permits. Additional information is available here.
Fruits, Vegetables, and Plants:
- Most fresh fruits and vegetables from The Bahamas are prohibited from entering the U.S. and all plants and plant products must be declared and are subject to inspection
- Failure to declare agricultural items can result in penalties of up to $10,000
Always declare all food, plant material, and animal products to CBP officers. When in doubt, declare it. Undeclared prohibited items may result in significant fines and penalties.
CONTACT(S) FOR OVERSEAS OFFICES
A full list of Consulates and Honourary Consulates based in the United States of America is available on the Ministry’s website here.
The Ministry encourages all Bahamians who are travelling or living abroad to register here.
If you are in urgent need of consular assistance, please email consularcrisis@bahamas.gov.bs.
Last updated 21 June 2025.