Get written scopes, verify licences, separate government fees from professional fees and keep all receipts for bank/source-of-funds checks.
Language options: English is the professional-services language. Haitian Creole may be available in some community contexts.
Immigration lawyer/consultant
BSD 1,500-8,000+ How to find: Use Bahamas Bar Association referrals, employer recommendations and established firms.
Bahamas Bar Association
💡 Ask for government-fee estimates separately from professional fees.
Tax accountant
BSD 1,000-5,000+/year How to find: Look for VAT, business licence, NIB and cross-border tax experience.
Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants
💡 Important even without income tax if you run a business or own property.
Property lawyer
Fixed quote or percentage of transaction How to find: Use a Bahamian attorney independent from seller/developer.
Bahamas Bar Association
💡 Title, real property tax number and investment-permit issues are non-negotiable.
Insurance broker
Commission or broker fee How to find: Use local brokers for hurricane/property/motor and international brokers for health evacuation.
💡 Read hurricane, flood, named-storm and evacuation exclusions.
Corporate services provider
BSD 1,000-10,000+/year How to find: Use licensed financial/corporate service providers for IBCs, trusts and entities.
💡 Confirm economic substance, KYC and bank account feasibility first.
Freight/customs broker
Shipment dependent How to find: Use established brokers for household goods, boats, vehicles and pets.
💡 Customs duty, VAT and storage can surprise newcomers.