If an expat has money to invest in property they are welcomed into the Bahamas. Indeed, those with more than $500,000 to invest are practically guaranteed all the relevant visas and permits. Those who do not wish to buy property but who have a guaranteed income to support themselves are also well-favoured when it comes to visas and residency permits. The Bahamian government has been actively trying to attract the wealthy and retired expat.

The quality of life in the Bahamas is very high, particularly for those who no longer have to work. The sunshine and variety of activities are ideal for those who are looking for something a little different in their retirement. There is something for everybody with the busy towns and the more secluded islands. The proximity to the US also makes it an attractive destination. There is no language barrier for those who have English as their first language and there are a number of English language newspapers as well as radio and television stations.

For British expats in particular it offers the chance to live a British-influenced lifestyle in the sunshine. The Bahamas was colonised by the British several hundred years ago and the authorities there still favour the British way of doing things.

It is worth remembering that there are import taxes on household goods which are shipped in from your home country and that the cost of living in the Bahamas is considerably higher than many other countries, due to the fact that most goods such as clothes and food have to be imported into the country. With that in mind, the Bahamas is perhaps a better option for those who have a substantial personal wealth.

Those who are in receipt of a state pension from their country of origin may find that it can be paid to them in the Bahamas, either directly into their bank account there or into an account in their home country for them to transfer monies themselves. When making a decision about this, it is advisable to take into account the exchange rates as one method may prove to be more financially beneficial than the other. In order to ensure that you will still be able to receive this pension when you move it is a good idea to contact the Pension department in your home country to establish their regulations. Those in receipt of private pensions may be able to do the same and your pension company can help you with the process of transferring payments.