As an expat, the chances of being able to claim social security benefits in the Bahamas are not good. Those who are granted a work permit will have a job with which to support themselves and those who just require residency should have provided evidence of income when they applied for a visa though there may be some help available for those who experience hardship. The national insurance department will be able to advise on individual cases.

Some expats who are claiming a state pension in their home country may be able transfer it so that payments are made to them when they move. For information on this it is necessary to check with the issuing department prior to travelling.

For those who will be eligible for claiming social security in the Bahamas there are a range of benefits. Workers pay into a national insurance scheme similar to that of the UK which funds the benefits system.

Unemployment benefit is paid to those who are actively seeking work and it is subject to a minimum number of contributions into the national insurance scheme. The minimum benefit payable is around $62 and the maximum is $200 per week. Those who have been self employed are not eligible.

There is a maternity benefit which may be paid for up to 13 weeks depending upon the health of the claimant. It is dependent upon a minimum number of contributions and is a minimum payment of around $62 and a maximum of around $266 per week. Women who qualify for this can also claim a maternity grant, which is a one off payment of $400.

There are also benefits for those who are unable to work due to ill health. A $200 per month payment is available to those who have been certified as permanently unable to work. Sickness assistance is for those who are only temporarily unable to work or who have not made enough contributions to qualify for sickness benefit. Sickness benefit is paid when a minimum number of contributions have been made and is paid at 60% of the claimant’s average wage. This can be claimed for a maximum of 40 weeks.

There are a number of other benefits which can be paid such as disablement benefit, retirement benefit, death benefit and funeral benefit. Making national insurance contributions also entitles a worker to free medical healthcare if the condition is work-related.