The Bahamas Launches “BEATS” Extended-Stay Program

More and more Caribbean destinations are launching extended stay programs for those able to work remotely — in other words, offering the chance to live on an island for a year.

But the newest remote work program in the region has a rather unique amenity: 16 different islands to choose from.

The Bahamas is launching its own extended-stay program called BEATS, or Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay, an initiative that allows visitors to work and study across the country’s 16 islands for up to a year — and the country is putting an emphasis on island-hopping.

Indeed, the country is urging visitors who enroll in the program to explore the country in new ways.

For example, the Ministry of Tourism says remote workers can “backpack” their way throughout the country, “island-hopping throughout the length of their stay.”

The program’s one-year residency program is designed to “allow professionals and students to pack their laptop and their swimwear as they march to the island rhythm of their own drum, remotely, from The Bahamas,” according to The Bahamas’ Ministry of Tourism.

“What has always been unique about The Bahamas and even more so significant today, is that we are home to 700 islands and cays with 16 unique island destinations viable for travel,” said Joy Jibrilu, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation. “This means that you can essentially choose your own work, study and play adventure. If you’re seeking serenity and seclusion, you can head to Mayaguana or San Salvador, or if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten path stay, you can opt in for Grand Bahama Island, Eleuthera or Long Island. The opportunities are endless.”

So how do you get the permit?

The total cost to apply for an obtain a BEATS permit is $1,025.

College students wishing to apply will be require to pay $525, inclusive of the application and permit fee.

All incoming visitors must follow current COVID-19 government protocols In The Bahamas.

“We’re thrilled for travelers to have the opportunity to enjoy a rich Bahamian experience through an extended stay with us,” said Dionisio D’Aguilar, Bahamas Minister of Tourism & Aviation. “Simply put, a workday is better in The Bahamas. At the end of a long day of meetings or classes, you will be rewarded with breathtaking sunsets, a relaxing walk on the beach, or fresh conch salad to feed your soul. It doesn’t get any better than that.”

For more visit BEATS.