NASSAU — The Bahamas has updated its COVID-19 entry protocols, with new testing requirements for travellers applying for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa to enter The Bahamas, or travel inter-island within The Bahamas.

The new testing protocols are for all travellers applying for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa from Aug. 6, 2021 and onward. These protocols will be waived for any person with imminent travel who has already applied for and obtained a Bahamas Travel Health Visa. For full details see Bahamas.com/travelupdates.

The following protocols take effect Aug. 6, 2021…

ENTERING THE BAHAMAS FROM OTHER COUNTRIES

All fully vaccinated travellers, as well as children ages 2-11, will be required to obtain a negative COVID-19 test (either a rapid antigen test or PCR test) taken no more than five days prior to the date of arrival to The Bahamas.

Unvaccinated travellers ages 12 and older must still obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 5 days prior to the date of arrival.

All children under the age of 2 are exempt from any testing requirements.

TRAVELLING INTER-ISLAND WITHIN THE BAHAMAS

The same protocols as above apply for inter-island travel (i.e. Nassau & Paradise Island, Grand Bahama, Bimini, Exuma, Abaco and North and South Eleuthera, including Harbour Island). Tests must be taken within five days of travel.

CRUISE PASSENGERS

Cruise passengers on sailings that originate in and return to The Bahamas must still apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa and follow the new testing requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.

Vaccinated persons must provide a negative PCR test OR rapid antigen test taken no more than five days prior to the date of arrival to The Bahamas.

Unvaccinated persons are required to obtain a negative PCR test taken no more than five days prior to the date of arrival to The Bahamas.

All travellers entering The Bahamas on cruises that originate in the U.S. will be subjected to the testing requirements mandated by the cruise line and approved by the Government of The Bahamas. The Bahamas notes that cruise lines may have different requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated guests, and advises travellers to check with their cruise line.

More information is at Bahamas.com/travelupdates.