A passport book is required for air travel from the United States to Nassau. A passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
The answer depends on 2 things: how you travel and whether you are a U.S. citizen. On a closed-loop cruise that starts and ends at the same U.S. port, U.S. citizens may be able to visit Nassau without a passport book. The cruise line's document rules still apply.
Nassau Passport Requirements at a Glance
| How you travel to Nassau | Is a passport book required? | What may be accepted instead? |
|---|---|---|
| Flying from the United States | Yes | Nothing generally replaces a passport book for international air travel |
| Closed-loop cruise from the United States | Not always for U.S. citizens | Certified birth certificate plus government-issued photo ID, or another WHTI-compliant document |
| One-way or open-jaw cruise | Generally yes | Check the cruise line and destination requirements |
| Private boat | Yes for U.S. citizens under Bahamas boating guidance | Confirm requirements with Bahamian Customs and Immigration |
If You Are Flying to Nassau
U.S. citizens traveling by air to Nassau must carry a valid U.S. passport book. The passport should remain valid for the entire stay and have available blank pages.
A driver's license, birth certificate, passport card or Global Entry card cannot replace a passport book for international air travel.
You may also need proof that you plan to leave The Bahamas, such as a return or onward ticket. U.S. citizens visiting for tourism generally do not need a Bahamian visa for a short stay.
If You Are Taking a Cruise to Nassau
A closed-loop cruise starts and finishes at the same U.S. port. On this type of itinerary, U.S. citizens may generally travel with one of the following:
- An original or certified government-issued birth certificate
- A government-issued photo ID for travelers who meet the applicable age requirement
- A U.S. passport book or passport card
- An Enhanced Driver's License, where accepted
The exact documents depend on the cruise line. Some cruise companies require a passport book even when government rules allow other documents. Check your booking documents before departure.
A U.S. passport card can be used for eligible sea travel to and from the Caribbean, including Nassau. It cannot be used for an international flight.
Why a Passport Book Is Still the Safest Option
The U.S. Department of State recommends carrying a passport book on cruises, even when it is not mandatory. If you become ill, miss the ship, are evacuated or need to fly home from The Bahamas, you will need a passport book for air travel.
If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen
Most non-U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter The Bahamas. Some nationalities also need a visa. The requirements depend on your citizenship and residency.
U.S. permanent residents should carry:
- A valid passport from their country of citizenship
- Their valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card, commonly called a Green Card
A Green Card alone may not satisfy The Bahamas' entry requirements.
Bottom Line
Check your itinerary before you travel. International air travel to Nassau requires a passport book. A closed-loop cruise may allow U.S. citizens to use other documents, but the cruise line can set stricter requirements. A passport book gives you more options if your plans change.