Currency in Bahamas: BSD Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in The Bahamas with the Bahamian dollar.
What's in this Bahamas currency guide?
What currency is used in The Bahamas?
The official currency of The Bahamas (country code: BS) is the Bahamian dollar, with symbol B$ and currency code BSD.
What is a good Bahamian dollar exchange rate?
The BestExchangeRates.com currency comparison table below helps you see the total cost of your currency transaction by showing the exchange rates offered by different providers. It also makes it easy to spot potential savings from market-leading FX services compared to bank rates.
To see a full list of rates, enter your transaction type, currencies and amount then click ‘GET RATES’:
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Good things to know about the Bahamian dollar
The currency code "BSD" refers to the Bahamian dollar, which is the official currency of the Bahamas. It is represented by the symbol "$" and is abbreviated as BSD.
The physical currency consists of coins and banknotes. The coins come in denominations of 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, and 25 cents.
The banknotes come in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. The banknotes feature images of famous Bahamian historical figures, such as Sir Lynden Pindling and Sir Milo Butler.
The design of the currency is constantly being updated, so the physical appearance of the coins and banknotes may vary slightly over time.
For more BSD information check out our selection of Bahamian dollar news and guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in The Bahamas?
The domestic currency in The Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar.
What is the Bahamian dollar currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Bahamian dollar is BSD — symbol is B$.
What does the Bahamian dollar look like?
Here is an example Bahamian dollar banknote:
Which countries use the Bahamian dollar?
It is the domestic currency in Bahamas.
Is the Bahamian dollar a closed currency?
Yes the Bahamian dollar is a closed currency. Which means that you may find it difficult to purchase the currency (BSD) before departure and will probably need to buy it upon arrival. If you do manage to buy some of the currency or have some left over from a previous trip, make sure you are aware if you are allowed to bring this closed currency into the country.
For more information and a full list of closed currencies please refer to our guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and BSD?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to BSD (US dollar to Bahamian dollar)*.
*Converted at the current USDBSD interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Travel money for The Bahamas
As mentioned above, the Bahamian dollar is a closed currency. Which means that you may find it difficult (or be permitted) to purchase the currency (BSD) before departure and will need to buy it upon arrival in Bahamas.
For these types of destinations, using a pre-paid travel card is a good solution. As no travel cards support loading closed currencies like the BSD you will incur currency conversion or foreign transaction fees if you use a travel money card in Bahamas.
However, using a pre-paid travel card is still a good idea as you can avoid ATM fees and also you can avoid using (and losing!) your main bank or debit/credit card.
Bahamas: Travel Guide
Traveling to The Bahamas requires careful financial planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate currency considerations and manage your money effectively during your visit.
The Bahamas is a country located in the Caribbean, made up of more than 700 islands. It is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and crystal clear waters. The official language is English, and the currency is the Bahamian dollar. The Bahamas has a strong economy, with a focus on tourism and financial services. The country is known for its laid-back lifestyle and friendly people, and it is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The Bahamas is home to a number of parks and nature reserves, as well as historical landmarks such as Fort Charlotte and the Bahamas National Trust's Andros Island Bonefish Research Station.
Best things to do in the Bahamas
There are many things to see and do in the Bahamas, here are a few ideas:
Visit Nassau: Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and is known for its colorful colonial-style architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Go to the beach: The Bahamas is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are many to choose from. Some popular spots include Cable Beach, Nassau and Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island.
Take a boat tour: The Bahamas is home to a number of coves and bays that are only accessible by boat, and there are many tour operators that offer boat tours to explore these areas.
Visit the Andros Island Bonefish Research Station: This research station is located on Andros Island and is run by the Bahamas National Trust. It is a great place to learn about the island's marine life and the importance of conservation.
Go snorkeling or diving: The Bahamas has clear, turquoise waters and is home to a variety of marine life, making it a great place to go snorkeling or diving.
Explore Nassau's historic landmarks: Nassau is home to a number of historic landmarks, including Fort Charlotte and the Nassau Public Library and Museum.
Go fishing: The Bahamas is known for its great fishing, and there are many tour operators that offer guided fishing trips.
Try the local cuisine: The Bahamas is known for its seafood and tropical cuisine, and there are many local restaurants and markets where you can try dishes such as conch salad and cracked conch.
Everyday Costs in in Bahamas
How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in Bahamas? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide for The Bahamas (ISO Code: BS)
For travelers planning a one-week mid-range stay in The Bahamas, a budget of around $1,500 to $2,000 USD should suffice. This amount should cover accommodation, meals, and activities while allowing for some leisure spending. Here’s a breakdown of typical daily expenses you can expect in Bahamian dollars (BSD):
- 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: $20–$30 BSD
- ☕ Coffee: $4–$8 BSD
- 🚍 Public transport fare: $3 BSD
- 📶 Prepaid SIM card: $40 BSD (including data)
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: $100–$150 BSD per night
Overall, the Bahamas can be considered on the pricier side compared to average global travel, and when compared to the United States, costs are similar or slightly higher, especially in tourist areas. Compared to the UK, where prices can be higher for dining and entertainment, the Bahamas may feel relatively more affordable, especially if you’re managing costs wisely.
Tips for Expats in The Bahamas
For those looking to make The Bahamas their home, typical monthly living costs range between $2,500 to $4,000 BSD, depending on lifestyle choices and location. This includes rent, utilities, groceries, and leisure activities. It’s crucial to keep in mind that certain imported goods can be quite pricey, so budgeting for local produce can significantly lower expenses.
When it comes to banking, it’s advisable to open a local account for everyday transactions. Major credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is often needed for smaller transactions or local markets. Always check the current exchange rates before using ATMs, as fees can add up. For sending or receiving money, online transfer services like Wise or OFX often provide more competitive rates and lower fees than local currency exchanges or banks, making them a smart choice for expats managing finances between nations.
USD/BSD Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/BSD change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Send Money to The Bahamas - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to The Bahamas you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to The Bahamas
When sending money to The Bahamas it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Bahamian dollar amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted BSD amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in The Bahamas.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Bahamian dollar deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in The Bahamas
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Bahamian dollar currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the BSD exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Bahamian dollar bank account: A local BSD bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in The Bahamas. It may also be more convenient to use a local BSD bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in The Bahamas. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in The Bahamas. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in The Bahamas, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in The Bahamas.
What is the expat life like in the Bahamas?
The expat life in the Bahamas can be quite enjoyable, as the country is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly people. Here are a few things to consider about the expat life in the Bahamas:
Cost of living: The cost of living in the Bahamas is generally higher than in many other countries, especially for goods and services that have to be imported. However, the country's strong economy and high standard of living can make it a desirable place to live.
Housing: There are a variety of housing options in the Bahamas, including apartments, houses, and guesthouses. Rent and property prices can be quite high, especially in popular areas such as Nassau and Paradise Island.
Language: The official language of the Bahamas is English, so it is easy for expats who speak English to communicate and get around.
Cultural differences: The Bahamas has a diverse culture with African, Caribbean, and British influences. It is a good idea to learn about local customs and traditions and to be respectful of them.
Work opportunities: There are a number of work opportunities in the Bahamas, especially in the tourism, finance, and construction sectors. However, it can be challenging for expats to find work, and it is a good idea to research your options and be prepared for some competition.
Overall, the expat life in the Bahamas can be enjoyable, but it is important to be prepared for some challenges and to be open to new experiences.
Doing business in the Bahamas
The Bahamas is a small country with a strong economy and a focus on financial services and tourism. It is a popular destination for international businesses, and there are many opportunities for companies looking to do business in the country. Here are a few things to consider when doing business in the Bahamas:
Understand the local market: The Bahamas has a small population and a strong economy, and it is important to research the local market and understand the specific needs and preferences of consumers.
Be prepared for bureaucracy: The Bahamas has a complex bureaucracy, and it can take time to navigate the various regulations and procedures required to do business in the country. It is a good idea to work with a local lawyer or business consultant to help navigate the process.
Build relationships: Building relationships is important in the Bahamas, and it is a good idea to take the time to get to know your local partners and clients.
Be patient: Doing business in the Bahamas can take time, and it is important to be patient and to be prepared for delays.
Learn the local language: Although English is the official language of the Bahamas, it is a good idea to learn some basic Bahamian Creole, as this can help to build relationships and facilitate communication.
Overall, doing business in the Bahamas can be a rewarding and profitable experience, but it is important to be prepared for some challenges and to be open to new experiences.