1) What are the requirements to apply?

A valid Business License
Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) (Business ONLY)
Invoice(s) – (Individual ONLY)

Important Note:

Goods and equipment approved under this Act for Bahamian Citizens and Permanent Residents only (FREE)
Goods and equipment approved under this Act for Non-Citizens and Non-Permanent Residents only (50% of the Liable Duty)

2) What does the FIDEA encompass and what items fall under it?

Family Island Development Encouragement Act (FIDEA) – Special Economic Programme for Andros & Southern Islands Exemption.

The Family Island Development Encouragement Act exemption is applicable for Bahamian citizens and business owners on the full range of materials they will need to build or renovate a house, or to start or expand a business. These materials include: -
Building materials, plumbing and electrical, furniture, appliances, motor vehicle (BUSINESS), land clearing equipment, commercial equipment and related fittings, business licence, IT hardware and software (including cell phones, tablet or personal digital assistants), solar panels and related equipment and fittings and real property tax. The exemption applies to local and international purchases.

3) Can I apply if I am not living on the specified island?

Yes. Any resident or prospective resident can apply for exemption on the following islands: -
Ragged Island, San Salvador, Rum Cay, Cat Island, Long Island, Mayaguana, Inagua, Crooked Island, Acklins Island, Long Cay and Andros Island. Applicants must provide evidence of operation plans within the above island. All goods can only be released from Customs within the above island.

4) Can approved items be moved outside of the Zone?

No. The items being imported should be cleared through the island listed above. If the items are removed from the designated approved islands, all applicable taxes become due.

5) If I reside outside of The Bahamas am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, you are eligible. However, you must provide proof or residence in the Bahamas, along with a government issued ID and be tax compliant.

6) Which Islands qualify for the exemption?

The islands are Ragged Island, San Salvador, Rum Cay, Cat Island, Long Island, Mayaguana, Inagua, Crooked Island, Acklins Island, Long Cay and Andros Island.

7) What documents are necessary for qualifying for the Exemption?

A Valid Government issued ID evidence of residency or planned eligible activity on the Island. Business License, Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC), Invoice(s) and site plan where applicable.

8) Can I apply more than once?

Yes. Once the application criteria’s have been met.

9) If I am presently part owner of a home or business, am I eligible to apply?

Yes, the exemption is for ALL persons who will be undertaking qualifying activity within the islands.

10) After I have completed my application would I be allowed to preview my application before the final submission and make corrections and print a copy of the information submitted?