The Bahamian Business Guide to Accepting International Payments Online

The Problem With "Wire Transfer Only"

Bahamian businesses with international clients lose bookings, contracts, and revenue because their payment process creates friction that international customers are not willing to tolerate. Accepting international credit card payments from the Bahamas is not complicated in 2028.

Why International Payment Processing Has Been Difficult

Historical friction: banking restrictions, limited local processors, currency conversion challenges, and KYC compliance requirements. The landscape has improved substantially.

Option 1: Stripe

Most widely used by Bahamian businesses serving international clients. Available in the Bahamas, supports multiple currencies, integrates with nearly every website. Fees: ~2.9% + $0.30 per charge. Best for service businesses, tourism operators, e-commerce.

Option 2: PayPal

Most recognized payment brand globally among consumers. PayPal.Me link, invoice tool, e-commerce integration. Fees: 3.49% + fixed fee. Best for freelancers and consultants doing occasional international transactions.

Option 3: Square

Expanded availability in the Bahamas. Handles both in-person tourist payments and online international payments in one system. Best for retail and hospitality.

Option 4: Invoice + Payment Link via Accounting Software

Simplest for service businesses: create invoice in Zoho Books/QuickBooks/FreshBooks, add payment link, send to client. Client pays by credit card, automatically reconciles in your books. No website integration required.

Option 5: Direct Bank Transfer in USD

For institutional clients and large contracts. Need USD account at Bahamian bank with SWIFT code, account number, routing information. Best for large B2B contracts.

Setting Up a Payment Page

Clear pricing, multiple payment options (credit card + PayPal), trust signals (Stripe/PayPal logos, contact info), currency clarity (USD vs BSD), and confirmation email with receipt.

Currency and Tax Considerations

Services to non-resident international clients are generally zero-rated for Bahamian VAT. Hold USD in a USD bank account. Ensure accounting software handles multi-currency (Zoho Books does this natively).

Practical Next Steps

1. Open a USD business bank account. 2. Set up Stripe for credit card processing. 3. Add PayPal as secondary option. 4. Create a payments page on your website. 5. Test with a small transaction before going live.

Ready to set up international payment processing? Contact Digitize Bahamas to discuss your options.