General Information Page
Immigration
The following measures are to be adhered to in respect of all non British
Virgin Islanders entering the Territory. Visitors are welcome for
a period of up to six months, provided they possess return (or ongoing)
tickets, evidence of adequate means of support and pre-arranged accommodations
during their stay. A passport is the principal requirement for entry
into the BVI, nonetheless, in the case of United States and Canadian citizens,
an authenticated birth certificate, a citizenship certificate or a voter’s
registration card along with a picture identification would be sufficient
to enable entry into the BVI. Visitors from some countries may also
need a visa. If in doubt about this, contact the Chief Immigration
Officer. (284) 494-3701
Work Permits
These are issued to non islanders only in cases where the position cannot
be filled by British Virgin Islanders, while training of local people to
fill key positions is encouraged.
Cruising Permits
A cruising permit is required by all cruising in the BVI. Seasonal
Rates (December 1 – April 30) All recorded Charter Boats $2.00 per
person per day. All non recorded Charter Boats $4.00 per person per
day. Out of Season Rates (May 1 – November 30)
All recorded Charter Boats $.75 per person per day. All non recorded
Charter Boats $4.00 per person per day. With in the provisions of
the Cruising Permit Ordinance and Regulations (1976) dive boats, sport
fishing boats and day charters will in future also be required to obtain
Cruising Permits.
National Parks Mooring Permit & VISAR
There is also an optional National Parks Trust permit which gives charter
guests access to day only mooring balls sites throughout the BVI.
The cost of the permit is between $15.00 and $30.00 per charter, depending
upon the time of year. An optional VISAR (Virgin Islands Search and
Rescue) donation of $1. per person is requested by this voluntary organization.
Fishing Permits
The removal of any marine organism from BVI waters is illegal for non British
Virgin Islanders without a recreational fishing permit. Call the
Fisheries Division at 494-3429 for information.
Currency
The official currency of the BVI is the US Dollar. American Express,
Visa , Dinners Club and MasterCard are accepted in many, but not all, establishments.
There is a 10 cent stamp duty on all travelers cheques, while personal
cheques are rarely accepted..
Taxes
Sales Tax:. There is no Sales Tax.
Departure Tax: A departure tax is levied at the rate of $10 per
person leaving by air but less if leaving by sea.
Hotel Accommodation Tax: In the BVI there is a 7% tax applicable
on the rental of all accommodation for a period of less than six months.
Most hotels include a service fee of 10% on your final bill that is distributed
to the staff.
Customs Duties
All imports are subject to varying rates of duty. Imports entering
on a temporary basis will not be subject to duty. It is a good idea
to keep the receipt for anything that you plan to import as it will help
in establishing the cost.
Driving
Valid BVI driving licenses are required by all those seeking to drive in
the BVI. For a fee of $10 a temporary license can be obtained provided
you have a valid driver’s license from another country.
Medical
An International Vaccination Certificate is not mandatory in the BVI.
Peebles Hospital has surgical , x-ray and laboratory facilities.
There is a plastic surgery clinic. A chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous
meets regularly.
Pets
Visitors or returning residents with pets should note that permits from
local authority, and health certificates from registered veterinarians
are necessary. Pets will not be admitted with out prior approval.
Most pets are under house quarantine for up to six months upon entry.
A Word on Drugs
The possession, sale, use or distribution of illegal drugs constitutes
a criminal offense punishable by law. Conviction on drug charges
can lead to stiff fines and jail sentences. Immediate deportation,
without the benefit of a hearing, is more likely.
Dress
Visitors are requested to wear proper attire in residential and commercial
areas. No bare chests or midriffs, please. No shirt, no shoes,
no service is a common refrain.
Marriage License & Regulations
You are required to be in the Territory for three days prior to applying
for a license. There is a wedding planner available in Tortola who
can help you with all the details.
Churches
The Churches available are Methodist, Anglican, Roman Catholic, Seventh
Day Adventist, Baptist, Church of God, Jehovah's Witness, Pentecostal and
Church of Christ.
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