Persons are being reminded that in order to legally enter the Territory from a country currently under visa restrictions by the [British] Virgin Islands (VI), that they are to submit their applications to the Civil Registry and Passport Office prior to travel. Travellers are further reminded that the visa application process takes ten (10) business days, and that they should therefore plan accordingly.

Registrar General, Mrs Stephanie P. Benn said, “To avoid any challenges and inconvenience at the ports of entry, persons should ensure that all documents are in order for travel prior to departing their country of origin.”

Acting Chief Immigration Officer Mr Ian B. Penn added, “The Immigration Department continues to work with the Civil Registry and Passport Office as it relates to the ongoing project to introduce a new Boarder Management and e-Visa System. However, until that time, both departments are reminding the travelling public that these systems are not yet in place and the current processes remain operational.”

Persons are further urged to submit concerns and queries to the Civil Registry and Passport Office so that they can be addressed in a timely manner.

The Immigration Department and the Civil Registry and Passport Office continue to contribute to the security of the VI, by operating a fair and firm immigration and visa control process to regulate, monitor and facilitate the movement of people through its borders, while exercising sound judgment in the performance of their duties in accordance with the Immigration and Passport Act.