A statement issued by the Premier’s Office and the Ministry of Labour & Immigration late Sunday afternoon said this government decision has taken immediate effect.

Notably, no timeframe has been given for the ban.

“At this time, the government will continue to follow the protocol for the controlled re-entry of nationals and permanent residents to the Virgin Islands during this COVID-19 pandemic,” the Premier said.

Residents were also urged to continue adhering to the social-distancing guidelines, as well as wearing protective masks, washing their hands, and remembering to call the medical hotline at 284-852-7650 if they exhibit any symptoms related to COVID-19.

Barred for a first time

This is at least the second time since the pandemic that this category of persons have been barred from entering the territory.

Months ago, government issued a an updated Immigration & Passport (Prohibition of Entry) Order that barred persons who were not Belongers from entering the territory from April 7 to 11:59 pm on May 7.