Employment and Business Rules

Local Employment Rules for Foreigners

If you are a foreigner with a job offer or wish to work in the BVI, you must be sponsored by the BVI company planning to employ you. Here’s what you need to know:

• Preference for Citizens: BVI employment law prioritizes citizens (“Belongers”) for local jobs if they meet the same qualifications as the foreign candidate.
• Job Advertisement: Your prospective employer must advertise the position in a BVI newspaper for two consecutive weeks.
• Work Permit: If no qualified Belonger applies, you can proceed to secure a work permit. Approvals typically take 2-3 months.

Required Documents for Employment

• Application Forms: Usually prepared by the employer or available from the Labour Department in Road Town.
• Supporting Documents:
• Birth certificate
• Passport
• Medical examination documents
• Police records (if applicable)
• Proof of residence in the BVI

Self-Employment and Starting a Business

Relocating your business or starting a new one in the BVI is possible, but there are specific requirements:

• Trade License: Apply to the BVI Trade Department. Approval times vary based on the business category.
• Local Partnership: Some businesses require a partnership with a local citizen (“Belonger”).
• Work Permit: Even after obtaining a trade license, you must apply for a work permit to operate your business.

Contact Information

• BVI Immigration, Labour, or Trade Departments: (284) 494-3701
• Email: info@emeraldpropertiesbvi.com
• Address: Botanical Station, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands