If you’re wondering how to move to the British Virgin Islands, it’s important to note that foreigners wishing to reside in the territory, even citizens of the UK, must ask formal permission to stay. Familiarise yourself with the BVI residency requirements below.
Prior to permanent relocation to the British Virgin Islands, you can apply for a temporary stay of up to a month while you check things out and consider BVI immigration requirements. A 30-day visa can be issued by Immigration at all ports. All you will need to provide is evidence of return passage (i.e. your ticket home). You may be able to renew the visa for a second month if you need more time to finalise your BVI immigration.
Longer stays must be approved by the BVI Immigration Department (located in Road Town, Tortola). Contact Number (284) 494-3701 and ask for Immigration Department.
If you intend to emigrate as a family, then you, your spouse, and your children must all apply for rights to reside here long term. Once approved, each person pays a surety bond of $1,000 USD.
There are various regulations and BVI residency requirements involved. Read Employment and Business Rules.
If you are financially independent and have the resources to continue to support yourself here without employment or a business, all you need to do is submit a signed “Right to Reside” request to the Chief Immigration Officer of the BVI government. Contact Number: (284) 468-4700. Approval usually takes three to four weeks to process.
Your Right to Reside request must also include proof of financial support (copies of bank statements or financial references), a copy of the bio page of your passport, a copy of your birth certificate, and your up-to-date contact information.
Once you are approved, you will need to appear in person to show your original birth certificate and passport. The approval letter may stipulate additional medical examination documents and police records. These must be presented to Immigration along with the $1,000 surety bond (fully refundable upon permanent exit from the British Virgin Islands).
