VI Government Partners In Hosting Fishing Tournament

The Government of the Virgin Islands is collaborating with the BVI Tourist Board and North Drop Open to host a fishing tournament ‘catch and release’ event for blue marlin out of Virgin Gorda.

Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Honourable Dr. Karl Dawson said in a press briefing last Friday that the Government will be promoting and strengthening the Territory’s

Professional Guidelines for Picture Taking

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development now requires all submitted photographs to meet passport-size standards. Individuals should use professional digital photographers. Appointments can be made at appointments.gov.vg, or by calling 468-4707 or 468-4708.

Service Interruption at Department of Human Resources

The public is advised that the Department of Human Resources is transitioning to a new location and some services may be interrupted during this period.

Updated - Payment Requirement for New Work Permit Applications

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development advises all employers that payment is now required upon approval of new work permit notifications. Payments must be made at the Department’s office before Immigration Clearance is issued for an applicant’s entry into the Virgin Islands. Appointments can be scheduled online at https://appointments.gov.vg or by calling 468-3701. For more information, contact the Department of Labour at 468-4707 or 468-4708.

Professional Guidelines for Picture Taking

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development has announced that, effective immediately, all submitted photographs must meet official passport-size standards. Individuals are advised to use professional digital photography services to ensure compliance. Appointments with the department can be made at https://appointments.gov.vg, and further inquiries can be directed to 468-4707 or 468-4708.

Statement By The Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley Minister For Health And Social Development on the Launch Of The Virgin Islands Eat Well Guide

On June 3, 2025, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, announced the launch of the Virgin Islands Eat Well Guide and Dietary Guidelines during the Fifth Sitting of the House of Assembly. The Guide is a key part of the Territory’s strategy to combat chronic non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease by promoting balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyles. Built around five core food groups, it encourages the consumption of local, nutritious foods and supports national goals of food security and public health. It will serve as a standard tool in schools, healthcare, and community programmes, with further plans to introduce a protected essential food basket to make healthy options more accessible. The Minister emphasized that the Guide is not just a document but a call to action for individuals, families, and communities to build a healthier Virgin Islands.

VI WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM RECEIVING FURTHER SUPPORT

A three-member team from Operators Without Borders (OWB) has returned to the Territory to support the Water and Sewerage Department in strengthening the water distribution system. This follows the Government of the Virgin Island’s declaration of water as a national critical priority.

Social Development Department Honours Foster Parents for Dedicated Service

The Social Development Department recently recognised foster parents across the Virgin Islands for their commitment to supporting vulnerable children, during an educational session hosted by the Children and Family Support Services Unit.

Mandatory Training for Water Processing and Distribution Companies

The Environmental Health Division of the Ministry of Health and Social Development will host a mandatory training session for all water processing and distribution companies operating in the British Virgin Islands.

Immigration, Trade and Labour Departments Reaffirm Zero Tolerance for Crime

The Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation (MFSEDDT) presented at the first Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit, outlining efforts by Immigration, Trade, and Labour to combat crime. Key issues highlighted included irregular migration, identity fraud, and exploitation of legal entry routes (Immigration), misuse of businesses for money laundering, unlicensed operations, and false information (Trade), and worker exploitation through trafficking, abuse, and fraud (Labour). The Ministry pledged zero tolerance for corruption, trafficking, and illegal activity, committing to collaboration, enforcement, and public awareness to ensure migration, labour, and trade systems remain fair, transparent, and secure.