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A Valid Passport Is Required To Enter The Virgin Islands
The Department of Immigration reminds travelers that a valid passport is required for entry into the Territory. Effective March 1, 2025, only BVIslanders and Belongers can seek permission to enter without a valid passport. They must email immigrationinfo@gov.vg at least 48 hours before arrival with required details. Non-BVIslanders and non-Belongers must have a valid passport or a US passport card. Travelers are urged to ensure their documents are valid to avoid inconvenience. For more information, contact the department at 284-468-.
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Updated Fogging Schedule for Today September 1
The Environmental Health Division, Vector Control Unit will be conducting fogging exercises on today, Monday September 1 in the following areas beginning at 5:30 p.m.
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Statement on Incident at His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut From Superintendent of Prison Jay Kendall
On March 30, 2025, an incident occurred at His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut, where a prisoner with mental health issues attacked a prison officer. The staff responded swiftly, ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Both the officer and inmate received medical attention and were released the same day. The incident highlights ongoing challenges with mental health in prisons. The prison has been working with the Ministry of Health and Social Development to improve safety, security, and rehabilitation efforts, including enhanced training and better equipment. The commitment to improving mental health interventions and inmate management continues.
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Regional Disaster Management Leaders Meet in Turks and Caicos
Director of Disaster Management Jasen Penn attended the 16th CDEMA Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting in the Turks and Caicos Islands, alongside other regional disaster leaders. The meeting focused on emergency preparedness, response strategies, and regional collaboration amid growing climate and geopolitical risks. Penn emphasized that cooperation among Caribbean nations is key to effective disaster response. The event reviewed past impacts and set plans for a new disaster management strategic framework. CDEMA consists of 20 participating states, working together to strengthen regional resilience.
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Business Done RIGHT BVI Government Launches Public Awareness Campaign to Tackle Financial Crime
The Government of the Virgin Islands has launched the "Business Done RIGHT" public awareness campaign to educate the community about preventing financial crime in BVI businesses. The campaign, led by the mascot Riley Right, will focus on recognizing suspicious transactions, understanding money laundering, complying with Know Your Customer requirements, and reporting suspicious activities. The initiative, overseen by the NAMLCC, aims to foster a culture of vigilance and financial integrity. Ms. Lavonna Burrows, National AML Coordinator, emphasized the shared responsibility in tackling financial crime.
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Town Hall Meetings To discuss COI Governance Reforms
The Premier’s Office will host town hall meetings to discuss the 48 recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) and their impact on governance. These meetings, part of the Governance Reform Education & Awareness Transformation of the Virgin Islands (GREAT VI), will take place in Anegada, Tortola & Jost Van Dyke, and Virgin Gorda between February 2 and February 6. Government ministers will present an overview of the COI reforms, followed by an open discussion for public engagement. Transportation will be provided for Jost Van Dyke and North Sound residents. For more information, contact the Premier's Office.
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Nine Inmates Earn High School Certification
Nine young men incarcerated at His Majesty’s Prison were among the Class of 2025 graduating cohort that earned their high school certification.
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VI Nurses’ Honoured for Contributions to Health Care System
Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, commended nurses across the Virgin Islands during a ceremony marking Nurses Week 2025, describing them as the “heartbeat of the healthcare system.” He highlighted their vital role in public health and national development, stressing the need for continued investment in the profession through improved compensation, training, and resources. Honourable Wheatley also announced progress on the revised Alliance Agreement between the National Health Insurance and the BVI Health Services Authority, aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the health system and supporting the well-being of the Territory’s people.
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Human Rights Commission Bill Consultation Meetings Announced
The Office of the Deputy Governor announced that the public consultation on the Human Rights Commission Bill, 2025 will begin on March 12. The Bill proposes the creation of an independent commission to investigate human rights violations in the Virgin Islands. The consultation seeks public input on the Bill, which will establish a Human Rights Commission to receive complaints, including those against public officers or private companies. The meetings will be held on March 12 in Tortola, March 13 in Virgin Gorda, March 18 in Anegada, and March 19 in Jost Van Dyke. The public can also submit written feedback online.
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Multi-Agreement Signed For BVIHSA Infrastructure Improvement
The BVI Health Services Authority, in collaboration with the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency, will carry out critical repairs and upgrades to the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, including the Major Peebles Wing and Annex. Health Minister Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley emphasized that these renovations are vital for maintaining healthcare standards and improving the quality of life in the Virgin Islands. Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley stated that good healthcare is key to the government's vision for the Virgin Islands as a model society. The scope of the improvements includes enhancing infrastructure for medical professionals, improving service delivery, and supporting the hospital's accreditation. The government is committed to building a fully inclusive health system.