Premier Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley announced the publication of the UN Special Committee on Decolonization’s report following its visit to the British Virgin Islands in August 2024. The report assesses the Territory's decolonization progress and recommends implementing an education program on independence, establishing an independence timetable, engaging in talks with the UK, and considering a referendum on independence. The report will be debated in the House of Assembly and the government will host a public forum for views. The report is available on the Government’s website.
The Customs Automated Processing System (CAPS) will undergo a scheduled migration beginning Friday, 21st November 2025 at 4:30 PM. During this period, the system will be offline and unavailable to importers and brokers, with access expected to resume on Monday, 24th November 2025 once works and testing are completed. In the meantime, all Trader Declarations (TDs) must be submitted manually using the HMC‑12‑2024 Version 2 Form. Please note that the current CAPS submission link (https://www.bvicaps.gov.vg/CAPSWeb/Login.jsp) will be discontinued from Friday, 21st November 2025. The new link (https://caps.gov.vg/CAPSWeb/TraderLogin.jsp) will serve as the official platform for all future declaration submissions.
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.
The public is advised that Porter Road, near JOMA Properties (home to Harney’s), will be closed on Sunday, June 8, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon to allow for preparatory work for the installation of a Gabion Basket. Normal traffic will resume at 12:30 p.m. Motorists are encouraged to follow all posted traffic signs and use alternate routes. The Ministry apologizes for any inconvenience caused.
The Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation announces that, effective January 31, 2025, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change will no longer accept Work Permit Exemption Application fees. Starting February 3, 2025, the Department of Labour and Workforce Development will handle all exemption application fees. For more information, contact the Ministry at 468-2112.
The Ministry for Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development will hold a National Tourism Policy Consultation Meeting on March 17, 2025, at the Virgin Gorda Catholic Community Centre. This meeting is part of a series aimed at gathering input from stakeholders to shape the National Tourism Policy. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley emphasized the importance of the consultations in balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. The meeting will address various tourism-related issues, and the public, including residents, tourism professionals, and environmental groups, are encouraged to attend and provide feedback.
The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) has published its Safety Investigation Report into the collision involving the motor vessel Mojaito, which occurred on the night of 26 July 2025 in the Sir Francis Drake Channel, south of Brandywine Bay, Tortola.
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports successfully concluded Education Month 2025 under the theme “Innovate. Inspire. Transform. A Reimagined Education for All.” Events across the Virgin Islands included leadership conferences, classroom initiatives, science fairs, debates, and athletic championships. The month celebrated learning, innovation, and community collaboration, highlighting the Territory’s dedication to an inclusive and forward-thinking education system.
Health Minister Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley has confirmed that the ambulance service on Virgin Gorda is fully operational and ready to respond to emergencies. A brief service period had prompted public concern, but contingency plans ensured uninterrupted coverage. The Ministry remains committed to the safety of all residents and encourages anyone with concerns to contact the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre or the BVI Health Services Authority.
The Government of the Virgin Islands through the Road Town Partnership (RTP) Committee and the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Roundabout National Monument Design Competition.