British Virgin Islands - Immigration

BVI Immigration Procedure for Yachts

All visitors must have a minimum of six months of validity left on their passport.

The crew does not need to be present as long as the captain has all passports for members on the Crew List. All crew passports will be checked and stamped on entry and on exit.

Note: The BVI plans to introduce a new Online Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) Card System to replace the paper arrival / departure cards that travelers file when clearing in and out. The system entered an introductory pilot phase on 1 October 2024 and is scheduled to become mandatory on 1 January 2025. Initial expectations are that the implementation will focus on airports and ferries, however it could also soon be mandatory for yacht arrivals. For more information see the BVI Government Press Release and the BVI Online ED Card Portal.

Do I Need a Visa?

A visa is not required for citizens of many countries including most western and northern European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA.

Nationals of certain countries require visas to enter the British Virgin Islands. See the Government of the Virgin Islands website for more info.

For the visa application procedure, refer to the Civil Registry & Passport Office – Government of the Virgin Islands webpage.

Length of Stay

BVI immigration authorities typically issue a one-month entry stamp on arrival. Visitors may also be granted an extension for one further month.

Extensions for up to 6 months are granted at the discretion of the Chief Immigration Officer provided that the individual can show proof of independent financial means. You may need to provide evidence of accommodation and your plans to leave the BVI at the end of your stay.

Other Visa Information

Information on obtaining a longer BVI Visa (valid for 6-12 months) can be found on the UK government website.

Useful link:

• Department of Immigration – Government of the Virgin Islands

Last updated:  October 2024