Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Frequently Asked Questions. Please select a category below to view more specific FAQs;
Where are the Virgin Islands?
http://bvi.org.uk/islands/onthemap
What is the time difference between England and the VI?
The BVI is 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time, and the clock does not change for summer time. In winter, at 12:00 noon in London, the time in the BVI is 8:00 AM; the time in New York is 7:00 AM. In summer time, at 12:00 noon in London, the time in the BVI is 7:00 AM, and the time in New York is also 7:00 AM.
What relationship does the Virgin Islands have with the United Kingdom?
http://bvi.org.uk/government
How do I get married in the VI?
For information about getting married in the VI, visit the Civil Registry and Passport Office, Deputy Governor’s Office and the BVI Tourist Board’s Weddings page.
How do I find out about purchasing property in the VI?
http://bvi.org.uk/islands/purchasingproperty
What do you do if you want to register a yacht in the VI?
http://bvi.org.uk/business/shippingregistry
What are the public holidays in the Virgin Islands?
http://bvi.org.uk/islands/publicholidays
Do I need a tourist visa to travel to the BVI?
http://bvi.org.uk/islands/visas
To locate a British high commission or embassy for assistance with visa applications in your area, visit the FCO
As a British citizen or someone with a UK passport, do I need a visa to travel to the Virgin Islands (UK)?
No, you will not need a visa to travel to the Virgin Islands (UK).
What documentation do I need to enter the British Virgin Islands?
All persons entering the BVI, including UK citizens must have a valid passport with at least six months remaining until expiration and, if required, a valid visa for entry into the Virgin Islands. A return ticket for travel is also required. You will need to have pre-arranged accommodation and evidence of financial support, such as credit cards, traveller’s cheques, or cash.
It is normal practice for BVI Immigration officials to issue a one-month entry stamp on arrival. You can then apply for an extension of up to six months. For more information, visit the BVI Immigration Department
Work permit holders are free to travel in and out of the BVI without any restrictions, as long as their work permits are valid. Foreign nationals who work in the BVI and require a visa as well must ensure that their visas are kept up to date, to avoid problems on re-entering the BVI.
How do I get to the BVI?
http://bvi.org.uk/islands/gettinghere
What are the VI’s most significant industries?
http://bvi.org.uk/business
What investment opportunities exist in the VI?
http://bvi.org.uk/business
What agency incorporates and checks on companies registered in the Virgin Islands?
The VI Registry of Corporate Affairs is the equivalent of the UK’s Companies House.
How do I conduct a company search?
Information on companies formed in the British Virgin Islands can be obtained from the Registry of Corporate Affairs. A small fee is charged for each service. Search request forms are available from the Registry of Corporate Affairs.
There are currently no facilities for conducting internet searches of companies registered in the VI. Completed search request forms can be sent to the Registry of Corporate Affairs by email, fax, post, or courier. Contact details are below.
Registry of Corporate Affairs
P.O. Box 418, Road Town, Tortola, Virgin Islands
Tel: +284 494 5355 or +284 494 5356
Fax: +284 494 7974 or +284 494-6331
Email: internationalsearches@bvifsc.vg
How does one register or incorporate a company in the VI?
The BVI Registry of Corporate Affairs, a division of the BVI Financial Services Commission, deals with applications to incorporate companies.
What work requirements exist in the VI?
http://bvi.org.uk/business/doingbusiness
If I want to apply for a work permit, what process do I need to follow?
The Department of Labour is the agency responsible for issuing work permits.
For further information, visit www.bviimmigration.gov.vg or contact:
Oleavine Maynard, Chief Labour Officer
Labour Department
Geneva Place
Road Town, Tortola VG1110
Tel: (284) 468-3701 ext. 408 or (284) 494 3451.
Whom do I contact if I have any further questions?
Please Contact the London Office.