British Virgin Islands Travel Guide

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Passports and Visas

Travelers need a return or onward ticket and all the documents required for their next destination, as well as sufficient funds. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travelers traveling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA a valid passport will be required by immigration authorities.

Americans

United States passport holders must have a valid passport or a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document, or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, as well as proof of citizenship, such as an original or certified birth certificate. No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible.

UK Nationals

UK passport holders need a passport, but no visa is necessary.

Canadians

Canadian passport holders require a passport or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, as well as proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible.

Australians

Australian passport holders need a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible.

South Africans

South Africans need a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible.

Irish Nationals

Irish nationals need a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible.

New Zealanders

New Zealand nationals require a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible.

Healthcare

There is a risk of dengue fever in the British Virgin Islands, so visitors should protect themselves with insect repellent. Limited medical facilities can be found on all the main British Virgin Islands and there is one hospital located in Road Town, Tortola. There is no hyperbaric chamber in the British Virgin Islands for diving emergencies, and complicated medical conditions are usually referred to the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico or the USA. Comprehensive medical and travel insurance is recommended.

Safety

The British Virgin Islands have a low crime rate, but sensible precautions should be taken regarding valuables, especially on beaches. The islands are susceptible to hurricanes particularly during the months between June and November, but tropical storms can occur throughout the year.