The Government of the Virgin Islands is making considerable progress towards finalising the Virgin Islands National Tourism Policy (2026-2036) and the draft is now available for public review. The Policy proposes a comprehensive framework for transforming the Territory’s tourism sector into a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive pillar of sustainable development. It seeks to achieve … Continued
The new U.S. immigration policy under President Donald Trump took effect on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, suspending immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, 11 of which are Caribbean states. The U.S. State Department announced that the policy will indefinitely pause the issuance of immigrant visas for applicants from the selected countries, which span … Continued
The BVI Airports Authority (the Authority) is reporting strong and sustained growth in passenger traffic across the Territory’s airports. According to the Authority’s passenger traffic reports, there were 317,676 passenger movements, a 14.2 percent increase over 2024 which had a total of 278,085. The year 2025 marked the first year since 2008 that the Territory’s … Continued
Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley on Tuesday briefed residents of the Virgin Islands following his participation in a “Deep Caucus” meeting of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Heads of Government held in St. Lucia on January 12. Speaking to Chief Protocol Officer, Kareem-Nelson Hull upon his arrival at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, … Continued
The U.S. State Department announced Wednesday that it will pause processing of immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, a sweeping move officials say is aimed at keeping out people the government believes are likely to depend on public assistance. The suspension, which the department said will take effect Jan. 21, applies only to immigrant … Continued
The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority is investigating a fire that damaged a privately-owned houseboat at Nanny Cay Marina on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026. The vessel, Kelly Jane, is a 67-foot aluminum ferry-type craft that had been converted into a houseboat with extensive wooden customisations on its deck. The boat, owned by a St. Maarten resident, had reportedly been … Continued
A U.S. government trade report has formally raised concerns that recent changes to the British Virgin Islands’ vessel licensing laws are harming the U.S. Virgin Islands economy, escalating a cross-border dispute that has now reached the White House, Congress, and multiple federal agencies. The Sixteenth Report to Congress on the Operation of the Caribbean Basin … Continued
Regional carrier Winair has announced five new weekly flights connecting Tortola in the British Virgin Islands (EIS) to key Caribbean destinations, broadening travel options and strengthening the airline’s expanding network. Beginning January 15, 2026, travelers will gain same-day connections from Tortola to Barbados (BGI) three times weekly. Another two weekly services will link Tortola to … Continued
The British Virgin Islands has secured trademarks affirming its position as the sailing capital. This was announced by the BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission. The BVITB said they have officially secured three new trademarks under the Territory of the Virgin Islands Trade Marks Act, 2013, further cementing its reputation as a premier sailing destination. … Continued
The BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) is reporting success from the just concluded 2nd Annual Tourism Summer Internship Programme, with students landing employment opportunities. The Board says the programme has delivered impactful results for Virgin Islands youth and the Territory’s leading industry, tourism. The programme was designed to give participants hands-on training and … Continued
