Foreign based commercial recreational vessels conducting day charters to the British Virgin Islands will no longer require a BVI trade licence nor their staff work permits.
Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley made the disclosure in a recent statement where he revealed that the new policy came into effect last Friday.
He said, “We are also happy to facilitate easier access for our USVI neighbours with whom we enjoy a strong relationship; and they in return have agreed in principle to reciprocal applications for BVI boats trading into the USVI – this an important step considering potential recent escalation of requirements that could’ve cripple traffic on both sides.”
“I come to you today with an important announcement in regard to our tourism sector. In an effort to provide a more efficient and streamlined experience for our incoming guests, effective Friday 11th November, we have taken the decision not to require BVI trade licences from foreign based commercial recreational vessels conducting day or term charters or water taxis. Work Permits will not be required for the crew working on these vessels,” he added.
Premier Wheatley also announced the arrival of the first-large sized yacht to be chartered under a local company, adding that at least another similar size vessel is expected in the territory soon.
“Today we welcomed the yacht Taillights, a large yacht into the BVI home based family – chartering based in BVI under a BVI company this season, the first of its size to be BVI home based. I understand that we should have a second similarly-sized yacht joining the BVI family shortly; and this is a testament to the value and quality of the BVI tourism product that we continue to develop and promote.”
Dr. Wheatley also highlighted some of the difficulties faced in the marine sector last year which was due to the laws and policies imposed following the COVID-19 pandemic that subsequently affected the flow of traffic into the territory.
He said his government is working to find an amicable balance within the sector that ensures locally based operators are not disadvantaged with some of the new policies which will come into effect.
“There is a balance to be maintained and that balance must offer advantages for BVI based products and services within the BVI tourism space because of their commitment to the territory and product. Last season was however difficult for all parties involved and some subsectors of the tourism economy were severely impacted by the resulting reduced maritime traffic.,” he said.
“While it will take time to fully develop and implement the proposed solution; there is an immediate need to make some adjustments to ensure that this tourism season affords all subsectors the opportunities to pursue a return on their investments through adjusted provisions for increased maritime traffic. Without improved traffic numbers those opportunities are reduced,” Premier Wheatley further explained.