The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, which was assented to by Governor Daniel Pruce on Friday, November 1, 2024, introduces important amendments to the Territory's immigration laws.However, there are no new provisions or pathways for granting residence status to children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. This has been a contentious issue for many residents, for some time. It is important to note that the amended law will come into force on a date appoint...

The Territory welcomed the inaugural call of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Ilma to Virgin Gorda today, Tuesday 19th November. The luxury cruise vessel is the newest luxury vessel to join the Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection and is slated to spend the day in Virgin Gorda.The Ilma is currently on a six-night round trip cruise from San Juan, Puerto Rico with 273 passengers and 382 crew members onboard. After the vessel departs the Territory, she returns to Puerto Rico t...

After years of anticipation, the Virgin Islands Retired Public Officers Association (VIRPOA) has officially been formed, marking a significant milestone for retired public officers in the Territory. This newly established organization aims to serve as a platform for advocacy, engagement, and inspiration for retirees, empowering them to continue making meaningful contributions while enjoying their post-service years.The interim executive board, led by President Pete Smith, has been appointed to g...

Deputy Governor, Mr. David Archer, Jr. will act in the Office of Governor from 17 November to 22 November, in the absence of His Excellency, the Governor Mr. Daniel Pruce, who is out of the Territory.Mr. Archer’s appointment is in accordance with section 37 (1) (a) of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007 which states, “During any period when the office of Governor is vacant, or the Governor is absent from the Virgin Islands or is for any other reason unable to perform the func...

We must stop UK territories laundering money, say politicians Margaret Hodge and Andrew Mitchell.

“Money doesn't make the man but the man isn't made without it.In little under 180 minutes, the Premier told us on Tuesday that he hopes to collect about $408M in revenue in 2025.  It is our money that he collects on our behalf and we can have a wishlist on how it is spent.Of course, we must bear in mind that at least 85% of the Territory’s fiscal commitments are set in stone.I remember where I was when I read Sebastian Junger’s ‘The Perfect Storm,’ the ...

The British Virgin Islands has been placed on Fodor’s list of destinations to reconsider visiting in 2025. The alarming article was released yesterday Wednesday, November 13th.  The BVI is listed under ‘Destinations That Are Beginning To Suffer’The article speaks to the condition of the Territory and the impact of cruise tourism on the destination. “British Virgin IslandsThe emphasis on cruise tourism is keeping tourist dollars out of resident’s hands, and...

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has announced significant advancement in public safety and security measures through the ongoing upgrade and expansion of CCTV cameras to street surveillance cameras across the island of Tortola. Following the successful completion of the initial CCTV installation in July 2023, this upgrade marks a pivotal step toward ensuring comprehensive coverage and heightened security across key areas.Last year, a total of seventy (70) CCTV cameras were installe...

A criminal gang known as "Money Boys" (MB), is actively operating on Tortola stated a press release from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) late this afternoon, Tuesday November 12th. The gang consists of approximately 25 young men, aged 17 to 25, from various communities across the Territory. The members of Money Boys are reportedly in possession of unlicensed firearms and have been linked to multiple violent incidents, including a shooting on Friday, November 8, 2024,...

The Public is being advised that due to the current weather conditions and ongoing Flash Flood Warning, clinic services and outpatient appointments at BVIHSA facilities may experience delays or cancellations.  Updates from the relevant authorities are being closely monitored and adjustments will be made accordingly.Patients with scheduled appointments are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates, as services may be accommodated later this morning if conditions improve.