Is The British Virgin Islands Open To Tourists?
Though the BVI first reopened with harsh restrictions in December 2020, the BVI Government recently announced that effective May 15th 2021, we would be reopening the country with easier entry requirements. This means less time (24 hours) in quarantine for fully vaccinated travelers.
This is great news for those who miss our beautiful Caribbean islands, and of course for the BVI to get their tourism industry back on track! We have missed you guys since the beginning of the pandemic! Coronavirus and all the lock-downs/curfews has not been easy for anybody or any country, but with the roll out of the vaccines, and the changes implemented by the local Government of the Virgin Islands (announced by Premier Andrew Fahie), things are starting to look brighter for international travel! We are already starting to see a significant increase in bookings and a halt on cancellations.
Travel Advisory - Effective May 15th 2021, the BVI Gov entry protocols & Testing Requirements are as follows:
- Acquire COVID-19 medical travel insurance
- Ensure you have a negative PCR test within 5 days to travel date.
- Register all travelers on the BVI Gateway Portal: (no longer required)
- Upload your negative Covid 19 test results.
- Once you have received your travel authorization you can arrive either via the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island, or via public ferry through the Road Town ferry terminal. Both entry locations are equipped with COVID-19 testing facilities. (Water Taxis are currently only allowed to transfer passengers from the BVI to the USVI).
- PCR test upon arrival. Fully vaccinated guests will only have a day quarantine until they receive their PCR test results (12-24hours, instead of the previous 4 days quarantine period).
After you have received your negative test results and get the green light from the Ministry of Health (usually an email confirmation), you can begin to explore and enjoy the BVI. Whether it be in Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke, or Anegada.