Beginning 15^th May, 2021, fully vaccinated passengers arriving in the British Virgin Islands will be free to explore the destination after returning a negative Arrival (Day 0) test result.   This news was announced by Minister for Health & Social Development, Honourable Carvin Malone on Friday, 23^rd April. 

The minister confirmed that fully vaccinated persons arriving from overseas, will be required to take a PCR test within five days of travel to the Territory, provide proof of full vaccination, and take a PCR test upon arrival (Day 0).  Once they receive a negative test result from that test, they will be free to enjoy their vacation throughout the Territory.  This means that they will be able to forgo the four day quarantine still required for arriving passengers that have not been fully vaccinated.

Director of Tourism Clive McCoy in reacting to the news said, “This is great news and timely, as more guests are arriving fully vaccinated and many in our industry have stepped forward to take the vaccine in support of economic rejuvenation.  The Territory already has an enviable record for health and safety during the pandemic and have continued with its strategy of gradual reopening based on international conditions and the local situation.  Any progress in that direction augers well for tourism and for the economy, and this is a very significant step.”

Under this updated protocol a person is deemed to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 two weeks after they have received both doses of an approved two-dose vaccine, such as AstraZeneca, Moderna or Pfizer vaccine or one shot of a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson.   Meanwhile the Ministry of Health continues its drive to vaccinate up to 70% of the resident population, so far vaccinating over 9,000 persons.

Known as a treasured destination rich in undiscovered experiences, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is an alluring archipelago comprising 60 islands and cays located in the north-eastern region of the Caribbean Sea. With plentiful private villas and luxury boutique resorts, there is no shortage of accommodations from which to choose, whether for leisure or MICE (meetings, events and incentives) travel. The BVI has long been hailed as the sailing capital of the world for its line-of-sight sailing, myriad boat charter options (bareboat, crewed, powered, traditional hoisted sail) and an array of experiences catering specially to yachties. The BVI is continually recognized with accolades including “Top Islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas” in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2020, placing #2 on The New York Times' coveted "52 places to Go in 2020' list and ranking "#1 Best Place to Visit in the Caribbean" by U.S. News & World Report in 2017, 2018 and 2019. For more information on how to experience BVILOVE, visit the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission website at www.bvitourism.com or contact 1-800-835-8530.