Mr. Ian Penn has been confirmed in the position of Chief Immigration Officer, effective September 3, 2020.

Mr. Penn’s appointment was made by His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Augustus J.U Jaspert, in accordance with section 92 of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, and acting in accordance with the advice of the Public Service Commission.

The Chief Immigration Officer will be tasked with ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the Immigration Department and the supervision of all staff and will be responsible for providing expert advice and guidance to the Government on various immigration matters including policy issues, legislative reviews and analysis.

He will continue to liaise with the respective ministries, departments and other agencies in an effort to collaborate on joint border and security activities for the betterment of the Territory.

Additionally, Mr. Penn continues to lead his team in the implementation of the strategic plan and objectives to achieve solutions for the Immigration Department while forging partnerships across the Public Service.

He gained accreditation as an International Civil-Commercial Mediator in 2017 and was appointed Acting Chief Immigration Officer in February 2018.

The Chief Immigration Officer obtained his Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice and Legal Practice in 2019 at the Bar from Manchester Metropolitan University and a Certificate of Standing from the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn.

He joined the Immigration Department in 1987 and was promoted through the ranks over the years.

The Immigration Department contributes to the security and prosperity in building a stronger and better BVI, by operating a fair but firm immigration control that regulate and facilitate the movement of people through BVI borders.

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NOTES TO EDITORS

Photo 1: Official Photo of Chief Immigration Officer Ian Penn  (Photo credit: GIS)