The Government of the Virgin Islands is set to modernise its immigration process with the upcoming launch of an Online Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) Card System, marking a significant shift in how travellers enter and leave the Territory. The new system, developed in partnership with the Department of Immigration and His Majesty’s Customs, will replace traditional paper forms with a streamlined digital platform.

Premier and Minister for Immigration and Customs, Dr Natalio D. Wheatley, announced that the online system will go live on 1 October, becoming mandatory by 1 January next year. The Premier emphasised that the move is part of a broader effort to integrate digital solutions into government services, cutting down processing times and making entry into the Virgin Islands more efficient for all travellers.

“This new system reinforces the Virgin Islands’ standing as a premier travel destination,” said Dr Wheatley. “For both locals and visitors, the Online ED Card promises a safer, smoother, and more user-friendly experience.”

Travellers will now be able to fill out their embarkation and disembarkation forms online before arrival, which is expected to significantly reduce wait times at ports of entry. Premier Wheatley highlighted that this update not only streamlines border crossings but also enhances the overall visitor experience, making the Virgin Islands an even more attractive destination.

Acting Chief Immigration Officer, Mrs Nadia Demming-Hodge, hailed the Online ED Card as a major step forward in simplifying travel for visitors. “This is just the beginning of our digital transformation,” she said. “Our department is committed to leveraging technology to improve services, enhance security, and manage data effectively.”

Acting Comptroller of Customs, Mr Greg Romney, echoed those sentiments, calling the launch a crucial advancement for border management. He noted that with an increasing number of travellers, this system will help reduce duplication of processes and boost efficiency across departments.

As the government continues its push towards digitalisation, the introduction of the Online ED Card is seen as a key component in improving public services for both residents and tourists alike. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the quality of life and improve access to government operations using modern technology.

The Department of Immigration has introduced new requirements for the Student Vacation Visa Waiver Programme, aiming to streamline travel for children of parents residing in the Territory during the summer and Christmas holidays. This initiative is set to simplify procedures for young visitors during the peak vacation months of June to August and December.

Acting Chief Immigration Officer Mrs. Nadia Demming-Hodge highlighted the department’s commitment to efficient immigration services, stating, “As part of our commitment to providing efficient immigration services, we are outlining the necessary procedures for parents wishing to utilise this programme for their children’s legitimate travel.”

Parents planning to use the Student Vacation Visa Waiver Programme must adhere to the new requirements and submit the necessary documents to the Department of Immigration two weeks prior to the intended arrival for approval. The programme is designed for children no older than 17 years, currently enrolled in primary or secondary schools in their home countries. The requirements include:

A written request from the residing parent for their child’s entry.
Proposed travel itinerary with a departure date no later than August 31 or January 2.
Copy of the parent(s)’ passport bio page residing in the Territory.
Copy of the parent(s)’ immigration entry permit.
Accommodation verification, such as a lease or a letter from the landlord indicating the rented space and details of all residents within the space (multi-family homes should be noted).
An official letter from the child’s current school, indicating closure and reopening dates.
The child’s birth certificate (original or certified copy).

Requests for the Student Vacation Visa Waiver Programme can be submitted via email to immigrationinfo@gov.vg or in person at the Department of Immigration Headquarters two weeks prior to the proposed travel date.

Parents are encouraged to submit requests in a timely manner to allow the dedicated team to review and provide responses and instructions before travel.

Mrs. Demming-Hodge expressed optimism about the revamped programme, stating, “The revamp of the Student Vacation Visa Waiver Programme will further streamline the entry processes for parents seeking to have their children visit during the summer and Christmas vacation months.”

She added, “As the department continues to transform its processes to increase customer satisfaction, we also continue to enhance our ability to mitigate the very significant risk of irregular migration that may be facilitated by legal travel into the Territory.”

The Department of Immigration remains committed to providing excellent service to all travelers visiting the Virgin Islands. The updated Student Vacation Visa Waiver Programme underscores the department’s dedication to facilitating smooth and efficient travel experiences for families.

For further information or inquiries regarding the Student Vacation Visa Waiver Programme, individuals can contact the Department of Immigration via telephone at 468-4705 or via email at immigrationinfo@gov.vg.

Jahphix Television - #1 BVI news

Virgin Islands to Launch Online Embarkation System, Streamlining Travel Process

New Visa Waiver Rules to Simplify Student Vacation Travel to the Territory