BVI to scrap visas for work permit holders

TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands (CMC)—The British Virgin Islands has announced plans to remove visa requirements for work permit holders in the coming weeks as part of efforts to improve the territory’s investment climate and help businesses fill vacancies more quickly.The country's Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley announced the move during his 2026 State of the Territory Address earlier this week, describing it as one of several reforms expected to support economic growth and improve the ease of doing business in the territory.“In the coming weeks, we will also be removing visas for work permit holders, giving relief to businesses who cannot onboard staff quickly enough to support their operations,” Wheatley said.The announcement came as part of a number of initiatives centred on economic diversification, labour market improvements and investment reforms.According to the Premier, the government has already introduced digital improvements to work permit processing, increased labour outreach efforts and expanded workplace rights education. He said stronger partnerships with employers have also helped improve efficiency and service delivery.Wheatley said his government is also preparing to expand the programme to include sectors such as hospitality, agriculture and fisheries, marine industries and skilled trades.He added that the initiative would complement the government’s wider employment policies and help strengthen workforce participation.The planned visa reform comes as employers across several sectors continue to report challenges in recruiting and onboarding workers. In recent years, government officials have acknowledged concerns from businesses about delays associated with labour and immigration processes.The government has already implemented a number of digital reforms to modernise work permit administration and reduce processing times. Previous initiatives have included online application systems and efforts to streamline interactions between employers and government agencies.“Government is also advancing reforms to improve the investment climate, including the proposed Investment Act, establishment of a trade and investment promotion agency to provide a one-stop shop for local and foreign investors,” Wheatley stated.“My government is 100 per cent committed to creating a business-friendly environment that will facilitate the expansion of our economy.”No specific implementation date for the removal of visa requirements was announced.