BVI collaborating with int’l bodies to tackle fake visas

In light of increased cases of fake visas being used to enter the British Virgin Islands, authorities are taking a collaborative approach to stamp out the issue.

Chief Immigration Officer Ian Penn said this collaboration will extend beyond local shores.

“To combat this, it cannot be an Immigration matter by itself because there are other agencies involved and it would have to be a collaboration between agencies such as the passport office, the police, our international partners, and our regional partners as well,” Penn said.

At least seven fake visa cases have been detected in the last several days into months and Penn has commended his officers for their “vigilance”.

He noted that while fake visa cases seem to have become more frequent in recent times, these cases are not unusual.

“This is not anything new,” he said.

Meanwhile, the cases that have been reported in local media have all involved natives from the Dominican Republic.

Two of the most recent fake visas carriers were sentenced to three months in prison and fined $500 last week.

Another three fake visa holders are expected to return before the Magistrate’s Court this week to face judgement.