BVI launches digital embarkation and disembarkation cards
The government has modernised its travel procedures by introducing a digital Embarkation and Disembarkation (ED) Card system, effective January 1, 2025.
This initiative streamlines the entry process for travellers and enhances data collection for border security and tourism development.
Acting Chief Immigration Officer Nadia Demming-Hodge said transitioning to a digital system was essential to “facilitate smoother processes for travellers upon their arrival at the ports of entry.”
She also noted that the system would “improve and enhance the department’s data collection capabilities” to support future border security measures and tourism policies.
Travellers must complete their ED Card online by visiting bviedcard.gov.vg. The form includes sections on arrival details, personal information, travel destination, family members (if applicable), and declarations. After submission, applicants receive an email confirmation with a barcode, which they should present to Immigration and Customs officers upon arrival.
The online ED Card can be completed up to 72 hours before travel or upon arrival but must be submitted before seeking entry from an Immigration Officer. This flexibility allows travellers to choose a convenient time to complete the form, potentially reducing wait times at entry points.
The Department of Immigration also plans to introduce a new initiative for charter vessels and aircraft. This programme aims to provide a “seamless and more efficient clearance process at ports of entry,” ultimately benefiting visitors by significantly reducing wait times.
The new digital system will streamline processing at ports of entry by eliminating the need for paper forms. Beginning in October 2024, travellers to the Virgin Islands had the opportunity to participate in a pilot phase of this initiative, which is a collaboration between the Immigration Department and His Majesty’s Customs.
Implementing the digital ED Card system is expected to enhance the traveller experience, improve data accuracy, and support the Virgin Islands’ commitment to modernising its services.
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Good idea but you can get past the first page unless you know the ferry identification number!
One of too many examples of the BVI letting the bureaucrats-wearing-blinkers run the show instead of letting common sense prevail.
Is this for visitors or residents? How will anyone booking a flight know this is a requirement?
People who travel internationally usually have sense to look up the entry requirements
Rehash of Covid entry. Don’t wuk.
do the bureaucrats need all this visitor information. Seems unnecessary. Just xray their luggage for contraband then let the visitors enjoy their BVI holiday.
@Why
Too easy, too not full-employment-oriented, too sensible.
Why isn’t this an optipn- paper, or electronic filing?
Makes no sense to me!
I must now have a digital/online presence, to be able to come home!
Much more pressing issues, that the representatives could have been working on!
First of all most of our tourist go through so much just to get to the bvi. Long hours and even lost luggage. Tbh it is a good idea to an extent but please come up with something easier and more simple cause tbh visitors have options, they really don’t need to come to the bvi. Just nobodies opinion.
This is nonsense. Our crappy internet and cell phone towers are going to doom this hot mess. Eliminate the whole process. And just start welcoming the tourists to our islands! Stop all this stupidness! Handing them a rum drink when they get off the plane or ferry would make this a much better place.
Would be nice to save info for the next time and avoid having to re-enter everything.