Guyana lifts visa requirements for BVI, says gov’t

Following public criticism over an apparent one-sided immigration deal between the British Virgin Islands and Guyana, the government says Guyana has confirmed that Virgin Islanders no longer require a visa to visit the country.

The BVI lifted visa restrictions for Guyanese nationals in November 2024 under section the Immigration and Passport Act, allowing them visa-free entry for up to six months for business or tourism. However, it was later revealed in the 2025 Standing Finance Report that Virgin Islanders still required visas to enter Guyana.

While Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley assured that steps were being taken to address the matter, Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn questioned why the government had not secured reciprocal arrangements before removing the requirement for Guyanese travelers.

In a statement on Tuesday, February 5, the government confirmed that Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has now lifted visa requirements for BVI nationals. However, the change has yet to be reflected on Guyana’s official government website.

“Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana have confirmed that their website will be updated to reflect the same in due course,” the Government Information Services (GIS) stated.

The visa exemption policy was introduced as part of efforts to strengthen travel, tourism, and economic cooperation between the two nations. The BVI and Guyana are currently developing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance bilateral ties, especially considering the significant Guyanese community residing in the BVI.

Premier Wheatley remains optimistic about the policy, emphasising its role in fostering regional collaboration and economic benefits.