MOU in the works as Guyana granted visa-free travel to BVI

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has confirmed that nationals of Guyana no longer require a visa to visit the British Virgin Islands (BVI). He also announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is being drafted between the two countries to strengthen diplomatic ties.

This initiative follows Guyana’s remarkable economic growth, which has prompted the BVI to explore deeper cooperation. “We are currently working on an MoU to deepen cooperation between Guyana and the BVI,” the Premier stated at a press conference on Monday, September 30.

Wheatley, who also serves as Minister of Finance and Tourism, emphasized the importance of Guyana’s oil and gas resources, as well as its renewable energy potential, which aligns with the BVI’s strategic goals. “The country’s newfound wealth will aid the BVI in developing key areas outlined in the MoU,” he added.

He further explained that the Cabinet approved the MoU a few weeks ago, focusing on various sectors including trade and investment, immigration, and possibly agriculture. The initiative is being led by the Ministry of Financial Services, under the direction of Deputy Premier Lorna Smith.

Wheatley noted that larger countries are already collaborating with Guyana on a global scale, and he expressed the BVI’s intent to participate actively in trade missions to the country.

The move to allow visa-free travel for Guyanese nationals has been in progress for approximately a year, facilitating free movement between the nations. However, the Premier did not specify the effective date for this policy change.

Wheatley also remarked that Guyanese nationals constitute a significant portion of the population residing in the Territory.

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