US embassy in Barbados resumes processing of certain visas

Residents of the British Virgin Islands can once again apply for a renewal or a new United States visa now that the US Embassy in Barbados has announced the resumption of some of their services.

In a media release on Monday, the embassy stated that they will be processing routine student visas and B1/B2 – nonimmigrant tourist and business – visas from December 1, which will be the first available appointment date.

“At this time, US Embassy Bridgetown is only able to interview citizens and permanent residents within its Eastern Caribbean consular district. Individuals residing outside of the Eastern Caribbean should not attempt to travel to Barbados for the purpose of applying for a U.S. visa,” the embassy stated.

Appointment dates should consider quarantine period

The embassy also cautioned applicants to ensure that their appointment dates are scheduled to incorporate the mandatory COVID-19 protocols required by Barbados.

“Please be aware that any applicants residing outside of Barbados but within the Eastern Caribbean who wish to schedule an in-person interview, must strictly adhere to all immigration and health protocols instituted by the Government of Barbados. A visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy does not allow for violation of required quarantine or isolation,” the embassy stated.

It added: “All applicants must wear a facial covering while inside the Embassy and adhere to posted instructions about health safety including social distancing and the use of hand sanitizer. Any applicant experiencing flu-like symptoms including fever should not appear for the scheduled interview.”

The embassy also informed all persons who had previously paid the Machine Readable Visa fee that their payments will remain valid until December 31, 2021. This is to allow all applicants to schedule and attend a visa appointment.

BVI labelled high-risk by Barbados

According to the present entry protocols of Barbados, the British Virgin Islands is listed as a high-risk country.

Therefore, BVI residents entering Barbados must provide a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test result and will be subject to a mandatory quarantine period of seven days before free movement is allowed.