British Virgin Islands

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 999 for police

Crime

U.S. citizens are generally not specifically targeted for crime in the British Virgin Islands. However, crimes of opportunity such as petty larceny, burglary, and car break-ins are common.

Violent crimes sometimes occur. They include murder, sexual assault, robbery, shootings, and drug related crimes.

Safety tips

• Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, on beaches, unsecured in hotel rooms, or in rental homes.
• Avoid walking alone on beaches and in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night.
• Go out in groups or with a companion. Restrict nighttime activities to safe and reputable venues.
• Use only clearly marked taxis and avoid rides with strangers.
• Stick to well-lit and well-traveled routes.
• Avoid displaying flashy jewelry, expensive electronics, and large amounts of cash.
• Always be aware of your surroundings. If you see something suspicious or unusual contact local police to report it immediately.
• Use added caution when shopping in crowded areas, especially during the holiday season.
• Use added caution when attending crowded events, celebrations, music festivals, etc.
• Do not leave drinks unattended in public venues. This could create a potential vulnerability for the use of “date rape” drugs in furtherance of criminal activity.
• Be unpredictable. Change your daily routes and schedules.
• Do not engage in illegal activity.      
• For boaters: Be wary of unfamiliar people or crafts approaching your boat, whether at anchor or at sea.

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and internet romance scams are not common in BVI but may happen. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in the British Virgin Islands: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting, how you met them, and which app you used.
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 999. Contact the U.S. embassy at 246-227-4000.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, at 246-227-4000 and local law enforcement at 999 for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drones are legal, but subject to restrictions. Contact the BVI government for details.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Lodging safety

Consider safety when picking places to stay.

• Research hotels or lodgings carefully. Book accommodations before traveling and have backup options ready in case you have to switch locations.
• Consider accommodations with safety measures like 24-hour lobby service, gates, or security guards.
• Ensure all doors and windows lock properly.
• Always meet new visitors or strangers in the public lobby, not in your room.
• Review our information on Lodging Safety.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.
• Carefully assess the potential risks of recreational water activities. Consider your physical capabilities and skills.
• Never venture out alone, particularly at remote beaches or far out to sea.
• Avoid entering the water above your waist if you have been drinking.
• Be mindful of jet skis and boat traffic in the area. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.

• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in British Virgin Islands seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  

Firearms

• Firearms entry restrictions may exist for visitors and residents of the British Virgin Islands. Please contact the government of the British Virgin Islands before you travel. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in British Virgin Islands.  
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in BVI prohibits discrimination against people with physical or mental disabilities. The law may not be enforced.

• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication or information, and general infrastructure.
• Sidewalks (if they exist) are very uneven and will only occasionally have ramps at intersections.
• Pedestrian crossings are uncommon and can be poorly marked.
• Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) British Virgin Islands Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 999 for emergency medical services.
• Dial 767 (SOS) for the Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR). This volunteer organization responds 24 hours a day and will transport you to the nearest point where an ambulance can take over.
• Call on Marine Channel 16 for emergencies at sea.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may poor, and access may vary from island to island.

• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Hospitals and medical professionals may require cash payment.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Medical facilities in the British Virgin Islands may not meet U.S. standards. There is no hyperbaric chamber in the country.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

•  Check with the government of the British Virgin Islands to ensure the medication is legal in the British Virgin Islands.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Common diseases

The British Virgin Islands have reported past or current transmission of the following diseases:

• Chikungunya
• Dengue
• Zika

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to the British Virgin Islands to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in the British Virgin Islands with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by British courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in the British Islands via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays with local authorities while documenting your child’s birth or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.  

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. However,  widespread use of cisterns may mean that water quality can vary a lot.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.
• Follow the CDC’s guidelines for water safety.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• Review our Medicine and Health page for general health information, 

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Road signs are limited. Drivers often fail to yield to pedestrians, even at painted crosswalks.

• Speeding and reckless driving are common.
• Drivers can encounter nighttime drag racing on main thoroughfares.
• Livestock may be on roads both day and night.
• Roads in Tortola's interior can be steep and extremely slippery when wet.
• If you are planning to drive across the island, consider requesting a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Ensure that tires and brakes are in good condition on any rental vehicle.

Traffic laws 

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are required by law and cell phone use while driving is prohibited.

• A temporary drivers license is required for all visitors renting cars without a valid British Virgin Islands Drivers license and costs $10.00 USD per person. Car rental companies can issue these permits.
• If you are involved in a road traffic accident, contact the local police. No matter how tempting it is to move, leave your vehicle where it is. Wait for the arrival of the police.
• If you can, take photographs of the scene using your smartphone, as these can be used as evidence later.
• Always carry your passport or a copy. Keep your rental documents or driver’s license with you.
• Driving is orderly, though incidents of road racing may occur. 

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are common, well-regulated, and generally safe.  Ride-share apps such as Uber and Lyft are not available in the British Virgin Islands.

Public and commercial transportation

Public transportation is generally safe.

• Visit the website of British Virgin Islands’ national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that the British Virgin Islands meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. 
• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to British Virgin Islands should check the following: 

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Helpful resources

• Department of Disaster Management (DDM)
• BVI Government Portal
• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA)
• National Hurricane Center (U.S.)
• Caribbean Tsunami Warning Program

Weather conditions

Hurricanes and tropical storms

• The Atlantic hurricane season occurs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity between August to October.
• Storms can bring devastating winds, potentially exceeding 150 mph.
• Storm surge, heavy rainfall, and extensive damage to infrastructure can occur.

Flooding and heavy rainfall

• Flooding is most common from June to November during hurricane season but can occur year-round.
• There may be flash flooding in low-lying areas, road closures, landslides on hillsides, and property damage

Drought

• Drought typically occurs between December to May during the dry season. It can extend longer during El Niño years.
• Water shortages can affect the territory's reliance on rainwater catchment and desalination. Droughts can impact agriculture and increase fire risk.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

• The British Virgin Islands is in a seismically active region. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur year-round. While major earthquakes are infrequent, they pose a risk.
• Potential tsunamis from regional seismic activity can occur.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefit

Embassies and consulates