Defaulters are being called on to take advantage of the ongoing BVI Social Security Board’s Penalty and Surcharge Amnesty Programme which ends on December 31, 2026. Photo: Internet Source

Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), during the Continuation of the Third Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Photo: YouTube/HoA

The programme, introduced in July 2026, will end on December 31, 2026, and is open to business owners, employers, self-employed persons, and voluntary contributors who have outstanding contribution balances with the Social Security Board or the National Health Insurance system.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), speaking at the Continuation of the Third Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, said, “This programme is intended to improve overall compliance, strengthen the long-term sustainability of the Social Security and NHI systems, and promote fairness for compliant employers, employees, and the wider community by addressing historic arrears.”

Payment plans available 

Hon Wheatley said those who are found to be eligible are given a limited-time opportunity to regularise their accounts, and in some instances, upon successful application, one hundred per cent of accrued surcharges and penalties may be waived. 

Applicants may settle the outstanding principal balance in full or, where approved, enter into a structured payment arrangement.

He also said that payment plans are available under the programme, requiring a minimum deposit of 20% of the amount owed. 

“It is important to note that persons who participate in the programme must continue to pay their regular ongoing contributions, in addition to any payment plan instalments toward the outstanding balance.”

Full statutory enforcement after deadline

Hon Wheatley said the penalty relief will no longer be available after December 31, 2026.

“Defaulters who do not participate, or who fail to meet the conditions of an approved arrangement, will be subject to full statutory enforcement measures. Stricter compliance and enforcement action will take effect from January 2027.”

He said the ongoing amnesty programme is a significant, time-limited opportunity for employers, self-employed persons, and voluntary contributors to regularise their accounts, reduce accumulated debt, and support the continued protection of workers and their families.

“I therefore encourage all eligible persons to make use of this opportunity before the programme ends on 31st December, 2026.”