In a move to foster a more business-friendly environment, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) announced the removal of visa requirements for work permit holders. Photo: VINO

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) made this announcement during the 2026 State of the Territory Address on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

The 2026 State of the Territory Address took place on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

He made this announcement during the 2026 State of the Territory Address on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park.

Currently, expatriate workers from certain countries such as Haiti, Jamaica and the Phillipines, require visas to enter the Virgin Islands.

Wheatley stated that this visa-free initiative is part of a broader reform aimed at improving the investment climate in the Territory and promoting economic growth. 

“Government is also advancing reforms to improve the investment climate, including the proposed Investment Act, establishment of a trade and investment promotion agency, to provide a one-stop shop for local and foreign investors,” he explained.

Eliminate Visa Requirements

The Premier emphasised that eliminating visa requirements for work permit holders will help businesses bring workers into the Territory more easily. 

“My government is 100% committed to creating a business-friendly environment that will facilitate the expansion of our economy. In the comming weeks, we will also be removing visas for work permit holders, giving relief to businesses who cannot on board staff quickly enough to support their operations,” he stated.

This decision comes as employers have increasingly voiced concerns about labour shortages and delays in securing the workers needed to fill critical positions. 

Improve digital improvements 

Wheatley also stated that the government is working on digital improvements to streamline work permit processing, initiating workforce development programmes, enhancing labour outreach efforts, and building stronger partnerships with employers to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Additionally, the Premier revealed plans to expand the RATED (Registration, Apprenticeship, Training, Employment, and Development) Programme into more sectors, including hospitality, agriculture, fisheries, marine services, and skilled trades.