North Sound, Virgin Gorda, Virgin Islands: The United Kingdom (UK) has placed the [British] Virgin Islands on the Green List for Travel. Photo: VINO

Premier and Tourism Minister Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (R1) has welcomed the news that the United Kingdom (UK) has placed the [British] Virgin Islands on the Green List for Travel. Photo: GIS/File

Tourists at The Baths on Virgin Gorda. Photo: VINO

The UK uses a traffic light system, with countries on the green list considered as safe to travel to and having the lowest restrictions for return.    

What does making Green List mean?

Making the UK Green Travel List means anyone visiting or returning to the UK directly from the BVI via Antigua will not have to quarantine on arrival and only a PCR test on or before the second day after returning to the UK will be required.    

This change will allow those in the UK and those in the VI who wish to visit each other, or holiday to do so unhindered (if fully vaccinated at least two weeks before returning to the VI).

“As a territory, as we slowly start to return to normal, it is even more important for individuals to ensure they are vaccinated to protect themselves, their families and the territory,” Governor John J. Rankin had said.

‘We welcome all visitors from UK & rest of the world’- Premier

Commenting on the announcement, Premier Fahie said, “The Government of the Virgin Islands was quick to shut its borders last year to protect its people. Thanks to everyone’s commitment to the COVID-19 health and safety protocols, a very robust and strict local testing regime, and ongoing vaccination programme, we’ve been able to successfully reopen our borders to welcome international guests. We welcome all visitors from the UK and the rest of the world to our beautiful Islands to feel the BVILOVE hospitality, whilst knowing their safety is paramount.

“With our borders opened at this time the risk remains a cause for concern, but there are opportunities to safeguard everyone with vaccination,” the Minister for Tourism stated.   

He added, “As we continue to move forward in The New Regular, living and working with COVID-19, we thank all the people of the Virgin Islands for doing your part to keep us all safe.  Indeed, our blessings in managing this pandemic have been due to compassion and protection from God. While our handling of the pandemic has received international recognition from the United Nations Development Programme, we will not be complacent; we will remain vigilant.”

Persons are reminded to remain assiduous by practicing the safety protocols instituted for everyone's protection (mask wearing, keep the physical distance and washing your hands); while also taking the opportunity to get vaccinated in light of the new variants developing around the world.