The British Virgin Islands Right to Reside permit allows financially independent foreign nationals to live in the territory without engaging in any form of employment. Administered by the Department of Immigration under the Chief Immigration Officer, it targets retirees, pensioners, property owners, and other self-supporting individuals. The BVI does not levy personal income tax or capital gains tax, making it an attractive jurisdiction for those living on passive income.
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves and any dependants without employment in the BVI. There is no published minimum income threshold — eligibility is based on providing evidence of financial self-sufficiency through bank statements, proof of social security benefits, or other supporting documentation. No educational or professional qualifications are required. Applicants must be of good character and provide police certificates. The permit is granted at the discretion of the Chief Immigration Officer and is not an automatic entitlement.
The permit is valid for one year and is renewable. A $100 application fee applies (introduced 1 October 2025, previously free), with a $50 extension fee for renewals and a $150 review of residence fee.
Spouse and children may request permission to reside by writing to the Chief Immigration Officer. Each family member applies individually with supporting documentation. Responses to family applications are typically provided within one to two weeks.
The BVI does not levy personal income tax or capital gains tax. The Inland Revenue Department collects only payroll tax (applicable to employment income only), stamp duty, property tax, and other transaction-based taxes. Since Right to Reside holders are prohibited from working, payroll tax does not apply.
Applicants submit a written request to the Chief Immigration Officer at the Department of Immigration in Road Town, Tortola. The request must include valid identification, proof of financial self-sufficiency, evidence of accommodation, and contact information. Upon approval, applicants present themselves at the Immigration Department to make payment and receive a receipt as proof. The approved holder's passport is stamped, allowing entry and exit during the permit's validity.
Many nationalities, including US, UK, and Western European citizens, do not require an entry visa for the BVI. UK citizens receive a one-month entry stamp upon arrival, extendable up to six months.
Holders must not seek or engage in any form of employment in the BVI. Violations of immigration law carry penalties of up to $1,000 and twelve months' imprisonment, plus potential deportation.
After 10 years of continuous ordinary residence, holders may apply for a Certificate of Residence (permanent residence). This period was reduced from 20 to 10 years by the Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2025. During the qualifying period, absence must not exceed one year at a time, or 90 days in any calendar year, except for education or illness. After holding a Certificate of Residence, holders may apply for Belonger Status, the territory's equivalent of full membership. The long-term Residence Status application is now made through the Department's online Immigration eForms platform (launched 15 September 2025) and carries a $250 non-refundable processing fee.