The Government of the British Virgin Islands is set to introduce a Residency by Investment (RBI) program to stimulate the economy and boost government revenue.
“The [RBI] program is designed to diversify and strengthen the economy by encouraging investments aligned with the territory’s economic goals and standards,” the British Virgin Islands Premier, Natalio D. Wheatley, told BVI News.
BVIR Program Overview
The British Virgin Islands Residency (BVIR) by Investment Program will generate revenue through application and processing fees along with corporate taxes on businesses established by new residents.
Wheatley stressed that residency is granted in exchange for foreign direct investment and should not be confused with Caribbean citizenship by investment–a strategy several Caribbean countries use.
Core Features of the BVIR Program
The BVI government has outlined several features to ensure the program’s success and maintain the country’s infrastructure.
- Not economic citizenship: Residency by investment in the British Virgin Islands is not an option to obtain fast-track economic citizenship.
- Quota system: Capping the issuance of residence permits will prevent overwhelming the territory’s resources.
- Dual screening: Applicants are evaluated by investment and immigration officials to ensure transparency.
- Regulatory setup: The program is structured with the Immigration and Passport Act to align with existing legislation.
These safeguards ensure the residency by investment program aligns with BVI’s economic and societal goals.
Find out more about Countries Offering Residency by Investment Programs in 2025
Why should investors consider BVIR?
Political stability: As a British Overseas territory, investors can establish residency in a politically stable territory.
Business friendliness: The BVI has a well-established business framework based on British law. As one of the best places to start a business in the Caribbean, it has limited bureaucratic processes compared to other Caribbean islands.
Favorable taxes: As a Caribbean tax haven, BVI residents do not pay personal income, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains tax.
British passport: While the BVI does not offer a direct route to citizenship, successful applicants of the program are eligible for British Overseas Territory Citizenship and a powerful plan B passport after five years of residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the British Virgin Islands have a Citizenship by Investment program?
No, the British Virgin Islands offers a Residency by Investment program, but not direct citizenship through investment.
Can British Virgin Islands residency lead to citizenship?
Yes, after a qualifying residency period, applicants may seek British Overseas Territory Citizenship and potentially full British citizenship.
What is the purpose of the BVI Residency by Investment program?
The British Virgin Islands’ Residency by Investment program aims to attract foreign investment aligned with economic development in areas like technology, green energy, and innovation.
How is the British Virgin Islands' Residency by Investment program reviewed?
A dual review process by both Investment and Immigration agencies ensures compliance and transparency.
Does the British Virgin Islands have a residency quota?
Yes, the BVI residency program has a quota that limits the number of permits to maintain sustainable growth and protect resources.
What are the tax benefits in the British Virgin Islands?
The territory offers no personal income, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains tax, though certain businesses must meet economic substance rules.
What investment options are available in the British Virgin Islands Residency by Investment program?
Investment options may include local enterprises, real estate, and government-approved projects.
Have investment amounts for the British Virgin Islands Residency by Investment program been announced?
No, minimum requirements have not yet been confirmed for the BVI Residency by Investment program.
What alternatives to the BVI Residency by Investment program offer immediate citizenship?
Nearby islands like Antigua, Grenada, and, St. Kitts and Nevis have established Citizenship by Investment programs.
