The revised, expedited policy has now been implemented in the territory
Starting yesterday, applicants for permanent residency and belongership in the British Virgin Islands will have a three week window of opportunity within which to apply to the Immigration Department for consideration under the newly approved, modified “fast track” programme which is intended to clear the backlog of some 800 existing immigration applications while also processing new ones.
The programme, which was codified by legislation passed in the House of Assembly early last month, is designed specifically to cater to those residents who have lived in the territory for 20 years and who have made a positive contribution to the islands. It varies slightly from the one proposed earlier this year, and represents the first stage in the government’s comprehensive immigration and labour reform initiative. The earlier proposal which was slated to begin in May of this year, would have allowed persons who have lived in the territory for 15 years or more to apply and qualify as permanent residents and belongers.
The new policy has also been revised to enable “third-generation” British Virgin Islanders who were born outside the territory to regularise their status. Such persons will have six weeks within which to apply.
A small window of opportunity
The swift consideration and approval of applications is designed to ease the existing backlog. It is not anticipated that the process will continue beyond the allocated three or six week period.
The expedited programme also comes with a slight increase in fees from the standard application process. Those applying for belongership will be required to pay $800, while those applying jointly for residency and belongership will face fees of $1,500. Third-generation applicants will be required to pay $800.
Once this first phase is complete, the government hopes to embark on a more comprehensive and thorough reform of the immigration and labour policies in the territory, including implementing stricter controls on work permit applications and cracking down on fraud and the evasion of fees and taxes.
