British Virgin Islands: Authorities to enforce the COVID-19-related curfew until Jan. 15 and impose a UK travel ban from Jan. 11 /update 26

Event

As of Jan. 1, authorities in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) have extended existing curfew measures and announced new travel restrictions, including an upcoming travel ban for the UK, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Domestic Measures
The 0200-0500 curfew will be maintained through at least Jan. 15. Workers in essential and critical services are exempt from the curfew. As of Jan. 1, officials have not announced changes to previously established pandemic-related restrictions. Businesses must continue to enforce social distancing guidelines of 1.8 meters (6 feet) between individuals, require that facemasks be worn, and adhere to sanitization protocols. Gatherings of more than 100 people are prohibited. Beaches may be subject to regulated hours of operation and additional capacity limits. Private and commercial vessels are prohibited from traveling within the BVI's territorial waters 1800-0500. Ferries may operate at any time outside the curfew.

International Travel
Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) reopened to international travel Dec. 1, following an extensive pandemic-related closure. However, effective Jan. 11, officials will impose a ban on all travel to and from the UK due to the spread of a variant strain of COVID-19 in that country. BVI Nationals, belongers, residents, work permit holders, diplomats, and government employees are exempt from the ban. Exempted individuals will be required to complete a 14-day quarantine upon arrival and take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on the day of entry, as well as on day 7 and day 14 after their arrival.

All other travel protocols remain unchanged. Persons intending to enter the BVI must obtain prior approval and adhere to quarantine protocols along with the following additional requirements:

• Travelers must obtain a BVI Gateway Traveller Authorisation Certificate and present proof of a negative PCR test result recorded within five days before travel.

• Travelers must undergo additional health screenings at the airport, including taking a PCR test.

• Travelers must install and use contact-tracing software on their mobile phones.

Movement restrictions will also be enforced for at least the first eight days of travel. Travelers must remain quarantined within the compound of their accommodation or yacht for the first four days and take another PCR test on the fourth day. If the test is negative, restricted movement to designated places will be permitted. A final PCR test will be taken on the eighth day; if the test is negative, the traveler will be allowed to move freely in the territory. Ferry ports remain closed to vessels from outside the BVI until at least Jan. 21.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Government of the British Virgin Islands
BVI Gateway Travel Authorization