US Virgin Islands: Less restrictive domestic COVID-19 measures in effect territory-wide as of late April /update 16

COVID-19 controls in force in US Virgin Islands as of April 29 less restrictive by comparison with those in effect during late March.

Event

As of April 29, the controls that are in place in the US Virgin Islands (USVI) to curb the spread of COVID-19 are less restrictive than those in effect during late March. While the territory remains at the "Safer at Home" level, i.e. the third stage of its five-tier recovery plan, the current situation reflects a further easing of previously implemented restrictions.

Under the most recent directives, the nightly curfew for the use of beaches has been lifted. Most non-essential businesses may operate provided they comply with social distancing guidelines; restaurants may remain open with a maximum of six people per table, but may reduce the spacing between tables from 1.8 meters (6 feet) to 1.2 meters (4 feet). Bars and nightclubs may operate at 50 percent capacity. The use of facemasks is mandatory in all commercial establishments. All indoor and outdoor gatherings are limited to 50 people.

COVID-19-related travel restrictions, however, remain largely unchanged. All travelers aged five or over entering the USVI must use the online Traveler Screening Portal to upload a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than five days before arrival; failure to obtain clearance from the Traveler Screening Portal will result in denial of entry into the USVI. Travelers are subject to mandatory temperature testing and many need to undergo additional health screening upon arrival. Vaccinated individuals are not exempt from these measures, including the testing requirement.

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