Quick answer

You can visit the British Virgin Islands (BVI) visa-free or with a visitor permit depending on nationality; best time is Dec–Apr for dry weather; expect small-island services, easy inter-island travel by ferry/boat, and friendly locals. Be prepared for higher prices, strong sun, and basic medical facilities outside Tortola.

Visa / Entry requirements

• Passport: required and must be valid for the length of stay; some airlines/ports may expect 6 months validity—check before travel.
• Visa: depends on nationality. Citizens of the U.S., UK, EU Schengen states, Canada, Australia and many others do not need a visa for short stays; others may need to apply in advance.
• Visitor permit: many visitors receive a 30-day visitor permit on arrival extendable locally.
• Return/onward ticket: commonly required on arrival.
• COVID-19: as of 2026, there are no routine COVID entry restrictions, but check latest local rules before travel.

Check the BVI Government or your embassy for your specific passport country requirements before booking.

Best time to visit

• Peak season: December to April — dry, pleasant temperatures (mid-70s–80s°F / 24–29°C).
• Shoulder seasons: May and November can be good for lower rates but occasional showers.
• Low season / hurricane risk: June to November — warmer, wetter and hurricane season (highest risk Aug–Oct). Buy travel insurance if visiting in this period.

Safety tips

• Crime: generally safe, especially tourist areas, but petty theft and occasional violent crime can occur. Use common-sense precautions: lock valuables, avoid isolated areas at night, and don't display large amounts of cash.
• Water safety: strong currents around some beaches; obey warning flags and local advice.
• Boating: charter and day-sail operations are professional but always ensure lifejackets onboard and check weather forecasts.
• Medical: limited specialist care; main hospital on Tortola (Peebles Hospital). Carry medications, basic first-aid supplies, and travel insurance with medical evacuation if needed.

Local customs & etiquette

• Language: English (official).
• Friendly and relaxed island culture; greetings and polite small talk are appreciated.
• Dress: casual island wear. Beachwear is fine on beaches; cover up when entering shops, restaurants, or churches.
• Tipping: customary in restaurants (10–15% if service not included). Tip taxi drivers and guides modestly for good service.
• Respect local environment and marine life—don’t remove shells/coral, and follow reef-friendly sunscreen guidance.

Currency & money

• Currency: U.S. dollar is accepted and commonly used; the official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), but USD is standard.
• Cards & ATMs: major hotels and restaurants accept cards; ATMs available on Tortola and some other islands but carry cash for smaller islands, taxis and local vendors.
• Prices: higher than many destinations—import costs raise food, fuel and goods prices.

Transportation

• Getting there: main air gateway is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island (near Tortola). Regional flights from Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, Antigua; ferries from neighboring islands.
• Inter-island: water taxis and ferries connect Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke; schedules vary by season—book ahead in high season. Private charters are common.
• Driving: left-hand driving. Roads can be narrow, hilly and without shoulders—drive cautiously. Rental cars are available (small cars/4WD recommended for steep/rough roads).
• Taxis: widely available, often cash-only; agree on a fare beforehand if meter not used.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Islands & highlights:
  • Tortola: main hub, beaches (Cane Garden Bay), nightlife and ferries.
  • Virgin Gorda: The Baths (rock boulder pools), fine beaches and snorkeling.
  • Jost Van Dyke: famous for beach bars (e.g., Foxy’s) and a lively party scene.
  • Anegada: flat coral island, excellent lobster and world-class flats fishing & windward beaches.
• Book charters/boat trips early in high season.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, sun protection, and a light rain jacket for tropical showers.
• Power: 110V/60Hz (same as U.S.), plugs are U.S.-style.
• Connectivity: Wi‑Fi available in hotels and many restaurants, but signal may be limited on smaller islands.
• Waste & water: potable water is available but many properties use desalinated water—conserve water where possible.
• Wildlife & environment: coral reefs are fragile—use mooring buoys where provided and avoid anchoring on reefs.

Quick checklist

• Valid passport and check visa requirements for your nationality
• Travel insurance covering medical evacuation
• Cash (USD), cards, and local phone/data plan or eSIM if needed
• Reef-safe sunscreen, medication, sun protection, waterproof bag
• Ferry/flight bookings and any charter confirmations

Enjoy the BVI’s beaches, sailing and laid-back island life—plan ahead for ferries and supplies, respect local rules, and you’ll have a smooth trip.