The BVI Extends Visa Exemption To PRC Nationals

The British Virgin Islands ("BVI") Government has enacted a measure which exempts nationals of the People's Republic of China from the need to apply for a visa to visit the BVI for up to six months for business or tourism purposes. The Order dated 5 July 2018 (the "Visa Exemption Order") made under Section 37(4) of the Immigration and Passport Act (Cap 130) (the "Act") exempts from the requirement of a visa under Section 37(1) of the Act, Chinese nationals who will enter and remain in the BVI for such period and purpose.

When coupled with the exemption previously introduced in 2017 by the Labour Code (Work Permit Exemption) Order, 2017 (the "Work Permit Exemption Order") exempting various categories of persons from the need to obtain work permits, this latest measure allows Chinese nationals to visit and take part in business activities in the BVI with just an invitation letter from the relevant BVI entity being visited and payment of applicable fees. The Work Permit