The Government of the British Virgin Islands is set to introduce a Residency by Investment (RBI) program to stimulate the economy and boost government revenue. 

“The [RBI] program is designed to diversify and strengthen the economy by encouraging investments aligned with the territory’s economic goals and standards,” the British Virgin Islands Premier, Natalio D. Wheatley, told BVI News. 

BVIR Program Overview

The British Virgin Islands Residency (BVIR) by Investment Program will generate revenue through application and processing fees along with corporate taxes on businesses established by new residents.

Wheatley stressed that residency is granted in exchange for foreign direct investment and should not be confused with Caribbean citizenship by investment–a strategy several Caribbean countries use.

Core Features of the BVIR Program

residency by investment in british virgin islands

The BVI government has outlined several features to ensure the program’s success and maintain the country’s infrastructure.

  • Not economic citizenship: Residency by investment in the British Virgin Islands is not an option to obtain fast-track economic citizenship.
  • Quota system: Capping the issuance of residence permits will prevent overwhelming the territory’s resources.
  • Dual screening: Applicants are evaluated by investment and immigration officials to ensure transparency.
  • Regulatory setup: The program is structured with the Immigration and Passport Act to align with existing legislation.

These safeguards ensure the residency by investment program aligns with BVI’s economic and societal goals.

Find out more about Countries Offering Residency by Investment Programs in 2025

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Why should investors consider BVIR?

Political stability: As a British Overseas territory, investors can establish residency in a politically stable territory.

Business friendliness: The BVI has a well-established business framework based on British law, with limited bureaucratic processes compared to other Caribbean islands.

Favorable taxes: As a Caribbean tax haven, BVI residents do not pay personal income, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains tax.

British passport: While the BVI does not offer a direct route to citizenship, successful applicants of the program are eligible for British Overseas Territory Citizenship and a powerful plan B passport after five years of residency.