WHEN TO TRAVEL TO THE BVI

Location

Climate

Ideal months to travel to the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands enjoy a tropical climate, with average temperatures varying between 22 and 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Nevertheless, certain months are more suitable for visiting these sunny islands, so you can make the most of your trip.

January to April: peak tourist season

The period from January to April is considered the peak tourist season in the British Virgin Islands. During these months, weather conditions are very favorable, with maximum sunshine and minimum rainfall. Average temperatures vary between 24 and 27 degrees Celsius during this period, offering an ideal climate for enjoying the water and land-based activities on offer on the archipelago.

May to November: the low tourist season

The low tourist season runs from May to NovemberSeptember and October are particularly rainy, which can make some activities less enjoyable. September and October are particularly rainy, which can make some activities less enjoyable. However, this period also offers more advantageous accommodation and transport rates for travellers wishing to save on their vacation budget.

Major cultural events in the British Virgin Islands

In addition to its natural beauty and many tourist attractions, the British Virgin Islands archipelago offers a rich calendar of cultural events not to be missed during your stay.

Virgin Islands Carnival (July-August)

Every year, this flagship event celebrates local culture and traditions with colorful parades, musical competitions and dance performances. The Virgin Islands Carnival is an opportunity to discover the Caribbean art of living in a festive and convivial atmosphere.

British Virgin Islands regatta (March-April)

This international sailing competition brings together sailors from all over the world to compete in yacht races around the islands of the archipelago. The British Virgin Islands Regatta is an excellent opportunity to admire the talents of the sailors and enjoy the lively atmosphere during this sporting event.

British Virgin Islands Music Festival (November)

This annual festival showcases local and international musical talent at concerts and workshops held on various islands of the archipelago. The British Virgin Islands Music Festival is a great opportunity to discover the region's musical diversity, while enjoying an idyllic setting.

Public holidays in the British Virgin Islands

Throughout the year, several public holidays are celebrated in the British Virgin Islands. It's important to be aware of these dates to plan your trip around local festivities or possible disruptions to public services.

• New Year's Day (January 1st)
• Commonwealth Day (2nd Monday in March)
• Good Friday (date varies in March or April)
• Easter Monday (date varies in March or April)
• Labour Day (1st Monday in May)
• Territorial holiday (1st Monday in July)
• Education Day (2nd Monday in October)
• Remembrance Day (2nd Monday in November)
• Christmas (December 25)
• Boxing Day (December 26)

Immigration statistics for the British Virgin Islands

According to the Government of the British Virgin Islands, the total population of the territory is around 30,000. A significant proportion of this population is made up of foreigners who have come to live in the BVI. The main nationalities present are :

• Jamaicans: about 35 % of the foreign population
• Guyanese: about 10 % of the foreign population
• Dominicans: about 10 % of the foreign population

These data show that immigration to the British Virgin Islands is mainly from Caribbean countries. Other nationalities represented include nationals from the USA, Canada, the UK and the Philippines.

Most popular visas in the British Virgin Islands

In the British Virgin Islands, several types of visa are available, depending on the purpose of entry. Here are the most popular visas:

Work visa

A work visa is required for anyone wishing to work in the BVI. Local employers must obtain a work permit for their foreign employees before they can apply for a work visa. The sectors that employ the most foreigners are tourism, finance and construction.

Business Visa

Foreign entrepreneurs and investors can apply for a business visa to set up or expand a business in the BVI. This type of visa also allows participation in conferences, seminars or business meetings.

Student visa

Foreign students wishing to study at a higher education institution in the BVI must be in possession of a student visa. The number of student visas issued each year is relatively low, as there are few higher education institutions in the country.

Temporary residence visa

This visa is intended for people wishing to stay in the BVI for longer than the duration authorized by a visitor's visa, but without the intention of working or studying. Retired people make up a large proportion of applicants for this type of visa.

International tourism figures for the British Virgin Islands

Tourism is a key sector of the British Virgin Islands economy. According to government statisticsinternational visitor numbers reached around 1 million in 2019, an increase of 3 % on 2018.

• Visitors by air: around 400,000 in 2019
• Visitors by sea: around 600,000 in 2019

The majority of tourists coming to the BVI come from the United States, followed by nationals of the European Union. United Kingdom and Canada. Other countries represented include The Netherlandsthe France, l'Germany and Scandinavian countries.

Advice and warnings for travellers

Before travelling to the British Virgin Islands, it is essential to check the conditions for entering and staying in the territory, particularly with regard to visas and any vaccinations required. The government's travel advice also recommends taking out travel insurance to cover medical expenses, as well as medical evacuation in case of need. Last but not least, it is advisable to keep abreast of any possible weather warningsThis is particularly true during the hurricane season, which generally runs from June to November.