IN a significant diplomatic development, Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) has officially confirmed that Guyanese nationals will no longer require a visa to visit the BVI.

This announcement, made on September 30, follows an initial declaration over a month ago and represents a strategic step towards bolstering ties between the BVI and Guyana, a nation gaining international attention for its rapid economic growth driven by its burgeoning oil sector.

Premier Wheatley highlighted that the visa exemption aims to foster closer relationships within the Caribbean, encouraging travel, trade, tourism, and investment. “Many of our Caribbean brothers and sisters already benefit from visa-free access to the BVI, and we are pleased to extend this offer to Guyana, a giant in our Caribbean community,” said Premier Wheatley, affirming the BVI’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment for Caribbean nationals. The visa exemption allows Guyanese visitors to stay in the BVI for up to six months for business or tourism under Section 37 (4) of the Immigration and Passport Act (Revised Edition 2013).

Dr. Wheatley also emphasised that the decision strengthens regional co-operation and provides opportunities for mutual cultural exchange and economic collaboration. “By promoting easier travel, trade, tourism, and investment, our action fortifies the ties that bind our nations,” he said, noting that the new policy aligns with the shared vision of advancing Caribbean unity.

The announcement also touched upon Guyana’s unique role on the global stage. With substantial oil reserves and a diversifying economy that spans mining, construction, and agriculture, Guyana has become a magnet for international investment. Premier Wheatley acknowledged this, citing recent trade missions from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Brazil. He described Guyana as a role model in international diplomacy, highlighting its election to the United Nations Security Council as a testament to its growing influence on global policies surrounding peace and security.

In an exclusive statement to the Guyana Chronicle, BVI Deputy Premier, Lorna Smith, voiced her support for the policy change, calling it an opportunity to deepen commercial and cultural connections. “Guyana has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the Western Hemisphere, and this action enables the BVI to enhance and expand its commercial links with the oil-rich country,” she said. Smith underscored the familiarity between the two nations as Guyana is an associate member of CARICOM and shares longstanding ties with the BVI.

Deputy Premier Smith further praised Guyana’s leadership under President Irfaan Ali, describing him as a prominent figure guiding one of the fastest-growing economies globally. “Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and others are reaching out to Guyana, and we are pleased with this development,” she remarked.

In terms of food security and agriculture, Smith shared that her visit to Guyana last year offered insights into Guyana’s agricultural sector, which could benefit the BVI. Acknowledging transportation challenges, she mentioned that efforts are underway to explore solutions for importing agricultural products from Guyana, particularly as both countries consider signing a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise co-operation in areas like agriculture.

Smith also highlighted the vibrant cultural ties between the two nations. Guyanese citizens represent the third-largest non-BVI population in the territory, contributing significantly across industries, from mechanics and teaching to the financial services sector. She expressed enthusiasm for the expanded visa-free access, noting that the relaxed travel requirements will facilitate cultural exchange and allow BVI and Guyanese citizens to experience each other’s rich heritages.

As relations between the BVI and Guyana deepen, both Premier Wheatley and Deputy Premier Smith emphasised that this visa exemption policy marks a “win-win” for both nations, paving the way for enhanced collaboration in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange across the Caribbean.