The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, which was assented to by Governor Daniel Pruce on Friday, November 1, 2024, introduces important amendments to the Territory's immigration laws.

However, there are no new provisions or pathways for granting residence status to children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. This has been a contentious issue for many residents, for some time. 

It is important to note that the amended law will come into force on a date appointed by the Premier by Notice published in the Gazette. As such, the law will not apply to individuals who have already applied for status prior to the commencement date. Those applications will be processed under the previous legal framework in place at the time of application.

The law increases the period in which a person must be ordinarily resident in the Territory from ten to twenty years before applying for a certificate of belonger status. The law also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board.

 The Board of Immigration will continue to be tasked with advising the Cabinet on annual immigration quotas based on the Territory's capacity and needs. These steps are intended to help balance development with the protection of local interests.

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains dedicated to creating policies that foster long-term prosperity for all residents, ensuring a fair and transparent process that benefits the people of the Territory and supports its continued growth.

Premier Wheatley emphasised, "The amendments represent a step forward in refining our immigration system. We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitable.