Premier Andrew Fahie made this announcement Monday night, October 26, while outlining several protocols that will govern the tourism industry amid the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping the world.

“For the first four days, travellers would be required to remain within the compound of their accommodation and to avoid or minimise contact with others outside of their party, as well as to keep their movement to a minimum. The properties would be required to put measures in place to manage crowd control and social distancing, as per the mandated protocols,” Premier Fahie explained.

Restricted movement to designated places

Once they test negative for COVID-19 on the fourth day of quarantine, visitors would be allowed “restricted movement to designated places”.

“These would be locations that are not high-traffic or high-risk. These locations are being coordinated by Environmental Health and other government agencies and the establishments will be notified,” Premier Fahie assured.

Visitors are also mandated to do Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing (to screen for COVID-19) before arrival in the BVI and immediately after landing.

The last COVID test

The Premier explained that a final PCR test would be administered on Day 8. And once this test also returns negative, the traveller would be able to move within the territory, without limitation.

However, visitors will be required to have their mobile device with them at all times. Their mobile devices will have a COVID-19 tracing software that all visitors must download immediately after landing in the BVI.

“This is for their own protection, as well as the safety of others,” Premier Fahie explained.

Last week, the government said it is aware that businesses will not be able to maximize profits with the four-day quarantine policy that has been put in place. But Health Minister Carvin Malone said it is the best option the territory has seen after examining protocols from other countries in the region and around the world.