BVI Film Commission Boosts Local Production
Established in 1992, the BVI Film Commission promotes the Virgin Islands as a premier location for film and photography while regulating production activity and building local industry capacity. The Commission, led by Commissioner Natalie O. Hodge, connects producers with government agencies and local partners and encourages residents to engage with new job and training opportunities.
The British Virgin Islands Film Commission, established in 1992, markets the Territory’s dramatic landscapes — from the Baths of Virgin Gorda to white sandy beaches, turquoise seas and more than 60 isles and cays — as an international filming destination while regulating production activity across the islands.
Under the leadership of Film Commissioner Natalie O. Hodge, the Commission’s mission is twofold: to attract film and photography projects to the BVI and to prepare and grow the local production scene to international standards. That work includes developing initiatives to improve business opportunities, enhance performance, and strengthen local filmmaking infrastructure so residents can benefit from incoming productions.
For BVI residents, that translates into potential job creation, skills development and new business for local suppliers, hospitality providers and service industries. The Commission aims to expose and educate local markets — from technical crew and actors to caterers and transport operators — so they can compete for roles and contracts on international shoots.
The Film Commission also acts as a central liaison for producers and government bodies. It coordinates permissions and logistics with Customs, the Labour and Immigration Departments, the National Parks Trust, and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, among others. This coordination helps ensure productions comply with local regulations, protect sensitive environments such as national parks and The Baths, and minimise disruption to communities.
Producers are connected with licensed, professional local partners who understand the Territory’s regulatory framework and environmental safeguards. For residents concerned about environmental or community impacts, the Commission emphasises regulated permitting and close cooperation with conservation and public safety agencies.
As filming can also boost tourism by showcasing the BVI’s scenery to global audiences, the Commission works to align production activity with broader tourism development goals. Local businesses are encouraged to register their services and consider training opportunities to meet industry needs.
To learn more or to start the permitting and booking process, visit the BVI Tourist Board Film Commission page at https://www.bvitourism.com/film-commission to connect with Commissioner Natalie O.
Primary source: Welcome