'I'm going to review' immigration fees- Premier
This was announced by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) during a press conference on Friday, October 3, 2025. Premier Wheatley responded to a question regarding ...
This was announced by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Wheatley (R7) during a press conference on Friday, October 3, 2025. Premier Wheatley responded to a question regarding the increase in belongers’ fees and explained that the new fees were part of the department's ongoing efforts to ensure the sustainability of its operations. "I've heard some of the cries, as it pertains to the steepness of the increases, and it's something that I'm going to review...I’m going to review that with members of the cabinet and members of my caucus.
I have received some representation already, and we will take a look at it and see if we will have to revise those fees in any particular way." Reduction in fees possible The fee changes stem from the Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Regulations 2025, which were enacted on June 27, 2025.
Among the fee increases are Application for Residence and Belonger Status: Processing Fee: $250, Grant Fee: $2,500 (previously $500), and Certificate of Residence: Grant Fee: $1,500 (previously $300). The Premier assured the public that they would be informed of any new changes resulting from the review, stating, "We'll be able to communicate that to the public.
As to whether the fees are a means of preventing persons from achieving belonger status, no, that was not the intention at all." When asked whether there is a possibility of a reduction in fees, the Premier responded, "There is a possibility that it could be a reduction." This online news site is the sole property of and is operated by Advance Marketing and Professional Services dba Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) in the Virgin Islands.
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