UK launches Register Your Presence for UK
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has launched a Register Your Presence service for British nationals and British Overseas Territory Citizens (BOTCs) in selected Middle East countries as regional tensions rise. The Government of the Virgin Islands says it is monitoring developments, working closely with the FCDO, and urging Virgin Islanders in the region to register and follow official travel guidance. This update names the initial countries covered — Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates — and stresses the list will be kept under constant review.
The United Kingdom has launched a Register Your Presence service to help track and support British nationals and British Overseas Territory Citizens (BOTCs) in parts of the Middle East as tensions escalate. According to a Government of the Virgin Islands statement, the initial list of designated countries includes Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
The statement also notes the list is not exhaustive and will be kept under constant review. The Register Your Presence tool allows the FCDO to send important safety updates, consular information and practical guidance directly to people in affected areas. The Government of the Virgin Islands emphasised that "the safety and welfare of British nationals and British Overseas Territory Citizens (BOTCs) across the Middle East is our top priority," and said the FCDO is working around the clock to respond to escalations and support those affected, including Virgin Islanders who may be in the region.
Why this matters to the BVI: many residents hold British nationality or BOTC status and may be living, working or travelling in the Middle East. Registering with the FCDO increases the UK government’s ability to locate and contact people quickly in an emergency and to provide tailored advice.
The Governor’s Office in the Virgin Islands confirmed it is monitoring the situation and remains in close contact with the FCDO to support Virgin Islanders, British nationals and BOTCs in the Middle East (Government of the Virgin Islands). What residents should do: If you or family members are in the listed countries, consider registering with the FCDO’s service so you can receive direct updates.
Review up-to-date travel advice on gov.uk travel pages and follow local guidance where you are. The FCDO’s travel advice and FCDO Travel Facebook page are being used to share official guidance (see https://www.facebook.com/FCDOTravel/). Keep travel documents, contact details and emergency plans accessible, and maintain regular contact with relatives and employers.
If you require assistance or have immediate concerns, contact the Governor’s Office in the BVI, which is coordinating with the FCDO to help affected Virgin Islanders. Local contact details provided by the Government of the Virgin Islands are: international media enquiries BVIGovernment@dgagroup.com; Government of the Virgin Islands switchboard: (284) 468-3701; WhatsApp: 1 (284) 468-9760.
The Government also reminds residents that its offices can be reached at 33 Admin Drive, Wickhams Cay 1, Tortola, and encourages use of its central switchboard for additional services. Both the FCDO and the Governor’s Office urge all British nationals and BOTCs, including Virgin Islanders, who are in or planning travel to the region to register their presence if relevant, follow official travel advice, and stay in regular contact with family and local authorities for updates and assistance.
The Government of the Virgin Islands will continue to monitor developments and liaise with the FCDO on behalf of concerned residents.
Primary source: BVI Government