British Virgin Islands ED card for UK citizens: What to know before you go

Planning a getaway to the British Virgin Islands from the UK? Whether you're visiting family on Tortola or hopping over to Virgin Gorda for some sun and sailing, there's one thing you shouldn't overlook: the British Virgin Islands ED card.

Yes, even British citizens need it. Surprised? You're not alone.

What is the British Virgin Islands ED card? 🛬

The British Virgin Islands ED card is a pre-arrival form used by immigration to manage entries. It’s quick to fill out, completely free, and mandatory for all nationalities - including British passport holders.

Not a visa, but still required
Valid for one entry
Must be submitted at least 72 hours before arrival
Delivered as a PDF with a QR code

Whether you're flying in or sailing over, you'll need to show it at immigration.

Learn more about your British Virgin Islands ED card now

Why UK citizens still need it 🇬🇧

The British Virgin Islands is a British Overseas Territory but doesn’t share the same entry process as the UK. It has its own borders, and this form is how they track incoming visitors.

So no, your British passport doesn’t give you a free pass. Think of it like visiting a cousin with their own house rules; just because the flag matches doesn’t mean you can board without a barcode.

"I was visiting my in-laws in Tortola and assumed it’d be smooth sailing with a UK passport. The airline asked for my ED card at check-in; good thing iVisa had already sent it to my inbox," said Tom R., traveler from Manchester.

When should you apply? 📅

You must apply at least 72 hours before arrival in the British Virgin Islands. If you’re traveling during UK school holidays or heading over as part of a cruise or island-hopping itinerary, apply earlier to avoid any issues.

💡 iVisa tip: Don’t rely on airport Wi-Fi or mobile data at the docks. Save your ED card as a PDF and print a spare just in case.

What you’ll need to apply

🛂 Valid UK passport 📅 Arrival date and travel method 🏨 Accommodation details (if staying overnight) 📧 Email to receive your QR code

How to apply with us 🤳

Infographic titled “How to apply for your British Virgin Islands ED card” with four steps: Step 1 – Fill out personal information Step 2 – Pay the application fee and upload passport scan Step 3 – Submit and get approved Step 4 – Present to customs on arrival. Each step is visually represented with icons and labeled in individual colored blocks.

Applying with us means fewer errors, faster help, and peace of mind before you fly. Here’s how it works:

1️⃣ Apply online with our website or mobile app 2️⃣ Upload your passport and pay the service fee 3️⃣ We’ll double-check everything and email you the ED card once approved

Apply for your British Virgin Islands ED card now

Why travelers choose us:

Friendly chat and WhatsApp support
Step-by-step guidance
Easy group applications
Works on any device - no special tools needed

Infographic comparing the BVI ED Card application process with iVisa versus the U.S. government site. Highlights iVisa’s faster support, simplified form, expert error checks, and fewer confusing questions, making it easier and quicker to apply.

Common mix-ups and smart tips 🧳

Many UK travelers combine their British Virgin Islands trip with the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you're planning a day trip to St. John or St. Thomas, ensure you meet U.S. entry requirements too.

"We planned to spend a few nights in Tortola, then ferry over to St. John. iVisa helped us figure out the entry paperwork for both. Made border checks a breeze," said Ellie L., traveler from London.

Graphic titled “British Virgin Islands fast facts” with three key points. No visa required for most travelers, but the ED card must be completed online before arrival. Tortola is the largest island, but Virgin Gorda is the standout with natural attractions like The Baths. English is the official language and US dollars are used for pricing.

And don’t forget the hidden gems:

🪨 The Baths at Virgin Gorda - worth the hike
🍹 The Soggy Dollar Bar - but bring cash
🚤 Private charters - great way to see the outer islands

What happens if you skip the ED card? ❌

You may be stopped at check-in or delayed at immigration. Some airlines won’t issue your boarding pass without proof, and ferry operators have been known to check. Just because the flag matches doesn’t mean you can board without a barcode.

"I saw a couple get turned away at the dock because they hadn’t done the ED card. It took them ages to connect to Wi-Fi and fix it. Glad I used iVisa ahead of time," said Freddie J., traveler from Birmingham.

Need more information?

Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about traveling to the British Virgin Islands or the ED card application. Contact us any time via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.