British Virgin Islands ED card for U.S. citizens: How to get it and why it matters

Heading to the British Virgin Islands from the U.S.? Whether you’re planning to sail past the famous Baths on Virgin Gorda or relax on the white sands of Jost Van Dyke, there’s one essential form to complete before you go: the British Virgin Islands ED card.

This simple online form is required for all travelers, including U.S. citizens, and helps immigration officials prepare for your arrival. Here’s what you need to know.

What is the British Virgin Islands ED card? 🛬

The ED card is a pre-arrival registration form issued by the British Virgin Islands government. It’s not a visa, but it is a mandatory requirement for entry, even if you’re only visiting for a day.

Free to complete
Valid for a single entry
Required for anyone entering by air, land, or sea
Must be submitted up to 72 hours before arrival

Once approved, you’ll receive a PDF with a QR code to present to border officials.

Learn more about the BVI ED Card

Do U.S. citizens need it?

Yes. While you might be used to flying into the U.S. Virgin Islands with no paperwork, the British Virgin Islands are not the same. Before continuing, confirm you're heading to the British Virgin Islands, not the U.S. Virgin Islands.

It might seem like a small mix-up, but it matters. One needs a pre-arrival form, the other doesn’t. Don’t get caught guessing at the gate while frantically typing your passport number. Also, fun fact: one serves tea, the other serves iced coffee.

"I had no idea about the ED card until I got to the airport. I was scrambling to fill it out on my phone while juggling my bags. It worked out, but it was definitely more stressful than I expected," said Chris M., traveler from Texas.

When should I apply for my BVI ED Card? 📅

You must submit your ED card application at least 72 hours before you arrive in the British Virgin Islands. While the form is quick to fill out, applying early gives you time to fix any issues and avoid last-minute airport stress.

We recommend applying as soon as you finalize your travel dates.

What do I need to apply for my ED Card?

To apply, you will need:

Valid U.S. passport
Travel dates
Accommodation details (if staying overnight)
Email address

"I had an apostrophe in my last name, and the form wouldn’t accept it exactly like my passport. iVisa flagged the mismatch before submission and helped me get it sorted. Saved me from a stressful scene at the airport," said Lauren D., traveler from Florida.

Apply for your British Virgin Islands ED card now

How to apply for your British Virigin Islands ED Card 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. You could fill out the government form, but travelers have reported glitches and name entry issues. Instead, apply with us for a quick and easy process. Here's how to do it in just three steps:

1️⃣ Apply in minutes on our website or mobile app. Just provide basic trip details.

2️⃣ Pay the application fee and upload a scan of your passport.

3️⃣ Submit & get approved: Within 12 - 24 hrs

Apply now

With iVisa, you get:

Chat and WhatsApp support
Step-by-step help with your application
Passport scan tools that work with any device
Easy group application if you’re traveling with family or friends

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.

What happens if you don’t complete it?❌

Airlines departing from the U.S. may require proof of the ED card at check-in. Without it, you could be delayed or denied boarding.

"They wouldn’t issue our boarding pass without showing it. It’s just part of the process now," shared Marcus H., traveler from Georgia.

Can you visit the British Virgin Islands for the day?⛴️

Yes, and many U.S. travelers do. Ferries and private charters from the USVI to Virgin Gorda or Jost Van Dyke are popular.

"We did a day trip from St. John and the captain handled everything, but we still needed the ED card in advance," said Julia B., traveler from North Carolina.

Whether you’re going for a rum punch at Soggy Dollar or hiking The Baths, don’t forget the paperwork.

What to expect on arrival in the British Virgin Islands

Most travelers arrive at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Tortola. You’ll show your passport and ED card at immigration, then move through customs.

"We flew in from Puerto Rico and showed the QR code on our phones. They scanned it and waved us through," said Nathan R., traveler from California.

If you’re arriving by ferry, keep your documents handy. Not all ports issue passport stamps, but you’ll still need the ED card.

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.

Final tip

Even if you’re only in the BVI for 24 hours, the ED card is required. Apply beforehand, save a digital copy, and print a spare for smooth sailing.

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 anytime via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.