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Country Description: The United States bought the Virgin Islands from Denmark in 1917. Among dozens of islets are St. Croix, the largest, St. Thomas, the liveliest, and St. John, the most beautiful. The climate and the beaches are both superb, and as almost everything is duty-free, imports from all over the world often can be bought. The US Virgin Islands are a territory of the United States and as such, US laws govern the islands.

Passport and/or Visa Requirements: All visitors to the United States, with the exception of Canadians entering from the Western hemisphere, must have a valid passport and a valid visa. Visas can only be obtained from an American consular office abroad. Visas for tourists and businessmen may be issued for a single entry or for multiple entries over a four-year period. In a few cases, they may be issued for multiple entries over an indefinite period. A smallpox vaccination certificate is required only of those who have been in an infrected country within the previous 14 days. Returning US citizens are allowed $600 duty-free, including the cost of 1 gallon of liquor and unlimited cigarettes. All other visitors are guided by their local customs regulations.

Travel Warnings, Advisories and Areas of Instability: Pickpocketing and purse-snatching do occur during peak tourist periods and when major conferences, shows, or exhibits are scheduled in major cities.

Medical Facilities: Good medical care is widely available. U.S. medical insurance is not valid for foreign visitors. Information on specific health matters is available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at (404) 332-4559 or via the CDC home page on the Internet:

Drug Penalties: Foreign visitors are subject to the laws of the United States. Penalties for possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Consular Location: United States Consular Offices are found in most every major city around the world. They will issue visas to any non-US citizen who plans to travel to the US Virgin Islands.

Virgin Islands Government Tourist Office
Department of Commerce
St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, 00820

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