Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has said his government is open to reviewing the recently increased fees for belongership applications in the Virgin Islands following concerns raised by residents about the steep costs.
Speaking at a press conference last Friday, Dr Wheatley acknowledged that the new fees — which some applicants have described as excessive — may need to be reconsidered.
“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,” he stated. “I’m going to review that with members of Cabinet and members of my caucus. We will review the fees. I’ve received some representation already and we will take a look at it and see if we have to revise those fees in any particular way and we’ll be able to communicate that to the public,” he explained.
The Premier made it clear that the government did not intend to make it harder for residents to apply for belonger status — a designation that grants certain rights and privileges to individuals with close ties to the territory.
“As to whether the fees are a means of preventing persons from achieving belonger status, no, that is not the intention at all,” Premier Wheatley insisted.
When asked whether the government could reduce the fees, the Premier said, “There is a possibility there could be a reduction.”
The remarks come amid public concern over the cost of applying for belongership, which has risen to more than $2,000. The issue has sparked debate over fairness and accessibility, particularly for long-term residents seeking to formalise their status in the territory.
Belonger status allows individuals to vote, purchase land without restriction, and access other benefits reserved for Virgin Islanders. The process for obtaining the status has been under scrutiny for years, with calls for greater transparency and consistency in how applications are assessed.
In 2019, a mass regularisation initiative under then-Premier Andrew Fahie saw more than 1,300 residents granted belonger status, prompting criticism over the speed and handling of the process. Since then, the government has faced pressure to reform the system.
The Premier’s statement signals a possible softening of the government’s position on the matter as it continues to balance immigration policy, economic sustainability, and social cohesion.
Copyright 2025 BVI News, Media Expressions Limited. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.
