Would you like to kick back and relax on a beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John, without having to obtain a valid U.S. passport first? Good news, you can—U.S. Virgin Islands passport requirements state that as long as you don’t touch down on foreign soil before arriving, you do not need a passport. Since the U.S. Virgin Islands are collectively a U.S. Commonwealth and therefore considered domestic travel for U.S. citizens, it’s easy to take a tropical getaway without having to obtain a new passport.
U.S. Virgin Islands Passport Requirements
While U.S. citizens do not need a passport when entering the U.S. Virgin Islands, they may be required to show proof of citizenship when departing the U.S. Virgin Islands, such as a raised-seal birth certificate in combination with a valid government-issued ID card. So, while a passport isn’t required for travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands, you may want to bring one along anyway—that way, you only need to carry one document versus two.
Also, keep in mind that you will be required to have a valid U.S. passport if you choose to visit any of the neighboring British Virgin Islands.
How to Get a Passport Book for Travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands
If you decide you want to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands with a passport, make sure that your passport is up-to-date. If its expired, or if you are a first-time passport applicant, make sure to apply as soon as travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if you apply for a passport within two weeks of travel time and need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport by visiting the official State Department website.
Other U.S. Virgin Islands Travel Requirements
Visa: No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Vaccinations: No special vaccinations are required when visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands. See the CDC’s website for a list of recommended vaccines.
So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit the U.S. Virgin Islands?
In summary: While U.S. Virgin Islands passport requirements state that you do not need a passport to go to St. Thomas, St. Croix, or St. John, having a passport will come in handy should you choose to travel to the nearby British Virgin Islands.
More Information When Visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands
U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is a great resource for things to do and places to stay, as well as everything you need to know before you go when planning a trip to St. Croix, St. John, or St. Thomas.
Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.
You Might Also Like:
• The Worst Days to Visit NYC: Surprising Dates to Avoid• Up to 25% Off Train Travel with Amtrak’s Fall Flash Sale
• 12 National Parks You Need to See in the Fall
• The 10 Best Light Fall Jackets for Travelers
• How To Skip To The Front Of The Airport Security Line…Every Time
We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Related
Top Fares From
Today's Top Travel Deals
Brought to you by ShermansTravel
9-Night Seoul, Hong Kong & Tokyo...
Exoticca
vacation $3099+16-Night Hawaiian Islands Cruise Over Christmas...
Princess Cruises
cruise $1579+Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati
85OFF.com
Car Rental $19+