MINISTRY OF BORDER CONTROL & LABOUR
GRAND TURK, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS, BRITISH WEST INDIES
TELEPHONE: (649) 946-2801/Ext 40710 FAX: (649) 946-2885
TCI relaxes immigration requirements to encourage business and long-stay tourists
Leave to enter and remain for bona fide visitors tripled to 90 days

TCI is more open than ever for business and investment: That’s the message the Ministry of Border Control sent today as it announced the tripling from 30 to 90 days of the maximum period businessmen, tourists and other genuine visitors without seeking an extension of stay.

The rules, promulgated in guidance to ministry staff today, were made in an amendment to the Immigration Ordinance on January 16, 2009 which says that, instead of 30 days, Immigration Officers granting entry to a visitor should normally give leave to enter and remain for a period not exceeding 90 days. Effective May 1, 2010, the amendment allows Immigration Officers to grant leave of less than 90 days in cases where there is doubt as to the visitors’ intentions but it is expected that this provision would only be used sparingly. Importantly too, strict measures would still be in place to deal with any abuse.

On making the announcement, Clara Gardiner, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Border Control and Labour said: “As we look to bring on economic recovery, it’s key that we make it clear that TCI welcomes genuine visitors and investors to the islands. Our new 90-day policy is intended to reflect that.

“Take for example a retired couple from abroad who own property in the TCI and wish to visit for a long vacation, or the investor supervising the setting up a new business. There’s no reason we should be making them hurry home or seek multiple extensions. Such visitors are not competing in the local job market, nor do they place a burden on public services. But they do contribute significantly to the local economy and give generously to local charities and community events. People like these should be welcomed to these shores: TCI should be encouraging them to plan for an extended hassle-free stay.”