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HR 362

Girls Empowerment Day; February 20, 2025; recognize

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Billy Mitchell

The Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025 allows certain foreign nationals to visit visa-free for up to 90 days, boosting tourism and local economic growth.

House Read and Adopted
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 362

Summary of HR 362 - Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025 aims to facilitate travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands by allowing certain foreign nationals to enter the territory without a visa. This legislation is intended to boost tourism, enhance economic opportunities, and strengthen cultural ties between the Virgin Islands and other nations.

Key Provisions

  • Visa Waiver Eligibility: The bill proposes a visa waiver for citizens of specific countries, allowing them to stay in the U.S. Virgin Islands for a limited duration without the need for a visa.
  • Duration of Stay: Eligible travelers would be permitted to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Implementation: The bill outlines the process for determining which countries qualify for the visa waiver, likely based on reciprocal agreements and security assessments.
  • Reporting Requirements: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would be tasked with monitoring the program's effectiveness and reporting on its impact on tourism and security.

Affected Parties

  • Tourists: Citizens from eligible countries would benefit from easier access to the U.S. Virgin Islands, potentially increasing travel and tourism.
  • Local Economy: The tourism sector in the Virgin Islands could see a boost, leading to increased revenue for local businesses and job creation.
  • Government Agencies: The DHS and other relevant agencies would be responsible for implementing and overseeing the visa waiver program.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced in the House on January 13, 2025.
  • Committee Referral: Following its introduction, HR 362 was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.

Conclusion

The Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025 represents a strategic effort to enhance tourism and economic growth in the U.S. Virgin Islands by simplifying entry requirements for international travelers. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for tourism and local economies will be closely monitored.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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