preloadTurquoise water and a beach with islands in the background

Do you need a passport for the Virgin Islands? It’s a common question for travelers considering a visit to this tropical paradise in the Caribbean. This guide will provide all the information surrounding passport requirements for U.S. citizens visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands. Start your U.S. Virgin Islands adventure today!

Do you need a passport for the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Passport Needed?


No

Blank pages needed


No passport needed

Passport validity


None

Visa tourist needed


No

No, U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) don’t need a passport to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands and other United States territories. You can use other forms of identification, such as a government-issued photo ID. However, carrying a passport is a good idea as it serves as the best form of identification.

Can I use my driver’s license to go to the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Yes. Since a passport is not mandatory for U.S. citizens and LPRs visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands from the U.S. mainland, you can use other forms of identification, such as a valid driver’s license.

Traveler at airport holding United States passport in hand.
A landscape of a charming coastal town embraced by lush trees, majestic mountains, and distant islands that paint a breathtaking backdrop. A man holds a cup of coffee as he stands beside a big glass window with vast nature views.

Is a travel visa needed to go to the U.S. Virgin Islands?

No, U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents don’t need a travel visa to go to the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, you must carry other forms of identification, such as a passport or a government-issued photo ID. A birth certificate or naturalization certificate also offers sufficient proof of identity.

Fly to the U.S. Virgin Islands from another country: What documents do you need?

As a U.S. citizen flying to the U.S. Virgin Islands from another country, you are required to provide any document confirming your citizenship, including a valid passport, a government-issued photo ID, or other forms of identification, such as a birth or naturalization certificate.

Which Virgin Island does not require a passport?

U.S. citizens do not need a passport to enter any of the U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. So, if you’re still wondering, “Do you need a passport for the Virgin Islands?” the answer is no.

An awe-inspiring aerial view captures the vibrant West End of St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, showcasing its coastal beauty and inviting exploration of tropical paradise.

Can I go to St. Thomas without a passport?

Yes. As a U.S. citizen, you don’t need a passport to enter any of the U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.

What are the requirements for the British Virgin Islands?

As a U.S. citizen, the requirements will not be the same if you try to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands or the British ones. In the British Virgin Islands, all visitors, including UK citizens, must have a valid passport to gain entry.

The KAYAK’s travel tips to enjoy the U.S. Virgin Islands

From idyllic beaches to vibrant culture and adventure, make the most of your U.S. Virgin Islands adventure with these travel tips.

Best period
April – June


Avg Temperature
82 °F


Is it safe?
Generally, yes


Don’t forget
Reef-safe sunscreen

Huge boulders scattered along the white sand shore, with beach houses nestled amidst tall green trees, all surrounded by the captivating turquoise sea.

What to pack in your suitcase?

Based on my travel experiences to the U.S. Virgin Islands, I recommend packing:

  • lightweight clothing 
  • sunscreen 
  • a refillable water bottle
  • swimsuits
  • a portable charger
  • identification documents
  • and sunglasses. 

Where is the best place or city to stay?

Drawing from my regular trips to the U.S. Virgin Islands, I recommend staying in Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook in St. Thomas, Christiansted and Frederiksted in St. Croix, and Cruz Bay in St. John. These destinations have the best hotels in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

What is the food you should absolutely try?

I highly recommend trying Fish and Fungi, the staple dish of the islands. Fungi is a cornmeal dish with a light and creamy consistency similar to polenta, usually served with fish.

Grilled prawns in oil on a white plate.
A male chef garnishes the slice of salmon with sauteed green leaves. A bald woman buys some green leafy vegetables on a stall in a covered market.

What are the 5 best places to see or things to do?

Here are the best places to visit by car and activities to engage in while on holiday in this enchanting destination:

  • Virgin Islands National Park– a stunning park on St. John with tropical forests, lush mountains, and beautiful beaches.
  • Sail around the islands – a popular activity to explore the islands and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Coral World Ocean Park – an aquarium and marine park on St. Thomas with exhibits and activities for all ages.
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches – The U.S. Virgin Islands have beautiful beaches, such as Magens Bay on St. Thomas and Trunk Bay and Maho Bay on St. John.
  • Buck Island Reef National Monument – a protected area on St. Croix with excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.
A row of colourful kayaks parked on a white beach.
Two kids are snorkelling under water, surrounded by lovely, colourful fish. A couple going on a sunset stroll by the beach barefooted.

Conclusion: Do you need a passport for the Virgin Islands?

The U.S. Virgin Islands are an unincorporated territory of the United States. This means they are not considered a foreign country, and U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel there. For international travel tips and comprehensive information regarding various travel documents and restrictions you may require, KAYAK has you covered.


The foregoing article was last updated on the 12th of October 2023. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
Sources:

https://www.usa.gov/visit-territories
https://ltg.gov.vi/departments/passport-division/proof-of-identity/
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/usvirgin-islands

About the author

Mike HarveyMike is a writer who loves outdoor adventure and has a voracious appetite for documentaries. When he's not immersed in crafting compelling narratives, you can find him scaling mountains, kayaking down wild rivers, or hiking through lush forests.

Explore more articles