Your guide to being an expatriate in United States Virgin Islands

Demographics of United States Virgin Islands:

Religion Overview

The USVI is known to have a diverse religious population. Over 90% of the islanders have declared themselves Christian, with the majority holding Roman Catholic beliefs. Additionally, smaller Protestant communities exist across the islands.

Major Religions

Climate

The USVI enjoys a lush tropical climate with high humidity and average temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C (77 to 86°F). The north-eastern trade winds offer a refreshingly cool and dry season between December and April. Additionally, the islands experience a wetter season, mainly in August and September, when the temperatures are higher, and the skies are overcast.

Economy Overview

The United States Dollar (USD) is the official currency of the USVI, and the majority of fee-earning industries contribute to the islands’ economy. Various sectors, such as finance, duty-free shopping, government services, tourism, and manufacturing, provide the bulk of jobs. Moreover, the USVI is home to numerous diversified conglomerates, like VACO, a company primarily involved in the production of high-quality electronic components, and Citterio Vacuum, known for their home vacuum cleaners.

Key Industries

• Tourism
• Duty-Free Retail
• Government Services
• Financial Services
• Manufacturing

Major Companies

• VACO
• Citterio Vacuum

Culture and Language Overview

The USVI is renowned for its hospitality, friendly people, and authentic Creole cuisine. The culture blends various heritage aspects, as the territory's ethnic and linguistic awareness exposes the islands to diverse urban and rural elements. There is a myriad of festivals and yearly events that expats should not miss, such as Christmas Boat Parade, the Transfer Day Celebration, and the St. Thomas Carnival.

Cultural Highlights

• Christmas Boat Parade in St. Thomas
• Transfer Day Celebration in St. Croix
• St. Thomas Carnival
• Emancipation Day Celebration in St. Croix
• National V.I. Launch Celebration (July 4th)

Geography and Landmarks Overview

The USVI comprises three lush islands, each with a unique and irresistible charm. Saint Croix, the largest and easternmost territory, homes invigorating du Lac Dam, sparkling waters of Cane Bay, and historic Christiansted.. Saint John, the smallest island, and its fabled Cinnamon Bay, luscious Trunk Bay, and the gorgeous Annaberg ruins draw immigrants annually.. Lastly, Saint Thomas bears an impressive collection of landmarks, including Blackbeard's Castle, Magens' Bay (ranked in the world's top 10 beaches), and Mountain Top, a sightseeing spot and iconic jazz bar.

Notable Landmarks

• Cane Bay, Saint Croix
• Cinnamon Bay, Saint John
• Annaberg ruins, Saint John
• Blackbeard's Castle, Saint Thomas
• Magen's Bay, Saint Thomas
• Mountain Top, Saint Thomas

National Holidays

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Transfer Day (March 31)
• Good Friday
• Easter Sunday
• Easter Monday
• Liberation Day (July 4)
• Emancipation Day (July 3)
• Independence Day (July 25)
• Christmas Day (December 25)
• Boxing Day (December 26)

Political Stability

The USVI has been a US territory since 1917 and has enjoyed stability, with a stable democratic government. The territory's administration is composed of a Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and a unicameral legislature whose policies and actions encompass the symbols of the state’s growth. Additionally, the local legal profession proffers US legal rights and protections subject to the USVI courts, the US Supreme Court, and the US judicial system in general.