Country Profile: British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a picturesque Caribbean territory known for their stunning landscapes and vibrant economy that primarily revolves around tourism and financial services. The islands are home to a population of approximately 40,100, featuring a diverse ethnic composition and predominantly English-speaking residents. Governed as an Overseas Territory of the UK, the BVI enjoys a degree of autonomy with its own parliamentary democracy. Despite facing challenges such as natural disasters and economic vulnerabilities, the islands remain a tax haven and an attractive destination for visitors.

Geography

The British Virgin Islands are located in the Caribbean, nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, to the east of Puerto Rico. The territory covers a total area of 151 square kilometers, consisting of 16 inhabited and over 20 uninhabited islands, with Tortola being the largest. The islands feature a subtropical climate with a diverse topography of flat coral and steep volcanic hills. The region is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly from July to October.

151 sq km: Total area of the territory.
80 km: Length of the coastline.
521 m: Highest point on the islands, Mount Sage.
200 nm: Exclusive fishing zone maritime claim.

People and Society

The population of the British Virgin Islands is estimated at around 40,102, with a near-equal distribution of males and females. The predominant ethnicity is African/Black, followed by Latino, White, and mixed groups. English is the official language, and there is a rich tapestry of religious beliefs, mostly Protestant. The society exhibits a relatively young median age of 38.5 years and is experiencing a population growth rate of 1.82%.

40,102: Estimated total population (2024).
80.1 years: Life expectancy at birth (2024).
10.9 births/1,000: Birth rate (2024).
49.7%: Urban population (2023).
3.2%: Education expenditure as a percentage of GDP (2023).

Economy

The economy of the British Virgin Islands is heavily reliant on tourism, which serves as a significant source of revenue alongside light industry and offshore financial services. The territory has experienced economic vulnerabilities, especially following the 2008 financial crisis and natural disasters. Despite these challenges, the BVI is recognized as a tax haven and has a thriving rum export sector. GDP per capita is relatively high, reflecting the islands' wealth compared to other Caribbean nations.

$1.634 billion: Estimated Real GDP (PPP) for 2024.
$40,500: Estimated Real GDP per capita (PPP) for 2024.
8.5%: Inflation rate (consumer prices) in 2022.
$400 million: Budget revenues and expenditures (2017 est.).

Government

The British Virgin Islands operate under a parliamentary democracy as an Overseas Territory of the UK, having attained limited self-government. The capital is Road Town, and the legal system is based on English common law. The governance structure includes an elected House of Assembly and a governor appointed by the British monarch. The most recent general election was held in April 2023.

King Charles III: Chief of state since September 2022.
Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley: Head of government since May 2022.
15: Seats in the unicameral House of Assembly.

Military and Security

Defense responsibilities for the British Virgin Islands lie with the United Kingdom, ensuring that the islands are protected under British military oversight. The BVI does not maintain its own military forces.

Energy

The British Virgin Islands have achieved 100% electrification, with most electricity generation relying on fossil fuels. The territory consumes a significant amount of energy, and it is actively looking to diversify its energy sources. The overall installed generating capacity is modest compared to larger nations.

100%: Electrification of the total population (2022 est.).
163.82 million kWh: Total electricity consumption (2023 est.).
97.7%: Proportion of total installed capacity from fossil fuels (2023 est.).

Environment

Environmental challenges in the British Virgin Islands include limited freshwater resources, pollution, and the need for coral reef preservation. The islands' biodiversity and natural beauty are central to their tourism-driven economy, underscoring the importance of sustainable environmental practices.

66.5%: Forested land (2023 est.).
21,100 tons: Annual municipal solid waste generated (2024 est.).

Transportation

The British Virgin Islands feature several airports and heliports, with a notable merchant marine presence. Road Harbor serves as the primary port for maritime activities. This transportation infrastructure is vital for tourism and trade.

3: Airports as of 2025.
29: Total vessels in the merchant marine (2023).

Communications

Communications in the British Virgin Islands include a mix of fixed and mobile telephone services, with a significant percentage of the population having access to the internet. Broadcast media features both private television and radio stations.

38,000: Mobile cellular subscriptions (2021).
78%: Internet users as a percentage of the population (2017 est.).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	40,102	Estimated for 2024
Area	151 sq km	Total area of the territory
GDP (PPP)	$1.634 billion	Estimated for 2024
GDP per capita (PPP)	$40,500	Estimated for 2024
Birth rate	10.9 births/1,000	Estimated for 2024
Life expectancy	80.1 years	Estimated for 2024
Urban population	49.7%	Estimated for 2023
Education expenditure (% GDP)	3.2%	Estimated for 2023
Electrification	100%	Total population (2022 est.)
Total energy consumption	163.82 million kWh	Estimated for 2023