Can you just move to the US Virgin Islands?

While you don't lose your US citizenship when you move to the USVI, you need to have proper documentation, including a VI driver's license. You can sort that out at the Virgin Islands Bureau of Motor Vehicles.



If you are a U.S. citizen, the answer is yes—you can simply move to the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) without a visa, work permit, or even a passport (though a passport is recommended for travel convenience). Since the USVI (St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John) is a U.S. Territory, the process is similar to moving between states. You can fly in on a one-way ticket, rent a home, and start looking for a job immediately. However, "just moving" involves significant logistical hurdles: the cost of living is roughly 25% higher than the U.S. mainland due to imported goods, and "island time" can be a major cultural shock for those used to fast-paced corporate environments. You will also need to update your driver's license at the local BMV and navigate a unique tax system (the Mirror Code). For non-U.S. citizens, the move is much harder, as they must follow standard U.S. immigration laws and obtain a green card or work visa.

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St. Croix However, perhaps the most appealing aspect of living in St. Croix is its affordable cost of living. Housing costs, while often still expensive, are more reasonable compared to the other islands. These prices make it an attractive option for families on a budget who want to live in the Virgin Islands.

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The cost of living in the U.S. Virgin Islands is higher than on the U.S. mainland. On average, apartments cost $2,000 per month. A two-bedroom house costs at least $285,000. Not everyone can afford health care on the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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Any of the Virgin Islands will prove to have a slower pace of life, easy access to the tropical outdoors, plentiful waterfront activities, and year-round beautiful weather. Explore our USVI real estate guides to find the right community for your next home.

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Median household income for the U.S. Virgin Islands decreased from $44,499 (in 2019 inflation-adjusted dollars) in 2009 to $40,408 in 2019. The percentage of families in poverty for the U.S. Virgin Islands showed a slight increase from 18.3% in 2009 to 18.6% in 2019.

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The median income in the Virgin Islands is $37,706. However, it is essential to consider the cost of living in the area, as it is generally higher than the mainland United States.

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St John has the lowest violent crime rate in the US Virgin Islands. Many villas on St John have a safe or places for valuables.

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US citizens don't need a visa to live or work in the US Virgin Islands. This is one of the biggest reasons it's so easy for Americans to pick up and move here! A passport isn't required to visit either, but it's always something good to have on hand if you already have one.

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An applicant for permanent residence must reside in the Virgin Islands consecutively for a period of 20 years before application can be considered. An applicant can only be absent from the Territory for 90 days in any calendar year except when pursuing further education or as a result of illness.

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Tourism, trade, and other services are the primary economic activities, accounting for nearly 60% of the Virgin Island's GDP and about half of total civilian employment.

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St Croix: St Croix is the largest and best-known of the US Virgin Islands, loved for its rich history, abundant coastline, and authentic local cuisine. Population: 50,601. Explore St Croix Real Estate Market Stats.

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Most things (except alcohol) are more expensive than the mainland, but where I live restaurants and food are more expensive than some other parts of the country so to me they are similar to home. STX is less expensive than many other islands in my experience. St Croix can be very pricey.

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