It can be an adventure to move to the U.S. Virgin Islands.Water Island is one of the four amazing island options.If you want to make a move, you have to book a shipping company.If you are not a U.S. citizen, apply for a visa on the island.If you're looking to buy or rent a home, you should reach out to a real estate lawyer.When all of the arrangements have been made, make your move and enjoy the island lifestyle.
Step 1: You can choose an island.
If you want to move to the USVI, there are four options.St. Thomas is the largest and the most modernized, but it can be crowded with tourists.You will need to travel to the other islands for certain goods if you want to shop at St. John.You can get the benefits of isolation on Water Island, but you will need to head to St. Thomas for all of your supplies.You can ask as many questions as you can about the current residents of the island.You will get a better idea of the differences and similarities between them.
Step 2: Local residents havelicit advice.
Get in touch with your friend or family member who lives on the islands.Ask for their help and advice when you tell them about your plans.Tell them to be honest with you about whether or not you can find a lifestyle like that in the USVI.If you don't have a contact in the USVI, you can visit online blogs from people who have relocated to see what advice they would give for both moving and living here.They can give you an idea of local customs.You can connect with locals through USVI moving forums.Local experts are volunteering to help new arrivals navigate the moving and residency process on these sites.
Step 3: Before you visit, make a short visit.
Try to schedule a quick trip well in advance of your move date if you have never visited the islands before.You will be able to see the neighborhood you are going to live in.You can even meet with a real estate lawyer or leasing agent.
Step 4: You can contract with a shipping company.
You can reach out to a maritime shipping agency months before you move.The USVI moving website has some companies listed.The company will likely conduct an in- home survey of your items to see how much room they need to ship.They will give you an estimate after that.It is possible for companies to leave a shipping container at your home, giving you plenty of time to pack.Make sure the container is delivered right to your new address or you may end up carrying items up an island hill as part of your move.
Step 5: Send your vehicle.
Most islanders recommend that you have a car with you.Some of the required customs duties can be avoided by cars older than 2.5 years of age.If you want to avoid the hassle of customs check-in and licensing, there are companies on the island that will do that for you.Call your island's commerce office to find them.It is cheaper to bring in a car that is both made and assembled in the United States, as this lowers the customs fees.Check the information on the driver's side door panel to find out if your car qualifies.Some people are moving two cars.They keep one car for their personal use and sell the other to cover the shipping cost.You can often get a deal for shipping two at the same time.It shouldn't take you long to sell the vehicles.Islanders are fond of buying older model small trucks.
Step 6: All of your identification documents should be gathered.
If you are a U.S. citizen, you should bring your social security card, current driver's license, birth certificate, and non-expired passport.You need a visa for work and residency if you are not an American.Bring all official forms of documentation with you when you move.The United States immigration requirements apply to the USVI.Information about paperwork requirements can be found on the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
Step 7: You can create a budget.
Determine how much you can spend each month on housing, food, entertainment, and other expenses by going through your finances.Estimate how much money you will bring in.Island prices can come as a shock to some.The cost of certain items is more expensive in the USVI than on the mainland.You can find a price comparison on some of the most popular goods on a variety of websites.Eggs can cost as much as $6 per dozen.A gallon of regular milk is $9.
Step 8: Start looking for work.
It is great if you already have a job waiting for you.Start your search months in advance by browsing some of the main career websites, such as Indeed.The USVI moving forums can provide you with leads.It is best to be flexible when looking for a position, as many people come to the islands and switch career paths completely.It's not uncommon to hear about accountants becoming yoga instructors.While still selling your current skill set, the key is to stay open-minded.
Step 9: If necessary, apply for a visa.
A non-U.S. resident will need to apply for a visa.The requirements for these visas can be found at the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services website.Professionals with a long-term job waiting in the USVI can apply for the H1B visa.The H2B visa is intended for seasonal workers.Students attending a university on the islands are covered by a student visa.
Step 10: You should file paperwork to move your business.
You need a license from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs to operate a business in the USVI.The Police Department and Department of Planning and Natural Resources will be put in contact with you as a result of your DCLA application.Many companies move to the USVI because of the tax advantages offered.Businesses can see a reduction in their corporate income tax.
Step 11: Rent, buy a home, or both.
Each island has a Board of Realtors who can help you find a home.If you believe you will move around a bit between the islands, owning a timeshare, renting, or leasing is a good option.Buying a home is a good investment for anyone who wants to live in it for a while.The average home price on St. Thomas is $500,000 for a year.A more affordable option is condominiums that start at $150,000.Some people like to purchase land and build a home on it.You will need to work with a real estate attorney.The cost of building can be quite high as all materials must be imported.It's a good idea to set up any utilities for your home in advance.Electricity, water, and gas are often provided by the city in most places.
Step 12: Look over a map.
You should get a map that shows each part of your island.It's even better if it lists landmarks and addresses.There are many versions of the same name.Write notes on the map when you study it.Unusual trees are used for navigation.You will be able to learn these over time.
Step 13: It is a good idea to study local manners.
Every island has a set of mannerisms.People around you try to mirror their actions as you settle in.It is common to say good morning to everyone you meet on the islands.If you don't do that, you will be seen as a tourist by the locals.You can understand what is going on around you by reading the newspaper.The big three islands have a newspaper that covers their activities.You should read the St. John Tradewinds News.
Step 14: There are new schools for children.
It's a good idea to look into the local education options immediately after you move.Private and public schools are available for children.Children may need to travel by bus or ferry to get to certain locations.Interested parents can find a K-12 listing at the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education.
Step 15: You need a new driver's license.
License transactions are handled by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.Transferring a valid U.S. or foreign license can be done without additional tests.You will need to take both written and driving tests if you need a new license.Before arriving, check with the BMV for forms and fees for all of these actions.USVI residents drive American style left-hand cars.Unlike mainland Americans, they drive on the left side of the road.A bit of a shock to new island drivers.
Step 16: Wait 30 days to apply for residency.
You can apply for permanent resident status after a month on the island if you are a U.S. citizen.You have to show your birth certificate, passport, and naturalization certificate.You will be able to vote when the process is over.