U.S Virgin Islands

St Croix and St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands offer a relaxed lifestyle, spectacular scenery, old-world charm and new-world conveniences. Politeness is an important part of the local culture. Less than half the population is native-born.

Easily accessible from USA, the islands use USD$, English is spoken and US residents do not go through immigration control on arrival. Entry requirements are the same as for the USA and at least six months validity remaining on your passport from your planned date of department is recommended.

Forty miles apart and connected by a 90 minute ferry ride, St Thomas has the largest airport, most conveniences, historical sights, nightlife and a choice of restaurants and activities, while St Croix is more secluded and relaxing, with activities such as scuba diving, walking and exploring colonial architecture.

St Croix is the largest of the US Virgin islands. Historically it is known for its sugar plantations. St Croix has areas that are lush and green with farmland growing a range of herbs and vegetables. There is an annual food competition, ‘Bush Cook Chef Cook’ with chefs preparing dishes using only locally grown crops and produce. There is the Annual Coral Reef Swim race ‘ Buck to Buc’ here too, attracting swimmers from home and abroad, entering categories up to five miles starting at The Buck Island National Monument and ending at the host hotel, The Buccanner Beach and Golf Resort

Popular towns and resorts include Red Hook, Smith Bay, Peterborg and the capital, Charlotte Amalie on St Thomas; and Punnett Bay, Frederiksted and Christiansted in St Croix. Both islands offer a range of property and land options, including time share and commercial properties. St Thomas has many hillside homes with fantastic ocean views. St Croix has a more diverse landscape with different areas of appeal and is home to some high-end houses too. Rental property enjoys high occupancy rates.

The Government of the US Virgin Islands welcomes investment from overseas buyers. As a US Territory protected by US laws, for US citizens it is relatively easy to access, relocate, or retire, here. It is more difficult for other nationalities.

The purchase process is the same as in the USA. Closing costs include Stamp tax which ranges from 2% to 3.5% of property value depending on price. This is often split between buyer and seller.

Taxes imposed on residents include; Federal Income tax (same as in USA) and Property Tax. Taxes are filed annually if you are resident or a non-resident receiving an income sourced locally. Residents may qualify for reduced income taxes according to the USVI’s Economic Development Commission.

The islands are exposed to tropical storms and hurricanes.

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