Governor Daniel Pruce has assented the Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act 2024 on November 1. Photo: Facebook

The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act 2024 provides pathways to Residence Status for children, including those born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Photo: Facebook

According to a press release, the act, assented to on November 1, 2024, provides pathways to Residence Status for children, including those born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents.

Act addresses several issues

The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act 2024 also addresses issues including the length of time required to qualify for Residence and Belonger Status, the establishment of clear guidelines for awarding status, and the creation of a defined process for determining immigration quotas.

It also outlines the responsibilities of various government entities to gather and analyse data on population trends, labour market conditions, and housing availability, all aimed at supporting the sustainable development of the Territory.

The release added that responsible for recommending annual immigration quotas to Cabinet based on the Territory's capacity and the needs of the population will be the Board of Immigration.

“These measures are part of the government's ongoing efforts to ensure that the immigration process is managed efficiently and in a manner that benefits all residents,” it stated.

A significant step forward- Premier Wheatley

Meanwhile, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) said the amended Act marks a significant step forward in ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the immigration process.

“The Act addresses key recommendations from the Commission of Inquiry and sets clear guidelines for granting residence and Belonger status. These amendments will allow us to better manage the growth and development of our Territory while safeguarding the interests of our people,” Premier Wheatley said.