BVI Government Invites Specialist in FATCA

The British Virgin Islands jurisdiction has invited a specialist in the United States Foreign Accounts Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), which is now being discussed by the U.S. and BVI governments. The specialist will make special presentations to individuals affected by the US law. Financial Secretary Mr Neil Smith stated in his comments that specialist’s visit has the purpose of informing residents on their individual obligations under FATCA. He said: "What is important to note, is that FATCA gives the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) a new mechanism to collect information on US citizens that are not properly filing US income tax returns and reporting their bank accounts. The government really wants to ensure US citizens in the BVI are aware of their general US tax filing requirements."

 A few months ago, the BVI government commissioned professional services firm KPMG to carry out a study on FATCA, to highlight the persons who may be exempt from reporting under the law, and for better comprehension of obligations of individuals who are not exempt from compliance with the law.