Eligible veterans residing in the Virgin Islands can now receive full reimbursement for up to two medically related trips to VA facilities on the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico each year, following the enactment of Act 8991, signed into law on June 13, 2025.
The announcement was made by the V.I. Office of Veterans Affairs, which called the new benefit a significant advancement in ensuring local veterans have broader access to the medical care they need. “This is a major step forward in ensuring that our Veterans have access to the VA medical facility of their choice, regardless of where it’s located,” said Director Patrick Farrell.
Under Act 8991, Virgin Islands veterans are now eligible for reimbursement of up to 100% of travel costs for two round-trip journeys annually. These trips must be related to medical care at VA medical facilities or treatment centers officially approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
To qualify for the benefit, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Have served in the U.S. Armed Forces without a dishonorable discharge.
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Must have either joined the military while living in the Virgin Islands or been domiciled in the Virgin Islands while residing elsewhere temporarily for school.
Reimbursement applies to economy or coach class airfare only. Veterans must provide documentation including:
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A copy of the VA appointment slip.
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Original travel receipts.
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Boarding passes.
Additionally, if a travel companion is medically necessary, the veteran must obtain a written referral. All approvals are contingent upon available funding. Any medical travel scheduled outside the VA Caribbean Healthcare Network must be pre-approved by the Director of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs.
For more information, veterans are encouraged to contact the Office of Veterans Affairs at 340-774-VETS (8387) or visit https://veterans.vi.gov.
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