VI Vets Eligible for Travel Reimbursement

St. Croix Times Staff

USVI - The Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs is proud to announce a new benefit available to eligible Virgin Islands Veterans, made possible through Act 8991, signed into law on June 13, 2025. 

Under this law, Virgin Islands Veterans are now entitled to be reimbursed up to 100% of travel costs, for up to two VA medical-related trips per calendar year to VA medical facilities or approved treatment centers located on the mainland United States or Puerto Rico. 

“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 Patrick Farrell, Director of the Office of Veterans Affairs. 

Who is eligible?

To qualify, individuals must be Virgin Islands Veterans - defined as those who:

• Served in the U.S. Armed Forces and were not dishonorably discharged.

• Either joined the military while living in the Virgin Islands or was a domiciliary of the Virgin Islands while temporarily residing elsewhere for school. 

How it works: 

Veterans must: 

• Have a scheduled appointment at a VA medical facility or one referred to by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

  Submit:

  • 1. Appointment slip 

  • 2. Travel receipts economy/coach class only)

  • 3. Boarding passes
    

• Obtain a written referral for any travel companion, if medically necessary

Note: All approvals depend on available funding…Any travel outside of the VA Caribbean Healthcare Network must be pre-approved by the Director.