US Virgin Islands Cannabis Application Dates and Overview

United States Virgin Islands Marijuana Program Overview

The U.S Virgin Islands (USVI) legalized medical and adult-use cannabis in 2022, allowing for controlled and regulated sales and use of cannabis. In 2024, USVI completed the rules and regulations governing its marijuana program, providing a regulatory framework for cultivating, producing, and selling adult-use marijuana.

Cultivation and Micro-Cultivation Applications opened March 31st, 2025 and are set to close June 6th, 2025.

The application process for dispensary and manufacturing licenses is expected to open June 30th, 2025.

Marijuana Business Types

Virgin Islands Cultivation License – A licensed cultivator is authorized to purchase cannabis from other licensees; cultivator, cure, process, internally test, store, package, and label cannabis; store, sell, purchase, receive, transfer, and transport cannabis items to and from other licensees. Cultivation limits are set at no less than 500 and no more than 1000 flowering plants at a single time. A cultivation facility may not be located within 250 feet of a school, house of worship or the perimeter of ay cruise ship-bearing dock or pier.

Virgin Islands Manufacturing License – A licensed manufacturer is authorized to purchase cannabis from other licensees within the territory; manufacture, process, internally test, package, and label cannabis concentrates and cannabis products; store, sell, purchase, received, transfer, and transport cannabis items to and from other licensees. A manufacturer may not be located within 250 feet of a school, house of worship or the perimeter of ay cruise ship-bearing dock or pier.

Virgin Islands Dispensary License – A licensed dispensary may purchase cannabis from licensees; internally test, package and label cannabis items; store, sell, purchase, transfer, and transport cannabis items to and from other licensees; and sell, transfer, and deliver cannabis items. A dispensary may not be located within 250 feet of a school, house of worship or the perimeter of ay cruise ship-bearing dock or pier.

Number of Available Marijuana Business Licenses

Cultivation: 

• 15 Cultivation Licenses on the island of St. Thomas
• 15 Cultivation Licenses on the island of St. Croix
• 5 Cultivation Licenses on the island of St. John

Dispensary: 

• 7 Dispensaries on the island of St. Thomas
• 7 Dispensaries on the island of St. Croix
• 3 Dispensaries on the island of St. John

Manufacturing:

• USVI have not currently placed any limitations for manufacturing licenses.

Ownership Requirements 

• The applying entity must be majority owned by a resident of the Territory who has resided in the Territory for 10 of the last 15 years prior to the application. • Evidence of past Virgin Islands taxes paid and evidence of compliant return filing  and payment of taxes
• No owners may have a disqualifying felony offense – defined as any crime that was classified as a felony in the jurisdiction where the person was convicted • Experience of the applicant in operating a regulated business

Application Overview

• Merit based application, which means the application is scored and the highest applicant gets issued the license
• Must secure real estate, see zoning parameters above
• Evidence of adequate capital and liquidity
• Evidence of charitable contributions
• Evidence that the applicant is a female-operated or service-disabled veteran operated entity
• Standard Operating Procedures to include but not limited to:
  • Odor Control
  • Security Measures
  • Operating Plans (Cultivation, Manufacturing or Dispensing)
  • Staff Training
  • Inventory Tracking System
  • Diversion Prevention Plan
  • Community Engagement and Cooperation Plans

In conclusion, the U.S. Virgin Islands’ marijuana program marks a significant step in cannabis legalization, with clear regulations for cultivation, manufacturing, and dispensary operations. As the program develops, it offers strong opportunities for businesses that meet licensing and operational requirements. The merit-based application process, emphasis on community engagement, and local ownership provisions help ensure a responsible and inclusive industry. While still in its early stages, the 2024 regulatory framework sets the stage for a sustainable, balanced cannabis market. Entrepreneurs and investors must stay informed and compliant to succeed in this evolving landscape, which could serve as a model for other regions pursuing regulated cannabis markets.

Are you interested in obtaining a cannabis business license in the US Virgin Islands? Call us to speak with an industry expert at 602-290-9424.

Need help developing an effective business plan? Shop our templates today!