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© Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA).

Personal information, i am bringing:.

1) Fruits, plants, cut flowers, vegetable, soil, meat, live animals and organisms, honey, wildlife products, plant material, food, animal products or live birds.

2) Pharmaceuticals, chemicals, narcotics and other illicit drugs or biological substances

3) Illicit drugs or narcotics.

4) Radioactive or nuclear substances.

5) Arms, ammunitions, explosives, fireworks, toy guns or other weapons

6) I am / we are carrying currency or monetary instruments over U$$10,000 or equivalent

7) I have goods exceeding the value of my (our) personal duty-free allowance

8) I have gifts or articles for resale

Read the instructions carefully before declaring.

I declare that the information given is true and correct. I understand that the failure to make a full declaration is an offence and may result in fines, forfeiture of the goods and imprisonment. I also understand that I have the right to appeal.

Spouse & children under age 18 accompanying you

All passengers, 18 years & older are entitled to US$500 Duty Free Allowance on items not for resale or In commercial quantity.

In addition, passengers and crew members are entitled to import free of duty: 200 sticks of cigarettes or 50 sticks of cigars or 230g of Tobacco; 1 litre of Spirits; 1 litre of Wine; 170 ml of Perfumed Spirits and 340 ml of Toilet Water.

If you are in doubt (Declare all your goods to the customs officer)

*Value should be the price paid or payable in the country of purchase

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C5 Immigration Form

All travellers to Jamaica are required to complete and submit the Immigration/Customs Passenger Declaration (C-5) Form. The form is available online and is required for entry to the island. Visitors can access the form at www.enterjamaica.com

How to complete the form

There is no cost associated with the C-5 form.

You can complete and submit the form two (2) days before your entry. You will be required to enter a valid email address to complete the form. A verification code will be sent to your email. Enter the verification code to continue.

The C-5 form is straightforward and won’t require more than a few minutes to fill out. The form will ask for your name, dates of travel, flight number, and the address at which you will be staying in Jamaica. Once you complete the form online, you will receive an email confirmation that the application was successful.

Both visitors and residents of Jamaica are required to complete the C-5 form. The Jamaican immigration form does not replace a visa.

Airlift To Jamaica 

The following airlines operate flights to Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston:

The following airlines operate flights to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay:

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How to complete the jamaica immigration and customs c5 form.

Starting 1 September 2023, when you're visiting Jamaica, you'll need to complete the Jamaica immigration and customs form (C5 form) online . This online form is a must for all travelers entering Jamaica , including your little ones. Make your travel experience smoother and more convenient by filling out the C5 form at least 24 hours prior to your departure. Now, if this happens to be your first time visiting Jamaica and you're wondering how to go about completing the Jamaica Immigration and Customs form, keep reading. Let's walk you through the process step by step. 

What is the Jamaica Immigration /Customs Form / C5 Form? This is the official form used by the Jamaican immigration and customs authorities to gather information about your visit. Bear in mind, this form does not excuse you from other travel requirements such as the need for a visa or passport from your home country. To access the form, simply visit the website enterjamaica.com. There, you'll be asked to provide your email address, and a security code will be sent to you. Enter the security code correctly to proceed to the first section of the form.

Completing the C5 Form Filling out the Jamaica immigration/ customs form only takes a few minutes, so it can literally be the last thing you do before your flight. Matching names to passports Be sure to write the exact spelling of the names listed on the immigration forms to match the names on the passports of everyone in your travel group. 

Follow the date format Jamaica uses the day/month/year format for dates, which is different from the month/day/year format commonly used in the U.S. For instance, If you're writing the date - October 15 2023, on the immigration form, you would write 15/10/2023.

Know your flight information Your boarding pass usually lists all the required flight details that the immigration form requests. Check for the flight date, flight name, and the port you arrived from. Remember, the port you're arriving from isn't your home address, it's the airport where your journey started.  Keep stock of your luggage You'll need to answer questions about the number of bags you'll taking to Jamaica. This includes carry-on bags. However, if you have bags that will arrive separately, declare them as "unaccompanied luggage".  Length of stay Declare how long you'll be staying on the island, counting from the night you arrive to the night before your departure flight. What to declare While you don't need to declare every item you're traveling with, knowing which items require declaration is crucial. Common items like laptops, iPads, cell phones, and cameras typically don't need to be declared. However, if you have items close to the $500 USD limit, bring copies of receipts to show the customs officer if asked. 

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Everyone traveling to Jamaica must present a valid and approved travel document as evidence of their identity and nationality. The most common and preferred travel document is a passport, but other types of travel documents may also be accepted.

Other acceptable travel documents

A small number of travellers may have other types of travel documents which are also acceptable for travel to Jamaica.

Requirements

• The travel documents must be issued by a recognised authority
• Must have a photograph of the bearer and provide the holder with a re-entry authority to the country of issue, or an entry authority to another country
• Holders of these documents GENERALLY REQUIRE  a visa

Types of documents which are acceptable to Jamaica include:

• Document of Identity (if holder is not an Jamaican citizen then a visa might be required); see list of visa countries
• Certificate of Identity
• Laissez Passer
• Documents issued to refugees
• ‘Kinderausweis’ issued to German minors
• Military documents for military personnel travelling by air; whether Military passport on I.D
• Seamans certificate if travelling by sea

VISA REQUIREMENTS for Foreigners and Commonwealth Nationals Entering Jamaica

PASSPORT, IMMIGRATION & CITIZENSHIP AGENCY – VISA UNIT Last updated July 19, 2023

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Travellers to Jamaica must complete immigration form online starting September 1

Beginning September 1, travellers coming to Jamaica will be mandated to fill out the immigration form online.

The online form will replace the paper document that is issued to travellers on airlines.

The Immigration/Customs (C5) Form is an entry requirement for persons travelling to the island, whether they are residents in Jamaica or visiting.

The full rollout of the online form is being done in partnership with the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) and the Jamaica Customs Agency.

Speaking at a JIS Think Tank on August 30, Chief Executive Officer of PICA, Andrew Wynter, said the online form is the digitised format to the original paper document.

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“The Online Passenger Declaration or C5 form is what you would normally get in the paper format from the airline to fill out when returning to Jamaica. With the online form, passengers will now be able to submit that application ahead of their travel, and they can do it up to 30 days before they return to Jamaica,” Wynter informed.

Travellers can fill out the form by visiting www.enterjamaica.com.   Click here 

Wynter explained that persons will find the form easy to complete, as there are no changes in the questions asked.

“It's the same information that is on the physical form that is on the online form; it is like a mirror,” he said.

Meanwhile, Senior Director, Projects Enterprise and Risk Management, PICA, Amy Johnson Lynch, indicated that PICA has been in dialogue with airport operators to ensure that Internet access will be available to allow persons to fill out the forms.

“Airport operators have committed to providing Wi-Fi services at the airport. So, we are confident that you will have Wi-Fi accessibility. If for whatever reason there is a break or there is no Wi-Fi available, then we will revert to either having you complete the physical form or we will assist you in completing the process electronically by other means,” she said.

Wynter explained that once persons complete the form online, they will receive an email confirming that their application was a success.

He said PICA has also made arrangements for Wi-Fi access at the airports in Jamaica, so persons can also fill out the forms when they land in the country.

“Once you reach the airport to check in, most international airports have Wi-Fi. If the airline that you're travelling with provides Wi-Fi. you can certainly fill out the form. But let's say you forgot to fill out the form, on arrival in Jamaica, we are going to have Wi-Fi facilities that will allow you to go on the website, complete and submit it before you are processed either at the kiosk or through an immigration officer,” Wynter said.

Follow The Gleaner on Twitter and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at [email protected] or [email protected] .

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Visit – Jamaica

Your Gateway to Paradise

A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Jamaica Entry Form (C5): Application Process, Costs, and Tips

Traveling to Jamaica requires completing the Jamaica Entry Form, commonly known as the C5 form , which is a critical step in ensuring your smooth entry into the country. This online document:

• collects your details, and travel information
• confirms your compliance with Jamaica’s health and safety regulations.

It’s essential to understand the application requirements and the correct procedure for filling out the form. 

– If you want to learn about Jamaica’s Entry Requirement for 2024, click here . 

Filling out the C5 form accurately is imperative to avoid any complications upon arrival in Jamaica. You’ll need to provide specifics such as:

• personal identification information
• planned accommodations
• and flight details.

The process is straightforward and can be completed online, which makes it convenient for travelers. Ensuring that you meet all the requirements before your departure will facilitate a hassle-free entry into Jamaica.

The guide will take you step by step through the online application process , outlining the critical information needed and providing tips to avoid common mistakes. Understanding each section of the form and how to answer it effectively is vital. Whether you’re visiting Jamaica for the beautiful white sand beaches , business or pleasure, grasping the nuances of the C5 form will help make your journey a success.

What is the Jamaica Entry Form (C5)? 

The Jamaica Entry Form (C5) is a mandatory document for travelers entering Jamaica. This guide will help you understand the process of obtaining and filling out the C5 form, and what documents you’ll need.

Overview of the C5 Form

The C5 form, known as the Immigration and Customs Declaration, is a legal requirement for all travelers arriving in Jamaica. You need to submit this form upon arrival at immigration. It serves to declare personal belongings and provide details about your purpose of visit and accommodation in Jamaica.

To fill out the C5 form, you must:

• Be a visitor to Jamaica, whether for tourism, business, or other reasons.
• Have a valid passport that will remain valid for the duration of your stay.
• Provide evidence of your intended address or stay in Jamaica, such as a hotel reservation.

What are the Required Documentation of the C5 Form? 

To complete the C5 form, ensure you have the following:

• Passport Details : Passport number, issue, and expiration dates.
• Contact Information : Jamaican address during your stay, including hotel name or residence.
• Travel Information : Flight number and carrier, as well as the last country visited before entering Jamaica.

Completing the Jamaica Entry Form Online, Step-by-step

To efficiently complete the Jamaica Entry Form (C5) online, you need accurate information and attention to detail to avoid common errors.

7 Easy Steps to Fill Out the C5 Form

• Access the form: Visit the official Jamaica Customs & Immigration website to find the C5 form at https://enterjamaica.com/
• Enter a valid Email address: To begin the process, enter a valid email address to receive a code.
• Enter personal details: Fill in your full name, date of birth, passport information, and contact details.
• Travel Information : Provide your travel dates, flight details, and address during your stay in Jamaica.
• Health Declaration : Answer questions regarding your health and recent travel to ensure public safety.
• Review your information: Double-check all entries for accuracy.
• Submit the form: Once completed, submit your C5 form online.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Incorrect Information : Ensure all details match your passport and travel documents.
• Omitting Information : Complete all mandatory fields without leaving blanks.
• Technical Errors : Save your progress as you go to avoid losing information due to website timeouts.
• Submission Without Review : Always review your form thoroughly before submission.

Jamaica C5 Form Cost

The Jamaica C5 form is necessary for your travel, and it is FREE if submitted from the official website listed here https://enterjamaica.com/

Once you’ve completed the Jamaica Entry Form (C5), the next steps involve submitting the form and understanding the timeline and process for approval. It’s important to know the specific steps for submission, the expected processing time frames, and how to track the status of your application.

Submitting the Completed C5 Form

To submit your completed C5 form, you must ensure all information is accurate and complete. The form can be submitted electronically through the official Jamaica immigration website. A confirmation of submission will be sent to your provided email address upon successful completion. So, if you haven’t received the submission email, maybe your form has not gone through. 

Jamaica’s C5 Form Frequently Asked Questions

Processing time frames: how long should i wait after submitting the c5 form .

After submission, the processing time for the C5 form can vary. Typically, the processing time is as follows:

• Standard Processing : 3-5 business days
• Expedited Processing : Available at an additional cost , usually processed within 1-2 business days.

Please note that these time frames are indicative and may change due to the volume of applications or unforeseen circumstances. If you already have filled out the form, and waiting for a response. 

How do I track the application status of my Jamaica entry form? 

You can track the status of your C5 form application online. To do this:

• Log in to the immigration portal using your application ID.
• Go to the ‘Application Status’ section on the top.
• View the current status of your application.

Updates will be sent via email, but you can manually check the status at any time.

• Now that you know about Jamaica’s entry form, let’s learn about Jamaica Travel Insurance . 

Navigating the application process for the Jamaica Entry Form (C5) can raise questions. This section addresses key points to ensure a smooth application process and troubleshoot any submission issues you may encounter.

Tips for Smooth Application Processing

To facilitate swift processing of your Jamaica C5 form, ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready before you begin. These typically include a valid passport, travel details, and accommodation information.

Essential Documents Checklist:

• Valid passport
• Flight itinerary
• Proof of accommodation
• Employment information, if applicable

Application Steps:

• Visit the official Jamaica immigration website.
• Locate the C5 form application section.
• Input your details accurately.
• Upload the required documents.
• Review your application before submission to avoid errors.

Fast Track Tip: Double-check your form for accuracy to prevent processing delays.

Troubleshooting Submission Issues

If you encounter problems during the submission of your Jamaica Entry Form (C5), feel free to contact us. We’d be more than happy to help. 

However, here are some common issues regarding the website:

• The website is not loading.
• Error messages during form submission

Quick Solutions:

• Refresh the webpage, or try accessing the site with a different browser.
• Contact Jamaica Immigration Support for assistance with technical difficulties.

If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, seek assistance directly from the Jamaica immigration authorities via the contact information provided on their official website.

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Jamaica set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Jamaican High Commission in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Jamaica.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Jamaica, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. You must have 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit Jamaica. You will usually be granted entry for up to 90 days. The date you must leave Jamaica is stamped on your passport.

If you want to extend your stay, apply to the  Jamaican Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency . If you overstay without authority, you could be fined or arrested.

Airport tax

Arrival and departure taxes are usually included in the cost of your ticket. If unsure check with your carrier who will be able to advise you.

Vaccination requirements

You must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk .

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Jamaica guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Jamaica . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You must make a customs declaration before entering Jamaica. You should complete the Immigration and Custom Form C5 online where possible before you arrive.

Taking food into Jamaica

It is illegal to bring meat and dairy products into Jamaica. Customs officials may search your baggage and will destroy banned foodstuffs.

Taking money into Jamaica

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 US dollars or more. You must declare this on your C5 form. You will also have to complete the Financial Investigation Division Cross Border Form which will be provided by a customs officer. You will need to provide:

• proof of the source of money
• the intended use of the funds

If you do not declare money as required, it is a breach of the Jamaican Customs Act. Your money could be seized and you could get a fine.

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Jamaica Has a New Digital Entry Form for Visitors 

Jamaica has a new digital entry form that all travelers must fill out. 

The online passenger declaration form, which will officially become required on Sept. 1, is aimed at easing and hastening the entry process for all arrivals at the country’s airports. 

The form can be filled out before departure, on your flight or upon arrival — although obviously doing so before you depart is the best option. 

“Arriving in Jamaica just got easier,” said Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Donovan White. 

The move is part of a broader trend to digitize the entry process at airports across the Caribbean.

For more visit Enter Jamaica . 

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Jamaica entry requirements: what do I need to visit?

By Anna Prendergast

As of Monday 4 October 2021, the UK’s traffic light system for travel has been scrapped. Now, there is simply a red list and a ‘rest of world’ list (which includes countries previously on the green and amber lists). Jamaica is now on this ‘rest of world’ list, so while travel there from the UK is now allowed, there are still some restrictions.

What do I need to know and do before I arrive in Jamaica?

Until Friday 29 October, anyone who has been in Argentina , Brazil , Chile , Colombia , Paraguay or Peru within 14 days of their intended date of entry to Jamaica will not be permitted entry unless they are a Jamaican citizen.

All travellers to Jamaica must apply for and obtain a Travel Authorization from the Visit Jamaica website, while travellers age 12 and above are required to show proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR or Antigen test taken within three days before arrival. Jamaica is currently operating a ‘Resilient Corridor’ system, whereby tourism services permitted to accept guests have been thoroughly inspected and are compliant with the required standards of training, protective equipment and processes under Covid-19 protocols designed and approved by The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). The Resilient Corridors include the coastline from Negril to Port Antonio (North Coast Corridor) and from Milk River to Negril (South Coast Corridor).

Visitors staying in the Resilient Corridors don’t need to quarantine – and can move freely around within the ‘corridor’, visiting approved attractions. Fully vaccinated travellers staying outside of the Resilient Corridors must quarantine on arrival for eight days, while unvaccinated travellers must do so for 14.

What do I need to know and do before I return to the UK from Jamaica?  

Fully vaccinated travellers returning to the UK from Jamaica must provide a Passenger Locator Form on return. Since Sunday 24 October, a lateral flow test has replaced a PCR test, to be taken on or before day two after return, and the results must be registered online . Travellers who are not fully vaccinated must still take a pre-departure test and PCR tests on or before days two and eight, as well as isolate for 10 days (with the option to test for release from day five, unless you are in Northern Ireland where this is not available). The UK’s travel rules are reviewed every three weeks.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Travel Advisory January 23, 2024

Jamaica - level 3: reconsider travel.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to crime and health information

Reconsider travel to Jamaica due to  crime and medical services . U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission (COM) security responsibility are prohibited from traveling to many areas due to increased risk. Please read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Country Summary:  Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.

Local police often do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence. Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica has for several years been among the highest in the Western Hemisphere. U.S. government personnel under COM security responsibility are prohibited from traveling to the areas listed below, from using public buses, and from driving outside of prescribed areas of Kingston at night.

Emergency services and hospital care vary throughout the island, and response times and quality of care may vary from U.S. standards. Public hospitals are under-resourced and cannot always provide high level or specialized care. Private hospitals require payment up front before admitting patients and may not have the ability to provide specialized care. Ambulance services are not always readily available, especially in rural areas, and are not always staffed by trained personnel.

We strongly encourage you to obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica. The Department of State does not pay medical bills.

Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. U.S. citizens with medical emergencies can face bills in the tens of thousands of dollars, with air ambulance service to the United States in the range of $30,000-50,000.  Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Jamaica.

If you decide to travel to Jamaica:

• Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition.  This includes stray rounds, shells or empty casings . The penalties for carrying firearms and/or ammunition, even inadvertently, are severe, and can include lengthy prison sentences.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Avoid public buses.
• Avoid secluded places or situations.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Jamaica.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Violence and shootings occur regularly in many neighborhoods, communities, and parishes in Jamaica. 

U.S. government personnel under COM security responsibility are prohibited from traveling to the following areas of Jamaica due to crime:

St. Ann’s Parish—Do Not Travel - Steer Town and the Buckfield neighborhood near Ocho Rios

St. Catherine’s Parish—Do Not Travel

• Spanish Town
• Central Village
• Areas within Portmore, including: Naggo Head, New Land, Old Braeton, Portmore Lane, Gregory Park, and Waterford

All of Clarendon Parish—Do Not Travel

All of Clarendon Parish, except passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways.

St. Elizabeth’s Parish—Do Not Travel

Vineyard District Community, between the communities of Salt Spring and Burnt Savanna, St. Elizabeth

Hanover Parish—Do Not Travel

Logwood and Orange Bay

St. James Parish/Montego Bay—Do Not Travel

All of Montego Bay on the inland side of the A1 highway and The Queen’s Drive from San San to Harmony Beach Park

Kingston and St. Andrew Parish—Do Not Travel

• Cassava Piece
• Downtown Kingston, defined as between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads. Downtown Kingston includes Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham Town, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench Town, and Tivoli Gardens.
• Duhaney Park
• Swallowfield
• Elleston Flats
• August Town

Manchester Parish—Do Not Travel

Green Vale, Gray Ground, Red Ground, and Vineyard neighborhoods of Mandeville

St. Thomas Parish—Do Not Travel

• Black Lane neighborhood in Seaforth
• Grands Penn
• Church Corner neighborhood near Yallahs
• Town of Yallahs, except when driving through on the main highway

Trelawny Parish—Do Not Travel

• Clarks Town

Westmoreland Parish—Do Not Travel

• Russia community in Savanna-la-Mar (The Southeastern quadrant of Savannah la Mar east of Darling Street and south of the A2 highway/Barracks Road)
• Kings Valley
• The Whitehall, Bethel Town, and Red Ground neighborhoods of Negril

If you do decide to travel to the above-listed Do Not Travel areas, please visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Only for a stay over 90 days

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Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy kingston.

142 Old Hope Road Kingston 6 Jamaica, West Indies Telephone: +(876) 702-6000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(876) 702-6000 Fax: +(876) 702-6018 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agent - Montego Bay Whitter Village, Ironshore Unit EU-1 (across from Burger King) Montego Bay, Jamaica Telephone: +(876) 953-0620 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Kingston, Jamaica: +(876) 702-6000 Fax: +(876) 953-3898 Appointments are made by phone or email Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Jamaica for information on U.S.-Jamaica relations. 

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to Jamaica, as well as proof of anticipated departure from Jamaica. If you are traveling to Jamaica on a cruise, you may use another  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  (WHTI) compliant document. However, we strongly recommend you obtain a passport before travel in case an emergency requires you to disembark and return by air. You do not need a visa for tourist travel up to 90 days. All other travelers will need a visa and/or work permit.

Visit the  Passport, Immigration, & Citizenship Agency of Jamaica  or the  Embassy of Jamaica in Washington D.C.  websites for the most current visa information.

Exit Information: Your departure tax is regularly included in the airfare. You won’t be charged an exit tax on your way out.

HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Jamaica.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime:  Violent crime, including sexual assault, is a serious problem throughout Jamaica, particularly in Kingston and Montego Bay. Jamaica’s police force often does not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence. Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities. Gated resorts are not immune to violent crime.

Recommendations:

• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Jamaica.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information. Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Jamaica. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.  Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers

The most notorious Jamaican scam is the Lotto Scam, a kind of advance-fee fraud. The victim is led to believe that a Jamaican lottery prize will be released after the payment of “fees.”

• You did NOT win a lottery. The person on the telephone is lying. Just hang up.
• Never send money to someone who calls to say you have won the lottery in Jamaica.
• Do not travel to Jamaica to collect a “prize.” Victims have been killed, kidnapped, extorted, or robbed.
• Be very cautious about sending money to help a traveler claiming to be in trouble. When in doubt, contact your local police department for advice and assistance.
• Be wary of promises to protect a loved one from harm or to help the loved one out of trouble, in exchange for money. That is extortion – contact your local police department.
• Scam artists often fake romantic interest to get money from a would-be lover, especially on the internet. When in doubt, contact your local police department.
• If you are being targeted for financial scams, you will need to file a report with your local police department.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 119 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +1 (876) 702-6000.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

Sexual Assault:   Rape and sexual assault are serious problems throughout Jamaica, including at resorts and hotels. Date rape drugs may be used at private parties and resorts.

If you are victim of a sexual assault, contact the police and the U.S. Embassy in Kingston as soon as possible. In a hotel, management should assist you with these communications.

Victims of sexual assault in Jamaica should not expect the same assistance routinely offered in the United States. Rape kits are not always available, and victims must often ask for medication to avoid STD transmission and reduce the chances of pregnancy. Counseling is unlikely to be offered. Law enforcement shortcomings exist in collection of evidence. Prosecution of rape cases moves very slowly, and victims may need to return to Jamaica during the legal process.

• Avoid secluded places or situations, including at resorts. Try to always be accompanied by someone you know, including when going to the restroom.
• Security outside of resort areas is unpredictable, especially at night. Do not leave resort property with someone you have just met.
• Many guests drink heavily in all-inclusive resorts, which can lead to unpredictable behavior and increased vulnerability. 
• Shout for help immediately if you feel threatened or encounter individuals who make you feel uncomfortable. 
• Report any suspicious or inappropriate activity, including inappropriate comments or behavior by hotel employees or other guests, to hotel management, the U.S. Embassy, and local police as appropriate.R esort employees are generally prohibited from engaging in romantic or sexual relations with guests.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation   and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Futhermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Firearms:  Jamaica strictly forbids importing or possessing firearms in Jamaica without prior authorization of the Firearms Licensing Authority of Jamaica. A U.S. concealed carry permit does  not  allow you to bring a firearm or ammunition into Jamaica. On November 1, 2022, the Firearms (Prohibition, Restriction and Regulation) Act 2022 went into effect.  This new law includes mandatory minimum sentences of 15 years for possession of even a single cartridge.

If you bring an unauthorized firearm, firearm components, firearm parts, or ammunition to Jamaica, you will be arrested and prosecuted. This will result in a large fine and/or incarceration for an unspecified amount of time. Bringing mace, pepper spray, or knives into Jamaica without authorization will also lead to arrest.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report   – see country reports
• Human Rights Report   – see country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Jamaican law contains specific prohibitions on “acts of gross indecency” – generally interpreted as any kind of physical intimacy – between persons of the same sex, in public or in private, and provides punishment of up to 10 years in prison. There is also a law that specifically prohibits even consensual same-sex sexual conduct between men.

Negative attitudes towards LGBTQI+ issues are widespread in Jamaica. There are continued reports of serious discrimination and abuse against LGBTQI+ individuals, including:

• “Corrective rape” of women accused of being lesbians
• Arbitrary detention
• Mob attacks
• Harassment of LGBTQI+ patients by hospital and prison staff
• Blackmail 

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) individuals have been targeted through the use of dating apps, especially apps popular within the LGBTQI+ communities.  Criminals have used dating apps to lure foreign visitors into meeting in public spaces such as hotel restaurants and bars, and then later assaulting, threatening , and or robbing the victims. Police have not been responsive in making arrests or prosecuting assailants in these cases.

• Protect your identity and be careful about sharing personal information on your public profile.
• Remember that criminals both in the United States and abroad use dating apps to extort victims through threats to expose compromising pictures or other information.  Only share personal information with users who you trust, and be aware of phishing and romance scams.
• Don’t rush into things; try to verify through social media or mutual friends that the person you are communicating with is who they say they are.  Make sure you have a photo and name of the person you plan to meet through an app.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Jamaica prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, although the law is not reliably enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities and information. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. There is a significant difference in accessibility between major cities such as Kingston and Montego Bay compared to accessibility in Jamaica’s smaller communities. Qualified and certified service providers such as sign language interpreters and personal assistants and rental, repair services, and replacement parts for aids, equipment, and devices can be difficult to locate outside of the major cities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Jamaica, dial 119 .

Ambulance services are:

• not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas, especially in rural areas.
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.
• Traffic congestion and road conditions may slow response times.

We do not pay medical bills.   Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the Government of Jamaica to ensure the medication is legal in Jamaica.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals here .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Health facilities may be below U.S. standards, especially when it comes to mental health care and specialty care.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Private hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Be aware that some hotels and resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Jamaica. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:   Jamaicans drive on the left side of the road. Here are some notes for your safety:

• Nighttime driving is extremely hazardous due to poor lighting and unpredictable pavement.
• Heavy rains can make roads impassable and dangerous.
• Many roads suffer from ill repair, inadequate signage, large potholes and poor traffic markings. There is a lack of pedestrian crosswalks.
• Pedestrians and animals share the roadways with vehicles.
• There have been reports of carjackings, including of rental cars.
• Only two highways are roughly comparable to U.S. standards. Both are toll roads and part of Highway 2000. The East-West leg (“T1”) runs from Portmore to May Pen. The North-South leg (“T3” or the Edward Seaga Highway) connects Caymanas (west of Kingston) to Ocho Rios (Mammee Bay).
• Driving habits range from aggressive speeding and sudden stops by taxis in the middle of the road to over-polite drivers who suddenly stop to allow a car to pull in front of them. All can lead to accidents.
• Official emergency response can be slow. In practice, assistance given in emergency situations is generally by fellow motorists.

Traffic Laws:

• Traffic circles (“roundabouts”) are often poorly marked and require traffic to move in a clockwise direction. Motorists entering a roundabout must yield to those already in it. 
• Drivers and front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts.
• Motorcycle riders are required to wear helmets.

Public Transportation:

• Official public transportation vehicles have red license plates. 
• Private vehicles, NOT licensed for public transportation, have white license plates with blue letters/numbers.
• Avoid public buses, which are often overcrowded and frequently a venue for crime. There are reports of private buses, acting as public transport, driving erratically leading to injury and death for both riders and pedestrians. You should only use licensed taxicabs having red-and-white PP license plates or transportation services recommended by your hotel.
• Do not accept rides from strangers.

See our  Road Safety  page and the website of Jamaica’s  national tourist office  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Jamaica’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of air carrier operations in Jamaica. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Jamaica should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Jamaica . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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