Jamaica’s National Security Minister, Robert Montague, has signed an order which will allow Jamaicans holding foreign passports to enter Jamaica and remain for six months without having to make arrangements for additional time to stay in the island.
The order became effective on August 1, 2017.
Dual nationality
Previously Jamaicans with dual nationality travelling on non-Jamaican passports would be officially landed as foreigners. They were allowed to stay in Jamaica for the period granted ad stipulated in the passport of the traveler.
Encouraging diaspora
Montague said the move is in keeping with the Government’s thrust to encourage Jamaican citizens in the diaspora to visit and spend more time in their home land.
“Following consultations, we implemented the 180-day allowance after Jamaicans in the diaspora expressed concern about the limited period they were allowed to stay when visiting Jamaica”, said Montague.
The estimated size of the Jamaican diaspora is between three and five million. Significant numbers of these expatriates are holders of foreign passports.
Stephen Walker, a Jamaican arriving from the United States was ecstatic when greeted with the news that he would be allowed to stay six months.
“I’m very happy with this move and welcome it with open arms. I want to congratulate Minister Montague and the Government for putting this in place. Now I can come home and stay longer than the period previously granted,” Walker said.
The move is in keeping with the Ministry of Security’s five pillar plan to create a safer and more prosperous Jamaica.
