Caribbean National Weekly

US Embassy in Jamaica updates list of prohibited items for visa appointments

By CNW Reporter··1 min read
US Embassy in Jamaica updates list of prohibited items for visa appointments
Key Points(3)
  • The United States Embassy in Jamaica is reminding residents who will be visiting for visa appointments that certain electronic devices, alcohol and other items are strictly prohibited.
  • In a September 1, 2026 advisory, the embassy said visitors will not be allowed to enter with: Computers, intelligent eyewear, and other electronic devices not specified below Media devices such as compact discs (CD’s), thumb drives, memory cards, flash drives/USBs, headphones, speakers, etc.
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The United States Embassy in Jamaica has updated its list of prohibited and permitted items for visitors attending visa and other appointments, with cellphones, earbuds and smartwatches now among the electronic devices allowed inside the embassy.

In an advisory issued September 1, the embassy said all visitors should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled appointments to allow enough time for airport-style security screening before entering the building.

Among the prohibited items are computers, intelligent eyewear and electronic devices other than those specifically permitted by the embassy.

Visitors are also barred from bringing media and storage devices, including CDs, thumb drives, memory cards and USB flash drives, as well as headphones and speakers. Cameras, video equipment and flashlights are also prohibited.

Weapons, including guns and pepper spray or mace, are not allowed, along with knives and other sharp objects. Lighters and matches are similarly prohibited.

The embassy also prohibits purses and bags larger than 18 inches by 18 inches, as well as alcoholic beverages of any kind.

Liquids, gels, aerosols, oils, lotions and powders generally cannot be taken inside, although exceptions apply for certain necessary items.

Some commonly used electronic devices are now permitted. Visitors may bring cellphones, earbuds and smartwatches, although the embassy said they should observe signage in waiting areas governing how those devices may be used.

Necessary medical devices and non-liquid medications, such as pills, are also permitted but must be declared before security screening.

Parents traveling with babies may carry small quantities of baby formula, baby food and milk, as well as small quantities of diapers. Baby carriers and strollers are allowed as long as they can be folded small enough to pass through an X-ray machine.

Visitors may also bring money, belts, watches and keys.




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