Employment in Jamaica for Foreign Nationals
The employment of non-Jamaicans in Jamaica is governed by the Foreign Nationals and Commonwealth Citizens (Employment) Act of 1964. This legislation aims to prioritize employment opportunities for qualified Jamaicans while recognizing the need for certain specialized skills that may be in short supply locally. All foreign workers in Jamaica must notify the Ministry of Labour if they change their residence from one parish to another.
Work Permits
Commonwealth Citizens:
- May apply for work permits after arriving in Jamaica.
- Relatives over 18 years of age with special skills can also apply for work permits.
Non-Commonwealth Citizens:
- Must apply for a work permit before arriving in Jamaica.
United States citizens, considered non-Commonwealth citizens, need to secure work permits prior to applying for work visas at a Jamaican Embassy or Consulate.
Application Process:
- Obtain application forms from the Government Printing Office.
- The prospective employer must complete, sign, and submit these forms along with required documentation.
- Proof that the job vacancy was advertised locally must be included.
- Work visas are issued based on evidence of a confirmed job offer.
Foreign nationals must secure a work permit at the discretion of the Ministry of Labour before arriving in Jamaica. For assistance, contact:
- Ministry of Labour
- 1F North Street
- Kingston, Jamaica
- Note: Visas are issued by Jamaican Consular officials only after a work permit has been confirmed.
Student Requirements
Students intending to study in Jamaica must present the following:
- A valid passport.
- A visa for each entry (if applicable).
- A return ticket.
- A letter of acceptance from the educational institution.
- The name of the person responsible for the student while at school.
- Proof of sufficient funds for maintenance.
- Students over 16 must register as aliens at 25 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10 (for Corporate Area), or at the main Police Station of rural parishes.
Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders
Required documents include:
- A national passport valid for at least six months with a valid reentry visa to the USA or the intended destination after departing Jamaica.
- A Note Verbale from the Diplomatic or Consular Mission detailing the purpose and length of the visit.
- Note: Visas for diplomatic and official passport holders are issued gratis.
Exemptions from Visa or Work Permit
- Certain categories of individuals are exempt from needing a visa or work permit, including:
- Heads of Mission and accredited staff.
- IDirect transit and transit passengers.
- United States, German, and Canadian Peace Corps personnel (visa required).
- United Nations personnel with Laissez Passer.
- Crew members of international aircraft.
- Company directors, inspectors, and auditors visiting for up to 14 days within a calendar year.
- Employees of the Jamaican government (possible exemption).
- Artists such as writers, journalists, broadcasters, sculptors, and painters for up to 30 days in one calendar year, subject to JIS approval.
- Representatives of foreign governments for up to 14 days in one calendar year.
For more detailed information and to ensure compliance with all requirements, please contact the relevant Jamaican authorities or consult with a legal expert familiar with Jamaican immigration laws.
