Do you have concerns about your safety and security upon returning to Jamaica? The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has published a Safety and Security Handbook for Jamaicans overseas who are desirous of returning home or have already resettled in the country. This Handbook aligns with the Government’s thrust to increase communication at all levels with the Jamaican Diaspora. The Handbook...

In 1996, a Labour Market Reform Committee, chaired by Professor George Eaton, recommended the implementation of Flexible Work Arrangements as one of the strategies for reform of the Jamaican labour market. It was recognized that flexibility in the labour market is crucial to the country’s ability to compete and survive in the global economy. A consultative approach was taken by...

A passport is a secure travel document that is often used to show proof of one’s identity and citizenship. It is also used for international travel. First-Time Applicant (Adult) Persons residing in Jamaica who have never held a passport MUST appear in person either at the head office of the Passport Immigration & Citizenship Agency (PICA) at 25c Constant Spring...

Persons seeking to obtain a work permit are required to submit an application to the Work Permit Department of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) through their prospective employer, contractor or legal representative. Employers submitting work permit applications on behalf of prospective employees are required to submit a cover letter to the Permanent Secretary of the MLSS, outlining:...

Under Chapter two of the Jamaican Constitution, persons born in Jamaica and persons born outside Jamaica of Jamaican parents have an automatic right to Jamaican citizenship. Applications for Jamaican Citizenship are done in different categories. These include applications for citizenship: Descent Marriage Naturalization Registration (Commonwealth) Registration (Minor)   Based on Descent By law, all persons born outside of Jamaica, who...

Overseas companies wishing to film in Jamaica, whether still shoots, music videos, documentaries, reality and other television shows, must apply to the Jamaica Film Commission for a Film Licence. How to Apply Complete and submit the Film Licence Application Form available on the website of the Jamaica Film Commission: http://www.filmjamaica.com/ Applicants should also submit: o   A one-page description of the company and project...

Persons overseas who are applying for a Jamaican passport must submit their application to the relevant Jamaican Embassy or Consulate. The embassy will then send the application to the Passport Immigration & Citizenship agency (PICA) for processing. Processing of applications will be approximately four (4) to six (6) weeks. The issued passport may be collected from the Embassy or Consulates...

What is a Death Certificate? A Death Certificate is a legal document which declares that a person is officially deceased. It is useful in settling the deceased person’s affairs, such as transfer of property through inheritance and/or insurance matters.   Who Can Register a Death? The occupier of the house in which the person died; Adult(s) causing the body of...

Who Can Adopt?                Under Jamaican law any person 25 years and older can adopt a child/children. However, the law allows persons who are 18 years old to adopt younger relatives.   Who Can Be Adopted?         Only children between the ages of six weeks and 18 years old are eligible for adoption in Jamaica.   Beginning the Process You...