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. This is explained in the Jamaican Nationality Act.
Why become a Jamaican Citizen?
Some of the advantages of becoming a Jamaican citizen include but are not limited to the ability to:
- Acquire a Jamaican Passport
- Work without a work permit
- Vote in General and Local Government Elections
- Receive social benefits and get access to government programmes
- Exemption from international fees at Jamaica’s premier universities
- Duty free allowance from customs and at the airport
- Right to free speech
- Register non-Jamaican Spouse as a citizen of Jamaica
Every country has their own laws on whether or not a person can hold citizenship in two or more countries. Jamaica accepts dual nationals. Persons interested in becoming citizens of Jamaica should first check to see if their country allows for dual nationality.
Categories of Citizenship
- Citizenship in Case of Doubt
- Citizenship by Descent
- Citizenship by Marriage
- Registration of Commonwealth Nationals
- Naturalisation
- Registration of Minors
FAQ on applying for Jamaican citizenship
Apply for Jamaican Citizenship
Documents Required to apply for Jamaican citizenship
Persons who apply for naturalization as Jamaican citizens must attend the Oath of Allegiance or Affirmation ceremony as part of the final step in becoming a citizen of Jamaica. Oath Ceremonies are special events especially for the ‘new Jamaicans’ as it provides an opportunity for them to be formally welcomed as Jamaicans. They are given a welcome package which includes literature on the history, culture, customs and traditions of Jamaica, a small flag, and application forms for them to apply for a Jamaican passport.
- Oath of Allegiance or Affirmation
- Video of Jamaica’s Heritage
- National Anthem
- National Pledge
- Photographs/video of previously held ceremonies
OATH OF ALLEGIANCE
I (insert name) do swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, His Heirs and Successors according to the Laws of Jamaica and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Jamaica and fulfil my duties as a citizen of Jamaica. So help me God.
Individuals who do not wish to swear an oath to the King of England may recite the Affirmation
AFFIRMATION
I (insert name) do solemnly sincerely, declare and affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, His Heirs and Successors according to the Laws of Jamaica and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Jamaica and fulfil my duties as a citizen of Jamaica.
For more information on Jamaican Citizenship, contact the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA)
Head Office
25C Constant Spring Road
Kingston 10
Telephone: 754-PICA or 754-7422
Fax: 906-4372
Email: info@pica.gov.jm