Major Uptick in Use of Online C5 Form

Usage of the online immigration and customs declaration (C5) form has seen a major uptick, thanks to the promotional efforts of the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA).

In September 2023, it became mandatory for persons returning to the island to complete the previous paper immigration and customs declaration form online.

PICA’s Business Development and Communication Director, Kauna McKenzie, told JIS News that since the implementation of the policy, there has been a great surge in its use.

“It has really improved, because we have a 99 per cent uptick at the Norman Manley International Airport and also an increase at the Sangster International Airport in terms of persons filling out the form before they reach,” Ms. McKenzie said.

She noted that the increase in usage has been due in part to PICA’s efforts to sensitise the public about the C5 Immigration Form, which can be accessed at enterjamaica.gov.jm.

“We have put out so many ads across all social media platforms, and in our newspapers. We have also paid for the site to be boosted, so that when you’re typing, it is the first site that you see,” she said.

Ms. McKenzie reiterated that the form is free and persons should not pay any money to complete it.

Since the implementation of the electronic form, the Ministry of National Security (PICA’s parent Ministry) has been advising the public not to trust sites that do not carry the official name of the Government’s C5 form.

The Immigration/Customs (C5) Form is an entry requirement for persons entering the island, whether they are residents in Jamaica or visiting.

The full rollout of the online form was done in partnership with PICA and the Jamaica Customs Agency.