Job Postings
Invitation for Bids
FAQs
Contact Us
Passport
What documents should I present if I am an adult applying for a passport for the first time?
Proof of citizenship: Original birth certificate or adoption certificate. For applicants born outside Jamaica, a certificate of registration, naturalization or letter of certification/citizenship should be submitted.
Proof of identity: Driver's licence, voter's ID or work/student ID subject to approval by the Passport Officer, and two photographs — one of which should be certified by the Certifying Official who signed the application form.
Proof of identity: Driver's licence, voter's ID or work/student ID subject to approval by the Passport Officer, and two photographs — one of which should be certified by the Certifying Official who signed the application form.
How long is the Jamaican passport valid?
Adult passports are valid for 5 or 10 years depending on the booklet selected. Child passports are valid for 5 years.
How do I know I have an ePassport?
The ePassport has the international biometric symbol printed at the bottom of the front cover, indicating it contains an electronic chip that stores biometric and personal data.
How long does passport processing take?
Standard processing takes 10–15 working days. Expedited processing is available within 3–5 working days for an additional fee.
Can I apply for a passport online?
Yes. PICA provides an Online Passport Application (OPAP) system. Physical attendance may be required for biometric capture. Visit the contact page for the portal link.
Immigration
How long does the process take for an extension of stay and where do I apply?
The process takes 3 working days for applications submitted at PICA's Kingston office (25 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10) and 7 working days for applications at our Montego Bay office (Overton Plaza, 49 Union Street).
How long can a visitor stay in Jamaica without a visa?
Citizens of most Commonwealth countries, the USA, Canada and EU member states are typically granted 30–90 days on arrival. The exact period is at the discretion of the Immigration Officer at the port of entry.
What countries require a visa to visit Jamaica?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Please contact PICA directly or visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the current list of countries requiring a visa to enter Jamaica.
How do I apply for a work permit?
Work permit applications are submitted to PICA. You will need: a valid passport, letter from the Jamaican employer, evidence of qualifications, police certificate, medical certificate, and the applicable fee. Processing times vary.
Citizenship
What is the length of time for obtaining Jamaican Citizenship?
Citizenship by Descent: 25 working days
Citizenship by Virtue of Marriage: 24 months
Naturalization: 24 months
Registration – Commonwealth citizens: 24 months
Registration – Minors: 24 months
Citizenship by Virtue of Marriage: 24 months
Naturalization: 24 months
Registration – Commonwealth citizens: 24 months
Registration – Minors: 24 months
How to apply for a certified copy of a certificate of Jamaican Citizenship
Qualification: The applicant should have been granted an original Certificate of Jamaican Citizenship.
Procedure: Write to the CEO of PICA at 25c Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10. State your name, address, file reference/certificate number, what happened to the original and why a certified copy is needed.
Accompanying documents: Recent police report on the original certificate; certified passport-sized photograph; parent's photo ID if applicant is a minor; and the applicable fee.
Fees: JMD $5,000 (local) | USD $100 | CAD $110 | GBP £60 | EUR €74
Compliant applications are processed within 5 working days.
Procedure: Write to the CEO of PICA at 25c Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10. State your name, address, file reference/certificate number, what happened to the original and why a certified copy is needed.
Accompanying documents: Recent police report on the original certificate; certified passport-sized photograph; parent's photo ID if applicant is a minor; and the applicable fee.
Fees: JMD $5,000 (local) | USD $100 | CAD $110 | GBP £60 | EUR €74
Compliant applications are processed within 5 working days.
Does Jamaica allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Jamaica permits dual citizenship. Jamaican citizens may hold citizenship of another country simultaneously. You should check whether your other country of citizenship also permits dual nationality.
Can I apply for citizenship from overseas?
Yes. Applications can be submitted through the nearest Jamaican High Commission, Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.
