The island of Jamaica first reopened its borders for tourism on June 15, and now the destination has put in place some revised measures for travelers.
Most notably, Jamaica is now requiring all travelers from what it deems “high-risk” areas, including Arizona, Florida, New York and Texas, need to upload proof of negative COVID-19 PCR tests taken no more than 10 days prior to arrival in Jamaica.
The results are required for visitors to receive a Travel Authorization certification.
Jamaica is screening all visitors to Jamaica with thermal temperature checks, symptom observation and a brief interview with a health officer.
“Health and safety are paramount as we reopen our tourist industry on a phased basis,” said Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “Risk assessment is an important part of preventing further spread of COVID-19 and ensuring that our visitors and residents stay safe. We have developed and are implementing procedures throughout the visitor journey that ensure a seamless process so they are able to enjoy what our island and its people have to offer.”
Jamaica says leisure visitors from non-high-risk areas “may be subject to swab testing based on symptoms or responses to the risk assessment.”
But as the pandemic continues, all travelers should take a COVID-19 test before they travel anywhere in the Caribbean, both to protect themselves and the residents of the countries they are visiting.
Jamaica has implemented what it calls a “Stay in Zone” order, which requires all travelers to remain either at their hotel or resort within its “Resilient Corridor,” meaning the popular north coast of the country, and destinations like Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Negril.
All travelers need to complete Jamaica’s “Travel Authorization” (you can find it here), between two and five days before their planned arrival in Jamaica.
That includes a digital immigration form.
Once travelers are approved, they will receive a travel certificate (which they can either print or present electronically).
To be safe, make sure you complete your form between two and five days of arrival.
Jamaica tourism officials say the current system will be in effect through at least July 31.
— CJ