MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND FOREIGN TRADE
2 Port Royal Street, Kingston
MEDIA RELEASE
GOJ committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of Jamaican nationals
travelling abroad – Johnson Smith
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is actively working to address reports of immigration challenges faced by Jamaicans at foreign ports of entry says Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minster of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.
The Foreign Minister says the Government has been engaging with relevant authorities to resolve these issues and encourages Jamaicans who believe their rights have been infringed, to make reports by email to consular@mfaft.gov.jm for investigation.
“We are very concerned by the reports we are hearing of in social media. In 2023, the Ministry
advised that a more restrictive approach was being taken by Mexico and other Central American authorities to reduce the misuse of their borders to enter the United States of America illegally. The Government therefore strongly urged and continues to encourage Jamaicans to refrain from this practice, which negatively impacts the travel experience for lawabiding Jamaicans at these ports of entry”, said Minister Johnson Smith.
The Ministry is reminding all Jamaicans to observe the immigration laws of the countries they visit,
which in instances may change over time. Travellers are also advised to ensure they meet all entry
requirements before embarking on trips, to avoid complications such as detention or deportation and
ensure safe and trouble-free journeys.
“While we stand ready to defend and protect the rights of our citizens overseas, we regret to
remind that the Government of Jamaica cannot insist that any state allow non-nationals to
enter that state. No citizen has a right to enter another country other than their own. We can
therefore only work to prevent the contravention of basic rights, particularly in terms of
unlawful detention or mistreatment”, the Minister added.
Minister Johnson Smith is encouraging Jamaicans to continuously evaluate their travel plans. The
Minister says as part of good travel planning, Jamaicans should also assess their destinations
according to various indicators. Travellers are also encouraged to stay updated on immigration trends
in the countries they wish to visit, so that they can make the best travel decisions.
Jamaicans encountering difficulties while abroad are encouraged to contact the nearest Jamaican
mission – Embassy, High Commission, Consulate-General or Consulate, for assistance. Contact
details for these offices are available on the Ministry’s website at www.mfaft.gov.jm. For immediate
assistance during emergencies overseas, nationals may also reach the Ministry via WhatsApp
messages at +1 876 391-8105.
