Returning to reside permanently in Jamaica
The Government of Jamaica regards its people as its most important asset. Several initiatives have been implemented to galvanize our nationals overseas for the purpose of nation building .We therefore encourage the members of our Diaspora to return home to live, work, raise families, do business, invest and retire.
Various provisions have been made to facilitate a seamless reintegration into the Jamaican society for our Returning Residents in several areas such as resettlement. As a Jamaican returning home to permanently reside you are allowed to import a specific quantity of personal and household effects, as well as tools of trade free, of customs duty once you have resided abroad for at least three consecutive years. Please note that this does not include motor vehicles, which are subject to a different importation regime.
In addition, students and deported persons are similarly entitled as long as they meet the requirements.
Persons who migrate and return multiple times, may only benefit once from duty concessions.
- For more detailed information on entitlements and qualifications visit jacustoms.gov.jm
- For information on the importation of motor vehicles | tradeboard.gov.jm
- For importation of pets | moa.gov.jm
The Ministry has compiled a Guide for Returning Citizens which may be accessed here (Returning Citizens Information Guide)
The Government of Jamaica is also seeking to foster a safe and secure environment for all Jamaicans including Returning Residents. In this regard, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has published a Safety and Security Handbook for Jamaicans overseas who are desirous of returning home or have already resettled in the country. This Handbook aligns with the Government’s thrust to increase communication at all levels with the Jamaican Diaspora.
The Handbook also highlights the plans of the Government to create a safe, secure and fair society through the maintenance of the principles of social cohesion and respect for human rights. This focus on safety and security is complemented by the comprehensive databases of territorial officers of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF); key Ministries, Departments and Agencies; as well as Returning Residents’ Associations which are included in the Handbook.
The Safety and Security Handbook may be accessed here (Returning Residents Safety Handbook)
