KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Andrew Holness led administration has developed a National Visa Policy for immigration control and border security management.
On Tuesday the National Visa Policy (2024) was tabled in Parliament .
The policy proposes six main categories of visas which will be issued by the Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency, guided by a set of criteria.
These categories will include tourism or business, employment, student or exchange, diplomats and officials.
According to National Security Minister, Dr. Horace Chang, the visa policy aims to make travel to Jamaica easier for business travellers as well as visitors, while protecting the borders.
In making his contribution to the sectoral debate, Chang said the policy will establish rules, outline the framework, and define the governance structure supporting the government’s strategic direction for all relevant stakeholders involved in the visa issuance process.
This comes against the backdrop of a sustained increase in annual visitor arrivals to Jamaica.
Chang also cited the strategic importance of economic growth through seamless travel facilitation, business development and formal exchange programs.
