Migration Details Non Citizens

Non Citizens

The process for noncitizens to settle in Jamaica and receive Jamaican citizenship generally involves either naturalization, registration by marriage, or other citizenship categories such as by descent or registration. The main path for noncitizens gaining citizenship is through naturalization, which requires a minimum residence period and meeting certain criteria.

Settlement and Naturalization Process for Noncitizens

• Noncitizens must first reside in Jamaica legally for a minimum of five years immediately before applying for naturalization.

• Applicants should be of good character and financially solvent.

• The naturalization application must be completed through the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) of Jamaica.

• The process requires submitting an application form signed in the presence of a consular officer, providing four Jamaican-born referees (who cannot be relatives, civil servants, or lawyers), and publishing a notice of intent to apply in a daily newspaper twice, at least one week apart.

• Documentary requirements include birth certificates, passports, work permits, evidence of community involvement, two passport photos, a tax compliance certificate, proof of income, and payment of fees in Jamaican dollars.

• The application processing time can be up to 24 months.

• Upon approval, an additional stamp duty fee is required, and applicants must attend an Oath of Allegiance ceremony as the final step toward citizenship.

Citizenship by Marriage

• Noncitizens married to Jamaican nationals may apply for citizenship by registration.

• Required documents include official marriage certificates, birth certificates, passports of both spouses, police clearance certificates, photos, and a letter requesting citizenship registration.

• The fee is approximately US $300.

• The processing time for citizenship by marriage is approximately 24 months.