Cayman Islands will not ease visa restrictions for Jamaicans

The Governor of the Cayman Islands has decided against easing visa restrictions for Jamaicans, citing risks to internal security.

Cabinet considered a proposal to ease the visa requirements for Jamaican nationals to make it easier for children and the elderly to enter the Cayman Islands and to foster business visitor travel from Jamaica. Ministers recommended removing the existing requirement to obtain a visitor’s visa for Jamaican nationals wishing to visit the Cayman Islands who are:

* under the age of fifteen (15) years;

* over the age of seventy (70) years; or

* in possession of a valid Canadian, United Kingdom or United States visa.

Although the Governor was content on the first two points, he did not agree to the visa requirement being waived across the board for those Jamaican citizens holding valid Canadian, UK or US visas.

While noting that the majority of Jamaicans are law-abiding citizens and make positive contributions to the society, he said, there is a minority with the potential to cause trouble.

The introduction of a visa regime for Jamaicans in 2005 led directly to a significant and measurable reduction in the involvement of Jamaicans in crime in the Cayman Islands.

Source: Agencies