Jamaica reopens borders with anti-COVID-19 protocols in place

Jamaica began welcoming international travelers on Sunday June 15 with an extensive set of protocols for visitors, including health screening before entry and upon entry.

To gain entry, visitors must complete a pre-arrival authorization that asks about their possible exposure to COVID-19. They also are screened via thermal checks and symptom observation. Any visitor who exhibits symptoms or is ill is subject to quarantine.

Previously, Jamaicans who returned to the island-nation underwent temperature checks and screenings, and upon arrival they must quarantine at home for 14 days and are monitored by phone.

“Tourism is our lifeblood, and with the help of international experts and a dedicated task force, we’ve developed protocols that allow us to safely reopen our borders,” said director of tourism Donovan White.

The health protocols will be revisited every 2 weeks.

The country’s tourism industry directly employs 130,000 workers and indirectly impacts an additional 120,000 jobs from other industries and fuels more than one-third of the country’s economy.