Navigating the Return: A Comprehensive Guide to the Returning Resident Process in Jamaica

Returning to one’s roots is a momentous decision, and for those considering making Jamaica their permanent home again, understanding the Returning Resident process is key. In this guide, we will walk you through the eligibility criteria, required documents, entitlements, and other essential details to make your transition smooth and informed.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be considered a Returning Resident and qualify for the associated concessions, you must meet one of the following conditions:

1. Be a Jamaican national aged 18 or older, residing overseas for the last consecutive 3 years, and returning to Jamaica permanently.
2. Be a Jamaican student aged 18 or older, having studied abroad for more than one year but fewer than 3 consecutive years.
3. Be a non-Jamaican with a Jamaican Returning Resident spouse.
4. Be a deportee who has resided overseas for the last 3 consecutive years.

It’s important to note that spouses returning together or within three years of each other are treated as one family and receive a single concession.

Required Documents:

Returning Residents should visit the Jamaica Customs Agency Returning Residents Unit with the following documents:

1. Valid Jamaican Passport or foreign passport endorsed with the unconditional landing stamp.
2. Validated Bill of Lading or Airway Bill.
3. Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN).
4. Documentary evidence proving residency outside Jamaica for 3 or more consecutive years.

• Returning Students should include a transcript, student’s I-20, confirmation letter of attendance from the last institution, and the institution’s identification card.
• Deportees should present their Deportation Order and case file.

Entitlements:

Returning Residents are entitled to import a specified amount of personal and household effects free of customs duty. Additionally:

1. Tools of trade can be imported free of customs duty.
2. Returning Students can import a reasonable quantity of used household effects, musical instruments, and one of each type of electronic equipment (new or used).
3. Deportees receive entitlements similar to Returning Residents.

Note: This concession can be utilized only once.

Motor Vehicles:

The Motor Vehicle Importation Policy, administered by the Trade Board Limited, governs the importation of vehicles. Import Licences are granted by the Trade Board.

Pets:

Importing pets requires an Import Permit from the Veterinary Services Division of the Ministry Of Agriculture.

Plants:

The importation of plants necessitates a permit from the Plant Quarantine Division of the Ministry Of Agriculture.

Contact Information:

For assistance and inquiries, reach out to the following authorities:

1. Returning Resident Unit – Jamaica Customs Agency:
   • Myers’ Wharf, Newport East, Kingston 15.
   • Telephone: (876) 750 3005 / (876) 922-5140 extensions 2520 to 25.
2. Jamaica Customs Agency (Montego Bay Office):
   • Montego Bay Revenue Service Centre Building, 18B Howard Cooke Blvd., St James.
   • Telephone: 952-0000 extension 2023.
3. Diaspora and Consular Affairs Department – Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
   • 21 Dominica Drive, Kingston 5.
   • Telephone: 926 4220.
4. Veterinary Services Division – Ministry of Agriculture:
   • Norman Manley International Airport.
   • Telephone: 924-8077 or 924-8079.
5. The Trade Board Limited:
   • 10th Floor Air Jamaica Building, 72 Harbour St., Kingston.
   • Telephone: 967-0507 or 967-0674.

Conclusion:

Returning to Jamaica as a resident involves a systematic process, and with the right information, it can be a smooth transition. This guide serves as your comprehensive resource, ensuring you have the knowledge to navigate the Returning Resident journey successfully. Welcome back to Jamaica!