COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution in Jamaica due to violent crime (level 2 of 4).

View Larger Map Close/Open map

Jamaica

Post Closure
The New Zealand High Commission in Bridgetown (accredited to Jamaica) has now formally closed.

New Zealanders who require emergency consular assistance should contact the 24/7 Consular emergency line on 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand) or +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand) or email cons@mfat.govt.nz.

Violent Crime
Jamaica has a high rate of violent crime, particularly around Kingston and Montego Bay. Much of this crime, which includes armed robbery, kidnapping, sexual assault, home invasions, shootings, carjacking and murder, is related to the presence of street gangs and organised criminal groups.

There is a particularly high incidence of crime in Kingston neighbourhoods such as West Kingston, Whiteford Town, Olympic Gardens, Payne Land, Portmore, Whitfield Town, Grant’s Pen, Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town, Arnett Gardens, August Town, Harbour View, Denham Town, Hannah Town, Central Village, Cassava Piece and Mountain View. Crime is also high in Spanish Town and certain parts of Montego Bay such as Flankers, Norwood, Canterbury, Mount Salem, Barett Town, Norwood, Glendevon, Rose Heights, Clavers Street and Hart Street. Police may impose curfews with short notice in areas where gang activity is a concern.

New Zealanders are advised to assure themselves their accommodation has appropriate security measures in place. Most hotels and resorts are well guarded and gated communities are considered the safest accommodation. You should maintain a high level of security awareness, even when staying with family or friends.

New Zealanders should be aware that attacks against tourists are often financially motivated. Exercise particular vigilance while withdrawing money from ATMs. Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location, and only use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside banks. It is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such jewellery and mobile devices. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of crime as this could lead to an escalation in violence. 

Transport Safety
New Zealanders are advised to avoid walking alone or in isolated areas, including on beaches. Do not take buses at night and only use taxis approved by the Jamaica Union of Travellers’ Association (commonly known as ‘JUTA’). These taxis are authorised by the government and can be identified by their red and white “PP” license plates. Driving in Jamaica can be dangerous, especially at night, due to poor road maintenance and speeding. When driving you should keep doors locked, windows up and keep any valuables out of sight. Breakdown assistance is limited or unavailable and weather conditions may make some roads impassible. There have been outbreaks of violence on the Mountain View Avenue route from Kingston International Airport to the city. We advise New Zealanders travelling between the airport and the city to use the alternative Humming Bird route along South Camp Road.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketing occurs in Jamaica and is common in tourist areas and in Kingston. Thieves operate on beaches. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. Extra care should be taken to ensure food and drink is never left unattended. Victims of spiked drinks have been robbed and sometimes assaulted. Never accept offers of food, drink, gum or cigarettes from strangers or people who you have just met.

Terrorism
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Jamaica, attacks cannot be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate and target areas frequented by foreigners. New Zealanders in Jamaica are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources.

Scams
Be aware of internet romance scams that can occur via dating apps, websites or social media. Criminals particularly target apps and websites used by LGBTQIA+ communities. Assaults and robbery have occurred as a result of encounters organised through dating apps.

Tourists have been targets of lottery scams. Never send money to someone who calls to say that you have won the lottery in Jamaica. Never travel to Jamaica to collect a ‘prize’.

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations and protests occasionally occur in Jamaica. New Zealanders should avoid demonstrations as they have the potential to lead to violence and opportunistic crime. Be alert, take precautions to ensure your safety and comply with instructions from the relevant security authorities. Monitor the local media for the latest information on possible curfews and restrictions on movement. Roadblocks can be set up  and curfews imposed at short notice. A state of emergency may be imposed periodically by authorities to respond to gang-related crime. When this is in effect, be aware that you may be subject to searches from security forces.

General Travel Advice
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including marijuana, can result in fines or jail terms.

In Jamaica, certain same-sex sexual activity is illegal and those convicted can face sentences of up to 10 years in prison. Although authorities rarely enforce the law, verbal and physical aggression can happen towards people in a same-sex relationship.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Jamaica should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in Jamaica are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

See our regional advice for the Caribbean