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Residence & citizenship

Jamaican Citizenship by Descent

Citizenship for people born abroad to a Jamaican parent, recognising their inherited link to Jamaica.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

The 25-working-day processing time is from the PICA citizenship page; confirm any applicable fee before publication.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Jamaica government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Citizenship by Descent
Route type
Citizenship through a Jamaican parent
Processing time
25 working days
Cost (in Jamaica)
JMD$10,000 (regular) or JMD$15,000 (expedited)
Cost (overseas)
From USD$100 (regular); fees waived for previous Jamaican passport holders
Processing options
90 working days (regular) or 45 working days (expedited), per the current PICA page
This differs from an earlier 25-working-day figure; reconcile before publication.
Where to apply
PICA, 8 Waterloo Road, Kingston 10, or the nearest Jamaican mission abroad

Who it is for

  • People born outside Jamaica before 6 August 1962 with a qualifying Jamaican parent
  • People born outside Jamaica after 5 August 1962 whose parent is/was a Jamaican citizen by birth, descent or registration

How to apply

  • Complete the citizenship-by-descent application form
  • Provide the parent's proof of Jamaican citizenship and your birth certificate
  • Submit at PICA or through a Jamaican mission abroad

Documents you may need

  • Your birth certificate
  • The qualifying parent's birth certificate or citizenship certificate
  • Two certified passport-size photographs
  • Marriage certificate, if applicable
  • Valid identification for adults, or the parent's ID for a minor
  • Legal guardianship documentation, if applicable
  • Official name-change documentation, if applicable

Frequently asked questions

  • PICA indicates the citizenship-by-descent fee is waived for previous Jamaican passport holders; other applicants pay JMD$10,000 (regular) or JMD$15,000 (expedited) in Jamaica, with equivalent fees at missions abroad.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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