Work visas
Jamaican Work Permit
The main authorisation allowing a foreign national to work legally in Jamaica for a specified employer and period.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The JMD$14,400 processing fee is sourced from a JIS FAQ, and permit validity periods are set case-by-case; verify the fee and any stated validity against the MLSS Work Permit page 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
- Work Permit
- Route type
- Employer-sponsored work authorisation
- Administering body
- Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS)
- Who applies
- Prospective employer, contractor, legal representative, or JAMPRO for investors
- Processing fee
- Reported JMD$14,400 (non-refundable)
- Figure from a Jamaica Information Service FAQ; confirm against the current MLSS schedule.
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals and Commonwealth citizens taking up employment in Jamaica
- Expatriate staff transferred to a Jamaican employer
- Contractors engaged to work in Jamaica
Requirements
- Completed Work Permit Application Form (employer completes the employer section)
- Applicant qualifications and, where relevant, police record
- Employer justification showing efforts to recruit a Jamaican
- Payment of the non-refundable processing fee
- For renewals over 30 days: the last three SO1 forms and the current SO2 form
How to apply
- Employer/representative obtains and completes the application form (available from MLSS or online)
- Submit to the Work Permit Department, MLSS, with supporting documents and fee
- Investors route their application through JAMPRO
- On approval, the worker's immigration status is endorsed by PICA
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.