I have been living in Jamaica for several years and have recently retired from my job. I love the island and wish to remain here even longer. Do I qualify for permanent residence status?

Over the years, many persons have expressed an interest in remaining in Jamaica permanently. Applicants for permanent residence generally fall into one of the following categories:

Retired persons who have resided in Jamaica for over three years;

Spouses of Jamaican nationals not necessarily meeting any prolonged residence requirements; (that is, spouses do not need to be residing in Jamaica for any specified period of time);

Adults and minors who have claim to Jamaican nationality without meeting any residence requirements; (that is, adults and minors do not need to be residing in Jamaica for any specified period of time);

Minors who have no claim to Jamaican nationality, but who have resided in the island for a period exceeding two years; and

Persons employed in Jamaica after completing a period of residence of not less than five years.

To apply for permanent resident status you would need to visit the Extension of Stay Unit at the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA), 25C Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10.

Please have the following documents/information prior to your visit:

✔ A completed application form;

✔ A valid passport (at least six months prior to expiration);

✔ Evidence of financial status (for example, pension, bank account, investments, etc);

✔ Birth certificate;

✔ Marriage certificate (where applicable);

✔ Particulars of spouse and other dependents;

✔ Medical certificate;

✔ Police certificate from the country you are migrating (if you have not been living here);

✔ Passport-sized photographs;

✔ A letter stating the reason for wanting to live in Jamaica ( must be addressed to the Chief Immigration Officer, Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency, 25C Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10); and

✔ Provide two character references with your application.

Please note that all the requisite documents must be furnished before permanent resident status can be considered. The process usually takes upwards of six months.

Also note that persons whose applications were not approved may appeal by writing to the Chief Immigration Officer.

Costs

All permanent residents who are non-Commonwealth nationals are issued with multiple entry visas. These visas are renewable every two years at a cost which ranges from J$500-J$2,000. In general, Commonwealth nationals do not require visas with the exception of persons from Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

In addition, as of Thursday, October 1, applications for permanent residence will attract a non-refundable processing fee of J$30,000.00.

Send your questions, comments and suggestions on everything related to immigration, passports and citizenship to editor@gleanerjm.com and the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency will respond.