This list is by no means exhaustive. Other items may be restricted or prohibited by the Jamaica Customs Agency. To see what other items may be prohibited or restricted, call Jamaica Customs at 876-922-5140-8 or visit www.jacustoms.gov.jm
NOTE: Information below can be found in the Jamaica Post Office Guide (1977), p. 57-60 (view, other).
forbidden
It is forbidden to send by post:
1. Dangerous objects (including explosives), flammable, harmful, dirty, noxious or otherwise harmful substances; sharp instruments are not well protected.
2. Any obscene or obscene print, picture, photograph, lithograph, engraving of a motion picture, book, map, written communication or obscene or obscene article.
3. Any article which bears on or on the cover a word or design of an indecent, obscene, inflammatory, offensive, threatening or grossly offensive character.
4. Any article consisting of or containing opium, morphine, cocaine or other narcotics, except those sent for medical or scientific purposes to countries that allow such shipments.
5. Any article containing drugs, unless the formula or contents are clearly printed on the package in English or French. Medicines intended for internal or external treatment or venereal diseases are not allowed, even if they meet this requirement.
6. Live animals except bees. Silkworms and leeches packed according to regulations.
7. Shipments that, by their nature or packaging, may expose postal workers or other persons to danger or may soil or damage other shipments or postal equipment during transport.
8. Any item containing or bearing the imprint of a fictitious postage stamp or counterfeit stamping machine; you intend to prepay any previously used postage stamp or any other postage or prepay any other duty or tax; or bearing on or on the cover any words, letters or marks (used without proper authority) which denote or imply, or which may reasonably suggest, that the postal item is sent on Government service.
9. Any article containing coins or bullion of a value exceeding ten dollars, excluding coins or designs for ornamental purposes and marked as such.
10. Any shipment prohibited by postal, customs or other regulations of the country or place where the shipment is sent or to which it is directed or transited.
11. Carbon or dirty paper, liquid celluloid, oilskins and similar oily goods.
12. Tlo.
13. Perishable articles unless addressed to an intra-island destination or when sealed in an airtight can.
14. Liquids, unless packaged as specified in the section of the guide entitled "Special Packaging Requirements for Certain Items".
15. Fully assembled items are partially made from raw celluloid roll film and motion picture film, unless packaged as specified in the section of the Guide entitled "Special Packaging Requirements for Certain Items".
16. An object consisting of or containing two or more postal items (of the same or different name) addressed to different persons at different addresses.
17. Articles that violate trademark or copyright laws.
18. Items on which something is written, printed or otherwise imprinted on stamps before sending.
In addition to the bans mentioned above, many countries abroad have imposed restrictions on the import of certain items for various reasons. So an entry of:
• Damage can be limited in the interest of public safety;
• Pharmaceutical preparations, fresh meat and other foodstuffs, soiled clothing in the interest of public health.
• Plants and plant parts, including fruit, especially vines in wine-growing countries, usually to prevent the spread of phylloxera;
• Skin, wool and other external parts of animals, to protect animals from infectious diseases.
• Tobacco, playing cards, salt, if they are under state monopoly.
• Lottery tickets.
• Liqueurs for intoxication.
Items so restricted can generally be shipped if they meet certain conditions, and in some cases a health certificate in the prescribed form is required. In general, plants should be packed securely enough for easy inspection, and where a phylloxera certificate or other health certificate is required, the packing slip, customs declaration and packing slip should be indicated, eg "Phylloxera Certificate". attached.
Packages containing items known not to be imported into the country of destination will not be forwarded but will be returned to senders; Packages marked as items subject to certain import restrictions will generally be accepted and shipped. The responsibility for ensuring compliance with these conditions rests with the sender, and Jamaica Post accepts no responsibility for the return or seizure of packages if the sender or receiver fails to comply with the necessary formalities.
Categories of dangerous articles: brief description and examples
- Explosive:consisting of all compounds, mixtures or devices capable of causing an explosion or explosive effect. This includes all detonators, explosive or non-explosive, ammunition, fireworks or similar articles capable of exploding on impact, friction or heat, eg cartridge detonators, ammonium nitrate, fireworks, fuses, cotton wool, gunpowder, explosives, however weak the effect. , fuel for lighters, etc.
- Flammable liquids:consist of liquids with a flash point below 150˚F. Exceptions are made for liquids such as paints, varnishes, etc., with a flash point between 90˚F. And 150˚F. Subject to certain quantity and packaging restrictions.
- Flammable solids:consist of substances which are not classified as explosive and which may, under certain circumstances during transport, present a risk of causing or igniting a fire, either due to absorption by friction or moisture, or due to spontaneous chemical changes (e.g. celluloid (untreated or liquid), matches, metallic potassium, certain metal powder, metallic sodium) oily tissues that are not well dried, phosphorus, pyroxylin, plastic, etc.)
- Compressed gases:consisting of all flammable and non-flammable, liquefied, dissolved and toxic gases under pressure (e.g. acetylene, carbon dioxide, chlorine, fluorine, hydrogen, e.g. liquid gasoline, oxygen, etc.)
- Corrosive liquids:all substances such as acids, corrosive liquids, alkalis and other corrosive liquids which, in contact with living tissues, seriously endanger these tissues by chemical action; or which, if spilled, would bleach ordinary writing ink and risk damaging or destroying other mail (eg ).
- The oxidizing substance:substances such as bichromates, chlorates, nitrates, perchlorates, permanganates, peroxides, which easily release oxygen and promote the combustion of other materials.
- Poison:consist of liquids or solids that give off toxic or irritating vapors or gases, or of substances that may be dangerous in contact with the skin or when absorbed (eg alkaloids, aniline, arsenic compounds, powdered beryllium metal, cyanides, mercury compounds, herbicide, etc.). There are certain exceptions, but they must be specifically authorized.
- Radioactive materials:Objects containing radioactive material, the content and composition of which are in accordance with the regulations of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which provide for special exemptions for certain categories of objects, can be accepted with the prior consent of the competent authorities. The sender must put a special white sticker with the word "Radioactive materials” (Radioactive materials), whose marking will be officially crossed out, if the package is returned to the place of origin. In addition to the name and address of the sender, these shipments must also contain a bold request for the return of the package in case of non-delivery. The sender must state his name and address and the contents of the package on the inner packaging. Examples: luminous dial, radioactive isotopes.
- Other dangerous articles:It consists of those products that, although they do not fall into the above categories, have harmful or irritating properties; solids that become corrosive with moisture; or also substances with other inherent properties that can endanger human life or damage other things (eg ammonia acetaldehyde, sulfate, ammonia, brewer's yeast, liquefied gases not under pressure, potassium and sodium hydroxide, etc.).
Entry - Forbidden(special)
Unless prior written permission has been obtained from the Minister of Agriculture of Jamaica, it is prohibited to import into Jamaica by mail:
Bees, honey and equipment used by beekeepers; boots formerly used by workers on banana plantations; cotton and all plants originating in any country other than Great Britain.
The written approval of the Minister of Agriculture, in the form of a sticker containing authorization information and the seal of the department, must be submitted by the importer to the supplier, who will attach it to the package with the plant to which the license applies. .
Many items require import permits and recipients must request them in advance.
Infectious abortion vaccine, live or dead (organisms of the Brucella group), rabies vaccine, foot-and-mouth disease vaccine and bovine infectious pneumonia vaccine or antigen.
All specific organisms or agents (bacterial, protozoan and viral in nature) other than rat viruses, which are known to cause infectious diseases in animals, except and except in the form of substances known as vaccines, sera, toxins, antitoxins and antigens which are intended for use in the practice of human or veterinary medicine, provided that the listed substances (vaccines, serums, toxins, antitoxins and antigens) are introduced into packaging that is marked or clearly marked with "organic product" on the outside of the packaging and that the packaging is accompanied by a statement from the exporter or supplier which lists the full contents of the package, with a description of the nature of the substances contained therein and an indication of the manufacturer, place and country in which they are prepared.
Fruits and vegetables (except dried or processed fruits and vegetables, grains, seeds, and Irish potatoes) are prohibited from being mailed to Jamaica from the United States unless accompanied by a certificate issued by a representative of the United States Department of Agriculture stating that the produce is domestic and are products of a country where the Mediterranean fly (Ceralitis capitiata) does not exist.
The following articles are absolutely prohibited: – Coffee, rum, shaving brushes, manufactured in Eastern countries and exported from those countries; citrus fruits. It is also forbidden to import Tuberculozin (or any other supposed drug by consumption) unless it has a permit.
Restricted articles
Importers are sometimes unaware of the various licensing requirements when it comes to importing goods. As a result, it was determined that they had committed offenses under the Customs Act. In the table below there is an overview of the goods for which a license, certificate or permit is required and the state agency where they can be obtained.
Restricted articles | Claim | Publisher | Phone/website |
| Meat/animals | License/certificate | MOA | 977-0637 vsdpermits@moa.gov.jm |
| Red peas | Permit/Phytosanitary certificate | MOA | 977-0637 www.moa.gov.jm |
| Fruits, vegetables, plants and plant products | Phytosanitary certificate/permit | MOA | 977-0637 www.moa.gov.jm |
| Soil supply | Phytosanitary certificate/permit | MOA | 977-0637 www.moa.gov.jm |
| Pharmaceuticals, chemicals, herbal teas | PSD certificate | PRAD/MOH | 922-3851 from 967-1100 |
| Firearms and accessories, explosives, fireworks, swords | Import permit/license | BERGEN/Commercial Board | 906-4908 from 967-0507 |
| Sugar | License | Board of Trade | 967-0507 |
| Coconut derivatives, oil, production of seeds, edible oils, soaps | License | Coconut Industry Board | 926-1770 (display, other). |
| Motor vehicles | License | Board of Trade | 976-0507 |
| Alcohol and bulks | Spirit Pool License | Spirit Pool Association Ltd | 968-4455 |
| Human remains | KSAC permit | Kingston and St. John's Department of Health. Andrije MOH | 967-1100-1 of 922-2587 |
| Pesticides | License | Pesticide Control Authority | 906-6939 |
| Milk powder, milk-based products | License/permit | MOA | 977-0637 www.moa.gov.jm |
| radio (two way) | License/Approval | Spectrum Management Authority | 948-7800 |
| Kava | A permit is required if over 5 kg/11 lbs | Management of the coffee industry | 758-1259 (display, other). datacoodinator@ciboj.org |
FAQs
Prohibited items | Jamaica Post? ›
Indecent and obscene prints, paintings, photographs, cinematograph films, lithographs, engravings, books, cards or written communications or any indecent or obscene articles whether similar to the above or not and any parcels, packages or packets having thereon, or on the cover thereof, any words, marks or designs ...
What should you not bring to Jamaica? ›Indecent and obscene prints, paintings, photographs, cinematograph films, lithographs, engravings, books, cards or written communications or any indecent or obscene articles whether similar to the above or not and any parcels, packages or packets having thereon, or on the cover thereof, any words, marks or designs ...
What am I allowed to bring into Jamaica? ›No more than 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes, or 1/2 pound of tobacco. One quart or one litre or spirits, cordials, and wine. Six fluid ounces of perfumed spirits. 12 fluid ounces of toilet water.
Do you have to go through customs leaving Jamaica? ›Know before you go: Passengers leaving the Island with their personal items with an intention to return with same are advised to present the item (s) for registration with the Customs Duty Office at the airport. This is a one-time registration, with a validity period of five (5) years.
Are toy guns illegal in Jamaica? ›Toy guns are restricted, as they are deemed as a threat and can be used for illicit purposes. The requisite permit is needed for importing these items.
Can you bring ibuprofen to Jamaica? ›You can take your medication into Jamaica, but make sure that you keep it in your hand luggage, rather than your check-in luggage. Leave your medication in its original packaging to avoid any queries.
Can I bring my Adderall to Jamaica? ›Travellers to Jamaica may bring regular prescriptions to Jamaica for use during their stay in Jamaica provided that: The person brings a copy of all prescriptions clearly stating name, the quantity, strength and dosage and that all the prescription drugs are in the original containers and clearly labelled.
Do customs open packages in Jamaica? ›Customs does not normally open every parcel; these checks are rather random; however, their frequency increases when the declared gift value is over $100 USD.
How can I avoid customs charges in Jamaica? ›Packages with a Free on Board (FOB) value of US$50 or less will not attract Customs charges. However, if the value is greater Customs charges will be calculated on the full value. It is therefore important that the invoice be included in the package, or presented to Customs to assist with the assessment of the items.
What do I have to declare at customs? ›You must declare all items you purchased and are carrying with you upon return to the United States, including gifts for other people as well as items you bought for yourself. This includes duty-free items purchased in foreign countries, as well as any merchandise you intend to sell or use in your business.
Can a US citizen travel with a gun to Jamaica? ›
Firearms: Jamaica strictly forbids importing or possessing firearms in Jamaica without prior authorization of the Firearms Licensing Authority of Jamaica. A U.S. concealed carry permit does not allow you to bring a firearm or ammunition into Jamaica.
Can you own an AR 15 in Jamaica? ›The Firearms Act regulates the ownership and use of firearms and ammunition. It was first passed in 1967, and has been subsequently amended. The Firearms Act prohibits ownership of any artillery, automatic firearm, grenade, bomb or other like missile.
What self defense items are legal in Jamaica? ›A person can lawfully possess mace and pepper spray in a public place for purposes of self-defence. Tasers or stun guns have also been touted in many quarters as good self-defence weapons. However, although media reports suggest that they are also being sold on Jamaican streets, they are illegal.
Can I bring Tylenol to Jamaica? ›They aren't asking about medicines for your personal use. Those are fine. In fact, you should bring some common over-the-counter medicines with you such as Tylenol, Imodium, Benadryl, and Neosporin – the same sort of thing you would have in a medicine kit at home.
Can I bring a vape to Jamaica? ›Vaping Rules For Jamaica
You can use vapes in the country, except in places where smoking is banned which includes most public places and transport so take care!
Once you collect your bags, make your way to the customs hall. Utilize the “nothing to declare” line unless you are carrying some gifts or other items that will remain in Jamaica. You will need to present your passport and customs forms.
Are any drugs legal in Jamaica? ›Jamaican law currently prohibits the cultivation, possession, use, and exchange of all recreational drugs. This law is randomly-enforced in regards to possession for personal use, yet it still creates a large burden for Jamaica's law enforcement agencies, prisons, and courts.
Do I have to declare medication at customs? ›As a U.S. citizen, you do not need to declare prescription medication, but the CBP requires you to have the medication in its original containers, or that you travel with a copy of the prescription or a doctor's note on hand.
Can I bring Tylenol through customs? ›You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It's highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.
Do pills have to be in original bottles when flying? ›Include your prescription and over-the-counter medicines in your travel health kit and take enough to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. Pack medications in a carry on in case your luggage is lost or delayed. Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers.
Can you travel with Xanax? ›
If you are prescribed Xanax for flying, the dosage will be low the first time. Since everyone responds to Xanax differently, a low dose helps prevent over-sedation and unwanted side effects. If a low dose does not work, you may be instructed to increase the dose the next time you fly.
How do I pack prescription drugs for international travel? ›During Travel
Keep all medications in your carry-on luggage and in their original, labeled containers; do not combine multiple medications into one container.
Customs will sometimes open packages to inspect the contents and ensure that they match what is listed in the declaration form.
Does customs look at every package? ›Do customs open every package to verify information? No, customs officers will not open up your package or packages without good reason. Every package is put through a scanner machine, or an x-ray machine, to verify that the items you are shipping match your customs forms.
What is the customs duty on cell phones in Jamaica? ›With respect to recent comments in the media, including social media, the Agency is reminding all importers that the duty structure on mobile telephones, whether purchased or gifted, is as follows: Import Duty - 20% General Consumption Act - 25% Environmental Levy - 0.5%
How much does Jamaica customs charge per item? ›For goods arriving by sea, the insurance charge is 1.5% of the total Cost and Freight(c. & f.), that is, if the goods cost US$100 and the freight charge is US$50, then C&F would be US$100 + US$50 = US$150. 1.5% of US$150, i.e. 150 x 3/200 = US$2.25. Total c.i.f. therefore is $100 + $50 + $2.25 = US$152.25.
How much does it cost to clear a box in Jamaica? ›How Much Does It Cost To Clear A Barrel In Jamaica? There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the contents of the barrel you are clearing. But the standard fee for clearing a barrel of food, toiletries, and non-electrical household items is JA$6,500.
How long does it take to clear a container in Jamaica? ›Customs Manager for the JCA's Operations Department, Alicia Christian-Scott, told JIS News that duration for processing and clearing barrels ranges from 30 minutes to one hour.
What happens if you don't declare items? ›Merchandise is declared to CBP. If you do not declare something that should have been declared, you risk forfeiting the item.
What goods are prohibited by customs? ›- All products made from sea turtles.
- All ivory, both Asian and African elephant.
- Rhinoceros horn and horn products.
- Furs from spotted cats.
- Furs and ivory from marine mammals.
- Feathers and feather products from wild birds.
What happens if you have nothing to declare at customs? ›
If you do not declare, or falsely declare, goods, the CBSA can seize them. This means that you may lose the goods permanently or that you may have to pay a penalty to get them back.
Can I conceal carry in Jamaica? ›Firearms: Jamaica strictly forbids importing or possessing firearms in Jamaica without prior authorization of the Firearms Licensing Authority of Jamaica. A U.S. concealed carry permit does not allow you to bring a firearm or ammunition into Jamaica.
What is the most armed country in the world? ›The United States has the highest gun ownership rate with 120.5 firearms per 100,000 people. Yemen follows behind with 52.8 firearms per 100,000 people. These figures highlight the prominence of firearm ownership in these nations.
Is it safe to go to Jamaica now? ›“Reconsider travel to Jamaica due to crime. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to many areas due to increased risk. “Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common.
How many years do you get for illegal guns in Jamaica? ›Breaches of the new Firearms (Prohibition, Restriction and Regulation) Act, 2022, which is now in effect, will result in penalties ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment.
Can you carry a knife in Jamaica? ›In Jamaica, you are not allowed to carry any dangerous weapons in public spaces as per Art THE OFFENSIVE WEAPONS (PROHIBITION) ACT Section 3. So do knives qualify as dangerous weapons? Well, some knives do qualify as dangerous weapons, and they are; Dagger.
How many licensed firearm holders are in Jamaica? ›There are reportedly some 60,000 licensed firearm holders in Jamaica.
Why is pepper spray illegal in Jamaica? ›While pepper spray is not on the list of banned substances, it is a controlled product under the Firearms Act and the Offences Weapons (Prohibition) Act.
Are rifles allowed in Jamaica? ›Yes. The Firearms Act, 1967, is the current local legislation that regulates the acquisition, possession and use of firearms by civilians. Further, state security entities such as the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) are exempt from the Act.
Is it illegal to carry a pocket knife in Jamaica? ›Sometimes, the confiscators gave 'em back to the visitors when they left,, most times they didn't. again::>> unless the law has changed since back-then,,, pocket knives are illegal in Jamaica.
Can you take liquids in hand luggage to Jamaica? ›
Passengers may take on board one transparent (one quart / 1 litre) plastic bag containing liquids, gels and aerosols (such as beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, cream, toothpaste, hair gel and spray) in containers of not more than 3.4 ounces or 100 ml.
Should I bring cash to Jamaica? ›Cash: You will not need to exchange your US dollars into Jamaican dollars because everyone takes US currency. It is recommended that you bring between $150 and $500 per person for spending depending on what you plan to do. Please have at least $200 in small bills ($1.00, $5.00 and $10.00) with the balance in twenties.
Why is honey prohibited in Jamaica? ›According to the ministry, illegally imported bee products — honey and pollen — can introduce bee pests and diseases that will affect the health of the local bees stock.
What toiletries can you take through customs? ›The 100ml rule for liquids
The main rule to remember is that you must not take any more than 100ml of a restricted liquid into the cabin of a plane, and those liquids should be placed into individual 100ml containers. Any liquid that you need more than 100ml of should be packed in your hold luggage.
Fish products which should be less than 20 pounds. Baked and processed products, chocolates, candies, cereals, and other confectionery items. Donuts, crackers, cookies, cakes, biscuits, granola bars, etc are also allowed - assuming they contain no meat.
How many bags can I take to Jamaica? ›Air Jamaica Checked Baggage Policy Summary
Two bags of 23kg (50lbs) each are allowed for flights to/from Canada and the US. This is also allowed for Business Class passengers on regional flights within the Caribbean.
When to get tested. Review the following timeline carefully to ensure this test meets your Jamaica travel needs, which requires a negative test result within 72 hours of arrival. Order your test at the time of booking your flight or at least 1-2 weeks before you need to take the test to ensure you have it when needed.
How much should you take on a trip to Jamaica? ›Estimated total cost for a 2-night, 3-day trip to Jamaica: $375-$500 USD per person, excluding airfare. This estimate is based on budget-friendly accommodations, meals, and activities, and does not include additional expenses such as transportation, souvenirs, or travel insurance.
Do you need Covid test to enter Jamaica? ›Citizens can obtain COVID-19 test across the Island. Travelers are responsible for the cost of testing. Visitors testing positive for COVID-19 may be asked to self isolate. Travelers who require isolation should be prepared to pay the cost of isolation accommodation.
Is $1 a good tip in Jamaica? ›Otherwise, tip helpful service employees an adequate amount. Bellhops expect $1(USD) to $2(USD) per bag, and maids anticipate $1(USD) to $2(USD) per day. Give the tip directly to the person, do not leave cash on a pillow etc.
How much is $1 US in Jamaica? ›
1 USD = 154.914283 JMD Jun 08, 2023 13:35 UTC
Check the currency rates against all the world currencies here. The currency converter below is easy to use and the currency rates are updated frequently.
The amount you tip in Jamaica will depend on where you are and what type of services you're buying. As a general rule, expect to tip around 10% of the bill. If you get exceptionally good service, say thank you with a tip closer to 15-20%.
Do Jamaicans eat pineapple? ›Pineapples were first brought to Jamaica by the Tainos tribe, and are now featured on Jamaica's coat of arms. So eat your pineapple the way the locals do – fresh, sprinkled with a bit of chili powder.
What is the national drink of Jamaica? ›Jamaican Rum
What is this? With roots in Jamaica's colonial past, Jamaican rum has played an important part in the island nation's economy. Slavery may have ended in 1834, but this national drink of Jamaica is still a regular feature in Jamaican rum punch, daiquiris, and other cocktails known around the world.
Pink ting is a popular carbonated beverage in Jamaica, and is usually paired with fast-food, patties and jerk chicken. Ingredients: Carbonated Water, Sugar, Concentrated Grapefruit Juice, Citric Acid, Natural Grapefruit Flavor, Sodium Citrate.