Jamaica's Prime Minister reports rise in Citizenship by Descent applications

Jamaica's consulates see surge in first-time passport seekers, with second and third-gen Jamaicans leading the charge for citizenship by descent. At the Jamaica 60 Diaspora Conference, PM Andrew Holmes boasts of the country's global appeal and vows to keep the diaspora invested in the homeland, even inviting descendants to join in on independence festivities.

How to apply for Jamaican citizenship by descent 

“If you have a Jamaican parent or grandparent, you may apply for Citizenship by Descent. Regular applications are processed within 25 working days. Expedited services are available in Jamaica and the UK. Visit http://bit.ly/2O4KhTs to learn how to apply. #PICA #ToBeJamaican” - Passport, Immigration & Citizenship Agency of Jamaica.

Qualifications for a Jamaican passport through descent:

• Born outside of Jamaica before August, 6 1962 and a citizen of the United Kingdom and its Colonies on August, 5 1962

• Mother or father became or would have become (due to death) a citizen of Jamaica on August, 6 1962

• Born outside of Jamaica after August, 5 1962 to a Jamaican mother or father at that date of his/her birth is/was a citizen of Jamaica by birth, descent or marriage

If one or both parents are Jamaicans:

• Applicant’s full birth certificate (showing parents’ names)

• Applicant’s passport

• Applicant’s marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Jamaican parent’s birth certificate and passport (preferably Jamaican)

• Parent’s marriage certificate (if applicable)

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If applying through Jamaican grandparents:

• Applicant’s full birth certificate

• Applicant’s passport

• Applicant’s marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Father/mother’s birth certificate and passport

• Maternal/paternal grandparent’s birth certificate and passport (preferably Jamaican)

• Parent’s/grandparent’s marriage certificate (if applicable)

Get step-by-step instructions on how to obtain Jamaican citizenship and passport through descent with this handy spreadsheet created by @riazphillips.

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