Effective March 13, 2023, Cuban nationals travelling to Jamaica, will require visas. This is according to an announcement from the Ministry of National Security.

The Ministry did not explain the reason for the move but said the visa-free transit arrangement for a period of up to three days for Cuban nationals, would be discontinued.

It said all other visa requirements for Cuban nationals entering Jamaica will remain the same.

Meantime, Opposition Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Lisa Hanna has expressed disappointment at the move.

In a tweet this afternoon, Ms. Hanna said Cuba has been good to Jamaica over the years and it is remarkably disappointing that the country would take this route.

She said if the government’s “doctrine of doing nothing” continues, Jamaica will not only run the risk of destroying its enviable reputation of courage & activism in the international arena, but will erode years of consistently approaching decision-making on principle, which has served Jamaica well and brought desired results.