KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – The Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control (CBC) on Friday announced that it reopened its visa office in Kingston earlier this week.

The office was closed to the public in March 2020 due to COVID-19 and converted to a virtual operation by servicing the public’s queries and applications.

According to a release from the CBC, the reopening offers a change in service by assisting with virtual applications and the processing of fees.

“The office will no longer accept paper applications, interview applicants, endorse passports, or provide any information relating to the status of the application.”

The CBC says the office is taking a more modern approach as services will now be completed using an online processing system. There will be kiosks in the office where customers can come in to use to complete the online application process, which includes online payments.

The CBC’s Deputy Director, Gary Wong says that persons who may have challenges in accessing the Internet or will require assistance in the process, an employee will be able to assist in the office.

The statement added that visa applicants should allow 14 days for processing, noting that applicants must have a passport with at least six months’ validity from the proposed date of arrival.

The CBC said travel authorisation will be issued via email, which allows for travel for approved visas.