KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is reminding Jamaicans to observe the immigration laws of countries they visit, which it says may change over time.

Travellers are also advised to ensure they meet all entry requirements before embarking on trips to avoid complications such as detention or deportation and ensure safe and trouble-free journeys.

The warning follows several recent social media reports alleging mistreatment in Mexico when detained upon arrival. In one case, a woman alleged that she was detained for three days without food and other necessities, and was forced to sign papers officials refused to translate. She further alleged that she was refused the right to speak to a Jamaican consulate.

In a statement on Wednesday, Minister Kamina Johnson Smith said her ministry is actively working to address reports of immigration challenges faced by Jamaicans at foreign ports of entry.

She said the Government has been engaging with relevant authorities to resolve these issues and encourages Jamaicans who believe their rights have been infringed to make reports by email to consular@mfaft.gov.jm for investigation.

In the meantime, the ministry is reminding all Jamaicans to observe the immigration laws of the countries they visit.

“In 2023, the ministry advised that a more restrictive approach was being taken by Mexico and other Central American authorities to reduce the misuse of their borders to enter the United States of America illegally. The Government therefore strongly urged and continues to encourage Jamaicans to refrain from this practice, which negatively impacts the travel experience for law-abiding Jamaicans at these ports of entry,” Johnson Smith explained.

She continued, “While we stand ready to defend and protect the rights of our citizens overseas, we regret to remind that the Government of Jamaica cannot insist that any state allow non-nationals to enter that state. No citizen has a right to enter another country other than their own. We can therefore only work to prevent the contravention of basic rights, particularly in terms of unlawful detention or mistreatment.”

Johnson Smith is encouraging Jamaicans to continuously evaluate their travel plans and assess their destinations according to various indicators.

Travellers are also encouraged to stay updated on immigration trends in the countries they wish to visit, so that they can make the best travel decisions, the ministry said.

Jamaicans encountering difficulties while abroad are encouraged to contact the nearest Jamaican mission — Embassy, High Commission, Consulate-General or Consulate, for assistance. For immediate assistance during emergencies overseas, nationals may also reach the ministry via WhatsApp messages at +1 876 391-8105.