Before traveling to Jamaica, you should ensure that your passport is valid to cover at least the period up to the end of the academic year. You should also travel with proof of your student status (that is, a Student ID card) or if a new student, with the official Letter of Offer from the University. At the airport, you will be issued a temporary visitor’s visa.

Nationals of CARICOM countries as well as citizens of all Commonwealth Countries are allowed entry to Jamaica without a student visa.

Citizens of non-Commonwealth Countries must obtain a valid student visa prior to entry into Jamaica. Such persons should make their request at the nearest Jamaican Diplomatic Mission or Consulate.

After registration week, a list of all non-Jamaican students who are citizens of Commonwealth Nations will be sent to the Immigration Office to enable these students to obtain permits.

If you are not a Jamaican, you should check at the International Students Office to ensure that your name has been submitted to the Immigration Office

Arrival in Kingston, Jamaica

Upon arrival and after Immigration and Customs clearance, proceed to the exit where you will be met by a UWI Official. In the event that you are not met, please contact the Lodgings Officer (702-3493) or Ms Hermine Tyrell – International Students Office (702-3737 or 421-7259), who will make arrangements for you to be picked up. There is also a reliable taxi service at the airport – Jamaica Union of Travelers Association (JUTA) that will take you directly to the Campus.

Before deciding on travelling by taxi, please call either person indicated above.

Arrival on Campus

Should you be given a place on Hall, you will be transported directly from the airport to your Hall of Residence where you will be met by either the Student Service Manager or a Resident Advisor who will welcome and assist you in settling in.

If you arrive outside of normal working hours (Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm), arrangements will be made for you to be met on your Hall of Residence and given the key to your room. After you have settled in, you are to report to the office of the Senior Assistant Registrar, International Students Office the next working day following your arrival on Campus.