Jamaica: Payment methods & tips

All continents Latin America and the Caribbean Jamaica

Travel money:

Prepaid Travel credit card

in Swiss francs (CHF)

For ATM cash withdrawals
For cashless payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, and online

ATM Search

Banknotes

in US Dollar (USD)

Change cash in local currency

Local currency / ISO Code

Jamaican dollar JMD

Further Information

Import local currency
The import and export of the national currency is prohibited

Import foreign currency
unlimited; USD 10'000.00 (equivalent) or more must be declared

Export local currency
The import and export of the national currency is prohibited

Export foreign currency
unlimited; USD 10'000.00 (equivalent) or more must be declared

Credit cards

Customary credit cards are accepted in most places. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.

ATM Search

Find out more about Travel

Useful tips from our experts:

When using the Travel Card, you get cash in local currency at ATMs.
Please see «Banknotes» below for important information
Credit cards are recommended for car rentals. Prepaid cards are generally accepted for payment but not for reservations. Please check the possible payment methods with the car rental company in advance.
Please note that cash in US dollar is considered the principal mode of payment in tourist areas.
The national currency is less popular and is sometimes not accepted as mode of payment.
As a rule, goods and services may be paid for in US dollars.
Keep exchange and transaction receipts.
Currency exchange not advised on the black market.

Practical Information:

Capital

Kingston

Country code for calling Switzerland

0011 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

Voltage

110 volt / adapter required

Travel documents for Swiss citizens

Passport still valid 6 months or more after arrival, return or onward travel ticket and proof of sufficient funds for stays up to 3 months.

Opening hours

Banks

8.30/9.00 - 15.30/16.00 h (Mon - Fri)

Stores

9.00 - 16.00/17.00 h (Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat)
9.00 - 12.00/13.00 h (Wed, Thu)

Driving

Left-hand driving.
Swiss driver's license accepted for car rentals; some rental companies require in addition the international driver's license.
Minimum age for car rentals: 25 (varies by rental company).
CH sticker and breakdown triangle mandatory.

Time difference with Switzerland

- 6 h / - 7 h during our summer time

National language

Official language

English

Swiss Embassy / Consulate

Kingston, c/o Swiss Stores Ltd., 107 Harbour Street
Tel. +1 876 948 9656

Health situation

Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Minimum risk of malaria.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.

Other information

This country is in an active earthquake zone.

Security

Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.
Very high crime rate (mainly in the capital Kingston).
Drug dealers may attempt to use unsuspecting travelers as mules to carry drugs. Never lose sight of your luggage and carry only your personal belongings.
Walking the streets after nightfall is not advised.
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.

Special legal regulations

Very strict laws to fight illegal drugs.

Travel advice for Jamaica.