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The Heart of It: The Duty Concessions
The Jamaican government has long recognised that encouraging citizens to return brings money, skills,
and energy back into the economy. To make the transition smoother, returning residents enjoy
generous duty concessions.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Household Effects (Duty-Free)
- You are allowed to bring in personal and household effects duty-free.
- This includes: furniture, clothing, books, kitchen items, appliances, tools of trade, and personal
computers. - Goods must be used (not brand new in bulk). A single new fridge? Usually accepted. Twenty
unopened toasters? Customs will raise eyebrows.
- Motor Vehicle Concession
- Each family is entitled to one motorcar (up to 6 years old) duty-free.
- Vehicles must be registered in your name abroad for at least 6 months.
- You may also import a pickup or light commercial vehicle for work purposes (up to 3 tonnes).
- Luxury and high-end vehicles (e.g., BMW X6, Range Rovers) attract higher scrutiny. Concessions
apply, but you may still face partial duties.
- Tools of Trade & Professional Equipment
- Doctors, contractors, artists, or anyone bringing tools essential to their profession may import
these duty-free. - Evidence required: work certificates, professional ID, or letters from employers.
- Doctors, contractors, artists, or anyone bringing tools essential to their profession may import
- Duty-Free Allowances for Air Passengers
Even if you are not shipping barrels or containers, travellers also enjoy:
Jamaica Duty-Free Allowances (18+ years)
Category Allowance Notes
Personal & Household
EffectsUp to US $1,000 in
valueFor personal use only. Figures subject to change by
Jamaica Customs.Alcohol (Spirits/Wine) Up to 2 litres Allowances may vary. Confirm with Jamaica Customs
before travel.
Cigarettes 200 sticks Duty-free quantities set by Customs and may change.
Cigars 50 cigars Allowances subject to official regulations.Processed Tobacco Up to 230 grams Alternative allowance. Verify with Customs at time of travel.