General Information
If you want to travel to the U.S., you will most likely need a visa. (Click on Visa Waiver Program for a list of exceptions). The following links provide additional information as to the requirements and documentation you will need to apply for a U.S. visa:
- Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV) – For short visits and travel to or transit through the U.S., as well as for prospective students who will study at a U.S. institution.
Immigrant Visa (IV) – For those planning to immigrate and live permanently in the U.S.
The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy serves citizens living in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.
Address and Hours of Operation
142 Old Hope Rd., Kingston 6, Jamaica
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m., except for holidays
Scheduling Appointments
To schedule a Nonimmigrant visa appointment, please follow the procedures here. For Immigrant visa appointments, you will receive an appointment letter in the mail after all the relevant paperwork is in order from your U.S. petitioner. To schedule a follow up appointment, please contact our office at KingstonIVappointment@state.gov.
Applicants can now check the status of their NIV and IV applications online.
The preferred method of communicating with the Visa Unit is by e-mail.
- NIV inquiries: KingstonNIV@state.gov
- IV inquiries: KingstonIV@state.gov
In most instances, you will receive a response within five business days. Please wait at least five business days before sending another e-mail. The U.S. Embassy does not respond to visa inquiries by phone.
Warning to Applicants
Anyone charging money for collateral services outside the US Embassy is not affiliated with the US government. Beware of unscrupulous agents purporting to represent the US Embassy.