Planning your next Caribbean getaway? Check out the latest travel requirements below for your favorite destinations. The global COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone in one way or another as it continues to spread worldwide. The Caribbean islands, like the rest of the world, initially implemented protocols to safeguard the health of both visitors and residents alike. As we approach the end 2022, the Caribbean destinations have relaxed most of these restrictions and most islands have now removed them completely. Here are the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 updates and protocols for different Caribbean islands as at December 15, 2022.
About COVID-19
It first appeared in Wuhan, China just over 3 years ago on December 01, 2019. The highly infectious virus rapidly spread throughout the world in 2020, 2021 and continues to spread in 2022. According to Worldometer, as at December 15, 2022, there have been 655,785,694 reported cases, 6,665,153 COVID-19 related deaths and 630,295,435 persons recovered to date. The countries with the highest number of reported cases to date are now United States, India and France.
COVID-19 Response
The global response included implementation of laws to restrict gatherings to limit contact, social distancing and wearing of face masks. For many countries schools, businesses and all economic activity were initially closed and important events such as festivals and Carnivals were cancelled, rescheduled or postponed due to health and safety concerns. The travel industry was also severely affected as countries borders were closed, airlines and cruises grounded and travel grinded to a halt in many cases due to travel restrictions and bans.
As time has progressed, many countries have taken managed measures to reopen their borders and tourism sectors amid the spread of the virus and emergence of new variants. While cases continue to increase countries have now adjusted to “the new normal”.
Vaccination Update
Several pharmaceutical companies developed vaccines aimed at combating the virus. Pfizer-BioNTech, The University of Oxford and Astra-Zeneca, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson have developed vaccines which require varying doses to be effective . Vaccines are now being rolled out on a global scale. Several booster shots are also now available.
As at December 15, 2022, as reported by Our World In Data, 68.6% of the world population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, 13.05 billion doses have been administered globally and 2.07 million are now administered each day.
Covid-19 Caribbean Update
The good news is the Caribbean islands are welcoming visitors again with some health restrictions. Here is an update on the latest travel requirements for visiting Jamaica, Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Barbados, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda and Dominican Republic:
Jamaica – Latest Travel Requirements
Jamaica Travel Update – Pre-Travel COVID-19 Test No Longer Required
Pre-travel COVID-19 test is no longer be required to travel to Jamaica.
Jamaica no longer has any travel restrictions which were imposed due to the pandemic as travelers to the island arriving on, or after April 16, 2022, will no longer be required to take a COVID-19 test to board a flight.
For faster processing on arrival at the airport, travelers are encouraged to submit their Immigration/Customs C5 card online at https://enterjamaica.com and may do so at any time before arrival. If the card has not been submitted online, passengers may complete the paper form issued in-flight by the airline.
While visiting Jamaica, all persons are encouraged to voluntarily observe the standard protocols, including the wearing of a mask and maintaining social distance in public spaces.
Return Flights
Although Jamaica no longer requires testing to enter the island, travelers are advised to check their return requirements when booking their flights. For travelers departing the island, many countries and airlines require the presentation of a recent negative COVID-19 test result to board a flight. Jamaica has adequate testing locations and capacity available to meet the demand. In addition, many of the resorts and hotels offer approved testing services on property.
As of December 15, 2022 Jamaica has confirmed a total of 152,517 COVID-19 cases and 3,399 related deaths. Jamaica currently has the second highest number of cases in the English-Speaking Caribbean.
Visit here for more general information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in Jamaica:
Travel to The Bahamas – Latest Travel Requirements
The Bahamas Testing Requirements Removed
Effective September 20, 2022, the COVID-19 testing requirement for entering The Bahamas has been removed.
All travellers, regardless of vaccination status, are no longer required to submit to pre-travel COVID-19 testing to enter the country.
COVID-19 testing is also no longer required for persons travelling inter-island (domestic) within The Bahamas, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.
Bahamas COVID-19 Update
As at December 15, 2022, The Bahamas has recorded a total of 37,491 COVID-19 cases and the related death toll remains at 833.
Persons wishing to travel to The Bahamas can visit The Bahamas Travel Updates page for all requirements to travel to Bahamas.
Visit here for some more information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in the Bahamas:
Trinidad and Tobago – Latest Travel Requirements
Pre-Travel COVID-19 Test No Longer Required
Persons entering the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago are no longer required to produce a negative COVID-19 PCR or Lab Approved Antigen test result. The TT Travel Pass requirement has also been discontinued.
Mask Mandate Lifted
The face mask mandate which was previously in place for persons 8 years old and older in public spaces and public transportation except for persons engaged in sporting activities was officially lifted on July 17, 2022.
The Chief Medical Officer, however, stated that wearing a mask would now be based on an individual’s level of risk in a particular setting.
Ideally, people who are immunocompromised, have underlying medical conditions or are obese should continue to wear their masks.
Situations that require masks to be worn include:
1. Retail settings like supermarkets, groceries and malls
2. Public transportation and transportation hubs
3. Ports of entry
4. Mass gatherings
5. Pharmacies
6. Schools and educational establishments
7. Workplaces
8. Places of worship
9. Beauty salon/barbershop
10. Spa (when possible)
11. Cinemas and theatres
He added, “in choosing when to wear masks, people should consider how crowded a place is and what kind of ventilation is available”.
Trinidad and Tobago COVID-19 Update
As of December 15, 2022, Trinidad and Tobago has recorded a total of 185,708 COVID-19 cases and 4,271 related deaths. There are currently 216 active cases on the islands. It currently has the highest total number of cases in the English speaking Caribbean.
If you or a loved one develops symptoms of COVID-19, please call the hotline 877-WELL or 800-WELL (9355) for further guidance. If the person is severely ill, call the 811 (emergency hotline) or call ahead to the Accident and Emergency Department of your nearest hospital for help and go in immediately.
Find more information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in Trinidad and Tobago here:
Aruba – Latest Travel Requirements
Aruba Travel Requirements Update
Travelers to Aruba are no longer required to purchase the Aruba Visitors Insurance. All travelers are still required to complete Aruba’s Embarkation/Disembarkation Card before arrival, which is the country’s digitized customs and immigration process
Travelers are also no longer required to present a COVID-19 negative test result or proof of vaccination.
Mandatory Requirements
All visitors are required to comply with arrival health procedures as mandated by the Aruba Airport Authority and the Government of Aruba.
- Mask wearing on flights – check with your airline as mandates may have changed and may vary per airline
- Masks are no longer mandatory within the Aruba airport terminals and building, but remain recommended.
- Prior to travel, visitors should download the Aruba Department of Public Health’s Aruba Health App. A mobile resource for information on COVID-19 health procedures in Aruba.
- Masks are recommended at times when social distancing is difficult
Aruba COVID-19 Update
As of December 15, 2022, the total number of positive COVID-19 cases in Aruba is now 43,693. The related death toll remains at 236.
The mental health hotline for anyone feeling overwhelmed and going through stress and anxiety can speak directly to a psychologist remains. It is open from 2 pm to 10 pm.
Find more information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in Aruba here:
Travel to Barbados – Latest Travel Requirements
Barbados updated its Travel Protocols on September 22, 2022. Updates include:
COVID-19 Test No Longer Required for All Travelers
Effective September 23, 2022, travelers to Barbados, whether vaccinated or not, will no longer have to take a COVID-19 test to enter the country.
Mask wearing is optional except on public transportation and in medical facilities.
If you test positive for COVID-19 while in Barbados you will be required to self isolate for 7 days. If you have symptoms please contact the COVID-19 Hotline at (246) 536-4500 for further assistance.
Reminders
All Travelers
All travelers must complete the Barbados Online Immigration/Customs Form and submit at least 72 hours prior to travel.
You can view the updated Travel Guidelines and Protocols for more details.
Barbados COVID-19 Update
As of December 15, 2022, Barbados has reported a total of 104,944 COVID-19 cases and the related death toll is now 568. Barbados currently has the third highest total number of COVID-19 cases in the English speaking Caribbean to date.
Find more information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in Barbados here:
Montserrat – Latest Travel Requirements
Montserrat updated its Travel Protocols on September 30, 2022.
Removal of testing on arrival and isolation orders
Effective October 01, 2022 testing of passengers on arrival to the island has been discontinued at all ports of entry; including the John A. Osborne Airport and the Little Bay Seaport.
Also coming to an end is the mandatory ten (10) day isolation period for individuals testing positive for COVID-19.
Persons experiencing flu-like symptoms associated with COVID-19 are now asked to seek medical attention at the St. John’s Health Centre Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. where they can be tested, reviewed by a district medical officer and given the appropriate sick leave from work or school if required.
The mandatory requirements for persons to wear face-coverings and for hand sanitization stations to be in public places have also been previously removed.
Full details can be viewed at Montserrat’s Travel Advisory .
Montserrat COVID-19 Update
As of December 15, 2022 the total number of positive cases in Montserrat remains at 1,403 with 8 fatalities reported. There are currently 19 active cases on the island.
Find more information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in Montserrat here:
St Kitts and Nevis – Latest Travel Requirements
Updated Travel Requirements
St. Kitts and Nevis has updated its Health and Travel Protocols effective August 15, 2022.
Effective August 15, 2022, all unvaccinated and vaccinated travelers are permitted entry to the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Travelers will still be required to complete and submit an online Immigration and Customs ED Form before arrival. You will not receive an approval for entry in response to your completion of the form, as this is no longer required.
Travelers will no longer be required to:
• Present a negative COVID-19 test
• Show proof of vaccination to enter the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis
• Quarantine upon arrival
A detailed list of travel requirements is available on St. Kitts and Nevis Tourism website.
St. Kitts and Nevis COVID-19 Update
As of December 15, 2022 the total number of COVID-19 cases in St. Kitts and Nevis remains at 6,552 with the reported COVID-19 related deaths standing at 46 to date.
St. Kitts & Nevis was the last country in the Americas to confirm a case of the virus.
Find more information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in St Kitts and Nevis here:
Antigua and Barbuda – Latest Travel Requirements
Antigua and Barbuda COVID-19 Update
As of December 15, 2022 Antigua and Barbuda has reported a total of 9,106 COVID-19 cases and the related death toll remains at 146. There are currently 6 active cases on the islands.
Updated Travel Requirements – COVID-19 Restrictions Removed
Antigua and Barbuda updated its Travel Advisory effective August 29, 2022 as follows:
1. All COVID-19 restrictions are lifted for arriving passengers by air.
2. COVID-19 restrictions are also lifted for persons arriving by yacht or ferry services. However, all marine pleasure craft and ferry services entering the waters of Antigua and Barbuda should contact the Antigua Port Authority, using VHF Channel 16, at least six (6) hours prior to arrival. Instructions will be given to guide the crafts to either the Nevis Street Pier or English/Falmouth Harbours, Jolly Harbour, or another holding area.
3. Passengers arriving aboard cruise ships are subject to the protocols enforced by the cruise lines until such time as the cruise lines themselves alter their protocols.
4. Visitors are required to observe all protocols as stipulated by the management businesses such as offices, banks, hotels, restaurants and excursions for the duration of their trip.
5. The wearing of face masks and social/physical distancing protocols in public spaces is actively encouraged throughout Antigua and Barbuda, especially wherever there are gatherings of significant numbers of people e.g., in ports, supermarkets, bars and clubs.
6. Arriving passengers with symptoms of COVID-l9 may be isolated as determined by the Health Authorities.
A detailed list of requirements outlining protocols for persons wishing to travel to Antigua and Barbuda can be found at Updated Travel Advisory.
Find more information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in Antigua and Barbuda here:
Antigua and Barbuda government information services
US Embassy in Barbados, Eastern Caribbean and OECS COVID-19 Information
Dominican Republic – Latest Travel Requirements
The Dominican Republic COVID-19 Update
The Dominican Republic is currently the second most affected country in the Caribbean region after Cuba. As of December 15, 2022 it has reported a total of 650,990 COVID-19 cases and the related death toll remains at 4,384.
As of April 23, 2022, all passengers and crew members do not need to present a COVID-19 Vaccination Card, PCR, or antigen test to enter the Dominican Republic or to enter tourist centers, any establishments or to receive services such as excursions. Random COVID-19 testing for passengers and crew upon arrival in the Dominican Republic will no longer be performed. However, when required, random testing operations may be performed. Passengers who present their Vaccination Card will be exempted from random testing.
Prior to departure, travelers should confirm with their airline provider and airport of origin regarding any testing or other related requirements for inbound flights to the Dominican Republic, or necessary requirements needed upon arrival to their country of origin.
Passports
All foreign citizens who enter the Dominican Republic, exclusively for tourism purposes, must have a valid passport during their stay and departure from the country. This exceptional measure is valid until December 31, 2022.
Exceptions to Validity of Passports
Subject to reciprocity, the following foreigners are exempt:
- Diplomatic officers and consular officials accredited in the Dominican Republic, as well as other members of permanent or special diplomatic missions and consular posts and their family members who, by virtue of the rules of International Law, are exempt from the obligations related to obtaining a migratory category of entry;
- Representatives and delegates, as well as the other members and their relatives of the permanent Missions or of the Delegations before the Intergovernmental Organizations with headquarters in the Dominican Republic or in International Conferences that are celebrated in it;
- Officials assigned to International and Intergovernmental Organizations with headquarters in the Dominican Republic and their family members, as well as holders of Dominican diplomatic and official visas.
Pursuant to the discretionary power granted by the Law to the Director General of Immigration, he may authorize the entry into the country of foreigners who do not meet the requirements set forth in the Law and its regulations, when there are exceptional reasons of a humanitarian nature, public interest or compliance with commitments undertaken by the Dominican Republic. Each authorization is a case in point and, consequently, does not constitute a binding reference or precedent.
Based on the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 virus, we recommend connecting with your airline or travel agent directly to discuss any protocols that may apply to your country.
As needed, we also recommend visiting the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for any updates to international markets and their required procedures. IATA cannot guarantee its accuracy and can accept no liability for any errors or omissions.
Travel Requirements
All foreign and Dominican passengers entering or leaving Dominican Republic on commercial flights must complete the free electronic entry and exit form, which combines the Traveler’s Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms. The form is available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese and Russian.
As of February 16, 2022, all restrictive measures imposed by COVID-19 are suspended, and it will be up to each individual to take his or her own measures to safeguard his or her health, responsibly, but without restrictions.
Measures such as the use of face masks, presentation of vaccination cards for access to places of public use or restrictions in public spaces are the responsibility of each individual.
As a result of our stringent safety measures and effective vaccination plan, currently, hotel occupancy has increased to 100%, further solidifying Dominican Republic as a world example of tourism recovery amidst the pandemic.
A detailed description of travel requirements for the Dominican Republic updates as of July 05, 2022 can be viewed at its Latest Updates page.
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Recognition
On May 09, 2022, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognized the Dominican Republic as the number one country in the world in tourism recovery. The Dominican tourism model stands out for achieving the most successful recovery in the industry, reaching record numbers in tourist arrivals.
Previously, on January 18, 2022, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognized the Dominican Republic for its successful recovery in the tourism industry and its efficient management of sanitary protocols in the country’s different tourist destinations.
The UNWTO highlighted the management and sanitary protocols applied in the Dominican Republic to guarantee safe tourism, thus achieving the most successful recovery of the industry in the entire region, reaching record figures in tourist arrivals.
The Dominican Republic is the only destination in the region where 100% of the employees in the tourism sector are fully vaccinated with two doses, and which has the lowest incidence rate of contagion in the tourist poles, making the country a safe destination for travel.
Find more information about the latest travel requirements and COVID-19 in the Dominican Republic here:
Further Information for Caribbean Travel
The Caribbean is open for travel and welcomes travelers from across the globe, however, in order to safeguard your health and the health of the residents on the islands please check the COVID-19 protocols for the island you wish to travel to.
COVID-19 Testing No Longer Required for entry into the United States
Good news for US passengers booking return flights: Effective June 12, 2022, air passengers will not need to get tested and show a negative COVID-19 test result, nor show documentation of recovery from COVID-19, prior to boarding a flight to the United States, regardless of vaccination status or citizenship. Of note, CDC’s Order requiring proof of vaccination for noncitizen nonimmigrants to travel to the United States is still in effect.
Additional information on COVID-19 and its impact on the region can be sourced at:
The Caribbean Public Health Agency
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additionally, before you travel be sure to check out our IC Caribbean Shop for your cool travel accessories, bags and gear to rep during your visit or upon your return to remember your favorite Caribbean destinations.
Also check out our latest podcast episode with Kellina Powell below as we explore the beauty of Jamaica.
Enjoy your vacation and stay safe!
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