Jamaica is making it easier for Canadians travelling to the island to book in-hotel PCR testing at a discounted rate. Travel agents will also be able to book PCR testing on behalf of their clients in advance.
The initiative is the result of a new partnership between Jamaica Tourist Board and two, on-island laboratories.
Starting 25OCT, Canadian visitors will be able to book their required pre-departure COVID-19 molecular test directly through Baywest Wellness Clinic and Technological Solutions Limited (TSL) for $75 USD (taxes included). That's less than half of the previous PCR testing price. Visitors must schedule their test through a dedicated online laboratory portal in order to qualify for the exclusive rate.
Canadians travelling to Jamaica can book PCR tests online through two dedicated booking platforms:
- Baywest Wellness Clinic: https://getwellnow.io/covidtesting
- TSL: https://www.tsltech.com/pcr-test-canada/
The online platforms capture all the necessary information required to re-enter Canada, including travel dates and the location of the test. Payment for the service will be processed online at the time of booking via credit card. Test results from Baywest and TSL will be emailed directly to clients 24- to 48-hours following the sample collection.
Travellers staying at a licensed hotel in Jamaica’s Resilient Corridors can schedule a PCR test to be conducted on-property via a convenient concierge service.
Visitors staying in a private villa, guest house, or residence can book an in-person appointment at the closest Baywest or TSL laboratory location.
“Jamaica’s new in-hotel PCR testing and reduced pricing will be a game-changer for Canadian travellers visiting the destination,” remarked Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett.
“This effort is the latest initiative in our ongoing Jamaica CARES program, a comprehensive destination-wide commitment to providing all travellers with a safe and seamless experience while visiting our beautiful island.”
“The upcoming fall and winter seasons are critical for Jamaica’s tourism sector, and the JTB is proud to have negotiated improved COVID-19 testing options for Canadian travellers on island,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica.
“The JTB has been working very hard to collaborate with the country’s accredited laboratories to facilitate more accessible and affordable testing for our Canadian visitors,” said Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board.
“We are very excited to bring this long-awaited enhanced service to the market and make travelling to Jamaica even more seamless for Canadians this winter.”
Canada’s current travel guidelines require all passengers aged five and up regardless of vaccination status to provide proof of a COVID-19 negative molecular (PCR) test result taken prior to returning to Canada. Valid tests must be performed within 72 hours of their scheduled flight departure time.
For more information about Jamaica’s current entry protocols and testing services for Canadian travellers, go to visitjamaica.com/travelauthorization.
