KINGSTON, JAMAICA — Jamaica is making it easier and more affordable for Canadians to return home with their proper COVID-19 PCR test results in hand.

The destination has partnered with two private laboratories on the island to provide Canadian residents returning home to Canada with access to in-hotel PCR tests at a discounted rate.

As per Canada’s ongoing pre-entry test result requirements, all travellers five years of age or older, regardless of citizenship or vaccination status, must provide proof of a COVID-19 negative molecular test result (PCR, NAT or RT-LAMP) within 72 hours of their scheduled departure time of their flight to Canada, or proof of a previous positive test result taken between 14 and 180 days. Rapid antigen tests are not accepted.

Starting today, Oct. 25, Canadians in Jamaica will be able to book their required pre-departure COVID-19 molecular test directly through Baywest Wellness Clinic and Technological Solutions Limited (TSL) for US$75 (inclusive of taxes), a reduction of more than 50% off the previous PCR testing price.

Canadian visitors must schedule their test through a dedicated online laboratory portal in order to qualify for the exclusive rate.

Tourists staying at a licenced hotel in Jamaica’s Resilient Corridors can schedule a PCR test to be conducted on property via a convenience concierge service. Those staying in a private villa, guesthouse or residence can book an in-person appointment at the closest Baywest or TSL laboratory location.

Travel agents will also be able to book PCR testing on behalf of their clients in advance.

Both PCR test booking platforms include 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 24-48 hours following the sample collection.

“Jamaica’s new in-hotel PCR testing and reduced pricing will be a game-changer for Canadian travellers visiting the destination,” said Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism 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.”

Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board, added: “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. 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.”

To book a PCR test go to https://getwellnow.io/covidtesting (Baywest) and https://www.tsltech.com/pcr-test-canada/ (TSL).

For more information about Jamaica’s entry protocols and testing services go to visitjamaica.com/travelauthorization.