GAME CHANGER: Jamaica helps with PCR tests for Canadians

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) says its continued lobbying efforts have resulted in improved access and half price testing on island for Canadians, who are required to obtain a negative PCR result in order to return home.

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

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

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

“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 JTB Regional Director, Canada Angella Bennett of the heavily discounted rates. “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.”

Canadians can book PCR tests online through two dedicated booking platforms:

• Baywest Wellness Clinic: https://www.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.

As per Canada’s current travel guidelines, all passengers aged five and up regardless of vaccination status must provide proof of a COVID-19 negative molecular test result to enter the country. 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, click HERE.