New operational protocols will include screening before and upon entry, and will extend to all aspects of the visitor’ journey.

The destination has also pledged to build Covid prevention, detection and response into all of its tourism operations.

Around 130,000 are directly employed in Jamaica’s tourism industry, which supports a further 120,000 roles. The sector accounts for one third of the country’s economy.

“Tourism is the lifeblood of our local economy, and with the help of international experts and a dedicated task force, we have developed protocols that allow us to safely reopen our borders,” said Donovan White, Jamaica’s director of tourism.

“We are confident that as we restart our economy, Jamaicans will work together to ensure a safe, secure and seamless experience for our tourism workers, their families, and visitors, while preserving the authentic experiences travellers seek when they visit our shores.”

From 15 June, all visitors will undergo temperature checks and will be observed for Covid symptoms. If their temperature is high, they will be subject to additional screening, including testing, if deemed necessary. Any visitors who continue to show coronavirus symptoms, or falls ill, will be subject to quarantine.

Jamaica’s health and safety protocols will be reviewed every two weeks, and will be revised accordingly if necessary.

The country is currently repatriating around 8,000 Jamaican citizens who have been stranded overseas due to travel restrictions.