Jamaica Could Accept Up to 10,000 Non-Nationals Deported from the United States

Talks are expected to begin between Jamaica and the United States regarding a proposed agreement that could see the island accepting thousands of non-nationals deportedrom American territory.

According to details outlined in a draft memorandum of understanding (MOU) obtained by The Gleaner, the arrangement would allow the United States to transfer up to 25 foreign nationals to Jamaica every two weeks. If maintained over several years, the programme could result in as many as 10,000 individuals being relocated to the island.

The proposed deal falls under a Third-Country Nationals (TCN) framework, a system Washington has already pursued with several countries across Latin America, Africa, Europe and the Caribbean. Similar agreements are reportedly in place or operational within CARICOM states including Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia.

Under the draft arrangement, Jamaica would receive detailed biographical, medical and criminal information on each proposed deportee before deciding whether to accept them. The agreement would exclude Jamaican nationals, unaccompanied minors and individuals convicted of serious criminal offences, as far as known by US authorities.

The proposed framework also outlines that deportees would arrive through Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport, accompanied by personnel from the US Department of Homeland Security. Jamaica would have up to 36 hours to respond after receiving information on proposed transfers.

The issue has already attracted attention locally, particularly following the 2025 case involving Jamaican national Orville Etoria, who was deported by US authorities to the African nation of Eswatini despite having no ties there. Following international criticism, he was eventually returned to Jamaica months later.

According to the document, either country would be able to terminate the arrangement with 90 days’ written notice. While the agreement does not legally commit either government to funding obligations, the United States has indicated it may utilise available foreign assistance resources to support services provided to transferred individuals.