What do I need to know before retiring in Jamaica?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Jamaica, they said...
"Well, if the friend was moving from a country in which gas is supplied via a main pipeline rather than a gas cylinder, I would suggest that he or she not take the cooker (gas stove). Also, ensure that your house is wired with the appropriate voltage and AC adapters, otherwise large electrical appliances are not likely to work," remarked another expat who made the move to Spanish Town, Jamaica.
"1. Expats should ensure they have access to any medical treatment or medications they may need, as healthcare in Jamaica may not always meet international standards. 2. It is important to research the cost of living in Jamaica before relocating, as prices may vary depending on the area. 3. Learn the local language as many conversations in Jamaica are conducted in Creole. 4. Obtain appropriate retirement visas, including a permanent resident visa, if planning to stay more than six months. 5. Consider joining an expat community, which can help with settling in to the local culture. 6. Be sure to purchase comprehensive travel and health insurance, as medical care and transportation in Jamaica can be costly. 7. Research the local tax laws to make sure you are in line with the local regulations. 8. Ensure any important documents are translated into English, in order to avoid any potential problems arising from language issues," explained one expat living in Jamaica.

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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Jamaica?
- How do I meet people in Jamaica?
- What is life like in Jamaica?
- Is there a lot of crime in Jamaica?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Jamaica accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Jamaica like?
- Is the cost of living in Jamaica high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Jamaica?
- What are healthcare services like in Jamaica?
- Is the cost of living in Jamaica high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Jamaica?
- What is the weather like in Jamaica?
- Are there good restaurants in Jamaica?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Jamaica?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Jamaica?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Jamaica?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Jamaica?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Jamaica?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do I need to know before retiring in Jamaica?
If you live in Jamaica, newcomers to Jamaica would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.