Jamaica Scholarship Pathway

JAMAICA: A Caribbean Jewel with Medical Career Opportunities

Geography and Overview

Jamaica is an island nation located in the Caribbean, with its capital and largest city being Kingston.

It operates as a sovereign nation under a unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with the British monarch (currently King Charles III) recognized as the ceremonial head of state.

People, Language, and Religion

Approximately 90% of the population are Afro-Jamaicans.

• The official language is English,

• However, Jamaican Patois (a mix of English and West African influences) is widely spoken across the country.

Jamaica is a predominantly Christian country, and it is also the birthplace of the Rastafari religion.

Economy

Jamaica runs a mixed economy, with major industries including:

• Tourism (the mainstay)

• Mining

• Agriculture

• Manufacturing

• Financial and insurance services

Culture and Global Impact

Jamaica is world-renowned for its culture, especially its music, which has had a strong global influence.

• Reggae, Dancehall, and other genres originated in Jamaica

• It is home to legends such as:

  • Usain Bolt – the fastest man in the world

  • Bob Marley – global reggae icon

The country’s cultural exports also include its cuisine, fashion, and language.

Top Tourist Attractions

Jamaica is filled with exciting destinations for tourists, including:

• Mystic Mountain

• The Blue Mountains

• Bob Marley Museum

• Numerous diving and snorkeling sites

• Grand beaches such as Seven Mile Beach and Doctor’s Cave Beach

🔗 Click here to explore top tourist destinations in Jamaica

MEDICAL PRACTICE IN JAMAICA

REQUIREMENTS FOR FULL REGISTRATION OF DOCTORS (Medical Council of Jamaica)

To obtain full registration, a doctor must submit:

1. Proof of medical training from a recognized medical school

2. Evidence of completion of a 1-year internship in four major disciplines

3. Original medical degree certificate (MBBS/MD)

4. Certified copies of postgraduate certificates (DM, Boards, etc.)

5. Certificate of registration

6. Certificate of good standing or current/valid license

7. One passport-size photograph

8. Two medical references

9. Registration fee (ranges from J$6,000 – J$11,000, based on year of graduation)

10. A personal interview with the Registrar

PATHWAYS TO REGISTRATION

Without Examinations (Automatic Full Registration)

Doctors fully licensed in any of the following countries may be registered without further exams:

• University of the West Indies (after 1-year approved internship)

• University of Guyana (after 1-year approved internship)

• USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand

• Other mutually agreed countries (as determined by the Jamaican Medical Council)

With Recognized Examinations

Doctors who have passed any of the following:

• USMLE Steps 1, 2 & 3

• PLAB 1 & 2

• CAMC Examinations

• Plus a recognized 1-year internship

📌 Note: The decision to grant full registration lies solely with the Medical Council of Jamaica.

📧 For inquiries: medcojam@cwjamaica.com

REMUNERATION

Doctor salaries in Jamaica vary depending on:

• Specialty

• Years of experience

High-earning specialties include Dermatology, Surgery, and Obstetrics & Gynaecology.

💰 Salaries are paid in Jamaican Dollars (JMD).
🔗 Check current doctor salary scales here

LIVING IN JAMAICA

Cost of Living

With J$173 = £1 (approx.), Jamaica is considered a relatively affordable place to live.

• Basic daily living costs are cheaper compared to countries like Canada or the UK.

• Costs can vary based on lifestyle and location (urban vs rural).

🔗 Read more about cost of living in Jamaica here

Citizenship

You can apply for Jamaican citizenship after five years of legal residency.
🔗 Read the citizenship application details here

WHY CONSIDER JAMAICA?

-English-speaking
-Rich culture and music
-Friendly and warm people
-Diverse career and business opportunities
-Beautiful beaches and vibrant tourism
-Strategic Caribbean location for onward migration or academic development