Factor scores

How Jamaica performs

Tax

76.3

Very strong

Average taxes. Jamaica sits mid-table on tax, 72nd of 123. Expect a typical tax bill: neither a reason to move here nor a reason to stay away. Personal income tax 25% - 30%, corporate tax 15% - 33.3%, VAT 15%.

Source: Heritage Foundation, Index of Economic Freedom (Tax Burden sub-score)

Safety

61.6

Moderate

Average safety. Safety here is about average for the countries we cover: Jamaica is 59th of 117.

Source: Institute for Economics and Peace, Global Peace Index

Cost of Living

66.0

Strong

Expensive. Jamaica is one of the most expensive places to live in the index, 97th of 118. Plan for high everyday costs.

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living Index

Education

32.5

Weak

Below average. Education here is weaker than in most countries we cover (91st of 120). Families may want to look at international schools.

Source: UNDP & MBRF, Global Knowledge Index

Every figure is published by the institution named against it. We do not adjust, model or estimate the underlying values. See the formulas.

Tax and citizenship

The detail behind the scores

Taxation

Corporate income tax	15% - 33.3% Applicable tax rate varies based on the nature of the business and residency status
Personal income tax	25% - 30% Applicable tax rate varies based on the amount of income earned.
Standard VAT	15%

Rates change without notice. Confirm with the relevant tax authority before acting.

Naturalization Requirements and Immigration Pathway

Residence for naturalization: 5 years
Language requirement: No
Investment Immigration Pathway: Not applicable
Official language: English
Jamaican Patois is also widely used
Dual citizenship: Allows with conditions

Compare

Elsewhere in Caribbean

#54 baseline

Dominican Republic

Baseline score 65.2

#93 baseline

Trinidad and Tobago

Baseline score 60.6