Jamaica Plans to Expand Employment Programs in the United States

2026-01-25 - 21:07

The Government of Jamaica is moving forward with plans to expand participation in the H-2A and H-2B United States work visa programs, reinforcing overseas employment as a key pillar of economic stability and recovery. Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General Retired Antony Anderson, recently met with Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Mrs Colette Roberts Risden, to review the current status and future growth of Jamaica’s overseas employment initiatives. The discussions were held at the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, DC. The meeting emphasized the continued importance of the H-2A and H-2B visa programs to Jamaica’s economy, particularly for rural communities that heavily rely on seasonal overseas employment. The programs have remained largely intact so far, despite broader immigration enforcement measures in the United States. Permanent Secretary Roberts Risden, who has oversight responsibility for Jamaica’s overseas employment programs in both the United States and Canada, provided an update on new and emerging opportunities for Jamaican workers. She highlighted expanding prospects for Commercial Driver’s License holders, as well as workers trained in heavy machinery and equipment operation. These sectors, she noted, align well with Jamaica’s workforce, particularly due to compatible English language proficiency requirements. Ambassador Anderson emphasized the enduring value of the bilateral labour partnership between Jamaica and the United States. “Jamaica’s overseas employment programs continue to be a pillar of economic resilience for Jamaican workers and rural communities,” Anderson said. “Through our longstanding partnership with the United States, the Embassy remains committed to expanding safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial labour pathways, especially as we rebuild and create new opportunities in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.” The discussions also acknowledged the historical foundation of the program, which dates back to 1943 when Jamaican workers first travelled to the United States during World War Two to address labour shortages. Over more than eight decades, the initiative has evolved into one of the most successful bilateral labour arrangements in the Western Hemisphere. Recent figures reflect the program’s continued strength. During the last program year, approximately 5,000 Jamaican workers were employed in the United States agricultural sector under the H-2A visa program. In addition, more than 12,000 Jamaicans participated in the H-2B program, supporting industries such as hospitality and landscaping. Beyond job placement, the United States has provided Jamaica with extensive technical assistance in areas essential to labour governance. This support includes labour market information systems, child labour prevention, occupational safety and health standards, and initiatives aimed at combating trafficking in persons. The meeting was held against the backdrop of Jamaica’s recovery from Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread damage across the island. Both officials agreed that overseas employment programs are a critical component of national recovery efforts, offering income generating opportunities that directly support families and communities affected by the disaster. Permanent Secretary Roberts Risden was accompanied by liaison officers Mr Sheldon Brown and Mrs Karlene Brown, who provide direct support to Jamaican workers enrolled in overseas employment programs. Also in attendance was Minister Counsellor for Trade and Economic Affairs at the Embassy, Ms Aliecia Taylor. The Embassy of Jamaica in Washington reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening labour cooperation with the United States and ensuring continued access to dignified, well regulated employment opportunities for Jamaican workers abroad.