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📍KINGSTON, JAMAICA
The US Embassy in Jamaica has confirmed that the upcoming increase in the consular exchange rate to J$165 per US$1 is part of a global policy mechanism — not a prediction of currency movements.
Effective July 1, 2025, Jamaicans paying for US visas or other consular services in JMD will do so at the updated rate of J$165 to US$1, up from J$160.
Public Affairs Attaché Michael Lavallee emphasized that this is a standard adjustment based on policy from the US State Department, not insider knowledge or economic forecasting.
📊 WHY THIS MATTERS
The embassy last adjusted its consular exchange rate in October 2023, moving it from J$155 to J$160. The rates are set within a band to avoid frequent fluctuations and are only updated when local exchange rates consistently shift beyond that threshold.
“These exchange rates are not predictions — they’re protections,” Lavallee stated.
He clarified that all US visa services worldwide are priced in US dollars, and this local rate change simply reflects Jamaica’s exchange movement, not speculation.
🌎 IT’S GLOBAL, NOT LOCAL
“This happens at every embassy. It’s not unique to Jamaica,” Lavallee noted.
He also explained that if the JMD strengthens significantly, the consular rate can go back down.
In the meantime, Jamaicans can still pay in US dollars to avoid the impact of the revised exchange rate.
🗣️ OUR TAKE
This is not a plot or a currency forecast. But with Jamaica’s exchange rate inching toward J$160 repeatedly, we’re reminded of the financial pressure on everyday people. For many Jamaicans, visa costs are already high — and every dollar counts.
If this policy is fixed and global, maybe transparency on when and how changes are made should be global too. People deserve to plan.
Travel plans? Visa interview soon?
Pay in USD if you can before the July 1 rate kicks in.
Stay informed — and don’t get caught off guard by the hike.
Follow Mykro Wave TV JM for real updates, not rumors.