PICA to Stop Accepting Old Cotton Banknotes by June 30, 2025

Kingston, Jamaica – June 21, 2025

The Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) has announced that it will cease accepting the old cotton-based banknotes as of June 30, 2025, following the Bank of Jamaica’s (BOJ) decision to demonetize the notes effective July 1, 2025.

The BOJ’s move to demonetize the old series of banknotes means that, starting July 1, the notes will no longer be considered legal tender in Jamaica. While these notes will no longer be accepted for everyday transactions, the BOJ has clarified that it will continue to redeem the old notes indefinitely, ensuring that members of the public can still exchange them at the central bank even after the demonetization date.

As a result of this development, PICA has implemented its own cutoff date. After June 30, 2025, the agency will no longer accept old cotton notes as a method of payment for any of its services, including applications for passports, citizenship, permanent residence, and other immigration-related transactions.

Public Urged to Prepare Early

PICA is encouraging all members of the public to use or exchange any old cotton banknotes before the June 30 deadline if they intend to use them for PICA-related transactions.

“This measure is in line with national policy, and we urge customers to take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition,” the agency said in a statement released today. “PICA remains committed to providing efficient and reliable service and encourages early action to avoid any inconvenience.”

About the Banknote Change

The BOJ introduced a new series of polymer banknotes in recent years, which are designed to be more durable, secure, and cost-effective in the long term. The transition to polymer is part of a broader effort to modernize the island’s currency and reduce the operational costs associated with frequent banknote replacement due to wear and tear.

What You Need to Know:

• Deadline to use old cotton banknotes at PICA: June 30, 2025
• BOJ demonetization date: July 1, 2025
• Old notes will no longer be legal tender after this date
• BOJ will redeem old notes indefinitely, but they will not be accepted at PICA after the cutoff date

For more information, customers are encouraged to visit the official websites of PICA or the Bank of Jamaica.