The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs welcomes the decision by the United Kingdom to introduce a free, streamlined visa application process that now waives the visa fees for Commonwealth citizens—including citizens of Trinidad and Tobago—attending in person hearings of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (JCPC).
The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs believes this is a practical step that will ease the financial burden for citizens seeking access to the nation’s highest court and appellate body. This measure will directly benefit members of the legal fraternity who are required to meet the cost of visa fees as a routine part of representing clients before the JCPC.
The fee waiver applies to appellants, respondents, and members of their legal representation. Once a hearing date is confirmed, appellants will be required to notify the JCPC Registry through its case-management portal that a visa is needed. The Court will then provide an official supporting letter flagged directly to the UK Home Office and UK Supreme Court.
The Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs welcomes this decision as it represents a response to representation made to the UK Government since May 2025 during bilateral discussions between both countries.
The public is assured that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago will continue to collaborate with the Government of the United Kingdom for the full removal of the visa requirement for nationals of Trinidad and Tobago travelling to the UK.
