Dancehall sensation Adidja “Vybz Kartel” Palmer has been officially cleared to perform in Trinidad and Tobago for the first time in 15 years. The Jamaican entertainer has received special permission to enter the country to headline the One Caribbean Unity Music Festival on May 31, under strict conditions outlined by local immigration authorities.
The clearance was granted under Section 10 (1) of the Immigration Act 22/2025, according to a release by Overtime Media, citing sources within the festival’s organizing committee, Jacho Entertainment.
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Kartel’s entry permit, labeled Form 17, authorizes his stay in Trinidad and Tobago for a seven-day period, beginning May 27. Though specific details regarding the permit’s expiration date and Kartel’s passport information were redacted for privacy, the document explicitly exempts him from visa and work permit requirements.
Conditions of Entry and Performance
The permit does not come without restrictions. The conditions, as laid out by Trinidadian immigration authorities, require Kartel to post a security bond—though the amount has not been disclosed. The form also limits his engagements while in the country.
According to the document, Palmer is permitted to conduct radio interviews only on May 28, between 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM. However, he is prohibited from participating in crime awareness events, panel discussions, community walkthroughs, official meetings, or any similar activities.
In addition, the permit emphasizes that the artist:
“Must not communicate any words or engage in any activity which may likely be construed as promoting a gang – contrary to the provisions of the Anti-Gang Act.”
Specific content restrictions have also been imposed. Authorities have ordered that Kartel’s concert repertoire exclude offensive material, explicitly naming his controversial song “Good Like Jesus” as an example of content that must be omitted.
All costs related to state-provided security and incidental expenses during his stay are to be covered by the artist himself.
A Historic Return to the Trinidad Stage
Jonathan Gomez, lead coordinator for the One Caribbean Unity Music Festival, welcomed the news with enthusiasm, calling it a milestone moment for regional music lovers.
“The Worl’ Boss has now been officially cleared to arrive and perform in Trinidad, so all roads lead to the Queen’s Park Savannah this Saturday night, where Vybz Kartel will deliver an electrifying performance, alongside some of the nation and the region’s top acts,” said Gomez.
“Tickets are still available at all advertised outlets and from our online providers. Kartel returns to the stage in Trinidad this Saturday for the first time in 15 years, so this historical night is not to be missed. See you all there!”
Cultural and Legal Implications
Kartel’s return is not only a major cultural event but also a sensitive legal and political matter. Given his past legal issues and the controversial nature of some of his lyrics, Trinidad and Tobago authorities have taken significant precautions to manage the artist’s appearance in a controlled environment.
Despite the stringent terms, the event is expected to draw a massive crowd, with fans from across the Caribbean eager to see one of dancehall’s most influential figures back on a regional stage.
