St Maarten Visa & Entry Requirements (2025 Guide)
Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling
Planning a trip to St Maarten? Whether you're arriving for a tropical vacation, a family visit, or a business trip, this guide breaks down the latest visa and immigration requirements so you can enter the island stress-free. Most travelers don’t need a visa, but there are important conditions to keep in mind.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit St Maarten?
Most travelers do not need a visa to visit St Maarten for short stays of up to 90 days, including citizens and legal residents of:
- The United States
- Canada
- European Union (EU) countries
- United Kingdom, Ireland, and Switzerland
Check if your nationality is exempt from a Caribbean visa using the official Kingdom of the Netherlands visa list (link opens in a new tab).
General Entry Requirements
Upon arrival in St Maarten, you must present the following to immigration officials:
- A valid passport for the duration of your stay
- A valid return or onward ticket Documents proving re-entry to your country of origin (e.g. valid residence or re-entry permit)
- Proof of accommodation (e.g. hotel or villa rental reservation)
- Proof of sufficient financial means or a guarantee letter from a legal resident
- All final decisions regarding entry are made by the immigration officer at the port of entry
- SXM Entry Form: All travelers are required to complete the St Maarten Electronic Immigration Card (ED Card) prior to travel. Submit your entry form online at https://entry.sx.
Need a place to stay? Book a villa or hotel with flexible cancellation options before you fly.
Permitted Duration of Stay
- Visa-Exempt Travelers: Up to 90 days per calendar year for tourism, business, or family visits
- Caribbean Visa Holders: Up to 30 days per visit, valid for multiple entries over a 6-month period
Always check your entry stamp for the authorized duration granted at arrival.
Who Needs a Caribbean Visa for St Maarten?
You will need a Caribbean visa if:
- Your country is not on the exemption list
- You are a legal resident of the Netherlands without a residence permit
- You are a citizen of a country such as India, Nigeria, China, Pakistan, etc.
Apply at the nearest Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence. A Caribbean visa is not the same as a Schengen visa and must be requested separately.
Who Is Exempt from a Caribbean Visa?
Visa exemption also applies to:
- Holders of valid U.S., Canadian, EU, UK, Irish, or Swiss residence permits
- Residents of the French side of St. Martin
- Residents of Bonaire, St Eustatius, and Saba
Bringing Pets to St Maarten
Yes, your furry friend can come along! Pets must have:
- A health certificate dated within 10 days before arrival
- Proof of rabies vaccination administered no more than 30 days prior to arrival
St Maarten Immigration Contact
For official information or visa questions, contact:
Admittance and Residency Office
A.T. Illidge Road #8, Philipsburg
+1 (721) 543-0355 / 543-0365
Additional Info: 543-0353 / 543-0354
Plan Your Visit to St Maarten
Looking to finalize your travel plans? Start here: