Saint Kitts and Nevis ETA for St. Maarten citizens: Apply online with us

Traveling from St. Maarten to Saint Kitts and Nevis?

From May 2025, citizens of St. Maarten will need a new digital entry permit called the Saint Kitts and Nevis ETA. If you're planning a short stay for leisure, business, or to visit family and friends, here's everything you need to know.

Do St. Maarten citizens need an ETA for Saint Kitts and Nevis?

Yes, they do.

Even though Saint Kitts and St. Maarten are close neighbours with frequent ferry routes, you’ll need a digital entry permit to hop between the islands. This ETA requirement applies to all visitors from St. Maarten, no matter how short your stay. Whether flying in or arriving by ferry, you must show proof of this ETA at check-in and upon arrival.

📌 Transit tip: If you only pass through Saint Kitts and Nevis and not leave the airport, you do not need an ETA.

🛂 Important for Dutch passport holders: If you're a St. Maarten citizen travelling on a Dutch passport, you’ll still need an ETA unless your nationality is specifically exempt. Always check your eligibility before booking your trip.

🌍 What about the French side of the island (St. Martin)?

If you're travelling from the French side of the island (Saint Martin), you still need an ETA to enter Saint Kitts and Nevis. The requirement is based on your nationality and point of departure, not which side of the island you live on.

Even if you're a dual resident or crossing from Saint Martin into St. Maarten before departure, the ETA still applies.

What is the ETA and how long is it valid?

The Saint Kitts and Nevis ETA is a digital travel permit that:

• Is valid for single entry only
• Allows stays of up to 90 days
• Expires when your passport does, or after 90 days . whichever comes first

Your approved ETA will include a QR code, which you must present (printed or on your phone) at all checkpoints.

"I thought the ferry would be simple, but they asked for my ETA before I even got to the dock. Definitely apply before you leave," said Theo, a frequent island-hopper based in Philipsburg

What you need to apply for the Saint Kitts and Nevis ETA

Have these handy before you apply:

• ✅ A valid passport from St. Maarten
• ✅ A passport-style photo
• ✅ Travel itinerary (flight or ferry details and accommodation info)
• ✅ A working email address
• ✅ A card or payment method

💡 Reminder: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you leave Saint Kitts and Nevis.

How to apply: Step-by-step process

The ETA application is 100% online and only takes a few minutes. Here's how:

📝 Application steps:

1. Go to the application page and fill in your passport, and travel information
2. Pay the ETA fee (with or without a credit card) and submit.
3. Upload your passport scan and photo
4. Then all you have to do is wait for our team to process your application and email you the QR code of your approved ETA

⏱ How quickly can I get the St. Kitts and Nevis ETA

"We booked last-minute ferry tickets and had to scramble to get our documents. Luckily, after applying with iVisa, the ETA arrived in an hour," said Lisa and Darren, a couple from Marigot

Why apply with us?

Sure, you can use the government portal, but here’s what makes us easier:

• ✅ Fast-track options for last-minute travellers
• ✅ Live support in multiple languages
• ✅ Flexible payments, even without a credit card
• ✅ Group-friendly tools to apply together
• ✅ Save & continue later if you’re still gathering documents
• ✅ Digital wallet to keep your travel docs organised

"The government site kept timing out. iVisa let me pause the form and finish it after work," explained Josiah, a small business owner from Cole Bay

Arrival tips and important rules 🇰🇳

Even if you're a regular visitor, these Saint Kitts travel tips can save you stress:

• 🚫 No camouflage: Wearing camo is banned and could get you fined
• 🛥 Arriving by boat? Day-trippers don’t need an ETA, but overnight visitors do
• 📷 Print or save the QR code to avoid delays at the port or airport
• 💳 US dollars are accepted, but it's best to check exchange rates
• 🛬 No Uber or Bolt: Taxis only, and rates vary
• 💉 Yellow fever vaccine required if arriving from high-risk countries

"Customs asked for our printed ETAs even though we had them on our phones. Print a copy to be safe," warned Malik, a travel blogger from St. Maarten

Final checklist before your trip 🧳

The Saint Kitts and Nevis ETA might feel overkill for a weekend ferry, but it's now required for all overnight visits. Applying early can save you time at the port, ferry terminal, or airport. It helps you avoid any surprises. Whether it’s a beach weekend or a family visit, ensure your QR code is ready.

Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have questions about traveling to Saint Kitts and Nevis and the ETA application. Contact us anytime via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.