ED Card for Italian Citizens: Required for Sint Maarten

Italians traveling to Sint Maarten: Don't forget the mandatory ED Card

3 min read

Updated on Aug 19, 2025

Summary

Italian citizens must complete the ED Card before arriving in Sint Maarten, even if just transiting or arriving by boat.
Each traveler, including children, needs their own ED Card – group applications are possible with iVisa.
iVisa offers a seamless, Italian-language experience, with instant processing – unlike the sometimes buggy official site.

Planning an island getaway to Sint Maarten from Italy?

Before you pack your bags, there’s one thing Italian travelers shouldn’t forget: the Sint Maarten Electronic Disembarkation (ED) Card.

Here’s everything you need to know.

What is the Sint Maarten ED Card?

The Electronic Disembarkation (ED) Card is an online form required for travelers entering Sint Maarten.

It’s not a visa, but you’ll need to show it upon arrival.

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert:

"While the ED card isn’t required to board your flight, having it ready makes the immigration process much easier. Register before you travel to avoid delays upon arrival."

If you haven’t submitted it online, you can fill out a paper version at the airport – but that might mean standing in long queues.

Do Italian citizens need the ED Card?

Yes. If you’re traveling on an Italian passport and entering via the Dutch side of the island (Sint Maarten), you must complete the ED Card in advance – even if just transiting.

You’ll also need:

A passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay
A return or onward ticket
Details of your accommodation (hotel or private stay)
Proof of sufficient funds for the trip
If traveling with minors: a consent letter if one or both parents are not present

Do I need the ED Card for both Sint Maarten and Saint Martin?

The island is divided into two parts:

Sint Maarten: the southern, Dutch side
Saint Martin: the northern, French side

There’s no physical border control between the two, but they are governed separately and have different entry requirements.

✅ You need the ED Card	❌ You don’t need the ED Card
Arrive by air at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on the Dutch side	Fly directly to Grand Case–Espérance Airport (SFG) on the French side
Arrive by boat to Sint Maarten	Enter Saint Martin via ferry from a French territory
Transit through Sint Maarten to another destination	Cross the land border between the two sides

How to get your Sint Maarten ED Card online

Fill out your travel and personal details on the official government site or via iVisa or the mobile app
Upload a clear scan of your passport
Submit and receive your ED Card by email – typically instantly

Why apply with iVisa?

Feature	iVisa ✅	Do It Yourself ❌
No technical issues	✅	❌ Platform bugs common
Ready before landing	✅	❌ Risk of delays
Multilingual support (including Italian)	✅	❌ English only
24/7 customer service	✅	❌ Limited assistance

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, recommends:

"Changed or canceled flights? Don't worry – just submit a new ED Card with your updated info."

Questions about the Sint Maarten ED Card?

Need help? Our friendly team is available via WhatsApp or live chat.

Travel with peace of mind. Get your ED Card with iVisa and enjoy your stay in Sint Maarten without customs delays.

Femke Strietman

iVisa Senior Travel Reporter

Femke Strietman, our travel reporter from the Netherlands who now lives in vibrant London with her family, combines her global adventures and expertise in visa requirements to make travel accessible for everyone. Her extensive journeys through Asia, Southern Africa, Europe, and South America have equipped her with unparalleled insights into the nuances of global travel regulations.

Find out more about Femke Strietman