Get the Sint Maarten visa for US citizens

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Sint Maarten visa requirements for American citizens

US citizens do not currently need a visa to visit Sint Maarten for short stays of up to six months (180 days) for tourism or business. This six-month allowance is a specific provision for US and Dutch nationals, while most other visa-exempt travelers are limited to 90 days.

US travelers need one Sint Maarten entry document:

Sint Maarten ED Card: A mandatory online immigration form (Embarkation-Disembarkation Card) that must be completed before arrival. It replaced the paper-based system in late 2024 and is required for all visitors to receive the digital QR code necessary for immigration clearance at Princess Juliana International Airport.

General Sint Maarten entry requirements for US travelers are:

US passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date
Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
Evidence of sufficient financial means for the duration of the stay
Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or residential address)
Other supporting documents, depending on purpose/situation (e.g., business contact details or conference invitation)

Sint Maarten visa cost for American citizens

Sint Maarten Electronic Disembarkation (ED) Card

Prices starting from $59.99

Valid for 1 month after issued

Single entry

Stay up to 30 days per entry

Get it as fast as 15 minutes

Fast facts

Interview needed?

On a case-by-case basis (only for embassy visas)

When to apply?

At least a few weeks before travel

Documents required upon arrival?

Valid US passport (6+ months validity), Sint Maarten ED Card, confirmed return or onward flight ticket, accommodation details, proof of funds, supporting documents (if applicable)

How to apply for a Sint Maarten visa with iVisa

Complete your online application

Answer a few simple questions, determine whether you need the Sint Maarten ED Card or another Sint Maarten visa or document, pay securely, and upload your documents. You can save your progress and come back anytime.

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Verified Sint Maarten visa reviews

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June 22, 2025

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Sint Maarten visa FAQs

What American travelers commonly ask about Sint Maarten visas

Do US citizens need a visa for a vacation in Sint Maarten?

No. US citizens can enter Sint Maarten visa-free for tourism or business for up to six months (180 days) within a 365-day period. This is an extended allowance specifically for US and Dutch nationals; most other travelers are limited to 90 days. You only need a valid US passport and an approved digital entry document.

Is the Digital ED Card mandatory for every trip?

Yes. Since late 2024, the paper immigration form has been completely replaced by the Digital ED Card (Embarkation-Disembarkation Card). All US travelers, including infants, must complete this online before arrival. You’ll receive a digital QR code that must be presented to immigration officers at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) to gain entry.

Can I work in Sint Maarten while visiting under the 180-day rule?

No. The visa-free entry is strictly for non-remunerative purposes such as tourism or attending business meetings. To work legally, your employer must obtain an Employment Permit from the Department of Labor, and you must apply for a Residence Permit for work purposes. Unlike some other Caribbean islands, there’s no digital nomad visa that allows for remote work without a specific permit.

How do I stay in Sint Maarten for longer than six months?

If you wish to stay beyond the 180-day limit, you must apply for a Residence Permit at the Immigration and Border Protection (IBP) office. As a US citizen, you're permitted to wait for the decision on your permit while on the island, provided you submit the application before your initial 180-day legal stay expires. You’ll need to show proof of sufficient income, a clean criminal record, and medical insurance.

Do I need a separate visa to cross over to the French side (Saint Martin)?

No. There's no physical border or passport control between the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint Martin). Since US citizens are also visa-exempt for the French overseas collectivity for stays up to 90 days, your entry into the Dutch side effectively grants you access to the entire island. However, if you intend to stay permanently on the French side, you’d need to follow French immigration laws.