Get Your Caribbean Netherlands Visa Online
Fast visa processing for world-class diving, volcanic hiking, and untouched Caribbean beauty
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Caribbean Netherlands Visa
Simple 4-step process - most applications approved within 3-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and accommodation information. Our intelligent system guides you through each section, ensuring your application meets Dutch Caribbean immigration requirements for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, or Saba.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance. Our visa specialists review every document against Netherlands immigration standards before submission to minimize delays.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is transmitted to Dutch Caribbean immigration authorities. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, additional document requests, or status changes via email and SMS notifications.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved visa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly and present it at immigration upon arrival at Flamingo International Airport (Bonaire), F.D. Roosevelt Airport (Eustatius), or Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport (Saba). Welcome to the Caribbean Netherlands!
Caribbean Netherlands Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Visa Exemption
Up to 90 days
Visa-free entry for EU, US, UK, Canada, and many other nationalities
Short-Stay Visa
Up to 90 days
For tourism, diving holidays, and visiting friends or family
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities, meetings, and professional purposes
Transit Visa
Up to 5 days
For travelers transiting through the Caribbean Netherlands islands
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or accommodation confirmation
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds (USD 1,000 per week minimum)
- Travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation
Visa Policy
The Caribbean Netherlands consists of three special municipalities of the Netherlands: Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba (collectively known as the BES islands). These islands follow Dutch visa regulations but have specific entry requirements distinct from mainland Netherlands.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many other countries enjoy visa-free access to the Caribbean Netherlands for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to all three islands with the same conditions.
Visa Required
Travelers from countries not covered by visa exemption agreements must obtain a Caribbean visa in advance. This is processed through the Netherlands embassy or consulate in your country of residence, or through authorized visa services like DoVisa. Processing typically takes 10-15 business days.
Entry Requirements
Documentation for All Visitors
Regardless of visa status, all travelers to the Caribbean Netherlands must present:
Passport Requirements: Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond your intended departure date and minimum 2 blank pages. Machine-readable passports are required.
Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel reservations, dive resort booking, vacation rental agreement, or invitation letter from a resident. For diving trips, many operators provide accommodation packages.
Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay - generally USD 1,000 per week minimum. Bank statements, credit card statements, or employer letters are accepted.
Return Ticket: Confirmed return or onward flight booking. One-way tickets may result in denied boarding or entry.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical emergencies and repatriation is strongly recommended and may be required.
Island-Specific Information
Bonaire
The largest and most visited of the BES islands, Bonaire is renowned as a world-class diving destination. The entire coastline is a protected marine park. Entry is via Flamingo International Airport (BON) with direct flights from Amsterdam, Miami, and regional Caribbean hubs. A mandatory tourist tax of USD 75 applies to all visitors.
Sint Eustatius (Statia)
A small, historically significant island with the ruins of what was once the Caribbean's busiest port. F.D. Roosevelt Airport (EUX) serves the island with connections through Sint Maarten. Known for excellent diving and hiking the Quill volcano crater.
Saba
The smallest and most dramatic island, Saba is an extinct volcano rising steeply from the sea. Home to the shortest commercial runway in the world at Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport (SAB). Famous for world-class hiking including Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Travel Tips
Getting There
Bonaire has the most international connections with direct flights from Amsterdam (KLM), Miami, and Atlanta. Sint Eustatius and Saba are reached via connecting flights from Sint Maarten (SXM) or Bonaire. Winair operates small aircraft between the islands.
Currency and Payments
The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency of all three BES islands. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, dive shops, and restaurants, though smaller establishments may prefer cash. ATMs are available on Bonaire and Sint Eustatius but limited on Saba.
Best Time to Visit
The islands enjoy year-round warm weather with temperatures averaging 27-30 degrees Celsius. The dry season from February to June offers the best weather. Being south of the hurricane belt, the islands rarely experience major storms, making them a safe year-round destination.
Health and Safety
No vaccinations are required. Tap water is safe on all islands. The BES islands have very low crime rates and are considered extremely safe for tourists. Hyperbaric chambers are available on Bonaire for diving emergencies.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
98%Approval rate
"Applied for my Caribbean Netherlands visa to go diving in Bonaire. The process was incredibly smooth and I had my approval in just 4 days. The reef diving was absolutely spectacular!"
"DoVisa made the visa process simple for our trip to all three BES islands. Great communication throughout. Saba was the highlight - incredible hiking!"
"Good service overall. Had some questions about the tourist tax and the support team was helpful. Bonaire exceeded all expectations for diving."
"First time visiting the Dutch Caribbean and DoVisa handled everything perfectly. The flamingos in Bonaire were amazing to see!"
"Straightforward application process. Took about a week for approval which was within the timeframe they quoted. Sint Eustatius was wonderfully quiet."
"Excellent experience! The team even reminded me about the mandatory travel insurance requirement. Highly recommend for any Caribbean Netherlands trip."
"Used DoVisa for our diving honeymoon to Bonaire. Everything went smoothly and the shore diving was world-class. Will definitely use again!"
"Helpful customer service when I had questions about visiting multiple islands. The visa covers all three which is convenient."
Caribbean Netherlands Visa FAQs
What is the Caribbean Netherlands and which islands does it include?
The Caribbean Netherlands (also called the BES islands) consists of three special municipalities of the Netherlands: Bonaire, Sint Eustatius (Statia), and Saba. Unlike Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten which are autonomous countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the BES islands are directly part of the Netherlands proper since 2010. They use the US Dollar as currency and follow Dutch law while maintaining their unique Caribbean character.
Do I need a visa to visit the Caribbean Netherlands?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Visa-free entry for up to 90 days is available for citizens of the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries. Visa required for citizens of countries not covered by exemption agreements, including many African, Asian, and Middle Eastern nations. Check your specific nationality requirements before travel. Note that Caribbean Netherlands visas are separate from Schengen visas.
What types of visas are available for the Caribbean Netherlands?
The Caribbean Netherlands offers several visa categories: Short-Stay Visa for tourism, diving, and visiting friends or family with stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Business Visa for commercial activities, meetings, and professional purposes up to 90 days. Transit Visa for travelers connecting through the islands up to 5 days. Long-Stay Visa for those planning to reside, work, or study for more than 90 days - requires additional documentation and employer sponsorship for work purposes.
What documents are required for a Caribbean Netherlands visa?
Essential documents for all visa applications include: Valid passport with 3+ months validity beyond departure and 2 blank pages; recent passport photograph (35x45mm, white background); completed application form; proof of accommodation (hotel booking, dive resort, or invitation letter); return or onward flight tickets; proof of sufficient funds (minimum USD 1,000 per week); comprehensive travel insurance. Business visas additionally require an invitation letter from the BES island company and proof of business purpose.
How long can I stay in the Caribbean Netherlands?
Visa-free visitors and short-stay visa holders can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies across all three islands combined - visiting Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius counts as one continuous stay. Extensions are possible through the local government office but must be applied for before your current authorization expires. For stays exceeding 90 days, you need a long-stay visa and potentially a residence permit.
Can I extend my Caribbean Netherlands visa?
Yes, extensions are possible but must be requested before your current stay expires. Where to apply: The local government office (Openbaar Lichaam) on whichever island you are staying. Requirements: Valid passport, current visa or entry stamp, proof of continued accommodation, proof of funds, travel insurance, and the extension fee. Processing: Allow at least 2 weeks for processing. Maximum stay: Total short-stay cannot exceed 180 days per year. For longer stays, consider a long-stay visa.
Can I work in the Caribbean Netherlands on a tourist visa?
No, tourist and short-stay visas do not permit employment in the Caribbean Netherlands. Allowed activities: Tourism, diving, hiking, visiting friends and family, attending meetings as a visitor. Not permitted: Paid employment, operating a business, providing professional services. To work legally: You need a work permit (tewerkstellingsvergunning) sponsored by a BES island employer, plus a long-stay visa and residence permit. Volunteers: Some volunteer activities may be permitted with proper documentation.
Do I need to print my Caribbean Netherlands visa?
Yes, you should print your visa approval on A4 paper and carry it with your passport when traveling. Immigration officers will check your visa documentation upon arrival at Flamingo International Airport (Bonaire), F.D. Roosevelt Airport (Sint Eustatius), or Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport (Saba). Keep a digital backup on your phone as well, but the printed copy is essential for immigration processing.
How long does Caribbean Netherlands visa processing take?
Processing times vary by application type and location. Online applications through DoVisa: Standard processing takes 5-10 business days; expedited processing may be available for urgent cases. Embassy applications: Typically 10-15 business days. Factors affecting speed: Completeness of application, peak travel seasons, additional document requests, and background checks. We recommend applying at least 3-4 weeks before travel to allow for any potential delays.
What if my Caribbean Netherlands visa is rejected?
Visa rejections are uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation, insufficient proof of funds, missing travel insurance, concerns about immigration intent, or previous visa violations. If rejected: You will receive a letter explaining the decision. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the specific concerns. Appeal: Formal appeals are possible through the Netherlands immigration authority but can take several months. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund and complimentary reapplication assistance.
What is the best time to visit the Caribbean Netherlands?
The BES islands enjoy excellent weather year-round. Best season (February-June): Driest period with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures around 27-30 degrees Celsius. Ideal for diving with excellent visibility. Green season (October-January): Slightly more rain, lush vegetation, good diving conditions. Hurricane season: The islands are located south of the main hurricane belt and rarely experience major storms, making them among the safest Caribbean destinations year-round. Diving: Excellent throughout the year; visibility best in dry season.
Are there any vaccination requirements for the Caribbean Netherlands?
No vaccinations are mandatory for most travelers. Yellow fever exception: A vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. Recommended vaccinations: Routine vaccines should be up to date including MMR, tetanus-diphtheria, and COVID-19. Hepatitis A recommended for all travelers. Health precautions: Use sunscreen and stay hydrated; tap water is safe on all islands; mosquito repellent advisable. Bonaire has a hyperbaric chamber for diving emergencies.
How do I travel between Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba?
Inter-island flights are the primary way to travel between the BES islands. Winair operates small aircraft connecting the islands, usually via Sint Maarten. Bonaire to Saba/Statia: Typically requires connecting through Sint Maarten or Curacao. Flight times: 20-45 minutes between islands. Note: There are no ferry services between the islands due to distance and sea conditions. Luggage: Small aircraft have weight limits, so pack light for island-hopping.
What currency is used in the Caribbean Netherlands?
The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency of all three BES islands since 2011. Payment methods: Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted at hotels, dive shops, and restaurants; some smaller establishments prefer cash. ATMs: Available on Bonaire and Sint Eustatius; very limited on Saba - bring sufficient cash. Exchange: No need to exchange money if you have US Dollars. Euros may be accepted at some businesses but at unfavorable rates. Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants if not included.
Is Bonaire good for diving and what are the requirements?
Bonaire is considered one of the world's top diving destinations, particularly famous for shore diving. Marine Park: The entire coastline is protected; all divers must purchase a marine park tag (USD 45/year) before diving. Shore diving: Over 80 marked dive sites accessible directly from shore - unique worldwide. Certification: Proof of dive certification required at all operators. Equipment: Rental widely available; many visitors bring their own. Best conditions: Year-round diving with water temperatures 26-29 degrees Celsius and visibility often exceeding 30 meters.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help 24/7Ready to Explore the Caribbean Netherlands?
From world-class diving in Bonaire to volcanic hiking on Saba - your Dutch Caribbean adventure awaits
Apply NowOr apply via our mobile app
