Get Your St. Barthelemy Visa Online
Fast visa processing for luxury beach getaways, sailing adventures, and exclusive Caribbean experiences
TrustpilotHow to Get Your St. Barthelemy 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 dates, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent system validates your information against French overseas territory requirements, ensuring accuracy and reducing the risk of delays or rejections.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan showing the bio page clearly, a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation in St. Barthelemy, and supporting documents based on your visa category. Our visa specialists review each document against French overseas immigration standards before submission.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to the French authorities responsible for St. Barthelemy. We monitor processing status closely and communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes promptly via email. Our team handles all follow-up queries.
4
Receive your visa approval
Once approved, you will receive your visa confirmation by email. Print the approval document and present it at Gustaf III Airport along with your passport. Prepare to experience the Caribbean's most glamorous island destination!
St. Barthelemy Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For beach holidays, sailing, and luxury island experiences
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial meetings and luxury property investments
Visa Exemption
Up to 90 days
Visa-free entry for EU, US, and many nationalities
Transit Visa
Up to 5 days
For travelers connecting through St. Barthelemy
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel or villa booking confirmation required
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel insurance with medical coverage recommended
Visa Policy
St. Barthelemy (Saint-Barthelemy) is a French overseas collectivity in the Caribbean that follows French visa regulations but is not part of the Schengen Area. This distinction is important for travelers planning visits to this exclusive island destination.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the European Union, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and many other countries can enter St. Barthelemy without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The island's generous visa policy supports its thriving luxury tourism industry.
Visa Required Nationalities
Travelers from countries requiring a visa for French overseas territories must obtain a French Overseas Territory Visa before arrival. This is separate from a Schengen visa and specifically covers St. Barthelemy, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana. Processing typically takes 5-15 business days through French consulates or authorized visa services like DoVisa.
Visa Requirements
Essential Documentation
All St. Barthelemy visa applicants must provide the following core documents:
Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date with minimum two blank pages. This differs from Schengen requirements which mandate 6 months validity.
Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months. Photo must show full face with neutral expression.
Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservation, villa rental agreement, or invitation letter from a resident. Given St. Barthelemy's exclusive nature, luxury villa rentals are common.
Travel Itinerary: Confirmed round-trip flight tickets. Most visitors arrive via Gustaf III Airport from St. Maarten or other Caribbean hubs.
Financial Evidence: Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds. St. Barthelemy is an expensive destination - budget approximately 500 EUR per day.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical expenses is strongly recommended.
Special Considerations
Not Part of Schengen Area
A crucial point many travelers miss: St. Barthelemy is NOT in the Schengen Zone despite being French territory. This means:
Schengen visa holders cannot automatically enter St. Barthelemy. A separate French Overseas Territory visa may be required depending on nationality.
French Overseas Territory Visa covers St. Barthelemy, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana but is distinct from a Schengen visa.
Time spent in St. Barthelemy does not count toward your 90/180 Schengen limit, which can be advantageous for extended European trips.
Swedish Heritage
St. Barthelemy was a Swedish colony from 1784 to 1878, which explains Gustavia's name (after Swedish King Gustav III) and the Swedish influences visible throughout the island. Today, French is the official language, with English widely spoken in tourism areas.
Celebrity Destination
St. Barthelemy is renowned as a celebrity and billionaire retreat. Visitors should expect premium pricing and an exclusive atmosphere throughout the island.
Travel Tips
Entry Points and Immigration
St. Barthelemy has limited access points due to its small size and challenging terrain:
Gustaf III Airport (SBH): The island's only airport features one of the world's shortest commercial runways at just 650 meters. Only small aircraft can land here, typically arriving from St. Maarten (SXM), San Juan, or other nearby islands. The dramatic landing approach is famous among aviation enthusiasts.
Ferry Service: Regular ferries connect St. Barthelemy to St. Maarten (approximately 45 minutes to Gustavia). This is a popular alternative for travelers who prefer to avoid the challenging airport landing.
Private Yacht: Gustavia harbor welcomes private vessels and superyachts. Port clearance and immigration formalities can be completed at the harbor.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from December to May offers ideal weather with minimal rainfall and temperatures around 27-30 degrees Celsius. This coincides with peak season when celebrities, royalty, and discerning travelers flock to the island. The New Year period is particularly exclusive. Hurricane season runs June to November, though September and October carry the highest risk.
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 |
500+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"DoVisa helped us secure visas for our honeymoon in St. Barth. The process was seamless and the island exceeded every expectation. Absolutely magical!"
"Excellent service for our annual New Year trip to St. Barthelemy. The team understood the urgency and delivered quickly. Shell Beach was stunning as always."
"Very helpful with explaining the difference between Schengen and French overseas territory visas. Clear communication throughout the process."
"Third time using DoVisa for Caribbean travel. Consistent, reliable service. The landing at Gustaf III Airport was thrilling - definitely worth the trip!"
"Good experience overall. Processing took about a week but the tracking feature kept me informed. St. Barth is truly paradise for those who can afford it."
"Business trip to view luxury properties went smoothly thanks to DoVisa's efficient service. Gustavia is charming and the beaches are world-class."
"Family charter yacht trip to St. Barthelemy was made possible by DoVisa's quick turnaround. The Swedish architecture in Gustavia is fascinating!"
"Straightforward application process. The team was knowledgeable about French overseas territory requirements. Saline Beach was incredible."
"Outstanding customer service when I had questions about visa validity. St. Barth in spring was quieter and equally beautiful. Highly recommend DoVisa!"
"Professional service with good communication. The island is expensive but absolutely worth it. DoVisa made the visa part easy."
"Perfect for our February escape. DoVisa handled everything efficiently. The boutique shopping in Gustavia is incredible!"
St. Barthelemy Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for St. Barthelemy?
St. Barthelemy offers several visa categories for travelers. Tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for beach holidays, sailing, and exploring the island. Business visa permits commercial activities including meetings, property viewings, and investment discussions. Transit visa covers short stays for travelers connecting through St. Barthelemy to other destinations. Long-stay visa is required for stays exceeding 90 days, including property owners planning extended visits. The appropriate visa type depends on your travel purpose, duration, and nationality.
Do I need a visa to visit St. Barthelemy?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Visa-free entry is available for citizens of the European Union, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visa required nationalities include citizens of many African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries who must obtain a French Overseas Territory visa before arrival. Importantly, a Schengen visa does not grant entry to St. Barthelemy as it is not part of the Schengen Area.
Is St. Barthelemy part of the Schengen Area?
No, St. Barthelemy is not part of the Schengen Area despite being French territory. This is a crucial distinction for visa planning. A Schengen visa does not automatically permit entry to St. Barthelemy. Travelers requiring a visa must obtain a specific French Overseas Territory visa which covers St. Barthelemy along with Martinique, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana. Time spent in St. Barthelemy does not count toward your Schengen 90/180 day limit, which can be advantageous for travelers planning extended European trips.
What documents are required for a St. Barthelemy visa?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure with minimum 2 blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background); completed visa application form; proof of accommodation in St. Barthelemy. Tourist visa additional requirements: Round-trip flight or ferry itinerary; bank statements showing sufficient funds (approximately 500 EUR per day given the island's premium prices); travel insurance covering medical expenses. Business visa additional requirements: Invitation letter from St. Barthelemy company or property agent; employer support letter; business registration documents.
How long does St. Barthelemy visa processing take?
Standard visa processing for St. Barthelemy takes 5-15 business days for most applications through French consulates. Factors affecting processing time: Peak tourist season (December-April) may experience higher volumes; holiday periods including Christmas and New Year see increased applications; incomplete documentation causes delays. Recommendations: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date; ensure all documents are complete and accurate; respond promptly to any requests for additional information. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps identify potential issues before they cause delays.
Can I extend my stay in St. Barthelemy?
Extensions for short-stay visas in St. Barthelemy are generally not permitted under normal circumstances. The 90-day limit within a 180-day period is strictly enforced. Options for longer stays: If you wish to stay beyond 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa before arrival. Property owners and frequent visitors often obtain long-stay visas or residence permits through the French authorities. Important: Overstaying your visa authorization can result in fines, deportation, and future visa difficulties for all French territories.
What is the best time to visit St. Barthelemy?
Dry season (December-May): The most popular time to visit with sunny skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures around 27-30 degrees Celsius. This is peak season when celebrities and discerning travelers visit, with the highest prices and busiest period around New Year. Shoulder season (June-July, November): Fewer crowds and lower prices while still enjoying pleasant weather. Hurricane season (August-October): The wettest period with risk of tropical storms. Many establishments close for renovation. Special events: St. Barth Music Festival in January, Carnival in February, and the renowned New Year celebrations attract visitors worldwide.
How do I get to St. Barthelemy?
By air: Gustaf III Airport (SBH) has one of the world's shortest commercial runways at 650 meters. Only small aircraft (typically 19 seats or fewer) can land here. Most visitors connect through Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten, with multiple daily flights to St. Barth. Direct connections also available from San Juan, Antigua, and other Caribbean islands. By ferry: Regular ferry service from St. Maarten takes approximately 45 minutes to Gustavia. This is popular for those preferring to avoid the challenging airport landing. By private yacht: Gustavia harbor welcomes private vessels year-round.
Can I work in St. Barthelemy with a tourist visa?
No, working in St. Barthelemy with a tourist visa is strictly prohibited. Tourist visas permit only leisure activities including vacationing, beach activities, sailing, and dining. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings and property viewings but do not permit paid employment. Legal employment requires a work visa and French work authorization obtained before arrival. Given St. Barthelemy's small size and luxury focus, most employment is in hospitality, retail, and property management sectors. Penalties for working illegally include deportation and entry bans.
What currency is used in St. Barthelemy?
The official currency is the Euro (EUR) as St. Barthelemy is French territory. US Dollars are widely accepted at shops, restaurants, and hotels given the island's proximity to US visitors, though change is typically given in Euros. Card acceptance: Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted at most establishments. Some smaller vendors may prefer cash. ATMs: Available in Gustavia and St. Jean. Costs: St. Barthelemy is one of the Caribbean's most expensive destinations. Budget at least 400-600 EUR per day for accommodation, dining, and activities.
Is St. Barthelemy safe for tourists?
St. Barthelemy is considered one of the safest Caribbean destinations. The island has very low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere for international visitors. General safety: Tourist areas, beaches, and Gustavia are extremely safe. The exclusive nature of the island and small population contribute to security. Practical considerations: Standard precautions apply - secure valuables in hotel safes; the main hazard is sun exposure. Health: Excellent healthcare facilities available; tap water is safe to drink; no major health risks. Emergency services: French emergency services are well-established on the island.
What if my St. Barthelemy visa is rejected?
St. Barthelemy visa rejections are uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation; insufficient proof of funds for this expensive destination; unclear travel purpose; previous immigration issues in French territories. If rejected: You will receive notification explaining the reason. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues - there is no mandatory waiting period. Appeal process: Formal appeals can be lodged through French administrative channels. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees.
What languages are spoken in St. Barthelemy?
French is the official language of St. Barthelemy. All government services, signage, and official communications are in French. English is widely spoken in tourism areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to international visitors. Most service staff are bilingual. Swedish heritage: While St. Barthelemy was Swedish from 1784-1878, Swedish is no longer commonly spoken, though the influence remains in place names like Gustavia and some architectural features. For tourists: You will have no difficulty navigating St. Barthelemy with English, though basic French phrases are appreciated.
What are the top attractions in St. Barthelemy?
Beaches: St. Jean Beach (great for plane watching), Shell Beach (unique shell-covered sand), Saline Beach (natural and unspoiled), Colombier Beach (accessible by boat or hike), Gouverneur Beach (secluded paradise). Gustavia: The charming capital features Swedish colonial architecture, boutique shopping, waterfront restaurants, and the Swedish Bell Tower. Activities: Sailing and yachting, snorkeling, diving, hiking to Colombier Beach, shopping at designer boutiques, fine dining at Michelin-worthy restaurants. Cultural sites: Wall House Museum, Inter Oceans Museum, Anglican Church.
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