Get Your Sint Maarten Visa Online
Fast visa processing for Caribbean beaches, world-famous plane landings, and vibrant island culture
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Sint Maarten Visa
Simple 4-step process - most applications approved within 3-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our user-friendly application form with your personal details, travel dates, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent system validates your information against Dutch Caribbean immigration 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 Sint Maarten, and supporting documents based on your visa category. Our visa specialists review each document against Kingdom of the Netherlands immigration standards before submission.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to Sint Maarten Immigration. 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 from immigration authorities.
4
Receive your visa approval
Once approved, you'll receive your visa confirmation by email. Print the approval document and present it at Princess Juliana International Airport or any official port of entry along with your passport. Welcome to the friendly island of Sint Maarten!
Visa types needed for Sint Maarten (Dutch part)
Sint Maarten ED Card - 30 days, Single entry
The Sint Maarten (Dutch part) Travel Form provides access to beautiful beaches, famous Maho Beach planes, and duty-free shopping. Valid for 30 Days with single entry, this visa allows stays up to 30 days. Perfect for streamlined entry.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- 🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- 📸 Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
- ✈️ Flight Details: Arrival information
- 💳 Payment: Credit or debit card for fee
Important to know
- Maximum stay: 30 days per visit
- Complete before arrival
- Keep confirmation accessible
Sint Maarten Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
Single or multiple entry for beach holidays and island exploration
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial meetings and investment opportunities
Visa Exemption
Up to 90 days
Visa-free entry for many nationalities under Dutch rules
Transit Visa
Up to 48 hours
For travelers connecting through Sint Maarten
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 for your stay
- Travel insurance covering medical expenses
Visa Policy
Sint Maarten, a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, maintains visa policies aligned with Dutch Caribbean regulations while having its own immigration authority. The island shares the landmass with French Saint Martin, creating a unique dual-nation destination.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union member states, Australia, New Zealand, and many other countries can enter Sint Maarten without a visa for tourism stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This generous policy supports Sint Maarten's tourism-driven economy.
Visa Required Nationalities
Travelers from countries requiring a Caribbean visa must obtain authorization before arrival. This includes citizens from various Asian, African, and Middle Eastern nations. The application involves submitting documentation through authorized services like DoVisa. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days for standard applications.
Visa Requirements
Essential Documentation
All Sint Maarten 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 for entry stamps. The passport should be in good condition with clear photographs.
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, resort booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter from a resident if staying with friends or family.
Travel Itinerary: Confirmed round-trip flight tickets or evidence of onward travel. Cruise ship passengers should provide cruise itinerary documents.
Financial Evidence: Bank statements from the last 3 months demonstrating sufficient funds (approximately $150 USD per day of stay). Employment letter may also be requested.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical expenses and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.
Application Process
How to Apply for a Sint Maarten Visa
The visa application process for Sint Maarten is straightforward when you have the correct documentation:
Step 1 - Gather Documents: Collect all required documents including passport scans, photographs, accommodation proof, flight itineraries, and financial evidence. Ensure all documents are clear and legible.
Step 2 - Complete Application: Fill out the visa application form accurately. Provide complete information about your travel plans, employment, and purpose of visit. Incomplete applications cause delays.
Step 3 - Submit and Pay: Submit your application through DoVisa or directly to a Dutch diplomatic mission. Pay the applicable visa fee using secure payment methods.
Step 4 - Processing: Standard processing takes 3-5 business days. During peak cruise season (November-April) or around major events, allow extra time.
Step 5 - Receive Visa: Once approved, your visa will be sent electronically or stamped in your passport. Print electronic approvals for presentation at immigration.
Travel Tips
Entry Points and Immigration
Sint Maarten visas are valid at all official entry points:
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM): The main international gateway, famous worldwide for its spectacular runway approach over Maho Beach where planes fly just meters above sunbathers. Major hub for Caribbean travel serving flights from North America, Europe, and regional destinations.
Cruise Ship Port: The Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise Terminal in Philipsburg welcomes over 1.5 million cruise passengers annually, making Sint Maarten one of the busiest cruise ports in the Caribbean.
Simpson Bay Ferry Terminal: For ferry connections to neighboring islands including Anguilla and St. Barths.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from December to April offers ideal weather with minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures (25-30 degrees Celsius). This coincides with peak tourist and cruise season, so book accommodations early. The wet season (June-November) brings occasional showers and lower prices, though hurricane season peaks August-October. Heineken Regatta in March and Carnival in April are major events worth planning around.
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 |
1,200+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"DoVisa made getting my Sint Maarten visa incredibly easy! The process was smooth and my visa arrived in just 3 days. Watching planes land at Maho Beach was unforgettable!"
"Excellent service for our cruise stop. The document checklist was comprehensive and the support team answered all our questions promptly. Highly recommend!"
"Professional service throughout. Had some questions about the dual-island requirements and the team was very helpful in clarifying everything."
"Second time using DoVisa for Caribbean trips. Always reliable and efficient. The duty-free shopping in Philipsburg was amazing!"
"Was worried about the visa process but DoVisa made it stress-free. Application was straightforward and approval came quickly. Beautiful island!"
"Good experience overall. Processing took 4 days but the tracking feature kept me well informed. Would definitely use again for future travels."
"Family vacation planned perfectly thanks to DoVisa. They processed all five of our applications together without any issues. Great beaches!"
"Straightforward process with clear instructions. The online form was easy to complete. Loved exploring both the Dutch and French sides!"
"Business trip arranged at short notice. DoVisa expedited my application and I had approval in 2 days. Impressive and professional service!"
"The best visa service I have used. Fast, reliable, and the customer support was exceptional when I needed help with my documents."
"Very satisfied with the service. Minor delay due to high season but DoVisa kept me updated throughout. Sint Maarten exceeded expectations!"
"Quick and easy application process. Got my visa approved faster than expected. The Heineken Regatta was spectacular! Will use DoVisa again."
Sint Maarten Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Sint Maarten?
Sint Maarten offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for holidays, beach vacations, and exploring the island. Business visa permits commercial activities including meetings, conferences, and investment exploration for up to 90 days. Transit visa allows stays up to 48 hours for travelers passing through to other Caribbean destinations. Work permit is required for foreign nationals seeking employment with Sint Maarten companies. The appropriate visa depends on your travel purpose, duration, and nationality.
Do I need a visa to visit Sint Maarten?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Visa-free entry is available for citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union member states, Australia, New Zealand, and many other countries for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visa required nationalities include citizens of various Asian, African, and Middle Eastern countries. As a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Sint Maarten follows Dutch Caribbean visa policies. We recommend verifying current requirements for your specific nationality before travel.
What documents are required for a Sint Maarten visa?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond arrival with minimum 2 blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background); completed visa application form; proof of accommodation in Sint Maarten. Tourist visa additional requirements: Round-trip flight itinerary; bank statements showing sufficient funds (approximately $150 USD per day); travel insurance covering medical expenses. Business visa additional requirements: Invitation letter from Sint Maarten company; employer support letter; company registration documents. All documents should be clear scans in PDF or JPEG format.
How long does Sint Maarten visa processing take?
Standard visa processing for Sint Maarten takes 3-5 business days for most applications. Factors affecting processing time: Peak cruise season (November-April) may experience higher volumes; major events like Heineken Regatta or Carnival can slow processing; incomplete applications cause delays; additional verification requirements for certain nationalities. Expedited processing: Urgent applications may be accommodated for an additional fee. Recommendations: Apply at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date; ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
Can I extend my stay in Sint Maarten?
Yes, visitors can extend their stay in Sint Maarten. Extension process: Apply at the Immigration Department in Philipsburg before your current authorization expires. Required documents include valid passport, completed extension form, proof of accommodation for extended stay, proof of sufficient funds, and the extension fee. Maximum stay: Tourist stays can typically be extended up to a total of 90 days within a 180-day period. Important: Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at immigration discretion. Overstaying without proper authorization can result in fines and future visa difficulties.
What is the best time to visit Sint Maarten?
Dry season (December-April): The most popular time to visit with sunny skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures ranging from 25-30 degrees Celsius. This coincides with peak cruise season with higher prices and busier beaches. Wet season (May-November): Occasional afternoon showers, lush green landscapes, and significantly lower prices. Hurricane season peaks August-October. Special events: Heineken Regatta in March attracts sailing enthusiasts worldwide; Carnival in April features parades, music, and celebrations; St. Maarten Day on November 11 commemorates the island's discovery.
What are the entry points for Sint Maarten?
Sint Maarten accepts visitors at several official entry points. Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM): The main international gateway, famous for its spectacular runway approach over Maho Beach. Major hub serving flights from North America, Europe, and Caribbean destinations. Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise Terminal: Philipsburg's cruise port welcomes over 1.5 million passengers annually. Simpson Bay Ferry Terminal: For ferry connections to Anguilla, St. Barths, and other nearby islands. Immigration processing is available at all official entry points.
Can I work in Sint Maarten with a tourist visa?
No, working in Sint Maarten with a tourist visa is strictly prohibited. Tourist visas permit only leisure activities including vacationing, sightseeing, visiting friends and family, and attending cultural or sporting events. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings and negotiations but do not permit paid employment. Legal employment requires a work permit obtained with sponsorship from a Sint Maarten employer who must demonstrate the position cannot be filled locally. Penalties for working illegally include fines, deportation, and future entry bans.
Do children need their own visa for Sint Maarten?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own visa if one is needed for their nationality. There are no family visas or provisions for children traveling on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 3+ months validity; passport-sized photograph meeting adult specifications; completed visa application with child's details; parental/guardian consent documentation if traveling with only one parent or without parents. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own.
Is Sint Maarten safe for tourists?
Sint Maarten is generally considered safe for tourists and welcomes millions of visitors annually. Safe areas: Tourist areas including resorts, beaches, Philipsburg, and Maho Beach are well-maintained and secure. Practical precautions: Standard travel safety applies - secure valuables in hotel safes; don't display expensive jewelry openly; avoid isolated areas after dark; use licensed taxis. Health considerations: No major health risks; bottled water recommended; dengue fever prevention (use insect repellent); comprehensive travel insurance recommended.
What currency is used in Sint Maarten?
The official currency is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), though the US Dollar is widely accepted and often preferred throughout the island. Most prices are quoted in USD for convenience. Card acceptance: Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs: Available throughout Philipsburg and major tourist areas, dispensing both ANG and USD. Duty-free shopping: Philipsburg is famous for duty-free shopping with competitive prices on jewelry, electronics, and liquor.
What if my Sint Maarten visa is rejected?
Sint Maarten visa rejections are relatively uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation; passport validity issues; unclear photographs; insufficient proof of funds; previous immigration violations; concerns about purpose of visit. If rejected: You'll receive notification of the unsuccessful application. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing potential issues - there's no mandatory waiting period. Prevention strategies: Ensure documents are complete and clear; verify passport validity (3+ months); provide comprehensive travel itinerary. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees.
Can I visit the French side (Saint Martin) with my Sint Maarten visa?
Sint Maarten (Dutch) and Saint Martin (French) share the same island with an open border. No border controls: There are no checkpoints between the Dutch and French sides, allowing free movement across the island. Visa requirements differ: However, entry requirements are determined by your first point of arrival. If you arrive at Princess Juliana Airport (Dutch side), you follow Dutch Caribbean rules. If arriving at Grand Case Airport (French side), French/Schengen rules apply. Recommendation: Verify visa requirements for both sides based on your nationality to ensure smooth travel across the entire island.
What languages are spoken in Sint Maarten?
Dutch and English are official languages of Sint Maarten, with English being the most widely spoken in daily life and tourism. All government services, signage, menus, and tourist information are available in English. Spanish and Papiamento: Also spoken by portions of the population due to Caribbean regional connections. French: Commonly heard, especially near the border with French Saint Martin. Communication for tourists: You will have no language barriers in Sint Maarten as English is universally understood.
What are the top attractions in Sint Maarten?
Maho Beach: World-famous for planes landing directly overhead at Princess Juliana Airport - a unique and thrilling experience. Philipsburg: The capital offers duty-free shopping on Front Street, historical sites, and Great Bay Beach. Orient Bay: Beautiful beach on the French side known for water sports and beach clubs. Simpson Bay Lagoon: One of the largest lagoons in the Caribbean, perfect for sailing and yachting. Activities: Snorkeling and diving; catamaran cruises; zip-lining; casino entertainment; beach hopping between 37 beaches.
Do I need travel insurance for Sint Maarten?
While travel insurance is not strictly mandatory for all visitors, it is strongly recommended. Recommended coverage: Medical expenses and emergency evacuation (important as serious conditions may require transport to larger facilities); trip cancellation and interruption; lost baggage and personal belongings; travel delays. Hurricane season consideration: If traveling June-November, ensure your policy covers natural disasters and trip interruptions. Cost: Travel insurance is relatively inexpensive compared to potential out-of-pocket medical costs. DoVisa recommends purchasing comprehensive coverage for all international travel.
What is the climate like in Sint Maarten?
Sint Maarten enjoys a tropical maritime climate with warm temperatures year-round. Temperature: Average temperatures range from 25-30 degrees Celsius throughout the year, with cooling trade winds providing natural comfort. Dry season (December-April): Minimal rainfall, lower humidity, and the most comfortable conditions for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Wet season (May-November): Brief afternoon showers, lush vegetation, and vibrant landscapes. Rain rarely disrupts activities for long. Hurricane season: August-October carries highest risk. The island has rebuilt stronger since Hurricane Irma in 2017.
How do I get around Sint Maarten?
Rental cars: The most popular option for exploring both the Dutch and French sides. Drive on the right side. Valid driver's license from your home country accepted. Taxis: Available at the airport, cruise terminal, and throughout tourist areas. Fares are fixed for common routes. Public buses: Affordable minibuses run between Philipsburg and major areas. Water taxis: Connect various beaches and the French side. Ferry services: Regular departures to Anguilla, St. Barths, and Saba from Simpson Bay. Note: The island is small (37 square miles) and can be circumnavigated in under an hour by car.
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