Do you need a passport for St. Martin?

Upon arrival in Sint Maarten, you must have: a U.S. passport valid for the duration of your stay; a completed Embarkation and Disembarkation Card (ED-Card). You can complete the ED-Card on the airplane en route to Sint Maarten or in advance by using ED-Card Online.



Whether you need a passport for St. Martin depends on your nationality and how you arrive. For U.S. Citizens arriving by air, a valid passport is strictly required to enter Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). Although the island is split between the French side (Saint-Martin) and the Dutch side (Sint Maarten), it is an international destination and does not fall under the same "domestic" rules as Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you are a U.S. Citizen on a closed-loop cruise (beginning and ending at the same U.S. port), you may technically be allowed to go ashore with an original birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID, but a passport is still strongly recommended in case of an emergency that requires you to fly home. For 2026 travelers from most other countries, a passport valid for at least six months is standard, and some may require a Schengen visa for the French side or a Caribbean visa for the Dutch side depending on their country of citizenship.

People Also Ask

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements Upon arrival in Sint Maarten, you must have: a U.S. passport valid for the duration of your stay; a completed Embarkation and Disembarkation Card (ED-Card).

MORE DETAILS

U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel between the U.S. and these territories:
  • American Samoa.
  • Guam.
  • Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
  • Puerto Rico.
  • U.S. Virgin Islands.


MORE DETAILS

U.S. and Canadian citizens must have a passport or a combination of a birth certificate and photo ID, plus a return or ongoing ticket, to enter St. Maarten/St.

MORE DETAILS

Why the two spellings? Well, this 37-square-mile-island is governed by both France and the Netherlands. The French side of the island refers to itself as Saint Martin, while the Dutch side is known as Sint Maarten.

MORE DETAILS

At a Glance: Yes, you need a passport to go to Cancun, Mexico from the United States. When traveling by air, a valid passport is required, along with a completed Multiple Migratory Form (FMM).

MORE DETAILS

The most relevant documentation to travel to Punta Cana is the passport, which must be valid, at least for a period of six months from the date of your entry. Also, two blank sheets are required to seal both the entrance and the exit.

MORE DETAILS

Is St Maarten safe to travel alone? Yes, St Maarten is generally considered safe to travel alone. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to research the area before you travel and take the necessary safety precautions.

MORE DETAILS

The legal drinking age on St. Maarten/St. Martin is 18 years.

MORE DETAILS

Maarten is one of the world's most stunning islands. Thousands of tourists return to the island year after year, basking in the bright Caribbean sun and clear turquoise waters. St. Maarten is a true tropical paradise, combining vibrant island culture with elegant European charm.

MORE DETAILS

Dutch Sint Maarten The Dutch side of the island is more developed. There are more amenities and services available, traffic tends to be heavier and the atmosphere is more animated, with a steadier flow of tourists who are more likely to be looking for a party atmosphere.

MORE DETAILS

Currently, the island is divided into Sint Maarten (the southern half of the island, part of the Netherlands) and the Collectivity of Saint Martin (the northern half of the island, part of France).

MORE DETAILS

Most visits to the Dutch Caribbean are trouble-free. However, petty theft and street crime occur. There is violent crime amongst members of the illegal drugs world, but this rarely affects tourists. The main tourist areas are generally safe, but you should take sensible precautions.

MORE DETAILS

The dry season, from December to April, is the most pleasant. This is also the peak season for tourists who come to enjoy the agreeable weather and summer temperatures. The sunshine is almost constant during this period, with hardly any rain.

MORE DETAILS

In St Maarten, we believe in the old saying, “work hard, play hard.” In fact, St. Maarten is known for its exciting nightlife where the guava berry liqueur flows, and the casinos invite you in for a night of luck.

MORE DETAILS