Is St. Maarten duty-free?

Our duty-free markets and shops are filled with brands you love, and unique local specialties you won't be able to find anywhere else. Truly a shopping destination, St. Maarten offers the retail therapy you deserve while staying on the island.



Yes, St. Maarten/St. Martin is one of the few truly "duty-free" ports in the world. The entire island is a free-port zone, meaning there are no customs duties or VAT (Value Added Tax) on goods imported for sale. This makes it a global destination for high-end shopping, particularly for jewelry, watches, electronics, designer fashion, and premium spirits. In 2026, the capital of the Dutch side, Philipsburg, and the French side's Marigot remain hubs where travelers can find luxury items at prices often 20% to 50% lower than in Europe or North America. However, it is important to remember that while the purchase is duty-free, you are still subject to your home country's customs allowances when you return. For U.S. residents in 2026, the typical exemption is $800 per person; anything exceeding this must be declared and may be subject to your local import taxes upon arrival.

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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).

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The island's weather is pleasant year-round, but these are times when rain showers are less likely. Summer and early fall are not good for a vacation; many hotels close in this offseason and there's a chance of hurricanes. Also avoid visiting in winter and early spring (mid-December to April) if you can.

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Despite having two different official currencies, the US Dollar is accepted on both sides, with St. Maarten using the US Dollar the most. It is not unusual to receive change in US Dollar even when payment is made with the guilder.

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We usually take $100-$150 per day in cash. For the budget minded traveler: be advised that almost all credit card companies charge 3-4% exchange fee on charges made out of the US. We always pay for room with TC's to avoid the fee on large ticket item. We user our CC's for hotel and car.

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Maarten/St. Martin. Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended. High-SPF sunscreen is essential and recommended for those not used to intense sunlight.

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Guavaberry is the National Liqueur of Sint Maarten / St. Martin. The Guavaberry Emporium is a protected National Historical Monument, built on the site of an ancient synagogue in the middle of town.

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Maarten a free port, but it has no local sales taxes. Prices are sometimes lower here than anywhere else in the Caribbean, except possibly St. Thomas. Many well-known shops from Curaçao have branches here.

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St Maarten, the dual nation, is renowned for numerous things: expansive beaches, plenty of sun, aquamarine waters, crystal clear, and great seafood. It is a common destination because of the sandy shores and the great jewelry prices. Jewelry in St Maarten is cheap because it is duty-free.

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St. Martin (French) or St. Maarten (Dutch) does not have any particular customs procedures at work. Small quantities of personal products like tobacco, electronic equipment and alcohol are allowed free of duty.

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While Sint Maarten has the upper hand in nightlife, the French side of the island is known for having the more pristine beaches. Notoriously white sands edge up against crystalline turquoise oceans on the shorelines along the island's northern face.

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Sint Maarten vs. Saint Martin … one beautiful Caribbean island with two completely different vibes. Sint Maarten is located on the Dutch side, and Saint Maarten is on the French side.

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Martin is a must-visit. Its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and fusion of French and Dutch cultures create a unique experience. The island's charm, warm hospitality, and diverse activities make it well worth the trip.

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Maarten, St. Maarten Nights, Ti Gourmet, and Vacation St. Maarten. Smoking -- While many larger properties offer nonsmoking rooms, there are no regulations against smoking -- for now.

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