Welcome to Aruba, the One Happy Island! If you're a digital nomad like me, always on the lookout for new horizons, then you're in for a real treat. Imagine swaying palm trees, pristine beaches, and a rich mix of cultures that make Aruba a tropical haven. But before we dive into the wonders of this Caribbean gem, let's get familiar with the entry and visa requirements, ensuring your journey to Aruba is as smooth as the crystal-clear waters surrounding it.
Entry Requirements
As a digital nomad, knowing the entry requirements is your key to the paradise that is Aruba. Persons who are considered tourists are those who travel to Aruba for purposes such as vacation, sport, health reasons, family matters, study, religious purposes, or a business visit. Thankfully, if you hail from one of the following countries, you're in luck: Germany, Denmark, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Monaco, Luxembourg, Norway, the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates. Citizens from these countries can visit Aruba without a visa.
Joining our group of diverse personalities were my girlfriend Yelena, known for her spontaneity and love of adventure, and our friends, Adriana, an enthusiastic traveler from Brazil, and Eduardo, the epitome of laid-back cool from Uruguay.
Visa and Entry Document Requirements
Upon arrival in Aruba, a tourist must have:
- A passport that is valid upon entry and for the duration of stay in Aruba.
- A visa (if you require one).
- A complete and approved Embarkation and Disembarkation card (ED card).
- Aruba’s Visitor insurance (this is optional but covers COVID-19-related expenses in case you test positive during your stay).
- A valid return- or onward ticket.
- The necessary documents for returning to the country of origin or to a country that you have the right to enter, for example, a valid residence permit (temporary or permanent), a re-entry permit, or an (entry) visa.
- Proof of accommodation or property ownership in Aruba, and the ability to cover living expenses.
- Required vaccinations and a certificate of proof for required countries, notably a Yellow Fever Vaccine for passengers from Central American, Latin American, and African countries.
- For questions related to entry and visa requirements please contact the Aruba Tourism Authority by email: support@aruba.com
The final authorization for admission to Aruba remains with the migration officer at the border crossing/port of entry. The migration authorities have the authority to grant or refuse admission, even if a valid visa for Aruba is held.
Duration of Admission and Extensions
The maximum period that a person can be admitted to Aruba as a tourist is 30 days. The total amount of days a person can stay in Aruba as a tourist who applies for an extension of stay cannot exceed 180 days per year. US Nationals may stay in Aruba for up to 90 days maximum, and no additional governmental documentation is needed.
Extensions of stay for up to 180 consecutive days can be requested by:
- Nationals of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
- Nationals from countries exempt from the visa requirement who have property in Aruba or a declaration of guarantee from a resident.
During the initial 30-day stay, visitors can apply for an extension, allowing for a total stay of up to 90 days. Travel insurance (medical and liability) and sufficient financial means are required for extended stays.
Visas
Visa-required tourists need to apply for a visitor visa before coming to Aruba. Visa-required persons who are exempt from the visa requirement include holders of a valid residence permit, certain nationals holding valid multi-entry visas, those in transit within 24 hours, and cruise ship passengers staying for a maximum of 24 hours.
For more information about visa requirements, travellers can contact the consulate or embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in their country of residence or visit their websites.
US Pre-clearance
Aruba offers US pre-clearance, simplifying the travel process. Travellers go through passport control in Aruba at the U.S. Customs & Border Protection facility. This means you arrive back in the United States as a domestic passenger.
Passport Cards for U.S. Travellers
U.S. Passport Cards can be used for land border crossings or sea ports of entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. They are more convenient and less expensive than a passport book and may be suitable for some cruise ship travellers.
In conclusion, Aruba's entry and visa requirements ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for digital nomads and tourists alike. Whether you're drawn by the pristine beaches, vibrant culture, or exciting adventures, Aruba is ready to welcome you.