Sint Maarten travel advice
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On this page
- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
- Need help?
Risk level
Sint Maarten - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Sint Maarten.
Safety and security
Nationwide power outages
Power outages are occurring several times per day and can last many hours.
Power outages can affect the following services:
- public lighting and traffic lights
- telecommunications and security systems
- stores and food supply
- hotels and other accommodations
- banks and ATMs
If you’re in Sint Maarten:
- make sure you always have a complete emergency kit on hand, including several flashlights
- always carry a cell phone, power banks, chargers and a list of emergency numbers
- keep a sufficient supply of water, food and fuel on hand
- monitor local media for the latest information
- follow the instructions of local authorities
Power outages – Government of Sint Maarten
Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. There have been reports of theft from vehicles, especially rental cars. Armed robberies and tourists being followed by people on motorcycles have also been reported. Burglaries and break-ins have occurred, with villas bring more vulnerable to these incidents.
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Avoid isolated or poorly-lit areas, including beaches
- Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash or jewellery
- Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe
- Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
Fraud
Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud may occur.
When using your debit or credit card:
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment, verbal abuse and sexual assault.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations may occur. They can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- follow the instructions of local authorities
- monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Water activities
Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.
Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Most beaches do not have lifeguards present or warning flags to warn of dangerous conditions.
- Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
- Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
- Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
- Monitor weather warnings
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
Adventure tourism
Outdoor activities, such as zip-lining, hiking, mountain biking and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in the summer.
If you intend to practice adventure tourism:
- never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions
- obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- do ventue off marked trails
- ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
- stay informed of weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on the safety
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
Road safety
Road safety can vary considerably across the island.
There is severe traffic congestion during the tourist season, December to April.
The road network consists of a belt that goes around both sides of the island: the French part, in Saint Martin, and the Dutch part, in Sint Maarten.
Cell phone reception is available across the island and is reliable for emergency calls.
Emergencies services, including roadside assistance, varies on availability depending on your rental company.
Road conditions
Driving conditions may be hazardous, especially during the rainy season, October to February. Secondary and rural roads can be in poor condition.
Driving habits
Some drivers don’t respect traffic laws and drive at high speeds. They may be reckless.
Public transportation
Minibuses
They service most major locations on both sides of the island.
Taxis
Taxis are plentiful and service the entire island.
If you use a taxi:
- use registered taxis only
- note the driver’s name and plate number
- negotiate the fare before getting in the vehicle
Ride-sharing apps
There are no ride-sharing apps in Sint Maarten.
Ferries
There are only private ferry services in Sint Maarten. Ferry services are available to Anguilla, Sint Eustatius, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saba and Saint-Barthélemy.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
Sint Maarten is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and encompasses approximately half of the island of Saint Martin. It is referred to as the “Dutch side”. The other side is a "collectivité d'outre-mer" of France named Saint Martin.
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Dutch authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Sint Maarten. Permanent residents of Canada must travel with their Permanent Resident Card and a valid passport from their country of origin.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 3 months
Business visa: not required
Work permit: required
Student visa: required
All tourists who wish to stay longer than their allotted time can request an extension; however, the possibilities to obtain an extension may differ for those travellers requiring visas.
Departure tax
You must pay a departure if you leave by Princess Juliana International Airport (Sint Maarten) and by sea. There are no departure taxes from the Grand Case-Espérance airport.
Health insurance
Tourists who have received an extension of stay are required to have health insurance valid for the duration of the extended stay.
Other entry requirements
Customs officials may ask you to show them:
- a return or onward ticket, with documents required for next destination
- proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
- provide the address where you will reside during your stay in Sint Maarten
Immigration form
Upon arrival at Princess Juliana International Airport, you must present a fully completed immigration form to immigration authorities. These forms are generally handed out in the plane before landing.
Border with Saint Martin
There are no border formalities when crossing Sint Maarten from the Dutch side to the French side.
Children and travel
Learn more about travelling with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
- Dengue: Advice for travellers - 2 July, 2024
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
- In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:
- season
- year
- region
- elevation
The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
Learn more:
Zika virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
During your trip:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel.
For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.
Medical services and facilities
Medical care is generally good, though limited as there is one hospital in Sint Maarten, the St. Maarten Medical Center in Cay Hill. You will have to pay in advance of treatment.
Mental health facilities are provided at the Sint Maarten Mental Health Foundation. The hotline number is 520 – 5556.
Medical evacuation can be very expensive, and you may need it for neighboring countries or the United States in case of serious illness or injury. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Health and safety outside Canada
Medications
Some prescription medications may not be available in Sint Maarten.
If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.
- Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
- Always keep your medication in the original container
- Pack them in your carry-on luggage
- Carry a copy of your prescriptions
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Transfer to a Canadian prison
Canada and the Netherlands are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Sint Maarten to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Sint Maarten authorities.
This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.
Drugs
There are severe penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs. If you are convicted, you can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
- Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
- Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
2SLGBTQI+ persons
Sint Maarten law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.
However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in the Netherlands, with some exceptions.
If local authorities consider you a citizen of the Netherlands, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.
Useful links
- More about dual citizenship – Government of the Netherlands
- Dual citizens
Driving
You may use a Canadian driver’s license to drive in Sint Maarten.
Traffic regulation is different from Canada:
- turning right on red lights is prohibited
- legal age to drive is 18
There is no physical border between the French and Dutch sides of the island and people and vehicles may travel freely between the two.
You should carry an international driving permit.
Car rentals
Be cautious when renting vehicles, especially when arranging for insurance and liability. Ask questions and obtain detailed written information regarding your personal responsibilities before finalizing any rental arrangements. Inquire about insurance coverage options for roadside assistance when renting a car.
Identification
The law requires that everyone over the age of 12 be able to show valid identification to law enforcement authorities at all times. A passport photocopy or other forms of government issued identification are accepted.
Imports
You must complete an application if you intend to bring a pet or plant to Sint Maarten.
Application process – Government of Sint Maarten
Pets
You must have an International Health Certificate that is signed and stamped by a Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Official Veterinarian prior to travel. You must also obtain an Import Permit from Sint Maarten prior to travelling.
Additional certificates may be required if you travel across the border to Saint Martin.
Useful links
- Animal Health Office – Canadian Food Inspection Agency
- Export of dogs, cats and ferrets to Sint Maarten – Government of Canada
Investments
Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.
If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Sint Maarten:
- seek legal advice in Canada and in Sint Maarten before making commitments
- choose your own lawyer
- avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller
Marriage abroad
If you wish to marry in Sint Maarten all marriage arrangements must be done at the Civil Registry Department. You must :
- have an interview with the immigration department at the Ministry of Justice
- must make an appointment at the Civil Registry Department to review your documents that must have an Apostille
- register your intent to marry 14 days before the date of marriage.
You will need the following documents, in English or Dutch, to complete the application for intent to marry:
- your passport
- passport copies of witnesses
- statement confirming place of residency, nationality and marital status
- your birth certificate
- declaration of marital status not older than 3 months
- return flights
- a divorce certificate if you are a divorcee
- a death certificate if you are a widow
Same-sex marriages are legal but are not performed in Sint Maarten.
Useful links
- Online Appointment Booking – Government of Sint Maarten
- Office of Civil Registry – Government of Sint Maarten
- Register a Marriage – Government of Sint Maarten
- Marriage outside Canada
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the Netherlands.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Sint Maarten, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Sint Maarten court.
If you are in this situation:
- act as quickly as you can
- contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Sint Maarten to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.
Useful links
- List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
- International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
- Children and travel
- The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Request emergency assistance
Drones
You must have drone permission and insurance to fly drones in Sint Maarten.
The following is forbidden when flying drones in Sint Maarten:
- flying over airports or airfields
- flying over crowds
- flying at night
- filming or recording people or properties with permission
Money
The currency of Sint Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean guilder.
U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
Natural disasters and climate
Hurricane season
Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.
These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.
If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:
- be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- Severe storms outside Canada
- Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
- Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center
Rainy season
The rainy season extends from May to October and can lead to severe flooding.
Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.
- Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
- Stay away from flooded areas
- Monitor weather reports
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 721-542-2222
- medical assistance: 912
- firefighters: 919
Consular assistance
Sint Maarten - Honorary consul of Canada
Bridgetown - High Commission of Canada
Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Sint Maarten.
For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Barbados, in Bridgetown, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.
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