Do You Need A Passport To Visit Curaçao As A U.S. Citizen?

If you’re planning a visit to Curaçao, you’re probably asking yourself some questions like: do I need a passport to visit? The quick answer is yes. However, if you're a U.S. citizen, you won’t need a visa. This greatly simplifies vacationing planning as you can focus on other getaway essentials, like finding the best place to stay!

Curaçao is part of the ABC island chain which also includes Aruba and Bonaire. There are many amazing things Curaçao is known for, including its gorgeous capital city, Willemstad, a town that also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, there's the exciting excursions, incredible dive sites, and amazing all-inclusive resorts in Curaçao.

Without a doubt, this island is a great choice if you want a getaway filled with blissful moments, lots of ocean time, and even more adventure. Read on for everything you need to know about getting your travel documents together for your visit, plus some experts tips on things to do while in Curaçao!

Do I need a passport when flying to Curaçao?

All visitors, including those flying in from the U.S., will need a passport when visiting Curaçao. Ensure that your passport will be valid for the duration of your stay and that you have at least one blank passport page per passport. Also, your passport must not be more than 10 years old.

If you’ll be traveling to Curaçao by air, you may also need to provide proof that you will be returning to your country of residence or transiting to another destination. Confirmation of your hotel reservations or additional details relating to the purpose of your visit may also be requested. As part of the immigration process, you may also need to show that you have enough money to cover your stay and any other expenses.

Insider tip: The perfect vacation takes planning, and that planning should include selecting accommodation that's comfortable and convenient, like the all-inclusive Sandals Royal Curaçao. With 8 restaurants, 3 food trucks, 13 bars, a double decker infinity pool and more, it's the ultimate beach getaway!

Do I need a passport when taking a cruise to Curaçao?

Having a valid passport is important when visiting Curaçao regardless of how you get there. While there are certain "closed loop" cruises (those that begin and end at the same U.S. port) where a passport is not needed, Turks & Caicos is not one of the destinations where this exception applies. So, in other words, you will need to bring along your passport. If you're still unsure, speak to your cruise ship representatives before booking a cruise to this island.

What are the visa requirements for Curaçao?

U.S. and U.K. nationals do not need a visa to travel to Curaçao providing that their visit is for tourism purposes for a period of up to 90 days. There are other nationalities that can also travel to Curaçao visa free, but citizens of some countries, including Cuba, Venezuela, and Haiti will need a tourist visa.

If you fall into the category of travelers who require a visa, it is important to apply for your visa at least one month ahead of your trip to ensure you get your travel documents in time. You can apply for a Curaçao tourist visa through representatives of the Netherlands in individual countries. Some residents of the Dominican Republic, China, and India may also need a visa to travel to Curaçao if they are not already in possession of a valid multiple-entry visa to the U.S., Canada, or the Schengen countries (Europe). Russian citizens must obtain a visa before travelling to Curaçao.

Expert tip: Do you see a beach vacation in your future? The Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao might be just what you need. There are lots of things to do in Curaçao that can add to the excitement of an island escape, including sunbathing on the best beaches in Curaçao!

Can I use a passport card or other identification to travel to Curaçao?

Passport cards

A passport card is a less costly alternative to a passport book. It serves as both an official national identity card and travel document. While it is valid for land and sea travel into the U.S. from Canada, Bermuda, Mexico, and the Caribbean, a passport card cannot be used for air travel into or out of the U.S. If you're wondering whether you can use a passport card to travel to Curaçao on a cruise, check with your cruise representatives for confirmation.

Good to know: Passport cards are less expensive than conventional passports. A passport card for one adult costs US$65 as opposed to a passport that costs about US$130, excluding execution fees (US$35). Passport cards are also less bulky and can fit in your wallet. The downside to passport cards is that there isn’t any room for stamps or visas.

Trusted Traveler program cards

Trusted Traveler programs are an initiative of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). With these programs, frequent international travelers may become members to enjoy perks like expedited lanes at U.S. and international airports (where available), expedited vehicle/pedestrian entrance into the U.S. or Canada, and other benefits that can make traveling more convenient. Members of these risk-based programs are pre-approved. Some Trusted Traveler programs are listed below:

• NEXUS: Generally used to enter the U.S. from Canada by land, air, and sea;
• SENTRI: Generally used to enter the U.S. from Canada and Mexico by air or land;
• FAST: Generally used to enter and exit the U.S. from Canada and Mexico with a commercial truck.

Membership cards from some Trusted Traveler programs can be used as identification when cruising to certain destinations, but these cards cannot replace a passport when traveling to the Caribbean.

Enhanced Driver’s License

An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is an official document under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) that can be used as both a driver’s license and for travel purposes, such as when exiting and re-entering the U.S. This document has added security features and technology which increase the safety factor for travelers.

An EDL is a low-cost alternative to a passport. With an EDL, you’ll be able to re-enter the US from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean islands. You can find out which islands are included by contacting an application center near you. EDLs are currently only being issued by the states of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington State, and they can only be used at land and sea borders. An EDL is not valid for air travel.

Bonus FAQs!

I’m stuck in Curaçao without a passport. What do I do?

A lot can happen while on vacation, including your passport getting lost or stolen. Regardless of how it happens, this scenario can be a complete nightmare. If it ever happens to you, don’t panic. The first thing you’ll need to do is alert your hotel or resort of the situation. If you’re staying at Sandals Resorts, staff at the front desk will be happy to help. Here are the steps to follow if you misplace your passport while in Curacao:

1. Once you’ve brought the situation to the attention of staff at your resort, the next step will be to make an official police report. Get a copy of your report as you will need it to obtain an emergency passport.
   

2. Get in contact with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate-general. You’ll need to repeat some of the same information documented in the police report or provide a copy of the report to the embassy or consulate. You may also need to provide your airline ticket confirmation which serves as proof of your urgent need to travel.
   
   

The address of the U.S. Embassy in Curaçao is provided below:

• U.S. Consulate General Curaçao
  • J.B. Gorsiraweg 1
  • Willemstad, Curaçao
  • Telephone: +(599)(9) 461-3066
  • Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(599)(9) 843-3066 (from Curaçao); +1-(503)-420-3115 (from the United States)
  • Fax: +(599)(9) 461-6489
  • Email: ACSCuraçao@state.gov

3. Fill in the necessary application forms for your emergency passport. In this case, you’ll need to complete and sign the DS-11 passport application form.
   

4. Next, complete a statement in reference to your lost passport. This needs to be done via Form DS-64.
   

5. Pay the required application fees. The cost for applying for an emergency passport is US$130. This is the same fee attached to a new passport application.
   
   

Do I need vaccinations before entering Curaçao?

When traveling to Curaçao, people who are older than 6 months of age and are coming from areas with a yellow fever risk may need to show proof that they’ve been vaccinated against Yellow Fever. Vaccination certification documents sometimes need to be shown upon arrival. If you do not have this vaccination due to medical issues, you will need to show an official document of exemption.

What are my currency restrictions when traveling to Curaçao?

There aren’t any specific currency restrictions for entry or exit for visitors to Curaçao. Amounts exceeding $20,000 Netherlands Antillean guilders (about $11,164 United States dollars) must be declared.

Grab your passport and get down to Curaçao!

Picture: As if these gorgeous bungalows weren’t fabulous enough, guests in the Kurason Island Suites, as well as the Awa Seaside Bungalows, at Sandals Royal Curaçao can explore the beautiful island of Curaçao from behind the wheel of a MINI Cooper Convertible. Just reserve your room and drive off for a romantic adventure. And yes - it’s all included!

You will absolutely need a passport if you’re planning on traveling to Curaçao, and guess what? The sooner you get one, the sooner you can start planning the vacation of your dreams! Consider the best time to travel to Curacao and think about which amazing experiences you want to have on the island. Swim with dolphins before experiencing the best of Willemstad or grab a cocktail at one of the lively beach bars on Mambo Beach. Whatever you choose, ensure that it's memorable!

And speaking of memorable, Sandals Royal Curaçao is a hot spot for unforgettable Curaçao vacations! Check in and indulge in world-class cuisine served up in 8 incredible restaurants, unwind in the gorgeous 2-level infinity pool, and make new connections at the Amsterdam-inspired Kanaal Cafe & Bar. With your passport in hand and gorgeous island sunsets just a flight away, nothing can stop you from absorbing the beauty of this Dutch-Caribbean isle.

Expert tip: Looking for a great reason to finally plan that Curaçao trip? A romantic vacation to Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is one of the best anniversary vacation ideas out there. Check out these Sandals Resorts specials to make it happen!