If you’re a German citizen planning a trip to the Dutch side of Sint Maarten, you’ll need to complete the Electronic Disembarkation (ED) Card before arrival – whether you're landing at the airport or arriving by cruise ship.
What exactly is the ED Card?
The Electronic Disembarkation Card is a mandatory online entry form for visitors arriving in Sint Maarten, the Dutch part of the island.
It’s not a visa, but you must present it upon arrival.
Germans typically reach Sint Maarten via Amsterdam with KLM.
💡 Tip from Femke Strietman, travel specialist at iVisa:
"Even though you can still fill it out on paper at the airport, doing it online before your trip is much smoother – especially if you want to avoid long lines at immigration."
Do German citizens need the ED Card?
Yes. Anyone entering the Dutch side of the island with a German passport needs to apply in advance – even if you're just transiting or arriving by sea.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A passport valid for 3+ months beyond your stay
- A return or onward ticket
- Accommodation details (hotel, Airbnb, or host address)
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- For children traveling without both parents: a parental consent letter
Do I need it for both Sint Maarten and Saint Martin?
The island is split into two territories:
- Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – requires the ED Card
- Saint Martin (French side) – does not require the ED Card
Many Germans might book a stay on the French side for its European vibe, but still land on the Dutch side.
"I forgot that the ED Card is required based on airport arrival, not accommodation location. I landed on the Dutch side and had to wait in a long queue to fill it out there." - Sara D., Frankfurt
Once you're there, you can freely move between both parts of the island, but your arrival point determines what documents are needed.
✅ ED Card Required |
❌ ED Card Not Required |
Flying into SXM Airport (Dutch side) |
Landing at SFG Airport (French side) |
Cruise arrival at Dutch ports |
Entering via French ferry routes |
Transiting through Sint Maarten |
Overland entry from Saint Martin |
How to get the ED Card from Germany
Applying online is quick and can be done from your phone or laptop.
- Visit the official site or iVisa’s ED Card application page or mobile app
- Fill in your personal and travel info
- Upload your passport copy
- Receive your ED Card via email – usually instantly!
Why German travelers prefer iVisa for their Sint Maarten ED Card
Advantage |
iVisa ✅ |
Official Site ❌ |
Smooth process, no tech issues |
✅ |
❌ Reports of bugs |
German-language application support |
✅ |
❌ German language not available |
Ready before departure |
✅ |
❌ Risk of delay |
24/7 assistance |
✅ |
❌ No live support |
💡 Femke’s pro tip:
"Flight changed? No problem – just resubmit your details on iVisa and get a new ED Card."
Need help with your ED Card?
We’re here for you! Chat with us directly via WhatsApp or our help center for fast assistance in German or English.
Make your arrival smooth and stress-free. Let iVisa handle your ED Card so you can start your Sint Maarten adventure right.