Visa Process Guide for Sint Maarten

Visa Process for Sint Maarten

Sint Maarten, a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands located in the Caribbean, offers various visa options for visitors based on their purpose and length of stay.

Visa Types

  • Visitor Visa (90-Day Stay): Allows for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, or family visits.
  • Temporary Residence Visa (1-Year Stay): Permits stays of up to one year for employment, study, or family reunification.
  • Permanent Residence Visa: Grants indefinite residency in Sint Maarten.

Required Documents

For Visitor Visa:

  • Valid passport with at least six months validity
  • Completed visa application form
  • Two passport-sized photographs
  • Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel reservation, invitation letter)
  • Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statement)
  • Evidence of onward travel (e.g., flight ticket)

For Temporary Residence Visa:

  • Documents required for Visitor Visa
  • Employment contract or admission letter (for employment or study)
  • Proof of sufficient income or sponsorship
  • Marriage certificate or other proof of family relationship (for family reunification)

Application Procedures

Visitor Visa:

  • Submit the required documents to the nearest Dutch embassy or consulate.
  • Pay the visa fee.
  • Wait for processing and decision.

Temporary Residence Visa:

  • Obtain a “Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf” (MVV) from the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) of Sint Maarten.
  • Submit the MVV and other required documents to the Dutch embassy or consulate.
  • Pay the visa fee.
  • Wait for processing and decision.

Fees

  • Visitor Visa: €60 (approximately $65 USD)
  • Temporary Residence Visa (MVV): €190 (approximately $210 USD)
  • Visa application fee (embassy/consulate): Varies

Timelines

  • Visitor Visa: Processed within 1-3 weeks
  • Temporary Residence Visa (MVV): Processed within 3-6 months
  • Visa issuance: Once the MVV is approved, the visa can be issued within a few days

Additional Information

  • Nationals of certain countries may be eligible for visa-free entry for short-term stays (check with the embassy or consulate).
  • Visas can be extended for additional periods if necessary.
  • Overstaying a visa is illegal and may result in fines or deportation.
  • It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your intended travel date.
  • For the latest information and specific requirements, always consult the official website of the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country.

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Aasim Qureshi