Aruba ED Card: What It Is, Who Needs It, Sustainability Fee, Exemptions, and Arrival Tips
Before traveling to Aruba, visitors must complete the Aruba ED Card, also known as the Embarkation and Disembarkation Card. This online form is part of Aruba’s entry process and helps confirm that travelers have completed the necessary steps before boarding their flight to the island.
The ED Card is a simple but important step. Completing it correctly before your trip can help avoid airport delays, boarding issues, or last-minute stress before arrival in Aruba.
If you are planning your trip, you may also want to explore our Aruba Airport Transportation Guide, Best Beaches in Aruba, and One-Day Aruba Island Adventure guides.
Planning Your Aruba Arrival?
Complete your ED Card before travel, save your confirmation, and review your transportation options so your arrival in Aruba is as smooth as possible.
What Is the Aruba ED Card?
The Aruba ED Card is the online Embarkation and Disembarkation Card required for travel to Aruba. It replaces the old paper arrival form and allows travelers to submit their travel and entry information before arriving on the island.
The form typically asks for details such as your passport information, arrival and departure dates, flight information, contact details, and accommodation information.
Who Needs to Fill Out the Aruba ED Card?
Every traveler flying to Aruba must complete the ED Card, including adults, children, and infants. Each passenger needs their own ED Card submission, even when traveling together as a family or group.
Parents or guardians can complete the ED Card on behalf of children.
When Should You Complete the ED Card?
Aruba allows travelers to complete the ED Card within 7 days before travel. A good rule of thumb is to complete it once your flight and accommodation details are final, ideally 24 to 72 hours before departure.
Do not wait until you are at the airport. Airlines may ask for confirmation before allowing you to board.
Aruba Sustainability Fee
Aruba charges a Sustainability Fee through the ED Card process for most visitors arriving by air. The fee is currently $20 USD and is used to support sustainability-related infrastructure, including wastewater treatment improvements.
The Sustainability Fee is paid during the online ED Card process before receiving your ED Card approval or qualifier.
Important Tip
Use the official ED Card website only. Some third-party websites may charge extra service fees to complete a form that travelers can normally complete themselves in just a few minutes.
Who Is Exempt from the Sustainability Fee?
Some travelers may be exempt from paying the Sustainability Fee. Common exemptions include Aruba residents, children under 8 years old, certain transit passengers, crew members on duty, and repeat visitors who qualify under the current exemption rules.
Exemption rules can change, so travelers should always review the official ED Card and Aruba sustainability fee information before departure.
Is the ED Card the Same as a Visa?
No. The ED Card is not the same as a visa. It is an entry form required as part of Aruba’s arrival process. Depending on your nationality, you may still need to check whether a visa is required separately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Small errors on the ED Card can create unnecessary delays. Before submitting, double-check everything carefully.
- Entering the wrong passport number
- Using an incorrect arrival or departure date
- Submitting the wrong accommodation name or address
- Waiting until the last minute to complete the form
- Assuming one form covers the whole family
- Forgetting to save the confirmation or qualifier
- Using an unofficial website that charges unnecessary fees
Arriving Soon?
Once your ED Card is complete, the next step is planning how you will get from the airport to your stay. Compare taxis, rental cars, shuttles, and private transfers before you arrive.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Aruba
A little preparation can make arrival in Aruba much easier.
- Complete the ED Card within 7 days before your trip
- Use your exact passport details
- Enter your correct accommodation information
- Save a digital copy of your confirmation or qualifier
- Keep a backup screenshot in case airport Wi-Fi is slow
- Have your passport and flight details handy
- Review transportation options before landing
What Accommodation Address Should You Use?
Use the exact address of your hotel, condo, or vacation rental. If you booked a vacation rental, copy the address from your confirmed reservation details.
Do You Need to Print the Aruba ED Card?
A printed copy is not always required, but it is a smart backup. At minimum, save the confirmation or qualifier on your phone and take a screenshot before leaving for the airport.
Can You Change the ED Card After Submitting?
If you made a mistake or your travel details changed, you may need to submit a new ED Card with the correct information. Review everything carefully before submitting to avoid extra work or delays.
Helpful Aruba Trip Planning Links
- Aruba Airport Transportation Guide
- Best Beaches in Aruba
- Things to Do in Aruba
- Palm Beach Aruba
- Eagle Beach Aruba
- Baby Beach Aruba
- Arashi Beach Aruba
- Cove Aruba Vacation Rental
Final Thoughts
The Aruba ED Card is one of the most important steps to complete before your trip. It is required for travelers flying to Aruba, and most visitors will also pay the Sustainability Fee during the process.
Complete it early, check your passport and travel details carefully, save your confirmation, and review your arrival transportation before you fly. Once that is done, you can focus on enjoying Aruba’s beaches, restaurants, sunshine, and island life.
Ready to Experience Aruba for Yourself?
From a smooth airport arrival to beach days near Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, Arashi Beach, and Baby Beach, Aruba is easy to love when your trip is well planned.
FAQ About the Aruba ED Card
What is the Aruba ED Card?
The Aruba ED Card is the online Embarkation and Disembarkation Card required as part of the entry process for travelers going to Aruba.
Who needs to complete the Aruba ED Card?
Every traveler flying to Aruba must complete it, including adults, children, and infants.
When can I complete the Aruba ED Card?
You can complete it within 7 days before your travel date.
How much is the Aruba Sustainability Fee?
The Sustainability Fee is currently $20 USD for most visitors arriving by air.
Do children need an ED Card?
Yes. Children and infants need their own ED Card, although children under 8 may be exempt from the Sustainability Fee.
Do cruise passengers need to pay the Sustainability Fee?
Cruise passengers are generally treated differently from air arrivals. Always confirm current rules with the official Aruba ED Card website or your cruise provider before travel.
Should I print my ED Card confirmation?
It is a good idea to keep both a digital copy and a printed backup, especially when traveling internationally.