What Are the Aruba Travel Requirements for UK Citizens?

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Planning a trip to Aruba as a UK passport holder? Find out exactly what you need in our handy guide to the entry requirements.

We go through all the requirements, including the Aruba ED Card and visa, helping you plan for a stress-free trip to the island.

Aruba Passport Requirements for UK Citizens

If you're a UK national, you'll need a valid passport to enter Aruba. Your passport must have:

  • Validity for the entire duration of your stay
  • 1 blank page is available for entry and exit stamps

It’s important to ensure your passport meets these requirements before your trip, as you may be denied entry if it does not.

Visa Requirements for British Citizens

British citizens can visit Aruba visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or short business trips. This visa exemption applies to UK nationals even after Brexit.

If you want to stay for longer than 90 days, or for certain non-tourism purposes, you may need to apply for a different type of visa.

Extended stay options for UK nationals

If you’re planning to stay in Aruba beyond the 90-day visa-free period or wish to work, study, or live in Aruba, you’ll need to explore the relevant visa options:

  • Residence permit: If you intend to stay long-term, your sponsor (such as an employer or partner) must apply on your behalf to local Aruban authorities.
  • Work permit: Required if you plan to be employed in Aruba. Contact local authorities for more information.

British nationals are exempt from visa requirements when collecting permits, making the process more straightforward.

Do UK Nationals Need an Aruba ED Card?

Yes, all UK travelers to Aruba must complete the Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) Card before arrival. The ED card is an electronic form that is required for entry and helps streamline the immigration process.

You must fill out the form online before you travel.

This card is mandatory for all UK nationals, and failing to complete it before arrival may result in complications at the airport.

ED Card application process for British citizens

Our online application process is quick and easy. Just follow these steps to promptly receive your ED card:

  1. Complete the Aruba ED Card: UK travelers must fill in their personal, passport, travel, and health details online.
  2. Wait for your application to be processed: The ED Card is processed within 1–2 days.
  3. Receive confirmation: You’ll get the approved ED Card via email; print it or keep a digital copy.
  4. Present your card to immigration: Show the QR code from the ED Card to immigration upon arrival in Aruba.

Aruba ED Card Application

How to Travel to Aruba from the UK

Traveling from the UK to Aruba is straightforward. Here’s everything you need to know about how to reach the island.

Airlines offering flights from the UK to Aruba

Although there are currently no direct flights from the UK to Aruba, several airlines offer connecting flights with layovers in cities such as Amsterdam or the U.S. The most common carriers include:

  • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Offers connecting flights from London and other UK cities via Amsterdam to Aruba.
  • British Airways: Partners with airlines like American Airlines for connecting flights through U.S. cities.
  • American Airlines: Provides flights with connections through major U.S. hubs such as Miami or New York.

These airlines offer frequent service, allowing UK travelers flexibility when planning their trip to Aruba.

UK airports with flights to Aruba

Several major airports in the UK offer flights with connections to Aruba. These include:

  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
  • Manchester Airport (MAN)
  • London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

You’ll more than likely arrive at Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), located in Oranjestad. This is the primary gateway to the island, handling all incoming and outgoing flights.

Before you fly, make sure you meet all Aruba entry requirements from UK airports

Health and Safety Considerations for UK Travelers to Aruba

Overall, Aruba is a safe country, and you’re unlikely to encounter any trouble during your stay. Nevertheless, here are a few general tips for staying healthy and safe during your stay:

Health insurance

It’s highly recommended to take out comprehensive travel insurance that includes health coverage for your trip.

Medical care in Aruba is high-quality but can be costly for non-residents, and UK health insurance typically doesn’t cover foreign medical expenses.

General safety tips

Aruba is considered a safe destination, but as with any travel, it’s important to take precautions:

  • Be mindful of your belongings, particularly in busy areas such as tourist spots and markets.
  • Avoid isolated areas at night and stay in well-lit, populated areas.

Contact Details for British Consular Services in Aruba

In case of emergencies or consular assistance during your stay, here are the key contact details for British consular services:

British Embassy in the Netherlands (Aruba falls under its jurisdiction)

  • Location: Lange Voorhout 10, 2514 ED, The Hague, Netherlands
  • Phone: +31 70 4270 427
  • Website: UK Embassy in the Netherlands

Although there is no UK embassy directly in Aruba, the British embassy in the Netherlands oversees consular services for Aruba as part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Aruba immigration authorities

Keep these contacts handy in case of emergencies or if you need assistance during your stay.

FAQ for British Citizens Traveling to Aruba

Below are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions from Brits planning to visit the island nation.

What is the time difference between the UK and Aruba? Toggle faqs

Aruba is in the Atlantic Standard Time (AST) zone, which is 4 hours behind UK time (GMT). However, the UK observes daylight saving time, while Aruba does not. So, from March to October, the time difference is 5 hours behind UK time.

What language is spoken in Aruba? Toggle faqs

Aruba’s official languages are Dutch and Papiamento, but English and Spanish are also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

You will have no problem communicating in English at hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making it easy for UK travelers to navigate the island.

What should I pack for Aruba’s weather? Toggle faqs

Aruba has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, along with essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun.

Don’t forget swimwear for the beaches and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

What currency is used in Aruba, and are U.S. dollars accepted? Toggle faqs

The official currency in Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted across the island.

Most businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, accept credit cards as well, making it convenient for UK travelers to use both currencies during their stay.

Do I need any vaccinations to travel to Aruba? Toggle faqs

No specific vaccinations are required for UK nationals visiting Aruba. However, it’s recommended to stay up to date with routine vaccinations and monitor any potential health advisories before traveling.

If you're traveling from a country at risk for yellow fever, you must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate. This is also required if you had a layover of more than 12 hours in such a country, even if you stayed within the airport.

It’s also wise to pack basic first aid supplies and consider purchasing travel health insurance to cover any medical emergencies.