Travelling to Aruba in a group requires specific planning and coordination.
This guide will help you understand what's required when entering Aruba as a group and the most important steps — like completing the mandatory Aruba ED Card.
Aruba Entry Requirements for Group Travelers
Every traveler entering Aruba, whether alone or with a group, must meet the same basic entry requirements. There is no special visa or exemption for group travelers.
Here’s what every group member must have:
- Valid passport
- Return or onward ticket
- Completed Aruba ED Card
- Proof of accommodation (group or individual booking)
Important: Each member of your group must individually complete the ED Card online before travel. This is a mandatory pre-boarding requirement.
Groups Completing the Aruba ED Card
The Aruba ED Card is an online travel form that must be filled out by each traveler prior to departure. It collects essential information, such as:
- Personal details
- Passport data
- Travel itinerary
- Health declaration
- Emergency contact
For group coordinators, this means you cannot complete the ED Card on behalf of everyone in your group. However, you can help group members fill it out.
It’s a good idea to set a deadline for your group to complete the form at least 2 days before departure.
You can start the application here: Aruba ED Card Application
Aruba’s Airport Entry Process for Groups
Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport is efficient and modern, but group entry still requires a bit of coordination. Here’s what to expect:
Arrival
Stay together: After disembarking, make sure your group moves through immigration and customs together when possible.
Have documents ready: Each traveler should present their passport and proof of completed ED Card (printed or digital confirmation).
Separate lanes: Larger groups may be directed to different immigration counters depending on staff availability. Designate a group leader to regroup after processing.
Customs
One person per household usually completes the customs declaration, but this varies.
If you're bringing in large quantities of goods, equipment (e.g., for a wedding), or group medical supplies, check Aruba’s customs rules in advance.
Transport coordination
If you've pre-booked group transport, designate a meeting point near the arrivals exit to avoid confusion.
Aruba Accommodation & Booking Tips for Groups
Finding the right lodging for your group can make or break your trip. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Book early: Aruba is a popular destination year-round. Villas, large apartments, and multi-room hotels fill up quickly.
- Centralize reservations: Use one booking platform or travel agency for all accommodations, so check-ins are smoother.
- Clarify sleeping arrangements: Confirm the number of beds and sleeping capacity—many properties list max occupancy that includes children or shared beds.
- Group rates: Many hotels and resorts offer special pricing for large bookings or multi-night stays, so ask about discounts or perks like free breakfasts or airport transfers.
Flights and Arrival Timing in Aruba
Coordinating flights for a group isn’t always simple, especially if travelers are flying from different cities or countries. Here’s how to keep it manageable:
- Choose a single arrival window: Try to book flights that arrive within a few hours of each other to simplify ground transportation.
- Consider a group fare: Some airlines offer group booking rates for 10 or more people. This often comes with flexible name changes and easier check-ins.
- Monitor flights: Use flight tracking apps and set up a shared chat group to coordinate arrivals in real time.
Transportation on the Island
Getting around as a group requires planning, since Aruba isn’t designed for spontaneous mass transport. Here are your options:
- Pre-booked private transport: Minibuses or large vans can be arranged in advance and are ideal for larger groups.
- Rental vans or cars: For flexible movement, consider renting multiple cars or a larger vehicle—but ensure drivers are confident navigating the island.
- Hotel shuttles: Some resorts offer complimentary transport—ask if they can accommodate your full group at once.
Pro tip: Ask your hotel if they can help coordinate airport pick-up for groups, or recommend a reliable local transportation company.
Coordinating Documents and Communication
Group trips are smoother when everything is centralized. Consider the following:
Use a shared folder or app (Google Drive, Dropbox, or TripIt) to collect:
- Passport scans
- ED Card confirmations
- Travel insurance documents
- Flight itineraries and accommodation bookings
Create a group chat in WhatsApp or another app to share real-time updates, changes, and meeting points.
Appoint one or two people to be in charge of handling unexpected issues, tracking documents, and keeping an eye on deadlines.
Before You Go to Aruba: Final Checklist for Groups
Check the following before departure:
- Everyone has a valid passport
- All members completed the Aruba ED Card
- Accommodations are booked and confirmed
- Flights are coordinated and transport is arranged
- Shared folder and group chat are set up
- Travel insurance details collected
Ensuring each group member has everything in advance will limit stress on the day of travel.
Smooth Group Travel Starts with the Aruba ED Card
The Aruba ED Card is the first step in ensuring a hassle-free group arrival.
Though each traveler needs to apply individually, coordinating this task early avoids last-minute airport delays and unnecessary stress.
