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Caribbean islands are a no-brainer for Americans looking for some relaxation this winter. Not only are they known for their nature, turquoise seas and world-class resorts, but they are also easily accessible: many of them are a short 2-to 3 hours of flying!
As close as these tropical getaways are to the United States, like foreign countries they have different rules for American visitors, and in some cases simply bringing a valid passport to the airport check-in desk isn’t enough.
Here are 5 hugely popular Caribbean destinations that require US citizens to fill out a form required online form to participate––because who doesn’t like a bit of bureaucracy?
Jamaica
Whether it’s the vibrant, colorful Carnival, the lush rainforests or the luxurious five-star hotels on the coastline of Montego Bay, Jamaica is a favorite destination for Americans dreaming of some winter sun, but before they fly, there’s one more important step to put.
Jamaica requires all international travelers – and this includes those coming from the United States – to attend complete a customs formcalled Electronic C5before their trip: you will be asked personal and safety questions and provided with information about your travel plans.
It’s quite simple and only takes a few minutes to complete, but there it is is required, so don’t wait until the very last minute; as the authorities have stated, it must be submitted up to 30 days before until the intended arrival date.
Dominican Republic
Home to Punta Cana, a leisure hotspot surrounded by crystal-clear sea, and an underrated colonial gem in Santo Domingo, the oldest European settlement this side of the pond. The Dominican Republic is our top pick for both beaches And culture in the Caribbean.
Before you start fantasizing about all the mimosas you’ll have poolside at the monument Melia Caribe Beach ResortWhere overnight stays start from $245you better your Dominican e-ticket ready to be produced at the airport:
It is a form containing individual passenger details, such as name and passport number, as well as their purpose of travel it is free free––after sending, all you have to do is download the PDF with the QR code and show it when entering and leaving the country.
Bahamas
Famous for its pink sand, otherworldly shades of oceanic blue and the iconic Atlantis Paradise Island, consisting of a resort, an ‘Aquaventure Waterpark’ with thrilling water slides and even marine reserves, the Bahamas is so much more than just a port of call for cruises.
However, if you’re flying to the archipelago country as a standalone destination and not as part of a cruise itinerary, you should know presentation of a disembarkation/embarkation card is required of most airside arrivals, including Americans.
The form must be completed for to resort to border control, and most airlines will hand out copies to passengers during the flight, as these are individually barcoded and numbered; In the rare event that this does not happen, you can get one for free at the Immigration Hall upon arrival.
Curacao
Curaçao is probably the only Caribbean island where you get traditionally Dutch cityscapes, with Northern Mannerist facades that look very Northern European, apart from their vibrant colors. And pearly sand sandwiched between tall palm trees and blue-green water.
That would be completely unperturbed if it weren’t for the pink flamingos wandering along the coastline, but it’s not like we’re personally mad at them for taking such great photos! Anyway, we digress: in terms of bureaucracy before arrivalCuraçao is no exception.
If you travel to the Dutch-controlled island, you must do the so-called Digital immigration cardwithin seven days before departure, with required details ranging from basic travel information to more personal questions – the good news is, like the Dominican Republic, it costs nothing!
Dominica
Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic RepublicDominica is a much smaller island nation characterized by its tropical rainforests, volcanic terrain and therapeutic steam-covered hot springs: it is often considered the ‘quieter’ side of the Caribbean, as it hosts fewer tourists.
Until this year, all Americans at the border, upon arrival at Douglas-Charles Airport, were required to present their passport and any other documentation related to their stay; from this year, they must now submit a completed online immigration form.
It’s free and it’s really no biggie, but unless they have submitted their details online and received confirmation that the form has been processed and a QR code issued, they may not be allowed to enter Dominica once they land on the island.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
