Sint Maarten Travelers Targeted by Scammers Charging for Free Entry Forms
PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten — As the Caribbean island of Sint Maarten prepares for another busy travel season, authorities are sounding the alarm on a growing scam targeting visitors. Fraudulent websites masquerading as the official government portal are charging tourists exorbitant fees—up to $139.99—to complete the Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) card, a mandatory travel form that is officially free of charge.
The government of Sint Maarten issued a public warning after reports surfaced of private third-party sites appearing prominently in sponsored search results, tricking travelers into paying for what should be a cost-free process. May-Ling Chun, director of tourism for Sint Maarten, emphasized the importance of vigilance. “We urge all travelers to verify they are using the official website before submitting their personal information or making any payments,” Chun said in an official release.
The ED card is a required travel document for all visitors entering Sint Maarten, used to collect necessary information for immigration and public health purposes. The official form is available at no cost through the government’s website, ensuring a streamlined and secure process for travelers. However, scammers have exploited this requirement by creating lookalike websites that charge fees for processing the form.
Similar scams have been reported in other popular tourist destinations, prompting governments and agencies to ramp up public education efforts. The U.S. Department of State advises travelers to always use official government websites when submitting travel documents and to be wary of unsolicited emails or websites requesting payment.
In response, Sint Maarten’s government has reinforced its commitment to protecting visitors from fraud. The official ED card portal can be accessed directly through the government’s website, and no fees or charges are associated with completing or submitting the form. Travelers are encouraged to bookmark the official site and avoid clicking on sponsored ads or unfamiliar links that may lead to scam sites.
Authorities also recommend that visitors consult resources such as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for travel guidance and to report any suspicious activity encountered during the travel planning process.
With millions of tourists visiting the Caribbean annually, scams like these not only threaten individual travelers but also risk damaging the reputation of popular destinations. Sint Maarten’s proactive warnings aim to minimize harm and ensure that visitors can enjoy their trips without falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
For more information on safe travel practices and official entry requirements, travelers can visit the Sint Maarten Tourism Bureau and the Department of Homeland Security websites. Staying informed and cautious remains the best defense against travel scams, especially in the digital age where deceptive websites proliferate.
As spring break and peak travel seasons approach, officials urge all tourists to double-check the legitimacy of any site requesting personal information or payment related to travel forms. Using only verified government portals helps prevent financial loss and identity theft, ensuring a safe and enjoyable vacation experience in Sint Maarten and beyond.
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