(Oranjestad)—When traveling to any country, it’s important to make sure you have the right documents with you. For Aruba, one document that always seems to confuse people is the ED card. Scammers have taken advantage of the confusion, with dozen of fake and identical website overcharging visitors. To avoid this happening to you, here’s a brief guide on how to obtain the ED card the right way: What website to use and how much it actually costs.
The Embarkation/ Disembarkation (ED) card is a pre-registration form required to enter Aruba. The ED Card has been in a requirement for visitors for decades and in 2020 it was digitalized. In 2024, the government of Aruba implemented a sustainability fee for all visitors of the island, which include a $20 contribution for the improvement, updating and maintenance of the local waste water plant.
First things first, make sure you have the right website. The official website for the ED card is www.edcardaruba.aw. It is important to note that there are NO alternatives for this website; this website is the ONLY way you can obtain an official ED card. Other website that may look similar are not official and may possibly be a scam. Be careful not to fall for the trap!
Next up, make sure you have the right information with you when you apply for an ED card. You should have on hand:
1. A valid passport
2. Personal details
3. Contact information
4. Travel information
5. A valid credit card (Visa, Mastercard or Discover)
We mentioned a $20 contribution mandatory for every visitor. Keep in mind that this is a YEARLY fee; so if you plan on visiting Aruba more than once this calendar year, you would only have to pay the first time around.
Other important info
We should clarify that the ED card is not a substitute for a visa. Visitors who need a visa for Aruba must apply for both a visa and an online ED card. You can also start applying for the ED card 6 days before your flight.
If you extend your trip, you don’t have to reapply for or edit your ED card. However, you must reapply if you missed your flight and/or your flight got canceled and your traveling to the island on another flight.
For more info, visit the official website for ED card of contact the immigration office of Aruba at (+297) 523 7404 or email them at info@dga.aw
