If you are planning a vacation to Aruba, there is a new requirement you should know about before you travel. Since July 1, 2024, all visitors arriving by air are asked to pay a $20 Sustainability Fee. While this fee is still unfamiliar to many travelers, it is now a standard part of the entry process and must be completed through Aruba’s online Embarkation and Disembarkation Card platform.
The purpose of the Sustainability Fee is straightforward. The funds collected are dedicated to improving Aruba’s sewage and wastewater treatment system. The island’s current facility is being expanded and upgraded to keep up with growing demand, and part of the revenue will help build a new, larger treatment plant in the future. This initiative is focused on protecting Aruba’s environment and ensuring that the island’s beaches, waters, and communities continue to thrive for residents and visitors alike.
Not every traveler is required to pay. Children younger than eight years old are exempt, as are registered residents of Aruba. Cruise passengers who do not fill out an ED Card are also not charged. Former residents who are studying abroad may qualify for an exemption as long as they were official residents within the last eight years, although they may need to request a reimbursement until all databases are fully integrated. Visitors who return to Aruba more than once in the same calendar year are only expected to pay once, but to avoid duplicate charges it is important to use the same passport information each time. If a repeat visitor is charged again by mistake, a refund can be requested.
The payment process is simple. When completing the online ED Card application, you will be prompted to make the $20 payment before the form can be finalized. Credit cards are currently the only accepted method, with Visa, Mastercard, and Discover available as options. Without this payment, your ED Card cannot be approved, which means you cannot officially enter Aruba. If you make an error when filling out your ED Card, you can submit a new application without being charged again as long as you keep your original payment confirmation.
Refunds are available in specific cases. Travelers who cancel their flights after paying the fee, or those who are mistakenly charged more than once, can contact Aruba Wastewater Sustainable Solutions directly with their details to request reimbursement.
Although some travelers have reported that enforcement of the fee varies, many airlines already require proof of payment before allowing passengers to check in for their flights to Aruba. To avoid unnecessary stress at the airport, it is best to complete the ED Card well in advance of your departure and ensure your payment goes through successfully.
In short, the $20 Sustainability Fee is a small but important part of visiting Aruba. By paying it online before your trip, you are contributing to essential infrastructure projects that protect the island’s environment. It is an easy step in your travel preparation and helps ensure that Aruba continues to live up to its reputation as “One Happy Island” for years to come.
For the most current details and to complete your ED Card, visit Aruba’s official ED Card website.
