Is Curaçao Express Pass the Future of Island Tourism?

Planning a trip to Curaçao? The Curaçao Express Pass is your ticket to a smoother, faster arrival, letting you dive into the beauty of this Caribbean gem sooner. At SIXT.VN, we’re all about making travel seamless, and understanding innovations like the Curaçao Express Pass helps you get the most out of your vacation. Think of it as your express lane to paradise. This guide provides everything you need to know, including the ins and outs of this time-saving tool, so you can focus on making unforgettable memories. Let’s explore how this pass can revolutionize your travel experience, ensuring a delightful beginning to your Curaçao adventure.

1. What is the Curaçao Express Pass and How Does it Benefit Travelers?

The Curaçao Express Pass represents a leap forward in travel convenience, acting as the world’s first mobile-based, pre-processing border crossing system. This innovative program is designed to streamline your arrival at Curaçao International Airport (CUR) using traveler-controlled, contactless technologies. This system allows visitors to prepare for their journey from the comfort of their homes, ensuring they can quickly embrace the Curaçaoan spirit upon arrival.

Here’s a breakdown of the three-part process:

1. Digital Immigration (DI) Card Completion: After completing online check-in with your airline, the first step involves filling out the Digital Immigration (DI) Card. This digital form replaces the traditional paper-based immigration card, allowing you to provide necessary information electronically before your arrival.
2. Airside Digital Identity App Utilization: The second step requires downloading and using the free Airside Digital Identity App. This app allows you to securely verify and share your passport information with immigration officials. It uses advanced security measures to protect your personal data and ensures that only the necessary information is shared.
3. Contactless eGates Access: Upon arrival at Curaçao International Airport, travelers can access a designated express lane specifically for Curaçao Express Pass users. By simply showing their faces to the camera at the contactless eGates, travelers can quickly and efficiently process through immigration, bypassing traditional queues.

The Curaçao Express Pass offers a modern, efficient approach to border control, reducing wait times and allowing you to start enjoying your vacation sooner. Its contactless nature also aligns with current health and safety standards, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind for travelers.

2. Who Can Take Advantage of the Curaçao Express Pass?

The Curaçao Express Pass is available to a wide range of travelers, making it an accessible option for many visitors to Curaçao.

Here’s a detailed look at the eligibility criteria:

• Smartphone Users: The service is designed for individuals who own any smartphone, whether it’s iOS or Android.

• Age Requirement: Applicants must be aged 16 and older to use the Curaçao Express Pass.

• E-Passport Holders: The service is available to holders of e-passports (passports with a chip) from select countries. Currently, these countries include:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • United Kingdom
  • United States

It’s important to note that the Curaçao Tourism Board plans to expand the usage of this service to include more countries over time. Travelers from countries not currently listed should check for updates regularly to see if their country has been added to the list of eligible countries.

3. As a Resident, Can I Benefit from the Curaçao Express Pass?

Yes, residents of Curaçao can absolutely use the Curaçao Express Pass, and the process is even more streamlined for them.

Here’s how residents can take advantage of the service:

• No DI Card Required: As a resident, you are not required to complete the Digital Immigration card. This simplifies the process, saving you time and effort.
• Airside App Download and Passport Submission: Simply download the free Airside Digital Identity App and submit your passport information before arriving at the airport.
• Use the Express Pass Lane: Once your passport information is submitted and verified, you can use the Express Pass lane for faster processing upon arrival.

This streamlined process recognizes the unique status of residents and offers a more efficient way for them to pass through immigration. By eliminating the need to fill out the Digital Immigration card, residents can save time and enjoy a smoother, quicker airport experience. The Curaçao Express Pass is designed to make travel easier for everyone, and residents are no exception.

4. What are the Steps to Use the Curaçao Express Pass Service in the App?

Using the Curaçao Express Pass service in the Airside app is straightforward, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Follow these steps to get started:

1. Complete the Digital Immigration (DI) Card: Before anything else, make sure you’ve filled out the Digital Immigration (DI) Card for entry into Curaçao. This step is essential as it provides the necessary information for your visit.
2. Download the Airside App: After completing the DI Card, you’ll be directed to download the Airside app to your iPhone or Android phone.
3. Verify and Share Passport Details: Within 7 days before your arrival, use the app to verify and share your passport and biometrics with immigration.

Here’s a step-by-step guide within the app:

1. Select or Enroll Your Passport:
   • Open the Airside app and choose to either select an existing passport or enroll a new one.
2. Enter Arrival Details:
   • Select your arrival location and date, then tap Continue.
3. Provide Consent:
   • Grant permission to share your biometric information by tapping I Consent.
4. Confirmation:
   • Once you submit your information successfully, you’ll see a confirmation screen, indicating that your details have been processed and you’re ready to use the Curaçao Express Pass lane.
5. Look for the Signs:
   • Upon arrival at the airport, keep an eye out for the signs directing you to the Curaçao Express Pass lane. You’re now ready to use the designated fast lane!

By following these steps, you can efficiently use the Curaçao Express Pass service, saving time and making your arrival in Curaçao as smooth as possible.

5. Can I Access the Curaçao Express Pass on My Computer or Tablet?

No, the Airside app, which is required for the Curaçao Express Pass, is specifically designed for smartphones.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Smartphone Compatibility: The Airside app is compatible with both iPhones and Android smartphones.
• No Computer or Tablet Support: The app is not designed to work on computers, iPads, or tablets.

The decision to focus on smartphones is driven by the need for secure biometric verification and the portability that smartphones offer. Since the app requires access to your phone’s camera for facial recognition and NFC (Near Field Communication) for reading passport chips, it is best suited for devices with these capabilities.

6. What Happens if My Flight to Curaçao is Delayed?

Flight delays are an unfortunate reality of travel. If your flight to Curaçao is delayed, here’s what you need to know regarding your Curaçao Express Pass:

• Information Deletion: Your shared information will be automatically deleted from the Curaçao border control management system the day after your originally stated arrival date.
• Resubmission Required: If your new arrival date is later than the day after your initial arrival date, you will need to resubmit your information using the Airside app.

To ensure a smooth passage through immigration upon your arrival, it’s essential to keep your arrival information up to date. If your flight is delayed, take a moment to resubmit your details via the Airside app. This will ensure that your information is current and that you can use the designated fast lane without any issues.

7. Is It Still Necessary to Bring My Passport to Curaçao?

Yes, even with the Curaçao Express Pass, you absolutely need to bring your passport to Curaçao.

Here’s why:

• Expedited Border Crossing: The Airside app expedites your border crossing process, but it does not replace your passport.
• Passport Requirement: You must still travel with your valid passport.

The Curaçao Express Pass is designed to streamline the immigration process by allowing you to pre-submit your information and use a designated fast lane. However, your passport remains the primary document for verifying your identity and citizenship. Be sure to keep your passport easily accessible during your travels, as you will need to present it to immigration officials upon arrival.

8. What If I Submit My Passport via the Airside App But Forget to Fill Out the DI Card?

Completing both steps is crucial for a seamless experience with the Curaçao Express Pass.

Here’s what will happen if you skip the DI Card:

• No Access to Fast Lanes: If you have not completed the Digital Immigration (DI) Card, you will not be able to use the designated fast lanes at the airport.
• Complete Both Steps: To take full advantage of the Curaçao Express Pass, make sure to complete both the Airside app process and the DI Card before you arrive in Curaçao.

Even if you’ve already submitted your passport information through the Airside app, you can still fill out the DI Card afterward. Just ensure that you complete both steps before your arrival to avoid any inconvenience.

9. How Secure is the Curaçao Express Pass Service?

Security is a top priority for the Curaçao Express Pass service.

Here’s how your data is protected:

• Robust Encryption: The authenticity of your data is verified and protected by robust encryption and security technology within the Airside app.
• Data Encryption: Your information is encrypted both at rest on your device and in transit when you submit it to the Curaçao border management system.
• No Central Database: Airside does not use a central database and cannot access, own, or sell your information.
• User Control: Your data is located only on your encrypted device and is shared only when you consent.

These measures ensure that your personal information remains secure throughout the entire process. The Curaçao Express Pass uses state-of-the-art security protocols to give you peace of mind while enjoying a smoother travel experience.

10. How Can I Revoke My Consent to Use the Curaçao Express Pass Service?

You have complete control over your data and can revoke your consent to use the Curaçao Express Pass service at any time.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Airside App: Launch the Airside app on your smartphone.
2. Navigate to Services: Tap Services at the bottom of the screen.
3. Select Curaçao Express Pass: Choose Curaçao Express Pass from the list of services.
4. Revoke Consent:
   • Tap the box with the consent you wish to revoke.
   • Tap Revoke Consent, then tap Revoke Consent again to confirm.
5. Confirmation: Your revoked consent will appear within the CuraçaoExpress Pass tile.

By following these steps, you can easily revoke your consent and remove your information from the system.

11. What Are the Key Advantages of Using the Curaçao Express Pass Service?

The Curaçao Express Pass offers numerous benefits that enhance your travel experience.

Here are the key advantages:

• Time-Saving:
  • Expedited Immigration: Use the designated fast lane in the immigration hall to simply show your face to the camera.
  • Quick Arrival: Get through the airport quickly and start enjoying Curaçao as soon as possible.
• Privacy and Security:
  • Protected Information: Your verified information is protected on your encrypted device.
  • User Control: Only you can share the information with immigration.
  • Temporary Data Availability: Data is available only for the eGates on the day of travel and is then automatically deleted.
• Reusability:
  • One-Time Enrollment: Enroll your passport once and use it each time you return to the island or use any other Airside services.

By taking advantage of these benefits, you can enjoy a smoother, more secure, and more efficient travel experience.

12. How to Add Your Passport for the Curaçao Express Pass Service on iOS Devices

Adding your passport to the Airside app on an iOS device is a straightforward process, but there are a few technical requirements to keep in mind.

Here’s a detailed guide:

Technical Requirements:

• iOS Version: The Airside app is compatible with iPhones using iOS version 15.0 or later.
• iPhone Model: Because an NFC-capable device is required to verify a passport, iPhones older than the 7 cannot be used for this service.
• NFC Tag Reader:
  • iPhones XS and later automatically support tag reading.
  • For iPhone models 7 through X, you can enable the tag reader by opening Settings, tapping Control Center, enabling Access Within Apps, and tapping the plus sign (➕) next to NFC Tag Reader.
• Permissions: Check Settings to allow the app access to the camera, and be sure your device is not set to Low Power Mode.

Passport Requirements:

• Passport Validity: Make sure your passport has not expired.

• E-Passport: Only e-Passports may be enrolled on the app. Look for this symbol on the passport cover to see if yours is eligible:

• Physical Condition: Remove any covers or holders from your passport and phone.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Chip Damage: Some chips may be damaged, making them unreadable.
• Enrollment Issues: If your passport enrollment is unsuccessful, retake your selfie and repeat the MRZ scan before proceeding to the NFC chip read.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open the App: Tap the Curaçao Express Pass tile in the Airside app and read the program information. Tap Continue.
2. Add Your ID: Tap Your ID, then Add ID.
3. Take a Selfie:
   • Tap Take Selfie and then tap Proceed.
   • Tap Allow for the app to access the camera.
   • Align your face with the outline in the app and tap the camera icon to take the photo.
   • Tap Use Photo to keep the image or Retake Photo to try again.
4. Scan Passport:
   • Review the passport enrollment guidance and tap Scan Passport.
   • Place your passport on a dark, non-metal background and avoid glare.
5. Align MRZ Code:
   • On the Scan passport screen, align the highlighted blue bar over the MRZ code located under your passport photo.
   • You may need to move your phone closer to or further away from your passport to capture the code. If you have trouble scanning your passport due to glare, try holding it facing you and scan it vertically to eliminate as much glare as possible.
6. Read Chip:
   • After the MRZ code is captured, review the in-app guidance for a successful NFC read and then tap Read Chip.
7. Position Phone:
   • Keeping your passport open, position your phone as shown below and move it slowly until your device vibrates, then stop and wait for the read to complete; this may take several seconds.
   • Because chip and phone antenna locations vary, you may need to rotate your phone 90 degrees and/or try the passport’s center fold or back cover for a successful read. When complete, tap Next.
8. Consent:
   • Review the information on the consent form and tap I Consent to share your passport information for verification. Please note that the expiration on this screen applies to your consent and not your passport. If you do not consent, tap I Do Not Consent or Cancel.
9. Verification: If you have consented, your passport is now being verified; this process can take up to 20 seconds.
10. Location: Your passport information is now located under the Documents tab.

Quick instructional video

By following these steps, you can successfully add your passport to the Airside app on your iOS device and enjoy a smoother travel experience in Curaçao.

13. How to Add Your Passport for the Curaçao Express Pass Service on Android Devices

Adding your passport to the Airside app on an Android device is similar to the process on iOS, but there are a few Android-specific settings to be aware of.

Here’s a detailed guide:

Technical Requirements:

• Android Version: The Airside app is compatible with devices using Android version 8.1 or later.
• NFC Tag Reader: Enable the NFC tag reader for Android devices by opening Settings, tap Connections, and turn on NFC and contactless payments.
• Permissions: Also check Settings to allow the app access to the camera.
• Battery Mode: Be sure your device is not set to Low Battery Mode.

Passport Requirements:

• Passport Validity: Make sure your passport has not expired.

• E-Passport: Only e-Passports may be enrolled on the app. Look for this symbol on the passport cover to see if yours is eligible:

• Physical Condition: Remove any covers or holders from your passport and phone.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Chip Damage: Some chips may be damaged, making them unreadable.
• Enrollment Issues: If your passport enrollment is unsuccessful, retake your selfie and repeat the MRZ scan before proceeding to the NFC chip read.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open the App: Tap the Curaçao Express Pass tile in the Airside app and read the program information. Tap Continue.
2. Add Your ID: Tap Your ID, then Add ID.
3. Take a Selfie:
   • Tap Take Selfie and then tap Proceed.
   • Tap Allow for the app to access the camera.
   • Align your face with the outline in the app and tap the camera icon to take the photo.
   • Tap Use Photo to keep the image or Retake Photo to try again.
4. Scan Passport:
   • Review the passport enrollment guidance and tap Scan Passport.
   • Place your passport on a dark, non-metal background and avoid glare.
5. Align MRZ Code:
   • On the Scan passport screen, align the highlighted blue bar over the MRZ code located under your passport photo.
   • You may need to move your phone closer to or further away from your passport to capture the code. If you have trouble scanning your passport due to glare, try holding it facing you and scan it vertically to eliminate as much glare as possible.
6. Read Chip:
   • After the MRZ code is captured, review the in-app guidance for a successful NFC read and then tap Read Chip.
7. Position Phone:
   • Keeping your passport open, position your phone as shown below and move it slowly until your device vibrates, then stop and wait for the read to complete; this may take several seconds.
   • Because chip and phone antenna locations vary, you may need to rotate your phone 90 degrees and/or try the passport’s center fold or back cover for a successful read. When complete, tap Next.
8. Consent:
   • Review the information on the consent form and tap I Consent to share your passport information for verification. Please note that the expiration on this screen applies to your consent and not your passport. If you do not consent, tap I Do Not Consent or Cancel.
9. Verification: If you have consented, your passport is now being verified; this process can take up to 20 seconds.
10. Location: Your passport information is now located under the Documents tab.

Quick instructional video

By following these steps, you can successfully add your passport to the Airside app on your Android device.

FAQ About the Curaçao Express Pass

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Curaçao Express Pass to help you better understand how it works and its benefits.

1. Is the Curaçao Express Pass really free to use?

   Yes, the Curaçao Express Pass and the Airside app are both free to download and use. There are no hidden fees or charges associated with using the service.

2. Can I use the Curaçao Express Pass if I am traveling with children under 16?

   Currently, the Curaçao Express Pass is only available for travelers aged 16 and older. Children under 16 will need to go through the standard immigration process with their parents or guardians.

3. What if I have a new passport after submitting my information through the Airside app?

   If you get a new passport, you will need to update your information in the Airside app with the details from your new passport. This ensures that the information matches when you arrive in Curaçao.

4. Do I need to create an account to use the Airside app for the Curaçao Express Pass?

   No, you do not need to create an account to use the Airside app for the Curaçao Express Pass. The app uses your passport information and biometrics to verify your identity.

5. What if the eGates are not working when I arrive at the airport?

   In the rare event that the eGates are not functioning, there will be staff available to assist you. You may be directed to a priority lane or provided with alternative assistance to ensure a smooth passage through immigration.

6. Can I use the Curaçao Express Pass if I am traveling for business?

   Yes, the Curaçao Express Pass is available for all eligible travelers, regardless of the purpose of their trip. Whether you are traveling for leisure or business, you can take advantage of the expedited immigration process.

7. What happens to my data after it is deleted from the Curaçao border control management system?

   Once your data is deleted from the Curaçao border control management system, it is permanently removed and cannot be accessed. Airside does not store your data on a central database, so your information remains secure.

8. Is there a customer support service available if I encounter issues while using the Airside app?

   Yes, Airside provides customer support to assist you with any issues you may encounter while using the app. You can find contact information and support resources on the Airside website or within the app itself.

9. Can I use the same Airside app for other services besides the Curaçao Express Pass?

   Yes, the Airside app can be used for other services that require secure identity verification. Check the Airside app for a list of available services and features.

10. Does the Curaçao Express Pass guarantee that I will not have to wait at all in the immigration line?

    While the Curaçao Express Pass significantly reduces wait times, it does not guarantee that you will not have to wait at all. However, the designated fast lane is typically much shorter than the regular immigration lines, allowing you to get through the airport more quickly.

Planning a trip to Curaçao should be exciting, not stressful. With the Curaçao Express Pass, you can breeze through immigration and start your adventure sooner. And for all your travel needs in Vietnam, remember SIXT.VN. Whether you need airport transfers, hotel bookings, or tours of Hanoi, we’re here to make your journey seamless. Contact us today and let us help you plan your perfect trip!
Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358. Website: SIXT.VN.