Planning a trip to the beautiful island of Curaçao? Wondering if Curaçao is open to tourism and how to make your arrival seamless? SIXT.VN is here to guide you through the latest travel updates and introduce you to the Curaçao Express Pass, your key to a smooth and efficient entry. Discover how to breeze through immigration and start enjoying your Caribbean getaway sooner with these travel tips, airport procedures, and entry requirements.
1. What is the Current Status of Tourism in Curaçao?
Yes, Curaçao is open to tourism, welcoming travelers from around the globe. The island has implemented safety protocols to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. To make your arrival even smoother, Curaçao offers the Express Pass.
What is the Curaçao Express Pass?
The Curaçao Express Pass is a groundbreaking, mobile-based system designed to expedite border crossings. This innovative program uses contactless technology, allowing travelers to complete pre-arrival steps from home, so they can swiftly immerse themselves in the Curaçaoan spirit upon arrival at Curaçao International Airport (CUR). This system aligns with GDPR compliance, ensuring your data is protected.
How Does the Curaçao Express Pass Work?
The Express Pass process involves three simple steps:
- Digital Immigration (DI) Card: After checking in online with your airline, complete the Digital Immigration (DI) Card.
- Airside Digital Identity App: Use the free Airside Digital Identity App to verify your passport and share your information securely with immigration officials.
- Contactless eGates: Upon arrival, proceed to the designated Express Pass lane and simply show your face to the camera at the eGates for quick processing.
This streamlined process reduces wait times and allows you to begin your vacation without delay.
2. Who is Eligible to Use the Curaçao Express Pass?
The Curaçao Express Pass is available to a wide range of travelers, making it easy for many to expedite their arrival.
Eligibility Criteria
To use the Curaçao Express Pass, you must meet the following requirements:
- Smartphone User: You must own a smartphone (iOS or Android).
- Age Requirement: You must be 16 years of age or older.
- E-Passport Holder: You must hold an e-passport (a passport with a chip) from one of the eligible countries.
Eligible Countries
Currently, the Curaçao Express Pass is available to passport holders from the following countries:
| Country | Country | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Austria | Germany | Poland |
| Belgium | Greece | Portugal |
| Bulgaria | Hungary | Romania |
| Canada | Ireland | Slovakia |
| Croatia | Italy | Slovenia |
| Cyprus | Latvia | Spain |
| Czech Republic | Lithuania | Sweden |
| Denmark | Luxembourg | United Kingdom |
| Estonia | Malta | United States |
| Finland | Netherlands | |
| France |
The list of eligible countries may expand over time, so check the latest updates before your trip.
3. Can Residents of Curaçao Use the Express Pass?
Yes, residents of Curaçao can also take advantage of the Express Pass to expedite their airport experience.
Benefits for Residents
As a resident, you do not need to complete the Digital Immigration card. Simply download the free Airside Digital Identity App, submit your passport information, and use the Express Pass lane upon arrival. This makes returning home even easier and faster.
Step-by-Step Guide for Residents
- Download the Airside App: Get the app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Submit Your Passport: Follow the in-app instructions to securely submit your passport information.
- Use the Express Lane: At the airport, proceed to the designated Express Pass lane and enjoy a quicker border crossing.
4. How to Use the Curaçao Express Pass in the Airside App: A Detailed Guide
Using the Curaçao Express Pass through the Airside app is straightforward. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Complete the Digital Immigration (DI) Card
Before using the Airside app, ensure you have completed the Digital Immigration (DI) Card for entry into Curaçao. This can be done online through the official website.
Step 2: Download the Airside App
After completing the DI Card, you will be directed to download the Airside app to your iPhone or Android phone.
Step 3: Verify and Share Your Passport
Within 7 days before your arrival, use the Airside app to verify and share your passport and biometric information with immigration.
Step 4: In-App Instructions
- Select or Enroll Your Passport: Open the Airside app and select your passport if you have previously enrolled it, or enroll it if it’s your first time using the service.
- Select Arrival Details: Select your arrival location and date, then tap Continue.
- Consent to Share Biometric Information: Provide permission to share your biometric information by tapping I Consent.
- Confirmation Screen: Once you submit your information successfully, you’ll see a confirmation screen.
Step 5: At the Airport
Look for the signs at the airport directing you to the Curaçao Express Pass lane. Present your confirmation on the app or your passport, and you’re ready to use the fast lane.
Following these steps will ensure a smooth and efficient experience at the Curaçao International Airport.
5. Can I Use the Curaçao Express Pass on a Computer or Tablet?
No, the Airside app is specifically designed for use on smartphones, either iPhone or Android.
Why Smartphones Only?
The Airside app requires features available on smartphones, such as the ability to scan passports using the phone’s camera and NFC (Near Field Communication) technology for reading passport chips. These features are not commonly available on computers or tablets.
Ensuring Compatibility
To use the Curaçao Express Pass, make sure you have a compatible smartphone with the latest version of the Airside app installed. Check the app store for updates to ensure optimal performance.
6. What Happens if My Flight is Delayed to the Next Day?
If your flight is delayed until the next day, it’s important to resubmit your information on the Airside app.
Data Deletion Policy
Your shared information will be automatically deleted from the Curaçao border control management system the day after your originally stated arrival date.
Resubmitting Your Information
If you are arriving later than your initially scheduled date, you must resubmit your information on the Airside app with the new arrival date to ensure a smooth passage through the Express Pass lane. This will keep your information current and valid for your actual arrival time.
7. Do I Still Need to Bring My Passport to Curaçao?
Yes, even when using the Curaçao Express Pass, you must still bring your physical passport to Curaçao.
Passport Requirement
The Airside app expedites your border crossing process, but it does not replace the requirement to travel with a valid passport. You will need to present your passport to immigration officials for verification, in addition to using the Express Pass lane.
Why is a Passport Still Necessary?
A physical passport is essential for confirming your identity and citizenship, and it may be required for other purposes during your stay in Curaçao, such as checking into hotels or engaging in certain activities.
8. What If I Submit My Passport via Airside but Don’t Fill Out the DI Card?
Completing both steps – submitting your passport via the Airside app and filling out the Digital Immigration (DI) Card online – is essential for using the designated fast lanes at the airport.
Consequences of Incomplete Information
If you have not completed the DI Card, you will not be able to use the Curaçao Express Pass lane. The DI Card provides crucial information to immigration officials, and it is a mandatory requirement for all visitors.
Completing Both Steps
You can fill out the DI Card either before or after completing the Airside process, but make sure to complete both steps before you arrive in Curaçao to take full advantage of the Express Pass service.
9. How Secure is the Curaçao Express Pass Service?
The Curaçao Express Pass service is designed with robust security measures to protect your personal information.
Data Encryption and Security
The authenticity of your data is verified and protected by strong encryption and security technology within the Airside app. Your information is encrypted both at rest on your device and in transit when you submit it to the Curaçao border management system.
Privacy Assurance
Airside does not use a central database and cannot access, own, or sell your information. Your data is located only on your encrypted device and is shared only when you consent. This ensures that your privacy is maintained throughout the process.
Compliance with Regulations
The Curaçao Express Pass service complies with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) to protect your personal data and ensure transparency in data processing.
10. How Do I Revoke My Consent to Use the Service?
If you decide you no longer want to use the Curaçao Express Pass service after submitting your information, you can easily revoke your consent through the Airside app.
Step-by-Step Revocation Process
- Open the Airside App: Launch the Airside app on your smartphone.
- Tap Services: At the bottom of the screen, tap Services.
- Select Curaçao Express Pass: Choose Curaçao Express Pass from the list of services.
- Revoke Consent: Tap the box with the consent you wish to revoke, then tap Revoke Consent.
- Confirm Revocation: Tap Revoke Consent again to confirm your decision.
Confirmation of Revocation
After completing these steps, your revoked consent will be displayed within the Curaçao Express Pass tile in the app. This ensures that your information will no longer be used for the Express Pass service.
11. What are the Key Advantages of Using the Curaçao Express Pass?
The Curaçao Express Pass offers several significant benefits that enhance your travel experience.
Time-Saving
Using the designated fast lane in the immigration hall allows you to bypass long queues. Simply show your face to the camera and proceed, enabling you to start enjoying Curaçao as quickly as possible.
Enhanced Privacy and Security
Your verified information is protected on your encrypted device, and only you can share the information with immigration. Data is available only for the eGates on the day of travel and is automatically deleted afterward, ensuring your data remains secure.
Reusability
Enroll your passport once and use it each time you return to the island, or use any other Airside services. This one-time setup streamlines your future travels, making the process quick and easy.
12. How to Add Your Passport for the Curaçao Express Pass Service (iOS)
Adding your passport to the Airside app on an iOS device is a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through each step.
Compatibility Requirements
- The Airside app is compatible with iPhones using iOS version 15.0 or later.
- An NFC-capable device is required to verify a passport; iPhones older than the 7 cannot be used for this service.
- iPhones XS and later automatically support tag reading. For iPhone models 7 through X, enable the tag reader by opening Settings, tapping Control Center, enabling Access Within Apps, and tapping the plus sign (➕) next to NFC Tag Reader.
Preparation Steps
-
Check App Permissions: Check Settings to allow the app access to the camera.
-
Disable Low Power Mode: Ensure your device is not set to Low Power Mode.
-
Passport Expiry: Make sure your passport has not expired.
-
E-Passport Eligibility: Only e-Passports may be enrolled on the app. Look for this symbol on the passport cover to see if yours is eligible:
-
Remove Cover: Remove any covers or holders from your passport and phone.
-
Troubleshooting: Some chips may be damaged, making them unreadable. 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
- Tap the Curaçao Express Pass Tile: In the Airside app, tap the Curaçao Express Pass tile and read the program information. Tap Continue.
- Add Your ID: Tap Your ID, then Add ID.
- 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.
- Scan Passport: Review the passport enrollment guidance and tap Scan Passport. Place your passport on a dark, non-metal background and avoid glare.
- 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.
- Read Chip: After the MRZ code is captured, review the in-app guidance for a successful NFC read and then tap Read Chip.
- Position Your 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.
- Consent Form: 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.
- Verification: If you have consented, your passport is now being verified; this process can take up to 20 seconds.
- Passport Information: Your passport information is now located under the Documents tab.
13. How to Add Your Passport for the Curaçao Express Pass Service (Android)
Adding your passport to the Airside app on an Android device is a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through each step.
Compatibility Requirements
- The Airside app is compatible with devices using Android version 8.1 or later
- Enable the NFC tag reader for Android devices by opening Settings, tap Connections, and turn on NFC and contactless payments.
- Also check Settings to allow the app access to the camera.
Preparation Steps
-
Disable Low Battery Mode: Be sure your device is not set to Low Battery Mode.
-
Passport Expiry: Make sure your passport has not expired.
-
E-Passport Eligibility: Only e-Passports may be enrolled on the app. Look for this symbol on the passport cover to see if yours is eligible:
-
Remove Cover: Remove any covers or holders from your passport and phone.
-
Troubleshooting: Some chips may be damaged, making them unreadable. 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
- Tap the Curaçao Express Pass Tile: In the Airside app, tap the Curaçao Express Pass tile and read the program information. Tap Continue.
- Add Your ID: Tap Your ID, then Add ID.
- 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.
- Scan Passport: Review the passport enrollment guidance and tap Scan Passport. Place your passport on a dark, non-metal background and avoid glare.
- 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.
- Read Chip: After the MRZ code is captured, review the in-app guidance for a successful NFC read and then tap Read Chip.
- Position Your 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.
- Consent Form: 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.
- Verification: If you have consented, your passport is now being verified; this process can take up to 20 seconds.
- Passport Information: Your passport information is now located under the Documents tab.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Curaçao Express Pass
1. Is Curaçao currently open to tourists?
Yes, Curaçao is open to tourists.
2. What is the Curaçao Express Pass?
The Curaçao Express Pass is a mobile-based system that expedites border crossings using contactless technology.
3. Who can use the Curaçao Express Pass?
Travelers aged 16 and older with e-passports from eligible countries (EU, UK, US, CAN) can use the Express Pass.
4. Can residents of Curaçao use the Express Pass?
Yes, residents can use the Express Pass without completing the Digital Immigration card.
5. How do I use the Express Pass in the Airside app?
Download the Airside app, complete the DI card, verify and share your passport, and follow the in-app instructions.
6. Can I use the Express Pass on a computer or tablet?
No, the Airside app is only compatible with smartphones (iOS and Android).
7. What happens if my flight is delayed?
Resubmit your information on the Airside app with the new arrival date.
8. Do I still need my passport when using the Express Pass?
Yes, you must still travel with your valid passport.
9. Is the Curaçao Express Pass service secure?
Yes, your data is protected by robust encryption and security technology in the Airside app.
10. How do I revoke my consent to use the service?
You can revoke your consent in the Airside app by tapping Services, selecting Curaçao Express Pass, and revoking your consent.
Ready to experience a seamless journey to Curaçao? With SIXT.VN, you can plan your trip with ease and confidence. We offer expert travel advice, convenient airport transfer services, a wide selection of hotels, and exciting tour options to make your visit unforgettable. Contact us today and let us help you create the perfect Curaçao getaway! Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358. Website: SIXT.VN.
