This Caribbean island just introduced a new tourist tax

If you enter Aruba you will now get an extra $20 back due to a new “Sustainability compensation” imposed on all travelers visiting the island by air. Visitors must also continue to pay the old $3 environmental tax.

The new admission fee is $20 and must be paid prior to arrival. The money raised would be used to improve a number of key infrastructure and facilities, including the country’s sewage treatment plants Tourist Authority of Aruba.

“Starting July 1, 2024, Aruba will implement a $20 sustainability fee for visitors arriving to the island by air. This compensation will support a number of projects aimed at strengthening and improving sustainability efforts on the island.” says the official website.

Those who arrive in Aruba without proof of payment will not be allowed to enter the island.

For some reason, the administration has not explained that visitors arriving via cruise ships are exempt from paying this tax. Other travelers who will not have to pay the new fee include residents and some types of students.

How and when do you have to pay taxes in New Aruba?

Please note that this tax cannot be paid upon arrival. Please make sure to complete this payment no later than seven days before landing in Aruba.

To pay the fees, you must complete the Embarkation & Disembarkation (ED) card online.

Most credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express, as well as Apple Pay, are accepted.

For your comfort, the site offers its services in English, Dutch and Spanish.

If you visit this destination several times a year, don’t worry. The first payment is valid for 365 days.

Other European destinations charge tourist taxes

Aruba isn’t the only destination that charges travelers extra money to visit. Other European cities and countries have followed the same path in 2024. Some of these are:

• Amsterdam: This popular city has increased its tourist tax for overnight visitors and cruise passengers.
• Paris: the City of Love increased taxes on hotels and other accommodations.
• Barcelona: Europe’s second most visited city has increased its tourist tax to €50 per week’s stay, depending on your accommodation type.
• Venice: This town charges day trippers $5.50.
• Galapagos Islands (Ecuador): This country will charge $200 per adult and $100 per child from August 1.
• Iceland: The tourist tax has not yet been determined, but it has been discussed. The country wants to finance its climate and sustainability goals.
• Lauterbrunnen: This Swiss city is also considering charging tourists to enter its territory.