Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Customs Form & Entry Requirements
Here is the part most guides get wrong: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has no online customs or immigration form. There is no portal, QR code or pre-arrival declaration to file. On arrival you make a verbal customs declaration to a Customs and Excise officer and fill in a short, free paper immigration card handed out on your flight. This guide covers exactly what to expect at the border, your passport and visa rules, the official duty-free allowance, prohibited and restricted items, and how to get from Argyle International Airport (SVD) onward to Bequia, Mustique, Canouan and Union Island.
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Is there a Saint Vincent and the Grenadines online customs form?
No. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has no online customs or immigration declaration. Unlike neighbours such as Grenada, Barbados or Belize, SVG has not launched a digital arrival portal, an eVisa or a pre-arrival travel authorization. You will not be asked for a QR code at the border, and you do not need to file anything before you fly.
Instead, the country uses the traditional two-part process that long-time Caribbean travellers will recognise:
- A paper immigration cardA short arrival/departure (E/D) card is handed out on the aircraft, or available in the arrivals hall. Complete it with your passport details, flight, your address in SVG and length of stay, then give it to the immigration officer.
- A verbal customs declarationAt the customs desk you declare, out loud, anything you obtained outside the country. There is no printed customs form for most travellers to complete.
A COVID-era online pre-arrival form was used temporarily in 2020 to 2021. The government today hosts an optional Pre-Arrival Travel Form (at stv.servicedx.com/travelform ). It is and does not replace the paper immigration card or the verbal customs declaration; some travellers complete it for convenience. Check the official links shortly before travel, as availability can change.
How customs & immigration work on arrival
Clearing the border at Argyle International Airport (SVD) is straightforward. Have your passport, completed paper immigration card and proof of onward travel ready, then move through these steps:
- 1 · Complete your paper cardFill in the immigration arrival card you were given on the flight. Bring a pen, write clearly, and keep the departure portion if the card has one.
- 2 · ImmigrationPresent your passport and card. The officer may ask the purpose of your visit, where you are staying and your onward ticket, then stamps your permitted length of stay.
- 3 · Collect your baggagePick up all checked luggage before you reach the customs desk.
- 4 · Verbal customs declarationTell the Customs and Excise officer about anything obtained abroad: gifts, goods carried for others, items for sale, commercial samples and plant material. Personal effects do not need to be listed. Anything above your allowance is dutiable in EC$.
No official fee, and watch for fake "SVG travel form" sites
Because there is no government online form to file, there is also no official government charge for the arrival process. The paper immigration card is free, and the customs declaration is verbal. The only costs you may face are duty on goods above your allowance, or a visa fee if your nationality requires a visa in advance.
Be wary of third-party websites that advertise a "mandatory Saint Vincent travel form," "SVG eVisa" or "travel authorization" and charge a fee. For visa-exempt visitors these are not official and not required. Verify entry rules only through the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Customs and Excise Department (customs.gov.vc ) and the Ministry of National Security immigration pages, listed at the foot of this guide.
Saint Vincent vs other Caribbean arrival forms
One reason this trips travellers up: several of SVG's neighbours have moved to a mandatory online arrival form, so people assume Saint Vincent must too. It does not. Here is how the region compares, with links to our full guides.
| Destination | Online form required? | What you actually do |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Vincent & the Grenadines | No | Verbal customs declaration + free paper immigration card |
| Barbados | Yes | Online Immigration & Customs form (travelform.gov.bb) |
| Grenada | Yes | Electronic ED Card (edcard.gov.gd) |
| Saint Lucia | Yes | Electronic Immigration Form (travelslu.govt.lc) |
| Jamaica | Yes | Electronic C5 Passenger Declaration (enterjamaica.gov.jm) |
| Belize | Yes | Online Customs & Immigration declaration |
Heading to more than one island? Compare requirements across the region in our full Caribbean customs forms index.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines entry requirements
Have these ready before you reach immigration at Argyle International Airport (SVD), or at a sea port if you arrive by yacht or ferry:
- A valid passportRequired for all visitors. The US advises a passport valid on your date of entry with a blank page for the stamp, while the UK and many other authorities recommend at least six months' validity beyond your stay, so six months is the safe target. Passport cards are not accepted for international air travel.
- A completed paper immigration cardHanded out on the flight (or at the port). Fill it in before you reach the immigration officer.
- Return or onward travelA return or onward ticket is part of the published requirement. Travellers without proof of departure can be refused or delayed.
- Accommodation & sufficient funds
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines visa requirements by nationality
Most visitors do not need a visa for tourism. SVG grants visa-free entry to citizens of more than 90 countries. The immigration officer always sets the permitted length of stay on arrival, and the visa-free window is shorter than some travellers expect. Confirm your own nationality's status with an SVG diplomatic mission before travelling.
| Country / region | Visa status | Typical permitted stay |
|---|---|---|
| USA & Canada | Visa free | Commonly up to 1 month on arrival, extendable |
| UK & most Commonwealth | Visa free | Commonly up to 1 month, verify exact length |
| EU / Schengen, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland | Visa free (mutual waiver since 2015) | Up to 90 days within any 180 |
| CARICOM nationals | Visa free | Up to 6 months; Barbados, Belize & Dominica citizens may stay indefinitely |
| Many others (90+ countries) | Visa free | Commonly up to 1 month, set on arrival |
| Visa-required nationalities | Visa needed in advance | Apply through an SVG mission (entry-visa fee applies) |
Sources differ on the exact visa-free duration for some nationalities. In practice, the length of stay is determined by the immigration officer on arrival. Tourists can usually by visiting the Immigration Department on Bay Street in Kingstown with their passport, an EC$ cash fee, proof of funds and an accommodation address.
Duty-free allowances for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
These figures come directly from the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Customs and Excise Department and apply per passenger aged 18 and over. Anything beyond the allowance, or any commercial goods, is dutiable. When in doubt, declare it verbally to the officer.
| Category | Allowance |
|---|---|
| Wine or spirits | 40 fl oz of wines or spirits in total (a single combined limit, not separate bottles) |
| Tobacco | Half a pound (about 225 g) of tobacco, or 50 cigars, or 200 cigarettes, one option, not combined |
| Other goods, gifts & souvenirs | Up to US$250 aggregate value, acquired abroad for personal or household use or as gifts, claimable once a year |
| Personal effects | Clothing, toiletries and similar items for your own regular and private use, passed by the officer |
| Cash & currency | No limit on importing currency, but travellers carrying large sums (commonly the US$10,000 equivalent or more) may be asked to declare it. Confirm current reporting thresholds with Customs before travel. |
The alcohol and tobacco allowances cannot be exceeded duty-free even if you stay under the US$250 goods value, and the US$250 allowance may be claimed only once a year.
Prohibited & restricted items in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The lists below are taken from the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Customs and Excise Department. Violations can lead to immediate seizure, severe penalties or prosecution. When in doubt, declare.
- Prohibited (will be seized)Narcotic drugs including opium, morphine, cocaine, LSD and marijuana; counterfeit currency and coins; indecent or obscene material; flick knives, night sticks, ratchet knives and pistols disguised as pens or pencils; gas cartridges; fictitious stamps; matches containing white or yellow phosphorus; food unfit for human consumption; and articles associated with obeah, witchcraft or the occult.
- Restricted, permit or licence requiredFirearms, ammunition, explosives and handcuffs (written permission of the Commissioner of Police); radio and TV transmitting equipment including walkie-talkies (Minister of Telecommunications); cannabis and other controlled drugs (licence of the Chief Medical Officer); CITES-listed plants and animals; chainsaws (Ministry of Agriculture); drones (Civil Aviation Authority import licence, arrange in advance); camouflage clothing; tear gas; goods bearing the SVG flag or coat of arms; and left-hand-drive vehicles (special Cabinet permit).
At the airport, arrival at Argyle International (SVD)
Nearly all international visitors land at Argyle International Airport (SVD) on the main island of St Vincent, which opened in 2017 and replaced the old E. T. Joshua Airport. After landing, have your passport and completed paper immigration card ready.
- 1 · ImmigrationPresent your passport and immigration card. Officers may ask your length of stay, where you are staying and the purpose of your trip, and may request your return ticket.
- 2 · Baggage claimCollect all checked luggage before customs. Porters may be available at busy times.
- 3 · Customs (verbal declaration)Tell the officer about anything obtained abroad and undergo screening if selected. Declare honestly, misinformation can mean delays and penalties.
Arriving by yacht or cruise ship
SVG is one of the Caribbean's great sailing destinations and a regular cruise call, so many visitors never see Argyle airport. The customs and immigration principles are the same, but the process differs.
- Private yachtsYou must clear in with Customs and Immigration at a designated port of entry, such as Kingstown, Port Elizabeth (Bequia), Clifton (Union Island) or Canouan, before going ashore elsewhere. The captain normally completes the vessel clearance and crew/passenger paperwork; advance notice and crew visas or port-health forms may apply.
- Cruise passengersCruise travellers are typically cleared through the ship's manifest and processed at the cruise port, so there is no separate online form for you to file. Follow your cruise line's instructions, carry your passport ashore, and expect that random customs inspections remain possible.
Arriving at Argyle? Sort your ride first.
Book a private driver from Argyle International (SVD) to your hotel, the Kingstown ferry terminal or a Grenadines connection, or request a custom quote for your whole trip.
Money matters
The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$ / XCD) is the local currency and has long been pegged at roughly EC$2.70 to US$1. US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, though you'll often get fairer value paying in EC$ or by card.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exchange rate | Fixed peg, approximately EC$2.70 = US$1 |
| US dollars | Widely accepted; cards accepted at most hotels, resorts and restaurants |
| Tipping | Customary around 10-15% where no service charge is added |
| Departure tax | Generally included in your airfare for air passengers |
| Currency declaration | No limit on import; declare large sums (commonly the US$10,000 equivalent or more). Confirm current thresholds with Customs |
| Electricity | 230V; British-style Type G three-pin plugs (bring an adapter) |
| Driving | On the left; a local temporary driving permit is required, and roads are narrow and winding |
Best time to visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The islands are warm year-round, averaging roughly 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F). The main differences between seasons are rainfall, sailing conditions, crowds and price.
| Season | Months | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Peak / dry season | Dec to Apr | Sunniest, calmest seas, busiest and priciest, book early |
| Shoulder season | May to Jun | Great value, warm temperatures, occasional brief showers |
| Rainy / hurricane season | Jun to Nov | Lowest prices, lush scenery; rain often comes in short bursts, direct storm hits uncommon but possible |
The Atlantic hurricane season runs roughly June to November; check forecasts and consider travel insurance if visiting then.
Health, water & food safety
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is an easy destination for most travellers, but a few precautions help.
- Before you goCheck current recommendations with your doctor and an official health authority. Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue can occur in the Caribbean periodically, so insect protection is sensible.
- Water & foodTap water is generally chlorinated and treated in major population centres, though many visitors prefer bottled or filtered water, especially in remote areas. Local Creole food is a highlight, favour busy spots with high turnover.
- Sun & heatThe tropical sun is strong. Prioritise hydration, shade, sunscreen and light clothing, especially in your first days.
Top things to do in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
From hiking an active volcano to anchoring over a turtle-filled lagoon, these are the experiences first-time visitors love most across the 32 islands.
La Soufriere volcano
St Vincent's active 4,049 ft volcano, which last erupted in 2021. Hike through rainforest to the crater rim with a guide for sweeping island and ocean views.
Tobago Cays Marine Park
A protected lagoon of uninhabited islands ringed by reef, world-famous for snorkelling with green turtles and the clearest water in the Grenadines.
Bequia
The largest and most welcoming Grenadine, a short ferry from Kingstown. Admiralty Bay, Princess Margaret Beach, boat-building heritage and easygoing charm.
Mustique
The legendary private island of villas and hideaways, with quiet white-sand beaches, Macaroni Beach and the famous Basil's Bar.
A sample day in the Grenadines
A classic day-sail from St Vincent or Bequia out to the Tobago Cays, the heart of any SVG trip.
- 8:00 am
Board your catamaran
Set off from Bequia or Kingstown with breakfast aboard as you sail south past Mustique.
- 10:30 am
Snorkel with turtles
Anchor in the Tobago Cays Marine Park and swim with green turtles over seagrass and coral.
- 12:30 pm
Beach barbecue
Lunch of fresh-grilled lobster and fish on an uninhabited cay, toes in the sand.
- 2:30 pm
Mayreau & Salt Whistle Bay
Stop at one of the Caribbean's prettiest twin-sided beaches for a swim and a rum punch.
- 5:00 pm
Sail home at golden hour
Cruise back north with the sails up as the light softens over the islands.
- 7:30 pm
Dinner in Port Elizabeth
Round off the day with fresh seafood and live music along the Belmont Walkway in Bequia.
Staying on St Vincent instead? Swap in a La Soufriere volcano hike, Dark View Falls and a stroll through the Kingstown Botanical Gardens.
Where to stay, best islands in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Each island has a distinct character, and getting between them takes ferries or short flights, so choosing the right base shapes your whole trip.
St Vincent (Kingstown & Villa)
The transport hub, close to Argyle airport, with the volcano, waterfalls, diving and the ferry to the Grenadines. Best for first arrivals, adventure and a convenient base.
Bequia
Laid-back island life, sailing, good-value guesthouses and beautiful beaches, a one-hour ferry from Kingstown. Best for relaxed island charm and sailing.
Official Saint Vincent and the Grenadines resources
This is an independent travel guide by CustomsBreeze. Always confirm current requirements with the official agencies below before you travel.
| Topic | Official authority |
|---|---|
| Customs & duty-free | SVG Customs & Excise Department |
| Immigration, visas & stay | Immigration Department, Ministry of National Security |
| Tourism & trip planning | SVG Tourism Authority |
| Health & vaccination | Ministry of Health |
| Drones & aviation | SVG Civil Aviation Authority |
- customs.gov.vcSaint Vincent and the Grenadines Customs and Excise Department, duty-free, prohibited & restricted goods
