Clarification on (Bangladesh) St. Martin Travel Ban (Not: Caribbean St. Martin / St. Maarten)

Some confusion has arisen about a recent travel ban put in place by the Bangladesh government for travelers to Asian tourism destination St. Martin (Narikel Jinjira)  from February 1, 2026, to November 1, 2026. This is not related to either the “French side” St. Martin or the “Dutch side” St. Maarten of the namesake dual-nation Caribbean tourism destination.

Caribbean St. Martin / St. Maarten’s main gateways—Princess Juliana International Airport, the Philipsburg Cruise Port, marinas, and Airport L’Esperance (SFG) in Grand Case—are all open and look forward to welcoming visitors throughout the summer. The border between the two sides also remains open, as visitors are accustomed to. See the ED Card & Travel Requirements page for general information on travel guidelines to the island.

There are several islands around the world called St. Martin, or translations of the same patron saint’s name. Both the Caribbean and Bangladesh St. Martin are popular dive destinations. The travel ban to the Bangladesh island is put in place order to restore the island’s natural balance. Whereas diving on Bangladesh’s St. Martin will be limited until November, diving on St. Maarten remains available as always.