St. Lucia

🇱🇨

Telefonvorwahl

+1

Hauptstadt

Castries

Bevölkerung

180.000

Einheimischer Name

Saint Lucia

Region

Amerika

Karibik

Zeitzone

Atlantic Standard Time

UTC-04:00

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Geld & WährungVisa-ÜbersichtVisa-ArtenWichtige HinweiseBotschaften im AuslandBotschaften im Land

Saint Lucia is an Eastern Caribbean island nation in the Lesser Antilles, between Martinique and Saint Vincent. Castries serves as the capital. The island has a population of approximately 180,000 and covers 617 km². Saint Lucia is renowned for the iconic Pitons - two volcanic spires (Gros Piton 798m and Petit Piton 743m) rising dramatically from the sea, designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. The island was contested between French and British colonial powers, changing hands 14 times before British control was established (1814), leading to independence in 1979. Saint Lucia retains both British and French Caribbean influences - English is the official language, but Saint Lucian Creole (French-based patois) is widely spoken. The island economy relies heavily on tourism and banana exports. Saint Lucia is celebrated as a premier honeymoon and luxury destination, featuring world-class resorts (particularly Soufrière area near the Pitons), pristine beaches, lush rainforest mountains covering the interior (highest point Mount Gimie 950m), the world's only drive-in volcano (Sulphur Springs), and excellent diving and snorkeling. Activities include hiking the Pitons, rainforest zip-lining, visiting botanical gardens, catamaran cruises, exploring fishing villages, and relaxing at luxury spas. Saint Lucia offers visa-free entry for citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, EU, and many other countries for periods ranging from 42 to 90 days depending on nationality. The island is considered safe for tourists with friendly locals, well-developed tourism infrastructure, and English widely spoken.

Visa Requirements for Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia offers visa-free entry to citizens of the United States (42 days), Canada (90 days), United Kingdom (90 days), European Union member states (90 days), and most Commonwealth countries for tourism and business. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay. Return or onward ticket required. Proof of sufficient funds and accommodation may be requested at immigration. Entry stamp issued on arrival at Hewanorra International Airport (UVF, southern tip - international flights) or George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU, near Castries - regional flights). Note that visa-free durations vary by nationality - US citizens receive 42 days while most others receive 90 days. Extensions possible through Immigration Department in Castries for additional periods (fees apply, approximately EC$200 / $75 USD per month). Citizens of approximately 100+ countries can enter visa-free. For nationalities requiring advance visas, applications processed through Saint Lucia High Commissions or Consulates with standard documentation (passport copies, photos, itinerary, financial proof, application form). The island has accessible visa policies to encourage tourism. Saint Lucia is safe for tourists - violent crime is rare (though petty theft can occur in Castries), government travel advisories from UK, US, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Switzerland note no significant safety concerns. East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is official currency, pegged to US Dollar at 2.7:1 (USD widely accepted at most tourist establishments). English is the official language, though Saint Lucian Creole (French-based patois) is commonly spoken.

Gängige Visumtypen

Visa-Free Entry (Tourism/Business)

42-90 days depending on nationality (US citizens: 42 days; Canada, UK, EU: 90 days; Commonwealth countries vary); passport valid 6+ months required; return/onward ticket required; proof of funds and accommodation may be requested; entry stamp at arrival (Hewanorra International Airport for long-haul flights, George F. L. Charles Airport for regional); no advance application needed; straightforward immigration process; extensions available through Immigration Department in Castries (EC$200/$75 USD per month, require visit to office with passport, return ticket, proof of funds, and reason for extension); most visitors from Western countries, Caribbean, and Latin America qualify for visa-free access.

For tourism or business for citizens of United States, Canada, United Kingdom, EU, and approximately 100+ countries.

Visa Required (Advance Application)

Varies (typically 30-90 days depending on purpose and nationality); application through Saint Lucia High Commission or Consulate (located in major cities - London, Ottawa, Brussels, New York, Washington DC); required documents: completed application form, passport valid 6+ months, 2 passport photos, travel itinerary, return ticket confirmation, proof of accommodation (hotel bookings), bank statements (showing sufficient funds - typically $50-75 per day), travel insurance, visa fee (varies by nationality, approximately $100-150 USD); processing time 5-15 business days; approval communicated via email or phone; visa sticker placed in passport at mission or on arrival; single-entry or multiple-entry visas available.

For nationalities not qualifying for visa-free entry, requiring advance visa application through Saint Lucia diplomatic missions.

Extensions and Long-term Stays

Extensions: available in monthly increments (EC$200/$75 USD per month) through Immigration Department in Castries (The Waterfront Building, Jeremie Street); requires visit to office with passport, return ticket (can be flexible/changeable), proof of funds, written explanation for extension request; approval typically granted for tourism purposes unless concerns arise; maximum total stay with extensions typically 6 months in any 12-month period. Long-term residence: work permits required for employment (arranged by Saint Lucia employer, fees EC$1,000-3,000 depending on occupation); investor programs available (economic residence and citizenship options similar to neighboring islands, requiring substantial investment in real estate or business); retirement residence permits available for those with guaranteed income (pension, investments); student visas for those enrolled in Saint Lucia educational institutions (requires acceptance letter and proof of funds for tuition and living expenses). Professional advice recommended for long-term residence applications.

For visitors wishing to extend their stay beyond initial visa-free period or obtain longer-term residence permits.

Important Travel Information

The Pitons - UNESCO Caribbean Icons: The Pitons are Saint Lucia's most iconic natural landmarks and one of the Caribbean's most photographed sites. Gros Piton (798m / 2,619 feet) and Petit Piton (743m / 2,438 feet) are two volcanic spires rising dramatically from the sea near the town of Soufrière on the southwestern coast. Designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, the Pitons Management Area covers 2,909 hectares of land and sea. Gros Piton can be climbed with a mandatory guide (4-5 hours round trip, strenuous, $50 USD guide fee + $5 entry, guides available at Gros Piton Trail base in Fond Gens Libre village - book ahead or arrange through hotel). The trail is steep with ropes and tree roots - good fitness required. Summit rewards with panoramic views across Saint Lucia, the Caribbean Sea, and neighboring islands. Petit Piton is not open for climbing (too steep and dangerous). Best views of the Pitons: from Jalousie Beach (between the two peaks), from Sugar Beach resort area, from Tet Paul Nature Trail (easier 45-minute guided walk offering Pitons views without the climb, $10 USD), from catamaran cruises, and from the road between Castries and Soufrière. The Pitons represent volcanic activity from 200,000-300,000 years ago. Surrounding area features rich marine life, coral reefs (excellent diving and snorkeling), and rainforest. Most luxury resorts cluster near the Pitons for the dramatic views. The Pitons are Saint Lucia's signature image and must-see attraction.

Sulphur Springs - The World's Only Drive-In Volcano: Sulphur Springs near Soufrière is marketed as the world's only drive-in volcano, though it's technically a geothermal field within the collapsed crater of an ancient volcano rather than an active volcano itself. The site features bubbling pools of boiling mud and steam vents reaching 170°C (338°F), demonstrating ongoing volcanic activity beneath the surface. Visitors can drive or walk into the collapsed crater area to view the sulphurous landscape up close (hence 'drive-in' designation). Entry fee $5 USD. Guided tours included with admission (guides explain volcanic geology, history, and safety - mandatory as some areas are dangerous). The adjacent Sulphur Springs mud baths allow visitors to coat themselves in mineral-rich volcanic mud, believed to have therapeutic properties for skin and joints (additional $5 USD for mud bath access). Nearby Toraille Waterfall offers freshwater rinse after mud bath (short walk, beautiful 50-foot cascade into pool safe for swimming). The smell of sulphur is strong throughout the area. Soufrière town itself is a charming fishing village with colorful buildings, local markets, and access to multiple attractions. Combined visits to Sulphur Springs, Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens (mineral waterfall with vivid colors from mineral deposits, tropical gardens, $8 USD entry), and the Pitons make Soufrière area a full-day excursion from northern resorts. Most tours from Castries/Rodney Bay area include drive down the scenic west coast (1.5 hours each way) with stops at Marigot Bay and other viewpoints. Sulphur Springs demonstrates Saint Lucia's volcanic origins and remains one of the Caribbean's most unusual attractions.

Beach Paradise and Luxury Resorts: Saint Lucia offers diverse beaches and world-class luxury resorts, particularly concentrated around the Pitons area in the southwest. Northern beaches include Reduit Beach (Rodney Bay - longest beach, golden sand, calm water, beach bars, water sports, most accessible and popular), Pigeon Island beach (national landmark with historic fort ruins, attached to mainland by causeway, beaches on both sides), and Cas en Bas (northeastern Atlantic coast - wilder, waves, kitesurfing). Southern/western beaches include Anse Chastanet (near Soufrière, black volcanic sand, excellent snorkeling directly from shore, backed by luxury resort), Sugar Beach / Jalousie Beach (between the Pitons, white sand, dramatic setting, Viceroy resort), Anse Mamin (secluded, former plantation), and Anse Cochon (accessible by boat or challenging hike, excellent diving and snorkeling). Many of the most beautiful beaches are associated with luxury resorts but may allow day visitors (check policies - some charge day fees $50-100 USD including facilities and credits). Saint Lucia luxury resorts are renowned: Jade Mountain (individual 'sanctuaries' with infinity pools and open fourth wall facing Pitons, $1,500-4,000+/night), Ladera (treehouse-style rooms with open wall, $800-2,000/night), Sugar Beach Viceroy (beachfront between Pitons, $800-2,500/night), Windjammer Landing (villa resort near Castries, $400-1,200/night), and Sandals properties (all-inclusive couples-only, $600-1,500/night per couple). Water activities: diving and snorkeling (coral reefs, wall dives, wrecks - Anse Chastanet and Anse Cochon are top spots, tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, seahorses), catamaran sunset cruises and snorkel trips ($80-150 USD), kayaking, paddleboarding, sport fishing, sailing. Waters warm year-round (26-29°C / 79-84°F). Hurricane season June-November brings occasional rain but direct hits are infrequent. Swimming conditions excellent on western Caribbean coast (calm, sheltered), eastern Atlantic coast has rougher surf. Beach access is public in Saint Lucia, but facilities and amenities usually require resort guest status or day pass.

Vertretungen vor Ort

Ausländische Vertretungen in St. Lucia

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