U.S. and Aruba Sign New Preclearance Agreement
ORANJESTAD – The United States and Aruba have signed a new Preclearance Agreement, aimed at strengthening security and modernizing travel between the two countries.
The signing ceremony took place on October 24, 2025, at the Hyatt Place hotel near Queen Beatrix International Airport in Oranjestad. The new agreement was signed by Diane J. Sabatino, Executive Assistant Commissioner of the Office of Field Operations (OFO) at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and Prime Minister of Aruba Michiel “Mike” Eman.
This new accord replaces the original 1994 Preclearance Agreement, which predated the establishment of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and CBP.
The agreement is an achievement for both countries, further strengthening our relations, security, and ease of access for both nations,” said Prime Minister Mike Eman. “At the heart of this cooperation lies a shared pursuit of happiness and the common good, a force that unites our people to create opportunities and collaboration that transcend borders.”
“This agreement advances our mutual security cooperation and commemorates nearly 30 years of Preclearance operations in Aruba,” said Diane J. Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner for Field Operations at CBP. “Today signifies an important milestone in our close partnership as we establish a modernized framework for Preclearance border security operations, enhancing our comprehensive security partnership through increased travel and an improved passenger experience.”
Aruba’s preclearance operation began in 1996, making it one of 15 airports in six countries, including the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Ireland, and the United Arab Emirates, that host U.S. preclearance facilities. The program enables CBP officers stationed abroad to carry out immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections before passengers board flights to the United States, allowing potential threats to be identified before reaching U.S. territory.
This renewed agreement reaffirms the strong and enduring partnership between the United States and Aruba and opens new opportunities for deeper cooperation in border security and travel facilitation.
Ramón “Chico” Negrón, U.S. Consul General in Curaçao and the U.S. Mission to the Dutch Caribbean, expressed his appreciation for the long-standing collaboration between the two nations.
“This agreement will enhance safe and secure travel between Aruba and the United States and support tourism and aviation in both our countries.” he said.
