Anguilla and Sint Maarten are close neighbours, linked by a short ferry, but they are separate jurisdictions with different rules for foreign buyers. As an agency that lists property in both, here is our honest comparison for investors.
Quick answer: Sint Maarten lets foreigners buy freehold with no special licence, closes fast, uses the US dollar, and has the region’s busiest airport driving rental demand. Anguilla is a quieter, upscale British territory where non-nationals typically need an Alien Land Holding Licence to buy, which adds cost and time. Sint Maarten suits investors wanting scale, liquidity and easy access; Anguilla suits buyers seeking exclusive, low-density beachfront.
At a glance
| Sint Maarten (Dutch side) | Anguilla | |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign ownership | Freehold, no licence needed | Alien Land Holding Licence usually required |
| Currency | US dollar | East Caribbean dollar (USD widely used) |
| Pace of market | Busy, higher liquidity | Quiet, low-density, exclusive |
| Access | Major international airport | Ferry/flight, often via Sint Maarten |
| Rental demand | Strong, year-round tourism | High-end, more seasonal |
Ownership rules
This is the key difference for investors. On the Dutch side of Sint Maarten a foreign buyer can purchase freehold property with the same rights as a local and no special permission. In Anguilla, non-nationals generally need an Alien Land Holding Licence, which adds a fee and an approval step to the process. If speed and simplicity matter, Sint Maarten has the edge.
Investment and rental demand
Sint Maarten’s tourism runs year round and its airport is a regional gateway, which supports a deep vacation-rental market, covered in our investment and rental-yield guide. Anguilla is famous for luxury beach resorts and high-end villas; demand is strong but more seasonal and concentrated at the top of the market. We list Anguilla property too, including Sandy Ground, so we can help you compare specific deals.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy property in Anguilla?
Yes, but non-nationals typically need an Alien Land Holding Licence, which adds cost and a processing step. Sint Maarten’s Dutch side has no such requirement.
Which has better rental income, Sint Maarten or Anguilla?
Sint Maarten generally offers deeper, more year-round rental demand thanks to its airport and tourism volume. Anguilla’s demand is high-end and more seasonal.
Comparing specific properties? Browse Sint Maarten listings and Anguilla’s Sandy Ground, or contact Island Dream Realty for investment guidance.
