Support networks for migrants in Curaçao (and what to do if you have a problem with the police)
First things first: this is NOT about evading the authorities
This article connects you with real support organizations and explains your rights if you have a problem — it is not a guide for evading checks. The correct path for your immigration situation is still to regularize if you qualify, or to seek real legal advice if your case is complex.
Healthcare without insurance or papers: Salú pa Tur
The Salú pa Tur Foundation provides basic medical care to any refugee or migrant without health insurance — general consultations, gynecology and maternity care, psychological support, and follow-up for chronic illnesses. You don't need regular immigration status to be seen.
- 📍 Landhuis Kas Chikitu, 191 Franklin D. Rooseveltweg, Willemstad
- 🕒 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- 📞 +5999 529 5442 (call to book an appointment)
- 🌐 salupatur.org
Psychosocial and legal support: Venex Curaçao
Fundashon Venex Curaçao has worked specifically with vulnerable migrant communities (especially Venezuelan) since 2014 — psychosocial support, legal assistance, and integration programs.
- 📍 Kaya Rigelweg #1, Groot Davelaar, Willemstad
- 🕒 Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- 📞 +5999 6878952
- 🌐 venexcur.org
If you have a problem with the police or a human-rights issue: HRDC
Human Rights Defense Curaçao (HRDC) provides technical support, guidance on protection under Article 3 ECHR (protection against return to a country where you face real risk), and help if you feel your rights have been violated.
- 📍 Molenplein 107 A, Willemstad
- 🕒 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- 📞 +5999-788-0126 / +5999-567-6707
- 🌐 humanrightsdefense.org
For complaints against a government office: the Ombudsman
The Ombudsman of Curaçao mediates complaints against government entities and defends vulnerable groups — accepts complaints in Spanish, as well as English, Papiamentu, and Dutch.
- 📍 Schottegatweg Oost 112, Willemstad
- 📞 +5999 4610303
- 🌐 ombudsman.cw
Community: people who have been through the same
Besides its psychosocial and legal support, Venex Curaçao runs an active Facebook page where community information is shared. There are also Facebook groups such as "Venezolanos Residentes en Curazao", useful for everyday matters (where to buy something, who's renting a room). Treat them for what they are: other people's experiences, not an official source. For immigration matters, always check against the procedure page or the Toelatingsorganisatie.
For the Catholic community, the Basilica of Saint Anne in Punda is the co-cathedral of the Diocese of Willemstad. We haven't been able to confirm a Spanish-language Mass schedule: ask the parish directly.
If the police detain you
Immigration detention can be challenged, and the government has specific obligations before and during it: we explain them, with the cases, in immigration detention: your rights. If you are afraid to return to your country, Article 3 ECHR protection exists, but it requires a proven, personal risk. Either way, HRDC or a lawyer should be your first contact; don't try to handle it alone.
Addresses, phone numbers and services checked on the UNHCR pages for Curaçao and on each organization's own site. Confirm before you go: contact details can change.