Frequently asked questions about immigration to Curaçao
Which procedure fits your case, what it costs and how long it takes, taken from each procedure page. Every answer links to the full page with the requirements and the official source.
Questions about immigration procedures
How do I get a permit to work in Curaçao?
Who it is for: Foreigners hired by a company in Curaçao, and directors of an N.V. or B.V. (sole proprietors use the residence permit for your own business). It costs XCG 655 (≈ US$ 366) for the first year. The decision takes 4 months. Requirements, steps and forms: Residence Permit for Work (Employee of a Company)
How do I bring my wife, children or parents to Curaçao?
Who it is for: Spouse, or partner with a notarial cohabitation agreement made in the Netherlands or the BES islands, of a resident/guarantor in Curaçao. It costs XCG 655 (≈ US$ 366) for the first year. Requirements, steps and forms: Residence Permit for Family Members (spouse, children or parents) of someone already residing in Curaçao
I am in Curaçao without papers. Can I regularize my status?
Who it is for: Any person without valid immigration status who was in Curaçao before November 13, 2025 and is still living there currently, provided they registered by October 31, 2026, when registration closed. You must also not be a danger to public order (no criminal record) and have sufficient means of support (through a job, your own business or the family member who supports you). Requirements, steps and forms: Rib'e Lugá — Temporary regularization for undocumented persons
My tourist stay is ending. Can I stay longer?
It costs XCG 525 (≈ US$ 293). Requirements, steps and forms: Tourist - Extension of Tourist Stay
Can I start my own business in Curaçao?
Who it is for: Foreigners who want to start their own business (sole proprietorship/eenmanszaak) in Curaçao. It costs XCG 635 (≈ US$ 355) for the first year. Requirements, steps and forms: Residence permit for your own business (sole proprietorship)
I am retired. Can I live in Curaçao on my pension?
Who it is for: Retirees who want to live in Curaçao off their pension. It costs XCG 635 (≈ US$ 355) for the first year. The decision takes 4 months. Requirements, steps and forms: Pensioner (living off your pension)
Which permit do I need to study in Curaçao?
Who it is for: Anyone coming to study at an educational institution in Curaçao. It costs XCG 625 (≈ US$ 349) for the first year. The decision takes 4 months. Requirements, steps and forms: Study (study permit or Van Rechtswege)
My permit was refused. What can I do?
Who it is for: Anyone who has received a negative decision (or one they disagree with) from the Toelatingsorganisatie, on any immigration procedure. Requirements, steps and forms: Objection (bezwaar) and appeal (beroep) against any decision of the Toelatingsorganisatie
I have become a Dutch citizen. What do I need to do in Curaçao?
Who it is for: Anyone who was naturalized as a Dutch national in Curaçao and already has the royal decree: they must apply for the Van Rechtswege declaration for naturalization. The official page does not cover the option for nationality (optie). It costs XCG 615 (≈ US$ 344). The decision takes 4 months. Requirements, steps and forms: Naturalization in Curaçao (declaration after the royal decree)
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