Curaçao Introduces Major Immigration Changes as of April 1, 2026

March 20, 2026

As of April 1, 2026, the government of Curaçao has introduced significant changes to its immigration policy, replacing the system that had been in place since 2019. These changes are intended to reduce administrative burdens and improve efficiency for both applicants and the authorities.

From Annual Renewal to Longer-Term Certainty

One of the most important changes is that, in principle, all applicants—regardless of the purpose of their stay—can now apply for a residence permit valid for up to three (3) years. This does not apply to short stays (up to six months), remote workers, or extensions of tourist stays.

This marks a shift away from the previous system, under which residence permits were typically issued for one (1) year and had to be renewed annually, resulting in a repetitive and time-consuming process.

For migrant workers, multi-year residence permits were previously tied to the duration of the work permit. As of April 1, 2026, this restriction has been removed, providing more flexibility in permit duration.

Stricter Requirements for Complete Applications

While the new immigration policy offers longer-term permits, it also introduces stricter requirements for the submission of applications. Applications must be complete at the time of submission and include all required documentation.

An application must be submitted in writing using the official application form, include a clear justification, and be accompanied by proof of payment of all applicable government fees. Applicants must also provide valid identification at all times; a valid passport is therefore required.

To summarize, at a minimum, applicants must submit:

• a completed application form;
• a copy of a valid passport; and
• proof of payment of fees and government charges.

All required supporting documents must be included. Failure to do so is most likely to result in a negative decision and may also impact future applications.

Importantly, the previous policy allowing applicants to complete an incomplete application within six (6) weeks has been abolished.

Family Members Follow the Principal Applicant

Under the new immigration policy, dependent family members (in the context of family reunification or family formation) will follow the principal applicant in terms of the duration of their residence permit.

This means that a family member cannot obtain a residence permit with a longer duration than that of the principal applicant. As with other applications, all applicable government fees must be paid in advance for each year requested.

Transitional Arrangements

A transitional provision applies to applicants who have previously been granted a residence permit with a duration of two (2), three (3), or five (5) years. If a renewal is submitted in a timely manner, the new permit shall be issued for the same duration and under the same conditions.

However, if the renewal is submitted late — after the applicable grace period — this right will lapse.

Eligibility for Permanent Residence

The new immigration policy also clarifies when a foreign national may qualify for permanent residence. This may be granted if one of the following criteria is met:

• ten (10) years of continuous lawful residence in Curaçao;
• eligibility for the pensionado scheme under the Income Tax Ordinance;
• an investment exceeding XCG 1,500,000 (investor’s permit);
• being born in Curaçao with at least one parent holding a residence permit;
• lawful residence established prior to 2005 in accordance with the Brooks Tower Agreement, with continuous lawful residence during the past five years; or
• lawful residence established prior to 2000 with continued residence thereafter.

Practical

If you would like to receive more information on the new immigration policy or require assistance with an application for a residence or work permit, please feel free to contact us.