Curaçao for Digital Nomads
It allows remote workers from around the world to live on this tropical island and enjoy sun, sea, and sand with a Temporary Stay Permit as a digital nomad, valid for six months. In this article, you will learn about this program.
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Curaçao was settled by Arawak people from the South American mainland more than 6,000 years ago. The group that ended up in Curaçao was the Caiquetios, who gave the island its name. After the late 15th-century voyages of Christopher Columbus put the Caribbean, literally, on the maps, the area was wide open for European exploration in 1499. The island was initially settled by the Spanish and, later, by the Dutch, who established it as a major center of trade for the Dutch West India Company.
During this time, Jewish families from the Netherlands established settlements on Curaçao and attracted others from Europe and South America who were fleeing the persecution of the Spanish and Portuguese Inquisitions. A large Jewish community remains, with one of the oldest synagogues in the Americas.
During the 18th century, Curaçao’s deep port and strategic position attracted the British and French, who fought over various islands in the Caribbean in order to control profitable trade routes. Britain defeated and pushed out the Dutch twice, from 1800 to 1803 and again from 1807 to 1815. However, the 1815 Treaty of Paris settled many disputes in the Caribbean, and it gave Curaçao back to the Dutch West India Company.
In 2010, Curacao was granted autonomy by the Dutch government. Today it’s a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which means it’s a country that’s a part of another larger entity.
In March 2021, the Government of Curaçao launched the @Home in Curacao Program, which offers an easy way for digital nomads to obtain a prolonged Temporary Stay Permit. This allows digital nomads to work remotely while surrounded with the vibrant colors and warmth of Curacao.
Key facts
- The digital nomad visa in Curaçao is called the Temporary Stay Permit for remote workers/digital nomads;
- This Permit is available under the @Home in Curacao Program;
- The @Home in Curacao program allows a maximum stay of 6 months with the possibility of an extension for another 6 months.
- The application process costs $294 per person;
- The application approval process is relatively fast;
- Proof of income is not required;
- There are no limits on the number of persons admitted under this visa category.
Eligibility requirements
You must meet the following requirements to be eligible for Temporary Stay Permit as a digital nomad in Curaçao:
- You must prove that you can work location-independently using telecommunications technologies;
- You must prove that you fit into one of the three following categories:
- You work for an employer registered in a foreign country and you have a contract with that employer;
- You conduct a business activity for a company that is registered in a foreign country and of which you are a partner/shareholder; or
- You offer freelance or consulting services to clients whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country, and with whom you have contracts.
What documents are required to apply for the Curacao digital nomad visa?
To apply for the @Home In Curacao Program, you must provide:
- A completed digital application form;
- Proof of payment for fees;
- A clear copy of your passport’s photo page;
- Documents related to employment or company ownership;
- Health insurance, including COVID-19 related requirements;
- A return ticket to your home country (upon arrival in Curaçao).
Application process and timeline
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the Temporary Stay Permit as a digital nomad under the @Home In Curacao Program:
- Gather all required documents: You should prepare necessary documents in advance as well as translate them into English, Spanish, or Dutch if necessary, as these are the only acceptable languages;
- Complete and submit application: The application must be submitted online via a specially developed e-platform of the Government of Curaçao. Your application must be clear and accurate. Please note that no broker or other representative can sign the application on your behalf.
- Pay the application fee: You must pay the application fee online, ANG 535, or $294 per person, which is non-refundable. Note that some extra transaction fees might be charged, but these are at your expense.
- Wait for approval: The processing time is usually two weeks. If your application is approved, you will be notified by email. You will also receive your Temporary Stay Permit as a digital nomad.
There are plenty of benefits of relocating to Curaçao. Here are the top advantages:
- Ease of obtaining a digital nomad visa: The government has implemented a friendly policy for digital nomads that allows them to obtain a digital nomad visa within 2 weeks. You do not even need to provide proof of income.
- Perfect geographical location: Curaçao is situated in the south of the Caribbean Sea, near Venezuela.
- Beautiful landscapes: There are many instagrammable places in Curaçao to take fantastic pictures. The island boasts beautiful, spacious beaches that are quiet and serene. You should visit Cas Abao Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Playa Jeremi, a part-sand and part-volcanic material beach, and many more.
- Warm weather: Curaçao, as a part of the Leeward Antilles, is geographically located outside the Hurricane Belt. As on other islands, strong winds may pass but rarely pose a threat.
- Affordable prices: Rent in Curaçao is, on average, 60% lower than in the United States.
- Various leisure activities: You can try scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, and, of course, windsurfing, among many other unforgettable experiences.
- Virtually COVID-19–free environment: Curaçao has reached success in controlling the virus. The vaccination campaign started at the beginning of 2021, and now more than 75% of residents are fully vaccinated. Available vaccines are Pfizer-Biontech and Moderna.
- Appetizing and delicious cuisine: There is a thrilling fusion of the Caribbean and European foods in Curaçao. You will certainly never be short of cuisine options when you’re here.
Accommodations
Renting price depends on location. According to Numbeo, renting an apartment with one bedroom in the city center costs around $537, while the same apartment in the outskirts costs $400 per month. A 3-bedroom unit can be found for under $1500 per month. Apartments that cost more than this typically offer a luxurious interior, swimming pool, and spectacular views of the sea.
There are also hotels and resorts to live in. According to Booking, for a room for two persons in an all-inclusive hotel one may pay around $300 per night. Hotels and resorts with basic services can cost from $75 to $200 per night. Typically, guests will get a room or apartment, private kitchen, bathroom, and swimming pool for this price.
Infrastructure
Supermarkets and hypermarkets are located in Willemstad; however, minimarkets can be found in all parts of the island. As most products are imported, it is sometimes hard to find groceries and goods that are widespread in America or Europe. Sometimes buying the same product you bought last week is impossible and you have to wait for the next shipment to come in.
Most shopping malls are located in Willemstad. One of the most popular is Zuikertuin Mall, a small shopping center in Dutch style with everything for good shopping, including dress shops, a drugstore, perfumes, a bookstore, maternity shop, candy shop, coffee house, etc. Another popular shop is the Sambil Curaçao, which has a large food court, branded and local stores, and a cinema, too. There are also several museums on history and archeology, such as the Curaçao Museum and Museum Kura Hulanda. The biggest library on the island is the Curaçao National Library, in Willemstad. This building lets you do more than borrow books; it also includes a study hall where you can get some quiet work done, a literary museum and a sports museum.
Health Care
Healthcare services in Curaçao work with any international health insurance companies. There are three local hospitals in Curaçao. The largest is the Curaçao Medical Center, which has an extensive emergency room and the only intensive care unit on the island. There are also the Taams Clinic and the Antillean Adventist Hospital, which offer many medical services.
The first line of health care is a general physician (GP). People experiencing health issues must first contact a GP before visiting other medical specialists. Almost all GPs speak English and also Spanish.
Pharmacies ("Botika" in the local language) are spread around the island. Most aren’t open after 7 p.m., but at least two work at night. In most pharmacies, over-the-counter medicines, prescription medicines, personal care products, and dietary supplements are sold. Some medicines, antibiotics for example, are not available without a prescription from a local doctor.
Cost of living
For a single person, the estimated monthly cost of living without rent is around $970, while for a family with four members the expenses are $3,400.
To buy 1 liter of milk, 12 eggs, 500 g of local cheese, one bottle of mid-range wine, and a loaf of bread on average you may pay $21.50. The prices for most products in the grocery store can be found on NUMBEO.
Eating out for two people in a mid-range restaurant with three courses costs about $69. For the combo meal at McDonald's, you will pay $8.40. Drinking cappuccino in local cafes costs around $4 on average. Beverages such as domestic beer are around $2.33 for half a liter, and soda such as Coke or Pepsi is $1.82 for 300 ml.
Basic utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85-square-metre apartment costs around $208. Add to this the average cost of Internet, about $60 per month. A 1-minute call with a local SIM card and without any plan costs $0.72. Local providers offer several phone plans. Data plans for 7 days cost between $8 and $11. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the island at many places, including restaurants, cafes, hotels, shops, malls, etc.
Leisure activities
Curaçao is ideal for water sports, as its temperature is comfortable year-round. The most popular sports here are scuba diving and snorkeling. The 12.5-mile (19.3 kilometer) coral reef in Curaçao Underwater Park is the main attraction for divers. There are more than 100 diving sites with great water visibility of up to 150 feet (45.72 meters). Curaçao also offers excellent opportunities for deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, and sailing. Another great way to spend time is exploring one of the island’s 38 beaches and lagoons, with crystal-clear water and golden sand. Other sports are available, too. There are places to play golf, tennis, and squash, ranches for horse riding, and tracks throughout parks and recreation areas for hiking.
Tax matters
Digital nomads are not required to pay the Curaçao Income Tax during their stay under the @Home In Curacao Program. However, if you are a citizen of certain countries such as the USA or the UK, you are still required to file an annual tax return each year to your respective tax authority.
Transportation
The best way to get around Curaçao is by car, especially if you want to explore the island or live outside Willemstad. One liter of gasoline costs $1.24. The rental price varies from $39 to $69 per day, depending on season and company. Taking taxis is also an option, especially for short distances around Willemstad, the capital. Taxis start at $13.94, and every kilometer costs around $5. It is worth mentioning that taxis in Curaçao are not metered, so drivers may have different rates for various destinations. Moreover, most drivers expect to get at least a 10-percent tip, so it’s best to agree on the price before entering the cab.
Public transportation is cheap but limited. Buses cover only major destinations on the island. A one-way ticket on local transport costs around $1.11. Outside Willemstad, the service is infrequent and it’s not unusual to have to wait two hours for a bus.
Although there are many benefits to relocating to Curaçao, you should be aware of certain alerts about this country:
- Almost all petrol stations and several attractions do not accept debit or credit cards, so you will need to carry cash with you at all times.
- Curaçao is used as a drug passageway from South America to Europe and North America. Don’t leave bags unattended nor agree to carry a package for anyone!
- The hurricane season in the Dutch Caribbean normally runs from June to November. However, Curaçao is located outside the Hurricane Belt because it is part of the Leeward Antilles. That is why strong winds may blow, although they rarely pose a serious problem.
- Social life can be lacking in Curaçao. If you’re looking to mingle with a lot of locals or cruise a big nightlife scene, this place is not for you.
- Some medicines, for example antibiotics, are not available without a prescription from the local doctor.
HI’s Digital Nomad Suitability Score (HIDNSS)
Considering various factors, here’s our assessment of Curaçao as a destination for digital nomads, based on the HI’s Digital Nomad Suitability Score (HiDNSS).
CRITERIA | SCORE |
|---|---|
Ease of obtaining a visa | Excellent |
Cost of visa | Excellent |
Index of happiness | Good |
Duration of visa | Good |
Safety | Average |
Cost of living | Good |
Healthcare | Average |
Internet Infrastructure | Average |
Taxes | Excellent |
Infrastructure | Average |
Incentives from the government for digital nomads | Poor |
While Curaçao may not be the first destination on your list due to some of its disadvantages, it should be seriously considered, as the visa process is one of the best facilitated and cheap. This Dutch territory is a unique destination for digital nomads with many advantages. If you are interested in relocating to Curaçao, contact our team.
If you are interested in changing your surroundings and trying something different while working remotely, consider relocating to Curaçao, an island country known for its relaxed conditions and atmosphere as well as favourable visa requirements for digital nomads. Here you can truly recharge and catch your breath during these hectic times!
Contact our team, and we will be glad to match you with your dream country, prepare the required documents, and successfully file an application for a digital nomad visa. We will make the application process stressless and comfortable for you! Our team can also assist you in the pre-application stage while looking for optimal healthcare insurance, translation, and authorisation of your documents, etc.
If you still have any questions that are not covered in our article, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to help!