Curacao is an island in the Caribbean that attracts expats with its paradisiacal living conditions and economic prospects. Find out what advantages and disadvantages moving here has, what is the procedure for obtaining a residence permit and what list an expat will receive after moving
Curacao is a paradise island in the Caribbean, combining an advantageous geographical location, beautiful landscapes, amazing beaches, as well as financial benefits and a close connection with Europe, since the island belongs toTo the Kingdom of the Netherlands. All these factors make the country a good destination for tourism and a promising place to move to permanent residence. Digital nomads, investors and retirees come here, because Curacao has something special to offer everyone.
We will tell you more about the life of expats in Curacao.
General overview of Curacao
Curacao is an island within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located in the Caribbean, about 60 km north of the coast of Venezuela. The capital of the country is Willemstad.
On October 10, 2010, Curacao joined the Kingdom of the Netherlands as an independent state after a referendum. Since then, Curacao has become a separate country, personally responsible for domestic policy, and the Kingdom deals only with certain areas, in particular extradition, defense and international relations.
Curacao is dominated by warm tropical temperatures, with September being the warmest month. The climate is relatively dry due to low rainfall. The island lies outside the hurricane belt, so life here is quite safe.
On the island of Curacao, the average annual temperature is 76°F (28°C), and seasonal fluctuations rarely deviate from the average temperature by more than a few degrees.
The advantages of living in Curacao
1. Simplified migration legislation
Moving to Curacao to start a new life is quite simple, especially if you are a citizen of the Netherlands, the United States of America or any other European country. For citizens of these countries, the only requirement is to obtain a residence permit, which, thanks to the simplified bureaucracy in Curacao, is not very difficult to obtain.
2. Friendly local population
This small Caribbean island stands out for its kindness and good attitude towards foreigners and citizens. It is quite easy to integrate into culture, because representatives of different states and cultures live in Curacao.
3. The absence of a language barrier
Curacao is a tourist destination for several countries, and in addition to Papiament, languages such as Dutch, English and Spanish are spoken on the island as a native language.
4. Beautiful nature
Expats are attracted to Curacao by the Caribbean lifestyle, as well as many natural attractions.
5. Business opportunities
Curacao is one of the main locations of the offshore business. The Government of Curacao has dedicated itself to promoting free market policies and tax incentives, with the intention of attracting foreign capital and encouraging investment within the country in order to have a permanent economy. The island is also a profitable place for business in general.
Disadvantages of moving to Curacao
1. High cost of living
According to Numbeo, consumer prices in Curacao are on average about 1.26% higher than in the United States. However, rental prices are about 62% lower than in America, and products are also at least 16% cheaper. However, the service sector is quite expensive.
2. The average level of infrastructure and transport system development
Curacao’s public transport system is not the most reliable. There are no trams, trains or subways on the island, and transportation is limited to public buses and local taxis.
3. Expensive vegetables and fruits
Farming in the country is difficult because the island’s nature is arid, so most products are imported from neighboring countries, which leads to their high cost.
Working in Curacao
If you want to work in Curacao, you need to have a work permit. To obtain a document, you need to find an employer who would agree to sponsor your work visa and begin the application process for such a permit. Tourists are not allowed to work or participate in any paid activities.
Most of the people on the island work in the field of tourism, because it is a thriving sector in Curacao.
You can find available vacancies if you communicate with expats already working in the country or seek help from special employment websites.
Healthcare in Curacao
Curacao has two general hospitals, one surgical hospital and one maternity hospital. There is also a reconstruction of the large St. Mary’s Hospital Elizabeth, who will soon open her doors to patients.
Many private insurance companies, as well as the Social Insurance Bank, offer policies for residents. The island can provide uniform insurance for all citizens thanks to the launch of basic health insurance (BVZ) in 2013. According to the Law, all citizens of Curacao and non-residents who have a civil employment contract and an enterprise that must pay taxes on wages have the right to unified insurance.
You will need health insurance to move, travel, or find employment in a new country safely. An extended policy can be issued on our website at the link.
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