WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association (CHATA) has expressed strong support for the government’s newly introduced temporary work permit regulation for specific job categories. The measure is seen as crucial in addressing the acute labor shortages currently affecting the island’s rapidly growing hospitality sector.
“We are entering a period of significant expansion,” CHATA stated, “with Curaçao preparing to welcome more than 800,000 stay-over tourists by 2028. This measure will help us respond to the urgent demand for skilled workers.”
Rapid Growth in Tourism and Hotel Development
According to recent government data, Curaçao is expected to see an increase of over 5,000 hotel rooms within the next three years. This expansion will generate demand for approximately 3,000 new jobs in the hotel industry and an additional 5,400 positions in related sectors such as logistics, transportation, maintenance, retail, and tourism excursions.
CHATA emphasized that the ongoing shortage of local labor makes it necessary to allow temporary foreign support. The association views the temporary regulation as a pragmatic solution that aligns with the island’s development goals.
Targeted Work Permits Across Multiple Sectors
The newly introduced regulation allows for work permits to be issued for select occupations, including:
Construction: electricians, masons, and carpenters
Hospitality: chefs, waitstaff, bartenders, and housekeepers
Other services: hairdressers, mechanics, maintenance staff, and beauticians
At the same time, the existing moratorium remains in place for roles such as retail staff, administrative assistants, security guards, and warehouse workers—jobs which are still expected to be filled by the local labor force.
CHATA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting both local employment and responsible tourism growth. The organization calls for continued collaboration with the government to ensure that the labor force—both local and foreign—can meet the evolving needs of Curaçao’s tourism economy.
