WILLEMSTAD – The government of Curaçao has increased the income ceiling for exemption from the BVZ (Basic Health Insurance) premium for pensioners from 12,000 to 14,400 guilders per year. 

The measure is retroactive to January 1, 2023, meaning some pensioners may be entitled to a refund of premiums they paid in error. 

This adjustment was deemed necessary after the AOV (General Old Age Pension) benefit was raised last year, which inadvertently caused many pensioners to become liable for the BVZ premium. 

With the new income threshold, the government aims to protect this vulnerable group from additional financial burdens.