WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao government has issued a warning that all paid passenger transportation services offered through Uber on the island are illegal because the platform is not recognized under Curaçao's current transportation laws.
According to the Traffic and Transport Implementation Organization (UOVV), drivers may only transport passengers for payment if they hold a valid permit issued by the Curaçao government.
The Ministry of Traffic, Transportation and Urban Planning (VVRP) stated that Uber is not included in Curaçao's legal and regulatory framework. As a result, drivers are prohibited from offering paid rides through the platform or advertising transportation services via social media or other mobile applications without the required government authorization.
Authorities said they have identified several advertisements promoting unlicensed transportation services. UOVV is monitoring the situation in cooperation with the Curaçao Police Force (KPC), the tourism sector and the Project Team for Supervision and Enforcement to identify and take action against illegal operators.
The ministry did not specify what penalties drivers may face or whether inspections, fines or other enforcement actions have already been carried out. However, it emphasized that providing paid passenger transportation without the required permit is a criminal offense under Curaçao law.
The government is also urging hotels, tourism businesses and other organizations not to use unlicensed transportation services. Residents and visitors are encouraged to report suspected illegal transportation activities to the police or the enforcement team.