WILLEMSTAD - The Curaçao government launched the program "At home in Curaçao: convenient working and living". This happened during a webinar with more than 800 participants from all over the world.

The idea is to explain the red carpet to tourists who would like to live in Curaçao for half a year, while providing their services to companies and customers abroad. These are, for example, the "digital nomads" and "remote workers".

But in addition to someone who works remotely, it can also be someone who wants to flee the cold weather in his own country and comes to spend the winter on the island, the so-called "hibernators" or "snow birds".

In a press conference, Minister of Economic Development Dr. Steven Martina and Minister of Justice Quincy Girigorie emphasized that the program offers opportunities for economic development in a difficult period as a result of the corona pandemic.

The Department of Justice Admissions Organization plays an important role in ensuring a smooth, digital admission process for this group that is expected to bring in a substantial amount of foreign exchange.

The initiative is the result of a collaboration between the ministries of MEO, Justice and Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW) and the CTB tourist office. According to Minister Martina, the target is approximately 625 interested parties.

"Together they contribute 125 million guilders a year to our economy." A considerable amount of 200,000 guilders per person, the MEO minister admits, but this can be explained by the proportion of those who come for a longer period and stay in luxury accommodations.

Together with CTB, Curaçao will be promoted as the ideal place in the tropics to live and work. The island has everything it takes to make that possible, Martina assures. He mentions the good infrastructure of the internet, the presence of an advanced data center and the reliable banking and legal system. But also the friendly, safe and strategic location outside the hurricane zone.

"And then of course the tropical climate."

The core of the program is a fast, customized digital procedure via the website www.athomeincuracao.com. The application form can be submitted online in English, Spanish or Dutch as required. This is accompanied by a number of documents, such as a copy of a passport, a health certificate and health insurance.

Proof is also required showing that someone can stand on their own financially, such as a contract from an employer. Those who work remotely based on this program can stay in Curaçao for a maximum of six months, with the option of an extension for another six months, but do not need a work permit.

The aim is to complete the entire application procedure in approximately two weeks.