WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao government intends to introduce a fixed “entry fee” for all tourists arriving on the island, replacing the current 7% lodging tax on overnight stays. This new surcharge aims to generate revenue that will be directly invested in tourism development and infrastructure improvements. 

The proposal is part of the financial plan outlined by the Pisas III cabinet for the period 2025–2029. Every visitor entering Curaçao will pay a set fee upon arrival, although the exact amount has yet to be determined. The government is also exploring exemptions for people earning minimum wage or living below the poverty line. 

According to the government’s program, proceeds from the entry fee will be allocated toward upgrading roads and other infrastructure, enhancing the island’s cleanliness and hygiene, and providing additional funding for the tourism sector. This includes establishing a guarantee fund to support local entrepreneurs. 

Currently, the 7% lodging tax applies to all visitors staying briefly on the island in hotels, vacation homes, and other accommodations. However, the government and tax authorities have long been frustrated by the fact that many private landlords do not properly collect or remit this tax. By replacing the lodging tax with an entry fee, the government aims to recover lost revenue from these sources. 

The entry fee will not be implemented immediately. A policy document still needs to be drafted, followed by a parliamentary debate in the Estates of Curaçao. If approved, the fee is expected to come into effect no later than 2026, according to the coalition agreement.