WILLEMSTAD – The Ministry of Justice has announced a temporary suspension of Caribbean visa issuance for applicants from countries identified by international and national health authorities as high-risk areas in connection with the current Ebola outbreak.
The measure was introduced in response to the international public health emergency declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). Although no confirmed cases of Ebola have been reported in Curaçao, the government considers it necessary to take precautionary action to protect public health.
The decision was made under the provisions of the Kingdom Visa Act (Rijksvisumwet), which allows visa applications to be denied when there is a potential risk to public health. Caribbean visa applications are processed through Dutch diplomatic missions responsible for implementing visa policy on behalf of the Caribbean countries of the Kingdom.
The temporary restrictions apply, among others, to visa applications originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Angola and South Sudan. Authorities emphasized that the list of affected countries may be adjusted if the epidemiological situation changes or if new guidance is issued by international health organizations.
Prior to implementing the measure, the Ministry of Justice coordinated with the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN). Authorities are also maintaining close contact with international partners and public health institutions to monitor developments related to the outbreak.
Based on ongoing risk assessments, the government will determine whether additional measures are necessary or whether existing restrictions can be eased.
Justice Minister Shalten Hato stated that the decision is purely preventive.
“This is a precautionary measure. At this time there are no Ebola cases in Curaçao, but the government believes it is necessary to act promptly and responsibly to safeguard public health. The safety and health of our population come first,” Hato said.
The government stressed that protecting the people of Curaçao remains a top priority. Through preventive action, authorities aim to minimize the risk of introducing and spreading serious infectious diseases on the island.
Officials indicated that the measure will remain under review and could be modified or lifted once public health conditions permit.