Flexibilization of the Temporary Permit Procedure.
ORANJESTAD—Minister of Justice Mr. Arthur Dowers, also responsible for the Integration portfolio, announced temporary changes to the Aruban admission procedure during a government press conference on August 4, 2025.
The Minister of Justice, DIMAS, and other stakeholders have been working on the policy for temporary flexibility in the permit procedure for some time. After several months of administrative preparation and close consultation with various unions, which cooperated and participated in the discussion, the government announced how it would manage the proposed flexibility.
The optimal functioning of the labor market was a primary concern for the unions, and they reached specific agreements through consultations to address this. Minister Dowers thanked, among others, the largest unions in the private sector, civil society organizations, ATA, ATIA, AHATA, CUA, the Chamber of Commerce, and the consular organizations of these countries in Aruba. Under the new temporary policy, permit applications will not be denied to individuals working here illegally or those on our island without legal status, provided they can secure an employer. This applies even if they have overstayed their residency, as long as they meet the requirements.
Anyone on our island before July 1, 2025, can apply for a temporary work permit. However, it must meet certain conditions, as with previous ones. The only difference is that the person will not have to leave our country while awaiting a response to their application, nor will the permit be denied because they have overstayed their legal residency.
Minister Dowers emphasized that the main purpose of the flexible policy is to legalize people currently on our island, not to bring someone from abroad here now.
The advantages of this policy are that it will comply with the rules and laws in force in our country, contribute to the premiums they are required to pay, and benefit our country. Together, we must work towards the progress of our country and hope to count on the cooperation of all employers.
In addition to legalization in the labor market, they also adjusted the family reunification policy. People who previously received permission for their partner but were prohibited from working now have the opportunity to register and enter the labor market.
It also applies to students and senior citizens, who can now enter the labor market alongside their studies.
People with more than five permits also have the flexibility to apply for one for up to five years to obtain a permanent residence permit. You can pay this amount in full at a discounted rate, allowing you to work for any other employer.
Employers can apply for a permit that lasts more than one year. This opportunity is beneficial for all employers, as it fosters a more stable employment relationship, simplifies administrative procedures, and lessens the organizational burden.
For information, please consult www.dimasaruba.aw and www.gobierno.aw and AVP-Futuro Cabinet on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gabavpfuturo.