Government Provides Update on the Hunto pa Progreso Program
ORANJESTAD – During a press conference held on June 2, 2026, Minister of Justice, Integration, Public Transportation, and Energy, Mr. Arthur Dowers, provided an update on the Department of Integration, Management and Admission of Foreigners (DIMAS) and the administration of the Hunto pa Progreso (Together for Progress) program.
Following the conclusion of Hunto pa Progreso in December 2025, DIMAS continued processing all pending applications and monitoring the program’s outcomes. During the program’s fourth and final phase, approximately 1,500 individuals were granted temporary residence permits valid for up to one year. This provided them with a genuine opportunity to integrate into the formal labor market, secure employment, and follow the regular permit application process.
Participants made good use of Phase 4 of Hunto pa Progreso to regularize their status and contribute legally to the economy. However, it has become evident that some participants did not fulfill the responsibilities associated with these temporary residence permits.
The government created a unique opportunity through this program. The expectation was that individuals who received permits would actively seek to integrate into the formal labor market. When individuals fail to meet the established requirements, there will be consequences.
Minister Dowers emphasized that the temporary permit was never intended as a permanent solution, but rather as a pathway toward full regularization. Individuals who do not secure employment within the allotted period will not be eligible to continue the process and will not qualify for future permits.
He also expressed concern about cases in which individuals obtain permits for a specific position but subsequently perform a completely different job within the same company. Such situations undermine the credibility of the system and hinder the government's ability to accurately assess the labor market’s actual needs and maintain effective oversight.
To address the needs of the business community, the government will hold a series of meetings with employers and other relevant stakeholders to review and update the list of exemptions. The updated list is expected to be published by the end of June 2026.
Minister Dowers further stressed that Aruba can no longer allow individuals to facilitate the entry of family members or acquaintances who ultimately fail to comply with their immigration obligations and enter the labor market illegally.
The role of a sponsor is not merely a formality. It carries both legal and moral responsibilities, and failure to meet those obligations may result in consequences. Individuals involved in illegal immigration may face administrative and legal measures, including the revocation of permits and deportation, where permitted by law.