Curacao

Curacao is gaining popularity amongst tourists, with its diverse landscape, excellent weather, interesting history, colourful architecture and host of activities and according to our affiliate partners there, more are investing in holiday homes.

The largest of the Netherland Antilles Group, Curacao is home to over 50 nationalities. The capital is Willemstad and downtown is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with Spanish and colonial influences. It has a well-developed infrastructure, modern facilities and political stability. People are friendly here and enjoy several festivals each year.

Real estate is well priced with a range of real estate available, including two and three bedroom apartments, beachfront villas, inland estates and family homes. Otrobanda, one of the four neighbourhoods in Willemstad is popular, alongside other districts Punda, Scharloo and Pietermaai. You do not need to become resident to own a property, but you do need a residence permit to live here.

Enjoying a tropical savannah climate, temperatures rarely drop below 24 degrees, tourists can stay for up to 14 days, although American and Dutch citizens can stay longer. Visa extensions are applied for at the Immigration office. Curacao Investor Permit Program can lead to Dutch citizenship after five years with a 420,000 investment. A three-year Residence Permit can be obtained with a minimum investment of $280,000. Investment can be in real estate. Term, conditions & fees apply.

Finance to buy property is available, but expensive for foreign non-residents. A 10% security deposit paid to the notary or lawyer is normal once an offer is agreed and both parties sign the purchase contract. After this, the notary will run checks with completion around six to eight weeks. There is a transfer tax 4% on top of sale price, for transfer of deeds. There is an annual Property tax. Check for service or resort charges, if apply.

Some property ownership is available under a long-term land lease, granted by the government. There are taxes in Curacao, including sales tax (VAT), and non-residents pay tax on locally generated income. There are some exemptions and allowances, so do check with a taxation specialist.

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