Moving to Curaçao for entrepreneurs

Are you thinking of moving from the Netherlands to Curaçao as an entrepreneur? Are you considering relocating your current business as well? Or are you planning to start a business on the island and make it your permanent home? What do you need to keep in mind? We’d love to walk you through the process so that, after reading this Burbach Roycroft Insights, you’ll know as much as possible about doing business in Curaçao.

Curaçao offers an attractive business climate. Curaçao has excellent infrastructure, and its tax system is designed to benefit businesses. For example, companies can take advantage of attractive programs such as the E-zone facilities for international trade and e-commerce companies, or the special export facility with a reduced corporate income tax rate. Please note that tax benefits depend on your personal situation and the structure of your business. Also, not every company will qualify for the E-zone facilities.

For certain high-net-worth individuals, the pension scheme may offer attractive tax benefits. Thorough preparation from both a tax and legal perspective is strongly recommended.

Therefore, be sure to consult with local advisors to learn about the options for establishing a local B.V. or N.V. and the specific benefits that apply to your situation.

Moving to the island involves several practical matters. As a Dutch citizen, you need what is known as a “Declaration of Legal Entitlement” to settle on the island indefinitely and be permitted to work there.

In addition, it is recommended that you start the process of setting up your business and obtaining the necessary permits well in advance. Also keep in mind that opening a business bank account in Curaçao takes time. Local banks have strict compliance guidelines. By starting this process carefully and early on, you can avoid delays in launching your business.

Successful entrepreneurship in Curaçao also requires adapting to the local culture. The island’s business community places great value on personal contact and building long-term relationships. Networking and face-to-face meetings are an important part of day-to-day business in Curaçao.

In addition, the tax authorities impose strict requirements regarding a company’s so-called “substance.” This means that there must be an actual physical presence and management on the island in order to qualify for tax benefits. Having a professional, permanent base in Curaçao helps ensure compliance with these guidelines and directly strengthens your company’s local ties. As for the substance requirements, their interpretation depends on tax regulations and the company’s actual business activities.

In addition to the business side of things, quality of life plays a major role in this decision. Curaçao is known for its high standard of living and pleasant climate. Here, hard work is effortlessly combined with relaxation on the beach or on the water.

A comfortable and exclusive home serves as the foundation for a successful start. The island offers a stunning selection of luxury real estate, perfectly suited to the high living standards of discerning entrepreneurs.

Browse our selection of luxury homes on Curaçao. A successful business on Curaçao deserves a fitting, exclusive home. Explore the luxury homes in the Burbach Roycroft portfolio to find your ideal home.

Does one of the homes catch your eye? Feel free to schedule a tour. An experienced real estate agent will take plenty of time to show you around and answer all your questions.