Can you picture yourself basking in the white sandy coastlines and clear turquoise waters of Aruba as your new digital nomad playground? Yes, you can!
The Caribbean paradise of Aruba offers just that with its digital nomad visa known as the “One Happy Workation” program, launched in 2020 which offers a 90-day stay for remote workers seeking a balance between a short-term getaway and a longer-term living arrangement.
Aside from tax-free benefits on foreign income, visa holders are entitled to special perks and discounts in hotels and commercial establishments.
In this article, we go through the essentials of Aruba’s One Happy Workation program, such as eligibility, the application process, cost of living, and everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What is the Aruba Digital Nomad Visa?
Aruba’s Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the “One Happy Workation” program, is a unique opportunity designed for remote workers and digital nomads looking to blend their professional lives with the tropical allure of Aruba.
Aruba is a Dutch territory. It is officially known as a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Situated in the south of the Caribbean Sea, Aruba is located approximately 29 kilometers (18 miles) north of the Venezuelan peninsula of Paraguaná. As part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Aruba shares its sovereignty with the other constituent countries of the Kingdom, including the Netherlands itself, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten.
- Eligibility and Duration: The program is open to any remote worker or digital nomad with the capability to perform their work duties remotely via digital means. Initially, the visa allows for stays up to 90 days, catering to those seeking both short-term escapes and longer-term experiences without the need for a traditional work visa.
- Application Process and Requirements: Applicants must provide proof of employment or business ownership outside of Aruba, ensuring they have a stable source of income to support their stay on the island. While there was no strict minimum income requirement at the launch, applicants should demonstrate financial stability to cover their living expenses in Aruba.
- Key Features: Participants in the program can enjoy special accommodation packages designed for digital nomads, including hotels and rental properties equipped with high-speed internet and workspaces. The visa allows for a unique blend of work and leisure, encouraging participants to explore Aruba’s rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and community events, thus offering a deeper, more integrated experience than traditional tourism. There are no taxes on global income for participants under this program, making it financially attractive for digital nomads.
- Costs and Living: While the visa itself does not impose a direct application fee, digital nomads should budget for their accommodation, living expenses, and any other personal expenditures. Aruba offers a range of living options to suit different budgets, from luxury resorts to more affordable apartment rentals, all offering the essential amenities for a comfortable “workation.”
- Connectivity and Community: Aruba prides itself on excellent digital infrastructure, ensuring that digital nomads have reliable internet connectivity for their work needs. The island also hosts a growing community of remote workers, providing ample opportunities for networking, socializing, and professional collaboration.
The Benefits of the Aruba Digital Nomad Visa
- Work-Life Balance in Paradise:
- Scenic Workspaces: Imagine trading the typical office view for Aruba’s stunning beaches, clear blue skies, and sunsets. The island’s natural beauty isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a lifestyle that encourages creativity, productivity, and relaxation.
- Cultural Immersion and Community:
- Local Engagement: Beyond the screens, digital nomads can immerse themselves in Aruban culture, from traditional music and dance to culinary delights, offering a rich experience beyond the typical tourist path.
- Networking Opportunities: With a growing community of like-minded professionals, the program offers networking opportunities, making it easier to connect, collaborate, and share experiences with fellow nomads.
- Infrastructure and Connectivity:
- Reliable Connectivity: Aruba understands the digital nomad’s need for reliable internet. The island boasts strong connectivity across accommodations and coworking spaces, ensuring seamless work sessions.
- Accommodation Flexibility: Special packages cater to remote workers, offering options from luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments, all equipped with work essentials.
- Eco-Conscious Destination:
- Aruba is a leader in sustainability within the Caribbean, aiming to be powered by 100% renewable energy sources. Digital nomads passionate about sustainability will appreciate the island’s efforts in conservation and eco-friendly initiatives.
- Rich Cultural Heritage:
- Aruba’s rich history is reflected in its diverse culture, a blend of more than 90 nationalities. This multicultural environment makes it a fascinating place for cultural exchange and exploration.
- Year-Round Sunshine:
- With an average temperature of 82°F (28°C) and over 300 days of sunshine a year, Aruba is the perfect year-round destination for those looking to escape colder climates.
- A Haven for Adventure Seekers:
- Beyond the desk, Aruba offers adventures from windsurfing and scuba diving to exploring Arikok National Park. It’s an ideal setting for digital nomads who value work and play.
- Diverse Culinary Scene:
- The island’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture, offering everything from fresh seafood to traditional Dutch cuisine. Foodies will find a haven here, with flavors that cater to every palate.
The Aruba Digital Nomad Visa- Requirements, Application Process, and Costs
Requirements
Eligibility and Application Process:
- Nationality Requirements: Applicants from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Schengen Area countries, and other visa-exempt nations can apply if their stay exceeds 30 days. Those from countries not exempt must apply for a visa. Special exemptions apply for certain passport holders, including diplomatic and service passports from specific countries.
- Required Documents: The application requires a valid passport, recent passport-sized photographs, a return ticket, proof of accommodation (hotel booking, lease, or rental agreement), health insurance, and proof of sufficient income. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is also needed if coming from or transiting through an endemic area.
- Income Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient income, with a suggested minimum of $5,000 per month, to cover expenses during their stay.
- Application Steps: Applicants should collect all necessary documents and submit their application along with the required fees (if applicable) at the nearest Dutch embassy. Some countries may offer online application options.
- Tax Benefits: Digital nomads are not considered tax residents and are exempt from paying income tax in Aruba during their stay.
- Diverse Work Environments: From beachfront hotels to full-service resorts, Aruba offers a variety of accommodations catering to remote work needs.
- Rich Culture and Activities: The island boasts a rich history, diverse cuisine influenced by over 90 nationalities, and numerous activities ranging from historical explorations to water sports.
- Affordable Living Costs: Despite being a popular tourist destination, Aruba offers reasonable living costs, with detailed examples provided to help digital nomads budget effectively.
- High-Speed Internet: With an average broadband and fiber speed of 89.81 Mbps, digital nomads can ensure reliable connectivity for their work.
Key Points to Consider:
- The visa allows for a three-month stay, offering an extended period to experience the island while working remotely.
- Special accommodation packages and discounts are available for digital nomad visa holders, enhancing the workation experience.
- Children under 12 may travel without a visa if accompanied by legal guardians or parents, simplifying family travel arrangements.
Application Process
Step 1. Determine Eligibility
- First, verify if you need a visa to enter Aruba based on your nationality. For many countries, such as the US, Canada, and most European nations, no visa is required for stays up to 30 days. For longer stays or if your country does require a visa, you’ll need to proceed with the application.
Step 2. Gather Required Documents
- You will need:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
- Two recent passport-size photos.
- Proof of accommodation in Aruba (hotel booking, lease, or rental agreement).
- Proof of sufficient income (at least $30,000 USD annually mentioned in one source or at least $5,000 per month but verify the amount as it may vary by country).
- Health insurance coverage for your stay.
- A return ticket or proof of onward travel.
- Possibly a yellow fever vaccination certificate, depending on your travel history.
Step 3. Apply for the Visa
- The application process can vary based on your nationality. Generally, you’ll need to:
- Complete the application form.
- Submit the application and all required documents to the appropriate Aruban embassy, consulate, or via an online portal if available for your country.
- For U.S. citizens, the process involves applying online through the Embarkation and Disembarkation (ED) card website under the “One Happy Workation” option, which seems to be instantly processed with no fees.
Step 4. Pay the Visa Fee
- Fees vary by country. It’s essential to check with the Aruban consulate or embassy for the exact fee. Payment is typically made during the application process. Note that some nationalities, like Americans, may not be required to pay the visa fee.
Step 5. Await Approval
- Processing times can vary. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to account for any delays.
Step 6. Enter Aruba
- Upon approval, make your travel arrangements. Ensure you have all required documents for entry, including your visa if applicable, and proof of your digital nomad status (like employment contracts or business ownership documents).
Step 7. Enjoy Aruba
- Once in Aruba, you can enjoy the benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa, such as tax exemptions on global income, and immerse yourself in the local culture and community.
Costs
There isn’t a specific visa application fee for U.S. travelers or many other nationalities. The program is particularly tailored to U.S. citizens, allowing them to stay for up to 90 days with no special governmental documentation required beyond booking one of the accommodation package deals offered under the program.
For non-U.S. travelers, the application process suggests contacting a local or Dutch embassy, indicating that fees could vary based on nationality and the specific embassy’s regulations. It’s important to prepare for standard visa application expenses such as the cost of obtaining any required documents (e.g., passport photos, return tickets) and potentially a visa application fee depending on your nationality.
Payments for any incurred costs can generally be made using credit cards or wire transfers, especially for accommodation and other service-related expenses in Aruba. U.S. dollars and all major credit cards for most transactions are accepted, including ATMs withdrawals with cards featuring Cirrus, MasterCard, Maestro, or Visa logos for cash needs.
Given the variations in requirements and potential costs based on nationality and individual circumstances, regularly check the official Aruban government websites or contact the nearest Dutch embassy for the most accurate and updated information regarding the application process, required documents, and associated costs for the One Happy Workation program.
Cost of Living in Aruba
Living in Aruba as a digital nomad combines the allure of a Caribbean paradise with the practicalities of remote work. Given that the local currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG), costs can vary widely depending on lifestyle, location, and preferences.
For simplicity, the estimates are provided in both Aruban Florin and U.S. Dollars (USD), noting that $1 USD is approximately equivalent to 1.79-1.80 AWG (this rate can fluctuate, so it’s wise to check current exchange rates for accurate conversions).
Monthly Cost of Living in Aruba for Digital Nomads (Estimates)
Housing:
- Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center