Aruba, August 26, 2024 – The Aruba Food & Beverage Association (AFBA) recently convened a crucial meeting organized by the Aruba Hotel and Tourism Association (AHATA). The event brought together approximately 70 association members to discuss critical updates related to work permits for foreign nationals in Aruba.
Mrs. Lalo Croes, a prominent figure in the industry, delivered the welcoming address. Following this, Mrs. Kathleen Paskel-Ruiz, the director of DIMAS (Department of Immigration Services), presented valuable insights into the recent changes and flexibilization of work permit processes.
Key Changes and Flexibilities
Mrs. Ruiz outlined several significant changes that have been implemented to streamline the process of obtaining work permits. These include:
Extended Permit Durations: Permits can now be issued for more than five years, with specific provisions for CEOs and CFOs who have been in their roles for at least ten years.
Dutch Passport Holders: Individuals with Dutch passports can now benefit from expedited procedures.
Knowledge Migrants: Highly skilled individuals with bachelor's degrees or higher are now eligible for work permits.
Students and Interns: Provisions have been made for students and interns to obtain work permits.
Expanded Professional Roles: The list of eligible professions has been expanded to include various roles within the tourism and hospitality sectors, particularly for hotels with more than 50 rooms.
EPE Certificates: Individuals with EPE (Expertisecentrum Papiamento) certificates can now apply for work permits.
Alternative Legal Pathways: Several alternative pathways have been introduced to accommodate specific situations.
The Minister is also working on extending these changes and flexibilities to the hospitality sector.
Key Points and Future Discussions
The meeting concluded with a discussion on the recent changes and their implications for the food and beverage industry. AFBA members expressed particular interest in extending the flexibilization for restaurants and bars with fewer than 50 employees.
It was emphasized that discretion is being exercised until the Minister officially announces these changes. AFBA will continue to closely monitor developments and advocate for the needs of its members in this regard.
Comments