On Monday morning, Minister of Justice, Mr. Drs. Arthur Dowers, following an evaluation of the temporary regularization process for undocumented persons called “Junto pa Progreso,” announced that starting October 1, 2025, undocumented individuals who arrived in Aruba for the first time on or after July 1, 2025, via the Reina Beatrix International Airport will be able to apply for a work permit, even if they do not yet have a work contract.
“Junto pa Progreso” is a temporary initiative by the Ministry of Justice, executed by DIMAS, aimed at optimizing the potential of present foreign nationals to meet labor needs. It allows individuals without work permits to regularize their status and legally integrate into the labor market.
In August 2025, the Ministry of Justice announced three pathways in the “Junto pa Progreso” program:
- Pathway 1: Provides undocumented persons who are working already the opportunity to regularize their papers and work without fear of deportation.
- Pathway 2: Gives individuals living with a local or legally documented person the chance to join the labor market, and also allows their children (over 18 and studying in an accredited educational institution in Aruba) to work alongside their studies for the duration of their education.
- Pathway 3: Allows persons with five years of legal status the chance to obtain a Flex permit for up to five years, without needing a work contract.
With the announcement of Pathway 4 today, all foreigners present in Aruba who are overstaying their tourist visa and have irregular status, and who have not yet found work, can apply for a work permit valid for one year. During this year, they can seek and secure a work contract to continue the regularization process.
Pathway 4 will give its holder the opportunity to work in any company registered with the Department of Taxes. This residency permit will be granted on a one-time, provisional, and temporary basis. The permit holder will be able to seek employment and, within one year, secure a work contract to continue with the regular work permit process.
- Pathway 4 will be effective from October 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. This opportunity to register and regularize their stay is unique, and individuals are urged to take advantage of it before the period expires at the end of the year.
After implementing the “Junto pa Progreso” initiative, the relevant authorities will increase inspections in businesses and take action against facilitators of irregular individuals, expecting strict enforcement.
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