On Thursday morning, Minister of Justice Mr. Drs. Arthur Dowers announced that the Hunto Pa Progreso project is entering its final two months. This temporary program focuses mainly on individuals who entered Aruba legally through the airport but overstayed their permitted visit period, as well as those who became part of the island’s undocumented population.
However, people who entered Aruba clandestinely — for example, by boat, small vessel, or cruise ship — are not included in the four tracks of Hunto Pa Progreso. For these undocumented individuals, Minister Dowers recommended making use of the automatic dispensation arrangement currently in place for those who voluntarily leave Aruba.
Those who depart voluntarily will not face a reentry ban and may even return to Aruba in the future as tourists for short visits.
Authorities have also indicated that starting in 2026, migration controls around Aruba will become stricter, and anyone deported by authorities may face an entry ban lasting up to five years. Therefore, the minister encourages undocumented individuals to leave voluntarily before the end of 2025, which will allow them to apply for a regular DIMAS residence or work permit in 2026.
Minister Dowers also advised anyone who entered Aruba before July 1, 2025, through the airport to take advantage of the unique opportunity provided by Hunto Pa Progreso. Appointments can be made through www.dimasaruba.aw, or individuals can visit the DIMAS office without an appointment between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM from Monday to Friday, and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
