Aruba’s Minister of Labor, Mr. Wendrik Cicilia, together with the Department of Labor and Research (DAO), has officially announced the introduction of an hourly minimum wage, effective January 1, 2026.
Key Changes to the Minimum Wage Law
On September 1, 2025, the Parliament of Aruba unanimously approved amendments to the minimum wage legislation to implement an hourly wage system. The most important changes include:
1. Introduction of an Hourly Minimum Wage
As of January 1, 2026, all employees 18 years and older who earn the minimum wage must be paid at least the hourly minimum wage, regardless of the number of hours worked.
- The hourly minimum wage will be Afl. 11.58.
- This applies even to employees working fewer than 40 hours per week (for example, 5 hours per week), who must still receive Afl. 11.58 per hour.
2. Adjustment to Monthly Wage Calculation
A correction was approved for calculating the monthly minimum wage.
- Starting January 1, 2026, a factor of 4.333 (previously 4.28) will be used.
- This factor is based on 52 weeks per year divided by 12 months (52 ÷ 12 = 4.333).
3. Clarification for Domestic Workers
The position of domestic workers has been further clarified:
- Domestic workers living with their employer will receive a minimum wage of Afl. 5.35 per hour, as housing and meals are provided by the employer.
- All other domestic workers who do not live with their employer will be entitled to the full Afl. 11.58 per hour.
How the Minimum Wage Is Calculated
- Weekly wage = Number of hours worked per week × Hourly minimum wage
- Monthly wage = Number of hours worked per week × Hourly minimum wage × 4.333
More Information
For additional details, including a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document available in multiple languages, visit the DAO website at www.daoaruba.com.
You may also contact DAO via:
- Email: dao.uurloon@gmail.com or directiearbeid@aruba.gov.aw
- Phone: 523-7720
- Office visit: Paardenbaaistraat 11, Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00 PM–3:30 PM
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/aruba-ta-introduci-salario-minimo-pa-ora-entrante-1-januari-2026
