Are you planning to retire on the beautiful island of Aruba and wondering about the process of importing furniture and other belongings to your new home?
Aruba offers a plethora of attractions, making it an ideal choice for individuals and families seeking a warm and friendly Caribbean lifestyle. As a highly favored island among new residents, Aruba has much to offer, from easily accessible beaches to a safe environment and a welcoming culture. It truly lives up to its reputation as the "One Happy Island."
As a realtor, I receive numerous inquiries, and one common question that arises is:
"If I want to retire or become a resident, can I bring all my furniture, pets, and cars with me?"
Allow me to provide an answer to this query:
Please note that the information I provide is subject to change based on the rules and regulations set by Aruba's import and export departments. The following insights are based on my personal research.
Before applying for duty-free removal of goods, furniture, cars, or pets, you must first become a resident. A specific process exists to obtain a permit as a retiree, investor, or someone simply looking to live in Aruba.
This process must be initiated at the Department of Dimas. Please refer to the link below for detailed information, requirements, and regulations. Once your documents are in order, and you have acquired residency and registered at the Department of City Hall/Censo Aruba, you will be eligible for duty-free relocation to Aruba.
Here are five crucial points you should know:
1. Duty-free exemption for removal goods:
- Removal goods typically include household furnishings such as linens, dishes, furniture, and libraries.
- These items must be used and belong to the person moving to Aruba.
2. Car importation:
- If you wish to bring your car, it must be at least six months old and insured under your name for the last six months.
3. Aruba as your main residence:
- Aruba must become your primary place of residence.
4. Domestic animals:
- Before traveling to Aruba, you need permission from the Veterinary Service for bringing your pets. For dogs, dog-like breeds, cats, and cat-like breeds, you must provide a health certificate (not older than 2 weeks) and proof of rabies vaccination upon arrival. Importing dogs and cats from South and Central America is generally prohibited, unless part of a household removal with approval from the Veterinary Service. For all other animal species, contact the Veterinary Service in advance. Importing live animals requires prior permission. Some species are protected under the CITES treaty, necessitating a permit.
5. Required documents for Customs:
- Completed Customs Form "Aanvraag verhuisboedel vrijstellingen"
- Copy of an identification card
- List of removal goods
- Copy of registration in the "Bevolkingsregister van Aruba" (Civil Registration Office)
- Airway bill of lading for cargo shipments
- Import declaration of goods on the Single Document, model C 420
Specific conditions outlined in sections 2e and 2f should also be met for motor vehicles and other items. Documents from the country where the vehicle was previously used can serve as proof, including a certificate of title, license card and plates, vehicle registration copy, proof of insurance, and the purchase invoice.
If you are moving to Aruba without a permit or plan to rent, you will be subject to regular import taxes. However, if you obtain your permits after arriving on the island, you may pay a deposit, which can be refunded by demonstrating your residency and registration at the Civil Registration Office.
I hope this information proves helpful and informative. Below are some useful websites for the various departments:
- Department of Dimas: https://www.dimasaruba.aw/en/applicants/living/
- Douane (Customs): https://www.douane.aw/
- Information on Importing Goods: https://www.douane
*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS OF THIS PICTURE*
