Curaçao Country Report

Curacao is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea and an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The island enjoys one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean and has a small, open economy that is relatively diversified, with the main drivers being tourism, oil refining, shipping and offshore financial services. Curacao’s Parliament is responsible for most local government issues, while the Netherlands retains control of foreign policy and national defense matters. Crime rates are low, although petty street crime can affect foreigners. Organized crime groups are believed to have a presence on the island, although their activities are unlikely to affect travelers or expatriates. There are only limited environmental risks affecting Curacao, primarily flooding following prolonged precipitation. Infrastructure is generally adequate island-wide.

The main threat that foreigners face stems from incidents of petty theft and street crime, although sporadic incidents of violent crime, including homicide, armed robbery, rape and sexual assault have also been observed. Unrest occurs sporadically in Curacao, with most gatherings peaceful and localized.

There are no major issues associated with the aviation sector, although the FAA downgraded Curacao’s air safety rating from Category 1 to Category 2 over safety oversight weaknesses.

Road conditions are generally good, although traffic accidents occur with some regularity.

Curacao has a high electrification rate, but aging infrastructure results in periodic outages. Curacao has a generally well-developed telecommunications network.

As Curacao lies outside the hurricane belt, it is generally spared from the regional hurricane season from June through November, although seasonal heavy precipitation can trigger flooding. Curacao is located near a geologically active region, but serious earthquakes are rare. There is a risk of environmental damage in the environs of Willemstad stemming from activities at Refineria di Korsou (RDK).

Traveler’s diarrhea is the most common disease affecting travelers and expatriates. Medical care in Curacao is generally considered to be good. Most common prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available.

Curacao is a stable democracy, with a local Parliament responsible for domestic affairs while foreign policy and national defense matters fall under the purview of the Netherlands. Corruption is an issue, with a number of high-profile cases involving top politicians and business elites. Rule of law is not a major concern. There are currently no sanctions in effect for Curacao. The island, however, has at times fallen under various countries' scrutiny due to allegations of it being a tax haven.