Yes — foreigners can buy property in Aruba with the same rights as local residents. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership, and the process is more straightforward than most people expect.
This is probably the question I get asked most often — from buyers in the US, Canada, the Netherlands, and beyond. So let me walk you through exactly how it works.
What You Need to Know First
Aruba has a long history of welcoming international buyers, and the legal framework reflects that. Whether you’re purchasing a second home, a vacation rental, or a long-term investment property, the ownership rights are the same regardless of your nationality.
You don’t need to be a resident. You don’t need special permits to buy. And you can own the property in your own name, through a company, or through a foundation — depending on your situation and goals.
The Buying Process, Step by Step
- Find your property Work with a local realtor who knows the market well — not just the listings, but the neighborhoods, the nuances, and the honest details that don’t always make it into a brochure.
- Make an offer Once you’ve found the right property, your realtor will help you structure and submit an offer. Negotiations happen here.
- Compliance. Your realtor will collect all your personal information as well as your source of funds documents for Compliance. The compliance officer will confirm your eligibility to continue with the purchase process.
- Sign the purchase agreement Once both parties agree on price and terms, a purchase and sale contract (koopovereenkomst) is signed. A deposit — typically 10% of the purchase price — is paid (wire transfer) at this stage into the escrow account of the notary civil lawyer office.
- Due diligence period Your notary will verify ownership, check for any liens or encumbrances, and confirm the title is clean. This is the quiet but important part of the process.
- Financing (if applicable) If you’re financing the purchase, this is when your mortgage process runs in parallel. It’s worth knowing that financing options for non-residents do exist, though the terms vary. Cash purchases are also common among international buyers.
- Final deed signing The transfer of ownership happens at a local notary office, where both buyer and seller sign the official deed. You don’t have to be physically present — a power of attorney is an option if you’re buying from abroad.
- Registration The notary registers the transfer with the Aruba Land Registry. At this point, the property is officially yours.
The full process typically takes anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks from accepted offer to transfer, depending on financing and due diligence timelines.
What Does It Cost to Buy?
Beyond the purchase price, buyers typically pay:
- Transfer tax: 3% on the first AWG 250,000 of the purchase price and then 6% on any amount exceeding AWG 250,000 of the purchase price (paid by the buyer)
- Notary fees: approximately 1–2% of the purchase price
- Land registry fees: a smaller administrative cost
So as a rough guide, plan for approximately 5–9% on top of the purchase price to cover all closing costs.
For a full cost breakdown, see How Much Does It Cost to Buy Property in Aruba?
Documents You’ll Need
The exact list depends on your situation, but most buyers will need:
- A valid passport or ID
- Proof of funds or financing approval
- Basic personal information for the notary file
Your notary and realtor will guide you through exactly what’s needed for your specific case — nothing here should feel overwhelming.
A Few Things People Often Don’t Realize
Buying in Aruba as a foreigner is genuinely accessible — but a few things are worth knowing going in.
The notary civil lawyer (‘notary’) in Aruba plays a central role that’s different from what many buyers are used to in the US or elsewhere. The notary is a neutral legal officer, not an advocate for either side. That’s exactly why having a good realtor in your corner matters — someone who knows the process, knows the market, and can walk you through every step without surprises.
Also worth knowing: Aruba is not part of the EU (it’s a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands), so EU property rules don’t apply here. It operates under its own legal and tax framework.
Thinking About Buying in Aruba?
If you’re quietly exploring what’s possible — whether you’re ready to search listings or just getting a sense of the market — I’d be happy to help.
No pressure, no pitch. Just an honest conversation about what buying in Aruba actually looks like for someone in your situation.
Reach out to Brad & Ellen at Aruba Lifestyle Realty. 📩 hello(at)arubalifestylerealty(dotted)com
Your home, your lifestyle – Bo kas, bo estilo di bida. —
Updated: July 2026 | Aruba Lifestyle Realty |
Brad Croes & Ellen Aartsen