What's the government response timeline for Aruba?

March 10, 2020 – According to a statement by Aruba’s Minister of Health, all tests on individuals who experienced symptoms similar to those of the Corona Virus have turned out negative. To date Aruba has no known cases of the Corona Virus. From 10th March 2020, the Government of Aruba has been conducting COVID-19 testing on people with symptoms. https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Schools are closed starting Monday, March 16 till April 20, 2020. This measure applies to schools, daycare centers, and all organizations that are in charge of the education and care of our children. After this date the situation will be evaluated. See letter of the Minister of Education. Retrieved from: /web/20200406202340/ https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html

Two days after the government of Aruba confirmed its first two positive COVID-19 cases on March 13, officials announced a complete “lockdown” for all international incoming passengers starting on March 17 until March 31. The closure was then extended until Aruba’s Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes has extended the deadline to April 20. (Source 1) Starting Saturday, March 21st, the Government of Aruba has decided that the Aruban borders will be closed for entry. Nobody can enter the country. This restriction counts for residents of Aruba as well. Only empty flights can come in to pick up passengers leaving Aruba to take them to their destination. (Source 2) The ban on inbound flights was later extended until May 31, 2020, as announced by Prime Minister Mr. Evelyn Wever-Croes on April 20, 2020. Residents of Aruba who are stuck abroad (due to the border closure) can send an email to RegresoAruba@crisis.aw. (Source 3) Source 1 https://www.northwestgeorgianews.com/associated_press/latin-america-caribbean-yet-to-hit-coronavirus-surge-most-are-tightening-measures/article_8cacbefa-1dcf-5efc-bf73-776d6d63f40e.html Surce 2 https://www.arubacovid19.org/ddg Source 3 https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html

"ORANJESTAD – In connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Public Health launched its website www.arubacovid19.org. The website provides: Information on the latest developments on the COVID-19; Decisions and instructions by the government to contain the spread of the virus and to flatten the curve; Ads and video’s on precautionary measures you can take to protect yourself and others against the coronavirus". Retrieved from: /web/20200406202057/ https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/department-of-public-health-launched-its-website-for-coronavirus-updates_48638.html

Contact tracing was noted a few times in the daily update. https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

"ORANJESTAD - The Police Department of Aruba has announced that they will be enforcing the curfew that starts on Saturday 21 of March 2020 at 9:00 pm. Some exceptions require being outside during the curfew, like security personnel, hotel employers, waste management, etc. but they have to send an official company letter by email to cmo@crisis.aw requesting an exemption. Retrieved from: /web/20200406203242/ https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/police-of-aruba-aruba-under-curfew_48686.html

Mandatory curfew between 9pm and 6am everyday came into effect on Saturday March 21. It was initially announced till 31 March. People were not allowed to leave home during the curfew hours, and advised to stay home during normal hours. Source: https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Starting March 29, 2020, a Shelter in Place is into effect for the entire population, as announced in the AB2020No.43. This means that you are not allowed to leave the house, only for necessary things, such as buying food, going to the pharmacy, exercising or getting gas. The measures apply to non-essential groups and non-essential businesses/activities (souvenirs stores, flea markets, shopping malls, outlets, delivery only for restaurants). Source: https://www.overheid.aw/news/official-gazettes_47036/item/ab2020no43_48829.html

Starting March 29, 2020, a Shelter in Place is into effect for the entire population along with the ongoing curfew. A ban on gathering (loitering) has also been issued, in particular the prohibition of group formation in public space by 4 or more people, with the exception of families living under the same roof. The night curfew and shelter in Place have been extended till 28 April on 17 April. Sources: https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-aruba-extends-shelter-place-order-nightly-curfew-through-april-28

Starting March 29, 2020, a Shelter in Place is into effect for the entire population along with the ongoing curfew. A ban on gathering (loitering) has also been issued, in particular the prohibition of group formation in public space by 4 or more people, with the exception of families living under the same roof. The night curfew and shelter in Place have been extended till 28 April on 17 April. Sources: https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-aruba-extends-shelter-place-order-nightly-curfew-through-april-28

Starting March 29, 2020, a Shelter in Place is into effect for the entire population along with the ongoing curfew. Individuals are not allowed to leave the house, except only for necessary things, such as buying food, going to the pharmacy, exercising or getting gas. . The night curfew and shelter in Place have been extended till 28 April on 17 April. Sources: https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-aruba-extends-shelter-place-order-nightly-curfew-through-april-28

Starting March 29, 2020, a Shelter in Place is into effect for the entire population along with the ongoing curfew. Individuals are not allowed to leave the house, except only for necessary things, such as buying food, going to the pharmacy, exercising or getting gas. . The night curfew and shelter in Place have been extended till 28 April on 17 April. Sources: https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-aruba-extends-shelter-place-order-nightly-curfew-through-april-28

Quotation: "Taxpayers with a turnover of less than AFL 1 million per month affected by COVID-19 and carrying out tourism activities can upon request receive an extension of payment to pay monthly taxes due related to the months April, May and June 2020. Link: https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/an/Documents/tax/Newsflash%20-%20Publication%20Aruba%202020%20tax%20relief%20plan%20on%20COVID-19%20(1).pdf

Updated to reflect focus on formal sector (tax and registration requirements for income support) Government description of FASE and payroll support measures: https://www.catc-hcc.com/news/update-aruba-business-payroll-support-plan/ "Flexibility package effective April 1 - The Government of Aruba provides the opportunity for businesses and employees to apply for compensation from the Emergency Social Assistance Funds FASE to help cover the loss of income of employees due to the reduction of working hours, causing them to earn less than AWG. 950, 00 monthly. The stimulus package is valid from April 1, 2020, up to June 30, 2020 https://secure.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/flexibility-package-for-covid-19-crisis_48794.html"

On 9 April 2020, the Minister of Education, Dr. Armando (Rudy) Lampe announced schools remain closed until May 11, 2020. See Aruba Government Portal, archived: http://www.gobierno.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html

On 10th April (Good Friday), 12th April (Easter Sunday) and 13th April (Easter Monday) shelter in place rules were stricter. People were strictly allowed to leave homes for health reasons. The ban on gatherings (on foot or in a vehicle) of 4 or more persons will be extended to include families (except while at home under the same roof). The only valid reasons for leaving one’s home will be to visit a doctor; to go to the pharmacy and for food services. All establishments will be closed on these days except for gas stations (open from 7am to 7pm), pharmacies, food delivery/takeout/drive-thru services (11am to 7pm). On 11th April and from 14th April, previous shelter in place rules reverted to the previous status. Source: https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

On 10th April (Good Friday), 12th April (Easter Sunday) and 13th April (Easter Monday) shelter in place rules were stricter. People were strictly allowed to leave homes for health reasons. The ban on gatherings (on foot or in a vehicle) of 4 or more persons will be extended to include families (except while at home under the same roof). The only valid reasons for leaving one’s home will be to visit a doctor; to go to the pharmacy and for food services. All establishments will be closed on these days except for gas stations (open from 7am to 7pm), pharmacies, food delivery/takeout/drive-thru services (11am to 7pm). On 11th April and from 14th April, previous shelter in place rules reverted to the previous status. Source: https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

On 10th April (Good Friday), 12th April (Easter Sunday) and 13th April (Easter Monday) shelter in place rules were stricter. People were strictly allowed to leave homes for health reasons. The ban on gatherings (on foot or in a vehicle) of 4 or more persons will be extended to include families (except while at home under the same roof). The only valid reasons for leaving one’s home will be to visit a doctor; to go to the pharmacy and for food services. All establishments will be closed on these days except for gas stations (open from 7am to 7pm), pharmacies, food delivery/takeout/drive-thru services (11am to 7pm). On 11th April and from 14th April, previous shelter in place rules reverted to the previous status. Source: https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

14th April, previous shelter in place rules reverted to the previous status. Source: https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Pursuant AB2020No.52, valid till April 28, 2020, extends provisions of pursuant AB2020No.43. Source: https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html

Starting March 29, 2020, a Shelter in Place is into effect for the entire population, as announced in the AB2020No.43. This means that you are not allowed to leave the house, only for necessary things, such as buying food, going to the pharmacy, exercising or getting gas. The measures apply to non-essential groups https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html

Public health information available on the website www.arubacovid19.org of the Department of Public Health. https://www.overheid.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html

On 28 April 2020, the Government of Aruba, adapted curfew to be in effect from 10:00 pm until 5:00 am. All establishments must close at 9.00 pm. Exceptions are the pharmacies on duty and the hospital. See Official Official Gazette AB2020No.62 and Aruba Government Portal, archived: http://www.gobierno.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html

On 28 April 2020, the Government of Aruba, adapted curfew to be in effect from 10:00 pm until 5:00 am. All establishments must close at 9.00 pm. Exceptions are the pharmacies on duty and the hospital. See Official Official Gazette AB2020No.62 and Aruba Government Portal, archived: http://www.gobierno.aw/news/news_47033/item/crisis-measures-by-the-government-of-aruba-in-connection-with-coronavirus-covid-19_48509.html

On May 2nd, The Ministry of the Cabinet Office ended “Shelter in Place” as the government announced phase one. A physical Distancing and Closure Schedule has been handed out and has already been posted on the internet, in addition to the new regulations which will govern this shelter in place period. "Gatherings will be limited to no more than 10 persons. This is outdoor gatherings and indoor gatherings, including private homes. It is not the time to host parties, as it is an offense to host a group or gathering of more than 10 persons". See Bermuda COVID 19 website, archived: https://www.gov.bm/articles/covid19-update-0

On May 2nd, The Ministry of the Cabinet Office ended “Shelter in Place” as the government announced phase one. A physical Distancing and Closure Schedule has been handed out and has already been posted on the internet, in addition to the new regulations which will govern this shelter in place period. "Gatherings will be limited to no more than 10 persons. This is outdoor gatherings and indoor gatherings, including private homes. It is not the time to host parties, as it is an offense to host a group or gathering of more than 10 persons". See Bermuda COVID 19 website, archived: https://www.gov.bm/articles/covid19-update-0

On May 2nd, The Ministry of the Cabinet Office ended “Shelter in Place” as the government announced phase one. A physical Distancing and Closure Schedule has been handed out and has already been posted on the internet, in addition to the new regulations which will govern this shelter in place period. During phase one - Bars and clubs; beauty salons, spas, barbers; cinemas, concert halls, theatres; gyms, sports clubs; restaurants for dine in; and swimming pools in hotels, guest houses, and other vacation rental properties will be closed. -A curfew will remain in place between the hours of 10 PM and 6 AM. During that time, it is illegal to be in a different household. -Parks, beaches, and the railway trails will reopen. Persons may use the outdoor facilities of a sports club, such as a golf course, tennis court, or a sporting field, provided that appropriate physical distancing is maintained at all times and any groups do not exceed 10 persons. There are no contact sports that are allowed. See Bermuda COVID 19 website, archived: https://www.gov.bm/articles/covid19-update-0

The following levels refer to the establishments that will be allowed to reopen as of May 4, and also related to construction activity that will be allowed as of May 6. The number of persons allowed at any one time in the permitted establishments / construction companies (including personnel) will be as follows: Level 1 – May 4-May 17 – maximum of 15 persons Level 2 – May 18-May 31 – maximum of 50 persons Level 3 – June 1-June 14 – maximum of 125 persons Level 4 – June 14 and beyond – to be determined. The establishments that will be allowed to reopen are certain shops that are defined as including clothing stores, jewelry stores, libraries, petshops, etc. food trucks, museums and art centers, and construction companies (by permit). Government departments will also start to reopen as of May 4th, commencing with a maximum of 25% of personnel, considered essential for the departments’ function. https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Maximum of 50 persons (Level 2 – May 18-May 31) allowed in establishments allowed to open. The establishments that will be allowed to reopen are certain shops that are defined as including clothing stores, jewelry stores, libraries, petshops, etc. food trucks, museums and art centers, and construction companies (by permit). https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Schools will be allowed to reopen as of Monday, May 18, 2020 – although several will not be reopening until at least May 25th to ensure that they are fully ready. https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

May 15, 2020 – Shelter in place and ban on gatherings to be lifted as of May 18th. The Aruba government has announced that the shelter in place rule, as well as the ban on gatherings of 4 persons or more will be no longer be in effect as of Monday May 18th, as part of the Level 2 phase of reopening of the local economy. All social distancing and hygiene protocols are to be maintained throughout https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

The ban on gatherings of 4 persons or more will be no longer be in effect as of Monday May 18th, as part of the Level 2 phase of reopening of the local economy. All social distancing and hygiene protocols are to be maintained throughout https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Curfew still in place from 10pm - 5am https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Curfew still in place. The new curfew time will be be 11pm to 5am from May 21. https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Government COVID website describes need to meet criteria for testing https://www.arubacovid19.org/faq-english

Government website announced that as of May 25 specific business such as spas, massage services, bars, casinos and nightclubs will remain closed for now. Government website explainer of actions taken: https://www.arubacovid19.org/ddg

Curfew eliminated on May 28 after previous reduction on May 25. Government website explainer of actions taken: https://www.arubacovid19.org/ddg

Update as of May 30 that police checks limited to those of individuals traveling only on public roads. Description from Miami Herald on situation in different Caribbean countries https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/haiti/article241249651.html No descriptions of additional movement restrictions after lifting of curfews. https://www.arubacovid19.org/ddg

Stage 3 began June 1, additionally allowing lottery sites, restaurants and spas/saunas and massage parlors to open with limited hours, though nightclubs remain closed. Tourism site updates: https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/

Government website announced the application openings for salary support starting June 1. The wage subsidy is financial aid to local employers who have been affected by the current situation as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic and who have lost more than 25% of their income. The primary purpose of the salary subsidy is to help retain employees, despite the loss of sales and turnover. Employers who receive financial support are obliged to pay 60% of the SVb wages and up to the SVb wage limit of Afl. 5,850.00 per month. Described as formal only due to tax registration requirements. Government site explaining salary subsidy: https://www.government.aw/news/news_47033/item/as-of-june-1-employers-can-apply-for-a-salary-subsidy-for-the-month-of-june_49811.html

Government websites describe that as of June 10, conferences and places to meet/gather can be reopened, as can bars, nightclubs, and establishments for parties have been permitted to open. Casinos appear to still be closed, however the release of remaining nightlife industries and reopening of tourism drove the decision to update the indicator to 0. http://archive.fo/I9jzk https://www.arubacovid19.org/ddg Government guidance for employers in the "new normal" states that if possible, it is recommended that employees work from home as much as possible and/or introduce flexible working hours. https://8f39937c-2835-4a9d-b0e9-4a8971f34620.filesusr.com/ugd/1a09f9_534e457d559e409c9993b3ab89a6b573.pdf

Places to meet/gather reopen June 10 http://archive.fo/I9jzk

Government guidance for employers in the "new normal" states that if possible, it is recommended that employees work from home as much as possible and/or introduce flexible working hours. https://8f39937c-2835-4a9d-b0e9-4a8971f34620.filesusr.com/ugd/1a09f9_534e457d559e409c9993b3ab89a6b573.pdf General government guidance includes recommendations for physical/social distancing, assuming to generally refer recommending staying at home (though recommendations for work and sport are still provided). http://archive.fo/Xi1jc

Quotation: As of June 10, 2020, the government of Aruba officially announced the country will reopen its borders and once again welcome inbound travel. The decision to reopen borders, which were closed due to COVID-19 restrictions in early-March, was made in conjunction with the Aruba Department of Public Health (DPH) and took into consideration the ongoing guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO), The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in the United States. Aruba’s diligent reopening will happen in phases, monitored closely by the Government of Aruba and the Department of Public Health, and the following are the most updated reopening dates by region and country: June 15, 2020 – Bonaire & Curacao July 1, 2020 - Canada July 1, 2020 - Europe July 1, 2020 - The Caribbean (Excluding the Dominican Republic & Haiti) July 10, 2020 – The United States of America Link: https://www.aruba.com/us/traveler-health-requirements

Continuation of COVID website and clear communication of phase 3 opening. https://www.arubacovid19.org/post/nivel

Testing values still provided on government website, though no new cases. https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/ https://8f39937c-2835-4a9d-b0e9-4a8971f34620.filesusr.com/ugd/1a09f9_a422ff28a5a840f5a939020a05b566e4.pdf https://www.arubacovid19.org/

Information for contacts still provided on government website, though no new cases. https://www.visitaruba.com/news/general/corona-virus-and-travel-to-aruba/ https://8f39937c-2835-4a9d-b0e9-4a8971f34620.filesusr.com/ugd/1a09f9_a422ff28a5a840f5a939020a05b566e4.pdf https://www.arubacovid19.org/

Press release of June salary subsidies still being paid, assuming this indicates that program remains active: http://archive.fo/aYkMK

Previous linked tax relief applies through June. https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/an/Documents/tax/Newsflash%20-%20Publication%20Aruba%202020%20tax%20relief%20plan%20on%20COVID-19%20(1).pdf

Quotation: As of June 10, 2020, the government of Aruba officially announced the country will reopen its borders and once again welcome inbound travel. The decision to reopen borders, which were closed due to COVID-19 restrictions in early-March, was made in conjunction with the Aruba Department of Public Health (DPH) and took into consideration the ongoing guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO), The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in the United States. Aruba’s diligent reopening will happen in phases, monitored closely by the Government of Aruba and the Department of Public Health, and the following are the most updated reopening dates by region and country: June 15, 2020 – Bonaire & Curacao July 1, 2020 - Canada July 1, 2020 - Europe July 1, 2020 - The Caribbean (Excluding the Dominican Republic & Haiti) July 10, 2020 – The United States of America https://www.aruba.com/us/traveler-health-requirements

Salary subsidies for July 2020 will cover up to 40% of employees salaries: "ORANJESTAD – The SVb announced that the application of the salary subsidy for July 2020 will start on Monday, July 20, 2020. Everyone who qualifies for the application for the salary subsidy will receive a notification from the Svb and once this is received, the application can be completed on the MiSVb portal. The deadline for the application for July 2020, is July 26, 2020. Requirements for salary subsidy July 2020: The business has been affected negatively due to COVID-19 The company anticipates a minimum of 25% loss during the subsidy month. The company is not allowed to lay-off any employees for social-economic reasons The company agrees to pay a minimum of 60% to the employee’s salary The company and all employees are registered at the Svb on March 15, 2020 The company is registered at the Tax Department and has a tax number The company complies with tax payments and social premiums for the corresponding month in which the subsidy is requested. The company should apply for the subsidy. The company agrees with its employees on a reduced workload that can vary from 0% to a maximum of 40%" https://www.government.aw/news/news_47033/item/svb-application-for-the-july-2020-salary-subsidy-starts-july-20-2020_52909.html

According to a government decision taken on 4 August, 'The assembly ban will come into effect again, where no more than 4 people can be together in public places' http://archive.fo/PioEF

It has been announced that the Emergency Social Assistance Fund (FASE) 'will definitely stop at the end of September' http://archive.fo/QSYRS

According to a government decision on 7 August, 'Bars, nightclubs and rum-shops must be closed.' http://archive.fo/PioEF

No change recorded.

No change recorded.

Students were meant to return to school (after the holiday) on 20 August but it has been postponed by 2 weeks due to a second wave of coronavirus. https://archive.fo/aQuRp

'Curfew to come into effect on Friday at 12 a.m. In a press conference held this evening, the government of Aruba announced that on Friday at 12 a.m. a curfew will be in effect for the next two weeks between midnight and 5am.' https://archive.fo/gRgNp