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Buying property in Aruba as a Canadian
Canadians are among the most consistent winter buyers in Aruba. What applies to you specifically — ownership, currency, tax and the residency trap.
Can Canadians buy in Aruba?
Yes, without restriction, exactly as any other foreign buyer. No residency requirement, no local company, no local partner.
Aruba has long been a winter destination for Canadians, and a steady share of buyers arrive after years of visiting. The purchase mechanics are the same as for anyone else; what differs is the currency and the tax side at home.
| Currency | The florin is pegged to the US dollar, so you carry CAD/USD exposure on the purchase and on running costs. Plan the conversion. |
|---|---|
| Flights | Direct service principally from Toronto and Montreal, with considerably more capacity in winter. |
| Canadian tax | Worldwide income is reportable; foreign property above a threshold may require a T1135. Get cross-border advice first. |
| Residency | Owning does not grant it. Permits go through DIMAS, separately. |
What buying involves
Foreigners buy in Aruba without restriction. Budget 4–7% above the price: transfer tax of 3% on the first AWG 250,000 and 6% above it, plus notary fees of about 1–2%. Allow six to eight weeks from signed agreement to transfer of title.
The process is in the buying guide, and current pricing is on Aruba house prices.
Questions from Canadian buyers
Can Canadians buy property in Aruba?
Yes, without restriction, exactly as any other foreign buyer. No residency, no local company, no local partner.
Can a Canadian live in Aruba?
Owning does not grant residency. Canadians are admitted as visitors for a limited period and residing permanently requires a permit through DIMAS, applied for separately.
Is there a direct flight from Canada to Aruba?
Yes, seasonally and year-round depending on the carrier, principally from Toronto and Montreal. Winter capacity is considerably higher, which is also when Canadian buying interest peaks.
What about Canadian tax?
Canadian residents are taxed on worldwide income, so Aruban rental income is generally reportable, and foreign property above a threshold may require a T1135 filing. Speak to a Canadian cross-border accountant before you buy.
Does the Canadian dollar matter?
Yes. The Aruban florin is pegged to the US dollar, so a Canadian buyer carries CAD/USD exposure on both the purchase and the running costs. Worth planning around.
Buying from Canada?
Tell Nicolás your budget and when you next come down. He will line up a shortlist worth the trip rather than a day of driving.
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