During a recent press conference, Minister of Justice, Mr. Drs. Arthur Dowers, shared information regarding the handling of the Hunto pa Progreso program. Although the program ended some time ago, DIMAS, with the support of IOM, is currently in the process of matching employers with individuals who registered under Track 4 and who meet all requirements.
Those who registered must keep their contact information up to date, as they have one year to secure employment and transition into the regular process.
Minister Dowers indicated that the regular application track has not yet been reopened for first-time applicants, in order to give the 1,500 individuals in Track 4 the opportunity to find employment first. However, individuals with academic or scientific specialization, as well as those applying for domestic work and cooks, may still submit first-time applications.
Minister Dowers also announced the intensification of administrative controls on guarantors of individuals who have overstayed their legal period of stay. It is the responsibility of the guarantor to ensure that the person returns to their country. In cases where the government must intervene, the costs of locating and deporting the individual will be charged to the guarantor.
Medical expenses of undocumented persons who do not have AZV coverage are also the responsibility of the guarantor, not the government.
The Minister emphasized that there is no justification for employing undocumented individuals, as employers have access to a pool of 1,500 registered candidates.
Inspections will also focus on those facilitating illegal activities, including illegal medical practices, illegal sale of medication, illegal car rentals, and renting housing to undocumented persons. These actions may carry legal consequences for property owners and those involved.
Minister Dowers appealed to everyone to respect the laws in order to maintain a dignified, orderly, and safe Aruba.
