For entrepreneurs and digital nomads eyeing Aruba as a potential base for their ventures in 2025, understanding the true costs of company formation and maintenance is essential. Many are frustrated by opaque fees and state-imposed hurdles that can erode both capital and autonomy. This guide delivers a transparent, data-driven breakdown of what it really takes to establish and maintain a standard company—specifically a Naamloze Vennootschap (N.V.)—in Aruba, so you can make informed, strategic decisions about your next move.
Company Formation Costs in Aruba: What to Expect in 2025
Setting up a Naamloze Vennootschap (N.V.) in Aruba involves several mandatory expenses. Here’s a clear breakdown of the average creation costs, all denominated in Aruban Florin (AWG), with USD equivalents for global comparison (using an approximate rate of 1 AWG = 0.56 USD):
| Cost Item | Amount (AWG) | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum capital requirement | 50,000 | 28,000 |
| Notary fees (incorporation deed) | 1,500 | 840 |
| Chamber of Commerce registration fee | 100 | 56 |
| Legal documentation and administrative fees | 500 | 280 |
Average direct creation costs (excluding minimum capital): AWG 2,100 (USD 1,176)
Pro Tip #1: The minimum capital requirement (AWG 50,000 / USD 28,000) is not a fee, but a deposit that must be available in the company’s account. This capital can be used for business operations after incorporation, but it must be proven at the outset.
Annual Maintenance Costs: Keeping Your N.V. Compliant
Once your company is established, annual maintenance costs are unavoidable. Here’s what you’ll need to budget for in 2025:
| Maintenance Item | Amount (AWG) | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Chamber of Commerce annual registration fee | 100 | 56 |
| Mandatory accounting services (basic) | 250 | 140 |
| Optional: Legal/accounting compliance (recommended) | 1,650 | 924 |
Annual maintenance costs range from AWG 350 (USD 196) for bare minimum compliance, up to AWG 2,000 (USD 1,120) if you opt for comprehensive legal and accounting support.
Pro Tip #2: While the optional legal/accounting compliance isn’t strictly required, it’s highly recommended for international entrepreneurs who want to avoid regulatory pitfalls and optimize their tax position. Skimping here can lead to costly errors or missed opportunities for optimization.
Case Example: Total First-Year Outlay
Let’s say you’re launching a new N.V. in Aruba in 2025. Your initial outlay would look like this:
- Creation costs (excluding minimum capital): AWG 2,100 (USD 1,176)
- Minimum capital deposit: AWG 50,000 (USD 28,000)
- Annual maintenance (with full compliance): AWG 2,000 (USD 1,120)
Total first-year cash outlay: AWG 54,100 (USD 30,296)
Remember, the minimum capital is not a sunk cost—it remains available for business use after incorporation.
Checklist: Streamlining Your Company Setup in Aruba
- Prepare the minimum capital (AWG 50,000 / USD 28,000) and ensure it’s available for deposit.
- Engage a local notary for the incorporation deed (budget AWG 1,500 / USD 840).
- Register with the Chamber of Commerce (AWG 100 / USD 56).
- Set aside funds for legal and administrative documentation (AWG 500 / USD 280).
- Plan for annual compliance costs—don’t cut corners on accounting or legal advice.
Pro Tip #3: Aruba’s regulatory environment is relatively straightforward, but documentation and compliance are strictly enforced. Early, proactive planning can help you avoid unnecessary friction and keep your fiscal burden optimized.
Key Takeaways for 2025
- Aruba’s N.V. structure requires a significant upfront capital deposit, but ongoing costs are moderate compared to many Western jurisdictions.
- Annual maintenance can be kept low, but investing in compliance support is wise for international founders.
- All figures are current for 2025—always verify with official sources before making commitments.
For more details on legal entities and business setup in Aruba, consult these official resources: