In this article, you’ll find a clear overview of sole proprietorship availability, registration requirements, and relevant tax conditions for Curaçao in 2025. The focus is on the official ‘Eenmanszaak’ status, with practical guidance for those considering this business form in Curaçao.
Availability of Sole Proprietorship Status in Curaçao
Curaçao offers full access to the sole proprietorship structure, known locally as the Eenmanszaak. This remains a popular and straightforward legal form for individual business operators in the country. The Eenmanszaak allows any individual to establish and run a business without setting up a separate legal entity.
Key Features of the Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
- Ownership: The business is owned and managed by a single individual.
- Legal Status: The Eenmanszaak is not a separate legal entity; the owner is directly responsible for all business obligations.
- Liability: The individual proprietor has unlimited liability, meaning personal assets may be at risk for business debts.
- Accessibility: This structure is available and accessible to any regular citizen intending to carry out business activities.
Registration and Compliance Requirements
To operate as an Eenmanszaak in Curaçao, the following steps are required:
- Register the business with the Curaçao Chamber of Commerce.
- Complete all necessary forms and provide required identification as set by local regulations.
For more information on the registration process, consult the official website of the Curaçao Chamber of Commerce.
Personal Liability Considerations
It is important to note that the owner of an Eenmanszaak is fully and personally liable for any debts or legal obligations arising from business activities. There is no legal distinction between personal and business assets for liability purposes.
Taxation of Sole Proprietorships in Curaçao
Earnings from an Eenmanszaak are taxed as personal income for the owner. Curaçao uses a progressive income tax system, with rates applying directly to individual tax returns.
| Year | Taxable Income | Tax Rate (Percentage %) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | All income levels | 9.75% – 46.5% |
There is no separate or simplified “micro-entrepreneur” regime. All profits made through an Eenmanszaak are combined with other personal income and taxed under Curaçao’s standard progressive rates. Details on individual income taxation can be found at the Curaçao Tax Authority website.
Comparison to Other Legal Forms
The Eenmanszaak remains widely used due to its accessibility and direct approach, even though unlimited liability is a key consideration. Unlike limited liability company structures, the sole proprietorship does not require capital contribution or complex setup but does expose the individual to higher personal risk.
Summary of Key Features for 2025
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Availability | Open to all individuals; widely used and straightforward to set up |
| Legal Entity Status | Not a separate legal entity; full personal liability applies |
| Taxation | Profits taxed as personal income under progressive tax rates (9.75%–46.5%) |
| Simplified Regimes | No special or reduced-rate micro-entrepreneur regime available |
| Registration | Required at Curaçao Chamber of Commerce |
Pro Tips for Setting Up an Eenmanszaak in Curaçao
- Register promptly at the Curaçao Chamber of Commerce to avoid delays or penalties—this is a mandatory step for all new businesses.
- Maintain careful documentation of all income and expenses; personal and business finances should be clearly tracked for tax compliance, even if legally merged.
- Consider the implications of unlimited liability, especially if your business involves higher financial risk or contractual obligations.
- Familiarize yourself with Curaçao’s current income tax brackets and deadlines each year; tax rates are progressive, and full compliance is required.
Official Resources
In summary, Curaçao provides straightforward access to the Eenmanszaak for individuals, with clear registration procedures and established tax rules. The absence of a micro-entrepreneur tax regime means all sole proprietors are subject to the full income tax schedule, so personal liability and tax management should be top priorities for any new business owner considering this structure in 2025.