Steps to Sponsor a Nephew or Niece for Residency in Aruba
Introduction
Aruba, a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, offers various pathways to residency, including sponsorship by family members. Nephews and nieces may be sponsored by their aunts and uncles under certain conditions. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the steps involved in sponsoring a nephew or niece for residency in Aruba.
Eligibility Requirements
- Sponsor:
- Must be an Aruban citizen or legal resident with permanent residency.
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Must have sufficient financial means to support the sponsored individual.
- Nephew or Niece:
- Must be a blood relative of the sponsor.
- Must be unmarried and under the age of 21.
- Must not have a criminal record.
Application Process
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Passport and birth certificate of the sponsor and nephew/niece
- Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate or family register)
- Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, employment contract)
- Notarized letter of intent from the sponsor, stating the reasons for sponsorship and commitment to support the nephew/niece.
- Medical certificate for the nephew/niece, indicating they are in good health.
Step 2: Submit Application
The application for sponsorship should be submitted to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) of Aruba. The following documents must be included:
- Completed application form
- Required documents (as listed above)
- Fee payment (currently ANG 150)
Step 3: Processing and Decision
The IND will review the application and conduct background checks. The processing time varies depending on the caseload. The IND may request additional documents or an interview as part of the evaluation process.
Step 4: Approval and Issuance of Residency Permit
If the application is approved, the IND will issue a residency permit to the nephew/niece. The permit will be valid for one year and can be renewed annually as long as the sponsorship conditions are met.
Conditions of Sponsorship
The sponsor is responsible for providing the following support to the sponsored nephew/niece:
- Accommodation
- Food and clothing
- Healthcare
- Education
- Moral guidance
The nephew/niece must reside with the sponsor and attend school or engage in vocational training. They are not permitted to work or marry during the sponsorship period.
Termination of Sponsorship
Sponsorship may be terminated if:
- The sponsor no longer meets the eligibility requirements.
- The nephew/niece violates the conditions of sponsorship.
- The sponsor and nephew/niece agree to terminate the sponsorship.
Additional Considerations
- The nephew/niece may apply for citizenship after five years of continuous residency in Aruba.
- If the nephew/niece reaches the age of 21 during the sponsorship period, they may apply for an extension of the residency permit, but they must meet additional requirements.
- It is advisable to seek professional legal advice to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Conclusion
Sponsoring a nephew or niece for residency in Aruba can be a rewarding experience that strengthens family bonds. By following the steps outlined in this article and meeting the eligibility and sponsorship conditions, aunts and uncles can provide a stable and supportive environment for their loved ones.