Arrival Information

All volunteers and interns are expected to arrive on a Saturday or Sunday so that they are ready to start the programme on Monday. We’re happy to help arrange your airport pickup. 

Programme Orientation

One of our team members will pick you up from Hato Airport. They will be holding a sign and wearing a De Kracht van Sport T-shirt (The Power of Sports in Dutch). They’ll bring you to our accommodation.

If your flight is delayed or if there are any changes to your arrival schedule, please inform our local coordinators as soon as possible. (Tip: make sure to save their contact numbers before leaving home!)

In-Country Team

During your stay in Curaçao, several team members will be there to support you. You’ll work directly with many of them during your project, while others work behind the scenes to make sure you have a fun, meaningful and well-organised experience.

Accommodation

Overview

Located in the peaceful Mon Repos neighbourhood, Villa Bon Bini offers two fully equipped homes on a spacious corner plot of 660 m². Each house features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a large open-plan kitchen and a generous living room. The villas are well-appointed, with granite flooring, a hot water system, security cameras, a private well, and a backup generator.

Enjoy the tropical garden with a cosy palapa (thatched roof hut), and a rooftop terrace with stunning views. The location is ideal: close to beaches, shops, schools, and sports facilities. The property can accommodate up to 20 people.

See the video here.

Meals

Once a week, usually on Friday, we organise a group dinner for all participants. This moment is not only about enjoying good food, but also about connection and togetherness.

The De Kracht van Sport team is always present at these dinners, which are a great opportunity to catch up and kick off the weekend in a fun way. These evenings are often seen as one of the highlights of the week, sometimes including a spontaneous quiz or music!

Extra Info

• Tap water: Clean and safe to drink at the accommodation

• Supermarket: 5-minute walk

• ATM: 5-minute walk

• Restaurants & Bars: 5-minute walk

Declaration of Lawful Stay (Verklaring van Rechtswege)

If you plan to do an internship that lasts longer than 90 days, you are required to apply for a Declaration of Lawful Stay (Verklaring van Rechtswege). It’s important to note that this declaration is not a visa. Not having the declaration in advance does not automatically mean you will be denied entry into the country. However, you must be able to show that you have started the application process.

If you arrive in Curaçao without this declaration and without having initiated the application, this can result in a fine for the organisation (in this case, us).

Documents Required for the Application

• Valid passport
  You must submit a copy of your passport.

• Proof of accommodation
  Click here to obtain it – make sure to adjust the bold parts.]

• Proof of sufficient financial means
  Submit a recent overview of your bankstatements.

• Birth certificate
  Request this at your local municipality.

• Certificate of Good Conduct

• Internship contract
  A signed agreement between your internship organisation and your school. It must clearly state the start and end dates of your internship. Please also note in the contract that the organisation is not registered in Curaçao but in the Netherlands. Print a copy and take it with you for smoother entry at customs.

How to Submit Your Application

Send an email to: intake@immigrationcur.org

You can use the example email below:

Subject: Application – Declaration of Lawful Stay for Internship

Dear Sir or Madam,

I hereby submit my application for a Declaration of Lawful Stay in relation to my upcoming internship in Curaçao. I will be interning with De Kracht van Sport. More information about this organisation can be found at www.thepowerofsports.org. The contact person for the organisation in Curaçao is Naisha Santiago. The foundation runs a social project in Curaçao, and further information is available on the website.

My internship will take place from (start date) to (end date).
My residential address during this period will be: Uteweg 16, Willemstad.
My mobile phone number is: (your phone number).
This internship is part of my studies at (name of your school/university), and I will not receive any financial compensation for this internship.

Attached to this email, you will find all the required documents:

• Proof of payment of government fee (525 ANG paid on (date))

• Certificate of Good Conduct

• Birth certificate

• Copy of my passport

• Internship agreement

• Completed application form (see instructions below)

If you require any further information, I am happy to assist.

Kind regards,
(Name and surname)

Application Form

You must also include the application form in your email.
You can access the form by clicking the blue button below. Fill it out and attach it as a PDF to your email.

Government Fee (Leges)

The government fee must be paid to the account listed below, in the name of the Ministry of Finance, for the benefit of the Immigration Office.(Toelatingsorganisatie)

Always include your full name and mention that the payment is for an internship application fee.

The cost is 525 ANG (approximately 200 GBP).
The account is held at Maduro & Curiel’s Bank, the full banking details are listed below.

Bank details:

Maduro & Curiel’s Bank N.V.
Laso Jojo Correa 2–4
Willemstad, Curaçao

Account holder: Toelatingsorganisatie
Account number: 31967908
BIC/SWIFT: MCBKCWCU

Digital Immigration Card

The Digital Immigration Card is mandatory for all international travelers to ensure a smooth immigration process upon arrival in Curaçao.
You can only apply for it after booking your flight. It’s easy to complete via the following link:

👉 https://dicardcuracao.com/dicard

Passport

Your passport is your most important document when traveling abroad.
Make sure it is valid for at least six months beyond your return date to the Netherlands.
Do not store your passport in your checked luggage. Always keep it with you, ideally in your hand luggage or on your person at all times.

Declaration of Lawful Stay

If your stay exceeds 90 days, you are required to apply for a Declaration of Lawful Stay. For more information and how to apply, please refer to the tab: Declaration of Lawful Stay.

Criminal Background Check 

DBS
To ensure that we can offer a safe and trusted environment, it is necessary that all trainees and volunteers apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

You can get this via www.gov.uk, currently for 21.50 GBP.

Once in possession of your DBS, we kindly ask you to send a copy to your mentor at The Power of Sports. This allows us to ensure that all our team members meet the required standards and contribute to a safe and positive experience for the young people we work with. The DBS is of particular importance to us, given the nature of our work with vulnerable youth in disadvantaged neighbourhoods abroad.

Photocopies of Important Documents

It’s always wise to make copies of all essential documents.
Keep one copy with you while abroad (stored separately from the originals), and leave another copy at home with a friend or family member.
We recommend making copies of the following documents in case of loss or theft:

• Passport: including passport number, date and place of issue, and any visas

• Flight details: flight numbers, connections, and destination airports

• Insurance policy: policy number and 24/7 emergency medical contact

• Vaccination record: documents showing your vaccinations

• Bank cards: including the phone number to report lost/stolen cards

Insurance

At The Power of Sports we strongly recommend that you travel with proper insurance coverage. Since these are long-term international trips, the likelihood of something unexpected happening is higher. Consider the following situations:

• Medical emergencies: Unexpected illnesses or injuries can happen anywhere. A travel insurance policy with medical coverage ensures you can access care without facing major financial burdens.

• Trip cancellation or interruption: Sometimes, trips have to be cancelled or interrupted at the last minute due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, family emergencies, natural disasters, or other events. Travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable costs like flights, accommodation, and activity bookings.

• Lost or stolen luggage: Losing your luggage or becoming a victim of theft can seriously impact your travel experience. Travel insurance can reimburse you for lost or stolen belongings and help reduce your financial loss.

• Flight delays: If your flight is delayed and you miss a connection or scheduled activity, travel insurance may cover additional expenses and inconveniences.

• Personal liability: In some cases, you may be held responsible for damage to property or injury to others during your trip. Travel insurance can offer protection against unforeseen liability claims.

• Travel accidents: While no one expects to be involved in an accident, travel insurance provides coverage in cases of permanent disability or death resulting from an accident during your trip.

• Legal assistance: If you encounter a legal issue abroad – such as a contract dispute – your travel insurance can help cover legal advice and support.

• Lost travel documents: Losing your passport, visa, or other important documents can be stressful. Travel insurance can help cover the costs of replacements and provide support in securing new documents.

Although insurance is an additional expense, it can ultimately save you a significant amount of money, stress, and inconvenience in the event of unexpected problems during your trip.

Vaccinations

No specific vaccinations are required for Curaçao.

Health and Hygiene

We are not authorised to provide medical advice regarding your health or vaccinations. Therefore, it is essential that you consult your GP or local public health service for professional medical advice before departure.

As always, prevention is better than cure. There are a few important things you should do before leaving to help ensure you stay healthy and fit while abroad. Please read the recommendations below carefully.

Health Check-ups Before Departure

• Visit your GP to ask which vaccinations you may need.

• It is advisable to see your doctor 2–3 months before departure for a general health check-up.

• Check with your doctor (or the Ministry of Health) whether your prescribed medication is legal in the destination country.
  If so, carry a letter from your doctor explaining what the medication is for and why you are taking it.

• Visit your dentist. A toothache or cavity can seriously affect your trip, and dental care abroad is often expensive and of uncertain quality.

Food Poisoning

Many of our participants experience mild stomach issues within the first 48 hours due to exposure to new bacteria in an unfamiliar environment. With rest, plenty of fluids, and replacement of salts, you’ll recover quickly from this temporary discomfort. Some travellers bring daily multivitamins to support their immune system.

Sunburn and Heat

Be cautious of heat and intense sunshine. Dehydration, sunburn, and even heatstroke are common among participants.
You can easily avoid these issues by taking the following precautions:

• Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (e.g. around midday)

• Wear sunglasses

• Wear a cap or hat

• Use sunscreen with a high SPF

• Stay hydrated and always carry a full bottle of water

Safety & Security

Theft is more common abroad than it is at home. However, most issues can be prevented by staying alert and taking a few sensible precautions. Below are some general behaviours that can get you into trouble, and how to avoid them.

Tourists are frequent targets for pickpockets. It’s important tolearn about Curaçao before you travel so you can stay alert in unfamiliar situations. Some key tips:

• Never travel or go out alone, especially at night

• Learn which areas are considered unsafe and avoid them

• Keep important documents and valuables in a secure place, like a hidden inside pocket or money belt

• Only carry as much cash as you need

• Don’t wear expensive jewellery or watches

• Be cautious of people who are overly friendly too quickly

• Keep cameras out of sight when not in use

• Keep your wallet in your front pocket

• Ask about water safety before swimming

Precautionary Measures

• A money belt is useful for valuables. Keep it hidden under your clothing and only open it in safe, familiar locations.

• If using an ATM, choose one in a well-lit area and avoid withdrawing money at night or when alone. Don’t count your cash until you’re in a secure place.

Behaviour & Clothing

Your behaviour and clothing can attract unwanted attention. In less developed areas, people may respond differently to how you act or dress. They may interpret your appearance or attitude as disrespectful or arrogant, especially if it comes across as flaunting material wealth.

Some tips:

• Be modest and discreet in your behaviour

• You’re here to experience and understand the culture — not to judge, compare, or make critical remarks

• Learn a few local customs or greetings and make an effort to adopt them

• Wear appropriate, non-political, and inoffensive clothing

Drugs

NEVER buy, use, or carry drugs while abroad. If you do, your internship or volunteer placement will be immediately terminated. Local police will not hesitate to arrest you, and you may be held in jail without trial under poor conditions and without the rights you’re used to at home. Even possession of a small amount of marijuana can lead to severe punishment.

Alcohol

Almost all serious incidents are linked in some way to excessive alcohol consumption. Participants who drink too much are often robbed in bars or worse. Alcohol impairs your judgement and gives a false sense of confidence, increasing your risk of ending up in a dangerous situation.

We strongly recommend avoiding alcohol during the week, and staying in control if you choose to drink on weekends.

Code of Conduct

We want you to have a fun and meaningful life experience abroad, but it is important to remember that you are also an ambassador for our charity. That’s why it is essential that you conduct yourself in a respectful and appropriate manner throughout your entire stay.

You will be asked to sign the following contract upon arrival in Curaçao.

I, ……………………………………, agree to follow the Code of Conduct during my stay with De Kracht van Sport in Curaçao. I understand and accept that if my behaviour does not comply with one or more of the following conditions, the Curaçao project and its local coordinators reserve the right to initiate disciplinary procedures, which may ultimately result in the termination of my stay at the accommodation and the programme.

• I will at all times respect local customs, cultures, and beliefs. Specifically, I will not make any sexist or racist comments during my stay.

• I will comply with the child protection policy of Project Curaçao when working with children, including what I share on my personal social media platforms.

• I will follow the internship or volunteer hours as agreed upon with De Kracht van Sport.

• I will not spend the night outside of the Villa Bon Bini accommodation unless I have explicit permission from the Project Curaçao Coordinator.

• I will refrain from antisocial behaviour, especially when under the influence of alcohol. I agree to consume alcohol in moderation during my stay abroad. If the coordinators inform me of specific local norms or restrictions around alcohol use, I will respect and adhere to them.

• I will always show personal and professional respect toward staff members and colleagues of De Kracht van Sport.

• I will not buy, trade, or use illegal substances during my stay. I understand that De Kracht van Sport operates a zero-tolerance policy. Anyone caught in possession of or suspected of using or handling illegal substances will be asked to immediately leave the premises and the programme.

• I understand that some activities I may be invited to participate in carry certain risks. I agree to use all provided safety equipment and follow all safety instructions given by the coordinator or instructors to minimise these risks.

• If I am not covered by insurance or if I feel unsafe, I understand that I am allowed to decline participation in such activities.

• I will dress appropriately at all times while working.

Awareness Statement – Sexual Conduct

I acknowledge that I have been advised by the coordinator of The Power of Sports about the following matters:

• The dangers of engaging in sexual relationships while in Curaçao.

• I understand that different cultural views about sexuality exist and that these may pose risks to myself.

• I am aware that healthcare standards in Curaçao may differ and that sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are not uncommon.

• I understand the risks of unplanned pregnancy and other STIs associated with unprotected sex.

If I experience any personal or professional issues during my stay, I will report them as soon as possible to my coordinator (Cynthia Koerhuis), programme director (Naïsha Santiago), or mentor (Mike James). I have their contact details.

I understand that I am responsible for my own actions, safety, and well-being during my free time, outside of work hours and outside the accommodation.

Termination

If your participation in the programme is terminated due to failure to follow the Code of Conduct, you will be required to leave immediately.

Discrimination

We have zero tolerance for any form of discrimination. If you witness, experience, or become aware of discriminatory behaviour, please report it immediately to your coordinator.

Drugs

There is a zero-tolerance policy for drug use. Anyone found in possession of illegal substances, or suspected of using them, will be immediately removed from the accommodation and the programme.

What to Bring

The following list is meant to help you pack and prepare your personal clothing and items for your trip abroad. The weather in Curaçao is warm all year round. Things tend to be quite relaxed, so leave your suits and cocktail dresses at home, it’s a very casual environment.

Recommended Clothing

Head & Upper Body

• Hat: Protects you from the sun and helps prevent heatstroke. A wide-brimmed hat is better than a baseball cap, as it also covers your neck.

• Sweater: One is enough — evenings are usually still warm.

• Sports shirts: Bring plenty! It’s best to wear a fresh one each day.

• T-shirts: Pack a good number for daily wear.

• Underwear: Cotton underwear is more hygienic than synthetic. Bring enough for a full week.

Trousers & Swimwear

• Shorts: Since it will be warm, pack several pairs.

• Long trousers: Cotton trousers are ideal for hot climates and also help keep bugs away in the evenings. Bring a couple for evening wear.

• Swimwear: Essential, as there are many opportunities to swim in the pool or the sea. You might even want to try surfing!

Socks & Shoes

• Socks: Bring plenty, especially since you’ll be doing lots of sports. Don’t forget football socks if relevant.

• Casual shoes: One pair is enough.

• Sandals/slippers: Choose a sturdy pair with ankle straps for good ventilation and support in warm climates.

• Sports shoes: Bring a pair you don’t mind getting dirty. You’ll be doing lots of outdoor activities, and tropical rains can turn fields into mud puddles!

Special Sports Equipment

• Whistle, hockey stick (if you’re a hockey coach), sports shoes or football boots

Rainwear

• Waterproof jacket: Lightweight, breathable and waterproof, great for tropical rain showers.

Essential Items

• Camera/phone: For all your Insta-worthy moments.

• Personal first aid kit: Essential while travelling, don’t leave without one.

• Insect repellent: Use one with a high DEET content (we recommend 50%) to protect against mosquito bites.

• Sunscreen & after-sun: A strong sunscreen (SPF 30+) is a must due to the intense sun and long exposure outdoors.

• Sunglasses: Useful, as you’ll often be in direct sunlight.

• Torch/flashlight: Even though your phone likely has one, an extra torch is handy — especially in case of power outages.

• Towels: Bring at least two regular towels plus one beach towel.

• Toiletry bag: Include all your daily hygiene products.

• Water bottles: Make sure you carry at least 2 litres of water with you. Bottled water is available but not always at hand.

• Whistle: Useful if you’re refereeing or leading sports activities.

• Day bag: A practical and easy-to-carry daypack is highly recommended.