Buying a Monument in Curaçao: Tax Benefits and Investing in Historic Real Estate

Buying a monument in Curaçao is more than just acquiring property — it is an investment in history, character, and long-term value.
At the same time, it can be financially attractive due to various tax benefits introduced by the government.

Since January 1, 2017, the National Ordinance on Fiscal Incentives for the Historic City Center and Monuments has been in effect.
This regulation is designed to encourage the preservation and restoration of historic buildings in Curaçao.

In this blog, we explain what qualifies as a monument, which tax advantages apply, and why investing in historic real estate in Curaçao can be a smart decision.

Why monuments are important for Curaçao

The historic inner city of Willemstad — including Punda, Otrobanda, Scharloo, and Pietermaai — is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These historic buildings are a key part of Curaçao’s identity and a major driver of tourism.

Because maintaining and restoring monument properties often involves higher costs, the government has introduced tax incentives to make these investments more attractive.

What is a protected monument in Curaçao?

A protected monument is defined as:

• a property registered in the official monument register
• or a property located within the historic city center of Willemstad

The historic city center is officially designated and recognized by UNESCO as cultural heritage.

All tax benefits described in this article apply to these types of properties.

Tax benefits for monument properties in Curaçao

Income tax – interest exemption

Interest and income received from loans secured by a mortgage on a protected monument are tax-exempt.
This makes financing historic real estate more attractive for investors.

Income tax – investment deduction

One of the most important benefits is the increased investment deduction:

• standard investment deduction: 10 percent
• for monuments: increased to 30 percent

This also applies to residential properties, which is unique.
Normally, investment deductions do not apply to private homes, but for protected monuments they do.

If part of the monument is used as a workspace for a business, up to 20 percent of the investment amount may be deducted from taxable profit.

Pensionado (penshonado) scheme and monuments

Foreign buyers who qualify under the pensionado tax regime benefit from additional flexibility.

Normally, a pensionado must own a property worth at least 450,000 ANG.
Under this regulation:

• a protected monument may be rented or owned
• the property may be rented out for up to four months per year

This makes monument properties especially attractive for international buyers and retirees.

Corporate tax benefits

For companies, the same advantages apply as for income tax:

• tax-exempt interest income
• increased investment deduction

Transfer tax exemption

The purchase of a protected monument is exempt from transfer tax.
This results in a direct saving of 4 percent of the purchase price.

Stamp duty exemption

Mortgage deeds related to monument properties are exempt from stamp duty.
This reduces financing costs and improves overall investment returns.

Why invest in historic real estate in Curaçao

Investing in a monument property in Curaçao offers several advantages:

• unique architecture and historical character
• strong appeal for tourism and rental markets
• tax benefits that improve net returns
• limited supply, supporting long-term value growth

For investors, entrepreneurs, and buyers seeking distinctive properties, this is a highly attractive niche within the Curaçao real estate market.

Buying a monument in Curaçao with a specialized real estate agent

International Fine Living Curaçao specializes in monument properties, historic estates, and landhouses.
We guide buyers and sellers through complex transactions, including legal, fiscal, and restoration aspects.

We have successfully been involved in transactions such as:

• Landhuis Jan Thiel
• Landhuis Bona Vista
• Huize Batavia
• Hotel Scharloo
• Landhuis Groot Kwartier
• Landhuis Ronde Klip
• Landhuis Siberie
• Monument Roodeweg
• Pietermaai properties
• Julianaplein 24

Currently available:

• Landhuis Francia

We also offer off-market monument properties on a regular basis.

For more information about historic estates, visit the Landhuizen van Curaçao platform.

Frequently asked questions about buying a monument in Curaçao

What are the tax benefits of buying a monument in Curaçao?

Key benefits include exemption from transfer tax, a 30 percent investment deduction, and tax-free interest on financing.

Does the investment deduction apply to residential properties?

Yes. Unlike standard real estate, monument properties qualify for investment deductions even when used as a home.

What qualifies as a protected monument in Curaçao?

A registered monument or any property located within the UNESCO-listed historic city center of Willemstad.

Do I pay transfer tax when buying a monument?

No. Protected monuments are exempt from transfer tax, saving approximately 4 percent of the purchase price.

Is a monument a good investment in Curaçao?

Yes. Due to limited supply, strong tourism demand, and tax benefits, monument properties can offer solid long-term returns.

Can foreigners buy monument properties in Curaçao?

Yes. Foreign buyers can purchase monuments, and when combined with the pensionado scheme, additional tax advantages may apply.

Conclusion

Investing in a monument property in Curaçao means investing in heritage, character, and long-term value.
With attractive tax benefits and the unique status of Willemstad as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these properties offer opportunities beyond standard real estate investments.

If you are looking for a monument, please contact us, we regularly have monuments on Curacao for sale, many times in silent sale. 

This article appeared in the series: The real estate agent of Curacao tells.

International Fine Living does its best to inform people who buy a house in Curaçao or sell a house as well as possible. Unfortunately, our time is also limited and we will not always be able to publish the latest updates. We therefore always recommend that you verify the information provided with the correct agency or company; you cannot derive any rights from the accuracy of the information provided. Attention other real estate agents on Curacao: all our texts are copyrighted. It is therefore not permitted to copy texts or parts thereof. Of course, anyone who wants to can post a link to our blog.