Expert: Andy Mendyk - 4/13/2008

Question
QUESTION: My Husband, son and I are interested in moving to Aruba.  My husband and I are both retired from the government.  I keep seeing this strict law to move to Aruba that you have to have a job.  Can you move their if you are retired and receiving retirement pay?  I would like any information on Aruba and the Safety of Aruba also.  Thankyou!

ANSWER: Hi Kim..You do not have to have a job, but they do require proof that you have financial stability IE: savings, pension, steady income, etc.
You must also own your own home which is a requirement for residency.
Crime..a lot less then there is in the States, but if your home is to be in an area that is not heavily populated, a home intruder alarm would be advised. There have been some cases of break ins, but isolated incidents. Aside from that, you should have no problems at all.

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QUESTION: Thankyou for the information on moving to Aruba.  I would like some information on the schools in Aruba.  I have a 13 year old and he is in 7th grade here in the states.  What are the schools like in Aruba?

Answer
http://www.visitaruba.com/facts/community/schools.html

Kim..cut and paste this address and look over the site with all the schools there. I assume one of the high schools or vacational schools would be what you are looking for.
Since I never attended the schools there (unfortunately!), I feel its best for you to browse what they offer, as parents  are particular about school matters. Contacting them should give you info on curiculum or anything else you may need to know.
One thing I can say, the schools are safe, and I have never heard of any drug related problems from some of the parents I have talked to.