Dream Life Ready: Bonaire

Discover "Diver's Paradise" - and the life waiting for you here! Learn what life on Bonaire is really like and connect with the local experts who can help you realize your Caribbean dream on Bonaire.

EXPLORE LIFE ON BONAIRE

Life in the Dutch Caribbean: Bonaire

It's easy to see why people fall in LOVE with Bonaire...

International Community

A welcoming island home for people from all over the globe.

World-Class Marine Park

A vibrant underwater world awaits you right from the shore.

Safe & Relaxed Lifestyle

Safe, friendly, and refreshingly laid back.

What it's REALLY like to live on Bonaire...

Is Bonaire right for you? Check out our resource page to learn about:

Cost of Living
Healthcare
Real Estate
Schools & Family Life
Work, Industry, and Starting a Business

Explore Life on Bonaire

What it's REALLY like to live on Bonaire...

Is Bonaire right for you? Check out our resource pages and connect with locals to learn about:

Cost of Living
Healthcare
Real Estate
Schools & Family Life
Work & Starting a Business

Moving to Bonaire: Where to start

One of the best ways to tap into life on Bonaire is by talking to people who have already made the move. Expats who’ve navigated the process can share real experiences, helpful tips, and insights you won’t find in guidebooks. Meet our locals that can help!

Chat with Local Experts (and expats!)

Have questions about the immigration process, real estate, or starting a business on Bonaire? Want to chat with expats who have already made the leap? Start here!

Julia Nova

Expertise:

Banking & Business Development

Julia relocated from Texas to Bonaire in 2021 to start a private yacht charter business. She enjoys helping expats start & expand their businesses on Bonaire, advising on banking, company formation, and marketing.

Ellen McGraw

Expertise:

Visas & Immigration

Ellen relocated to Bonaire from Savannah, Georgia. When she's not diving, she helps expats from the USA navigate the immigration process on Bonaire. She has helped over 100 people earn their residency on Bonaire.

Stacy Olson

Expertise:

Residential Real Estate & Investment Properties

A trusted real estate agent, real estate investor, and project developer. She has closed over 300 transactions for her clients, establishing herself as the island's premmier real estate authority.

James Cognito

Expertise:

Diving & Boating

Hailing from Southern California, James is our maritime ambassador; a 30+ year scuba professional and boat captain, James enjoys helping expats get a new view of Bonaire from above the water and below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Discover our most popular questions from USA expats looking to make a move to Bonaire.

Do Americans (from the USA) need a visa to live on Bonaire?

It depends. As a tourist, you can stay on the island for (up to) 180 days a year. If you plan to work on the island or stay for a longer term, you will need to apply for residency.

How expensive is it to live on Bonaire?

Most goods (including food!) are imported, so you can expect to pay more than most aver. Rent can vary widely, but $1,200–$2,500/month is common for long-term rentals.

Can Americans buy property on Bonaire?

There are no restrictions on foreigners owning property, and many Americans purchase condos or homes. However, property ownership does not automatically grant residency.

Do people speak English on Bonaire?

The main languages are Papiamentu and Dutch, but English is spoken almost everywhere, especially in tourism, restaurants, and real estate.

What is healthcare like on Bonaire?

The island has one hospital (Fundashon Mariadal) and several clinics. For serious procedures, residents often travel to Colombia, Aruba, Curaçao, or the Netherlands.

Can USA citizens work on Bonaire?

Yes, but many employers must show that no local or Dutch citizen can fill the job first. Many expats instead work remotely for U.S. companies or start businesses.

Plan a Scouting Trip

If you're considering a move to Bonaire, or wish to invest in this island gem, let's work together to plan a scouting trip. This trip is designed to connect you with locals & experts that can provide valuable insights on relocation, island bureaucracy, and the business community.