To organize an event on Bonaire—whether at a public or private location, such as a festival, market, or public celebration—you need an event permit. This permit, known as APK (General Police Approval), is required for all types of events involving the public, from small gatherings to large festivals.
What does this product or service mean?
The form, along with all supporting documents, must be submitted 6 weeks before the start of the event (8 weeks for applications involving foreign performers).
The form, along with all supporting documents, must be submitted 6 weeks before the start of the event (8 weeks for applications involving foreign performers).
If you wish to organize an event, you must submit a fully completed APK or buffet form six (6) weeks in advance.
For events featuring foreign artists or large-scale events such as Carnival, this must be done eight (8) weeks in advance.
You may change the date twice (2), provided you notify the authorities three (3) weeks before the new date.
Required documents:
- Copy of a valid ID
- Proof of payment of application fees and/or public use fees
- Proof of payment of a security deposit to SELIBON or a statement that no security deposit is required
- Permission to use INDEBON facilities
When can you apply for this?
To apply for an APK permit, you must meet the following conditions:
1. Timely submission: The APK form must be submitted six (6) weeks before the event. For events featuring foreign artists or large-scale events such as Carnival, this period is eight (8) weeks.
2. Completeness of the application: The form must be fully completed and accompanied by all required documents, including valid identification, proof of payment of administrative fees and/or occupancy fees, and a statement or proof of security deposit.
3. Permission to use facilities: If applicable, you must have permission to use specific facilities or locations.
4. Purpose of the activity: The activity must be for social, cultural, or educational purposes, or organized by an entity registered with the Chamber of Commerce and authorized to organize public events.
How do you apply for this?
Here are the steps to apply for an APK permit:
1. Complete the form: Fill out the digital APK form in its entirety.
This must be submitted six (6) weeks before the planned date of the event.
For events featuring foreign artists or large-scale events such as Carnival, this must be submitted eight (8) weeks in advance.
2. Upload required documents: Gather all required documents, including a copy of a valid ID, proof of payment of the application fee and/or public space usage fees, and, if necessary, a SELIBON security deposit or a SELIBON statement confirming that no security deposit is due.
3. Facility authorization: Obtain a statement of authorization for the use of facilities managed by INDEBON, if applicable.
4. Submit the form: Submit the electronic form and all documents by clicking the “Submit” button.
- Standard events: six (6) weeks before the event.
- Events featuring foreign artists or major local events: eight (8) weeks in advance.
5. Reporting changes: You may change the event date up to two (2) times, provided this is reported to the Legal & General Affairs Department three (3) weeks before the new date.
6. Background check: Please wait while the Caribbean Netherlands Police Force (KPCN) conducts a background check on the applicant(s). The recommendation regarding this will be sent to the Legal and General Affairs Department (JAZ) within four (4) weeks.
7. Awaiting Approval: The application will be reviewed and, if approved, you will receive the permit.
Be sure to follow all steps in a timely manner to ensure your application proceeds smoothly.
How long does it take?
The processing time for an APK permit is typically four (4) weeks.
During this period, the Caribbean Netherlands Police Force conducts a background check on the permit applicant(s).
The police’s recommendation is then forwarded to the Legal and General Affairs Department, which reviews the application.
What does it cost?
The costs for an APK permit may vary depending on the type and size of the event and the specific requirements set by the local government. These costs typically include processing fees for the application and may include additional costs for security deposits or the use of certain facilities. For exact costs, it is recommended that you contact the relevant Legal & General Affairs Department of the Public Entity of Bonaire directly.
Do you disagree with the decision?
If you wish to file an objection to a decision regarding an APK permit, you must do so within six (6) days of the decision being announced. You must submit this objection to the Executive Council of the Public Entity of Bonaire. If your objection is rejected, you may file an appeal with the Court of First Instance of Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba.
Which laws and rules apply?
Can you apply online?
What do we do with your personal data?
When you submit an application or report, the Public Entity of Bonaire needs your personal data. The Public Entity of Bonaire handles your data with care.
The BES Personal Data Protection Act specifies how the Public Entity of Bonaire must do this.
The most important rules are:
- The Public Entity of Bonaire only requests data that is necessary for processing your application or report.
- They record and process your data securely, confidentially, and with care
- Your data will only be used for the application or report, or for something directly related to it.
- Your data will not be retained longer than necessary for the application or report.
- Other organizations will only receive your data if required by law.
- You may ask how your data is being used and what happens to it.
