Historically, citizenship was primarily obtained through birthright or familial ties to a specific country. However, as the idea of citizenship has changed over time, it now acknowledges that people might have different reasons for wanting to have a second citizenship or seek an alternative citizenship. This shift has given rise to citizenship by investment programs around the world, providing a pathway for individuals seeking to acquire a second citizenship and passport. It offers individuals the opportunity to acquire citizenship in a foreign country by making a significant financial investment within the economy. Dominica’s citizenship program distinguishes itself amongst other citizenship by investment programs due to its exceptional reputation, streamlined process, and affordability.
Established in 1993, Dominica’s citizenship by investment program has consistently attracted a diverse array of investors and has evolved into the world’s top-ranked citizenship by investment program.
Benefits of obtaining a Dominican passport
The benefits of acquiring a second passport extend beyond mere legal status.
Enriched safety and security
Acquiring dual nationality brings an invaluable sense of safety and security. With a second passport from Dominica, you gain access to a stable and peaceful Caribbean nation, renowned for its safety, economic resilience, and political stability.
Global financial flexibility
Dual nationality expands your financial flexibility, enabling you to make strategic investments and explore international business opportunities. With a Dominican passport, you can tap into global markets, benefiting from preferential rates, diversification, tax advantages and broader investment opportunities.
Enhanced Global Mobility
One of the most significant advantages of dual nationality is the freedom of global mobility. With a Dominican passport, you gain visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries worldwide.
CARICOM membership
By acquiring Dominican citizenship, you become a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which fosters economic cooperation, trade agreements, and cultural ties among member states.
Dominica Citizenship eligibility and required documentation
The Dominica citizenship by investment program has established certain eligibility requirements to ensure the integrity and suitability of its applicants. These requirements are designed to identify individuals who can contribute positively to the country’s development and uphold its values.
Eligibility requirements
Key requirements include:
- be at least 18 years old
- maintain a clean criminal record
- be in good health, with no contagious diseases
- satisfy financial obligations
In addition to the main applicant, the citizenship by investment program in Dominica allows for the inclusion of family members in the application process. This includes:
- The applicant’s spouse
- Children under 18 years old– of both the main applicant and the spouse
- Children 18- 30 years old – of both the main applicant and the spouse
- Must be unwed & no children
- Males ages 18 -30 must be enrolled in an institute of higher learning
- Females ages 25 – 30 must be enrolled in an institute of higher learning
- Parents and grandparents over the age of 65 – of both the main applicant and the spouse
* Effective from September 15th, 2022, siblings are no longer eligible as qualifying dependents and cannot be included in the citizenship application for Dominica.
Required documentation
While each family will need to provide required documentation as well as supporting documents applicable to their specific circumstances, the key required documentation include:
- Personal documents:
- Passports, IDs and birth certificates
- University degrees and resume
- Marriage and divorce certificates, as applicable
- Proof of address
- Professional reference letters
- Police report
- Must be a nationally issued police check such as obtaining the FBI report for US citizens or the RCMP for Canadian citizens
- Source of funds
- Letter of employment
- Business registration
- Proof of investment
- Bank statements
- Application forms
Color copies of documents must undergo the necessary steps of notarization and legalization. This process ensures the authenticity and validity of the submitted documents. If any documents are not in English, it must be translated by an official translator, notarized, and legalized before submission.
Investment options to obtain a Dominican passport
The Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program offers two investment options – a contribution to the government fund or an investment in real estate.
Dominica’s Economic Diversification Fund
The Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) option provides an excellent and affordable opportunity for applicants. By making a non-refundable donation to the government fund, applicants can actively support a range of socio-economic initiatives in Dominica. This philanthropic approach allows individuals to fulfill their aspirations of citizenship while making a positive impact on the growth and progress of Dominica. These initiatives encompass several key areas: including sustainable infrastructure development, education and skills enhancement, healthcare and social services, environmental conservation and climate resilience, and small business development and entrepreneurship.
The required minimum contribution amount of US $200 000 for the main applicant, with the contribution increasing as additional dependents are included in the application. This flexible structure allows individuals to tailor their investment based on their specific circumstances and the number of family members seeking citizenship.
| DOMINICA EDF DONATION | |
|---|---|
|
MAIN APPLICANT |
US$ 200 000 |
|
SPOUSE |
US$ 50 000 |
|
DEPENDENTS UNDER 18 |
US$ 25 000 |
|
DEPENDENTS OVER 18 |
US$ 50 000 |
|
*FAMILY UP TO 4 |
US$ 175 000 |
Invest in approved Real Estate projects in Dominica
Alternatively, individuals seeking citizenship in Dominica can opt for an investment starting at US $200 000 in an approved real estate project. This investment option allows applicants to contribute to the country’s economy and tourism sector while also gaining citizenship. By investing in a government-approved real estate project, applicants not only secure their future in Dominica but also contribute to the development of the local infrastructure and tourism sector. This investment route provides an attractive opportunity for those looking to combine citizenship acquisition with real estate ownership in a tropical paradise.
Choosing the real estate option in Dominica’s citizenship program offers a host of benefits and opportunities including:
- Diverse investment options: the real estate option offers a range of investment choices, including shares in approved projects or the opportunity to own whole ownership villas. This allows investors to select an option that aligns with their preferences and investment goals.
- Return on investment: investing in real estate presents the potential for attractive returns. Rental income generated from the property can provide a steady revenue stream, enhancing the financial benefits of the investment.
- Exit strategy: In the Dominica citizenship program, investors are required to maintain their real estate investment for a minimum of 3 years, which extends to 5 years if they intend to sell the investment to another citizenship program applicant. Applicants have the flexibility to sell their investment after the specified period without any impact on their citizenship status. This provision allows investors to potentially benefit from the investment while ensuring their continued citizenship in Dominica.
- Vacation entitlement: property owners can enjoy the perks of owning a vacation home in the picturesque surroundings of Dominica. They have the opportunity to personally use the property for vacations, creating cherished memories and enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
- Special programs: choosing the real estate option often comes with additional benefits and programs offered by developers. These can include access to exclusive amenities, membership in luxury clubs, concierge services, and discounts on various services within the development. Such perks enhance the overall ownership experience and add value to the investment.
| DOMINICA REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT | |
|---|---|
|
INVESTMENT |
US$ 200,000 |
|
PROPERTY APPLICATION FEE: |
|
|
MAIN APPLICANT |
US$ 25,000 |
|
FAMILY UP TO 4 INCLUSIVE |
US$ 35,000 |
|
FAMILY UP TO 6 INCLUSIVE |
US$ 50,000 |
|
EACH ADDITIONAL DEPENDENT |
US$ 25,000 |
The real estate investment may incur additional fees such as closing cost, transfer and stamp taxes, or deed registration. These fees will vary accordingly to the project.
Dominica´s Citizenship by Investment program costs and fees
In addition to the investment requirement, applicants are also required to pay government fees as part of the Dominica citizenship program. These fees cover administrative costs, due diligence processes, and other expenses associated with the application and approval process. The government fees are separate from the investment amount and are typically determined based on the number of dependents included in the application.
| DOMINICA GOVERNMENT FEES | |
|---|---|
|
DUE DILIGENCE: |
|
|
MAIN APPLICANT |
US$ 7,500 |
|
APPLICANTS 16 & OVER |
US$ 4,000 |
|
PROCESSING FEE (PER APPLICATION) |
US$ 1,000 |
|
CERTIFICATE OF NATURALIZATION (PER PERSON) |
US$ 250 |
|
PASSPORT FEE (PER PERSON) |
US$ 400 |
Please note that other costs and fees may be applicable including banking transfer fees, courier fees and the professional fees charged by the agent.
Step by step guide to obtaining Citizenship in Dominica
The process of obtaining citizenship through the Dominica citizenship by investment program is streamlined and typically takes a few months to complete.
- Research available programs: compare various citizenship by investment programs to select the program that best aligns with your personal goals, interests and financial capabilities
- Review eligibility and investment requirements: understand the specific criteria and investment options associated with the Dominica citizenship program
- Select a firm: engage the services of a reputable firm or authorized agent who will guide you through the application process, ensuring trust, payment schedules, and professionalism
- Gather required documentation: collect all necessary documents, such as police reports, proof of funds, application forms, medical certificate and any real estate contracts and deposits, among others
- Pass the interview: since 17th of July 2023 all applicants that are over the age of 16 must attend mandatory interview
- Application submission: once you have completed the necessary preparations, you will be required to courier your documents to your chosen agent. Your agent will then prepare your file ensuring all documents are in order and checks with applicable government fees
- Waiting period: the citizenship by investment unit will review the application and conduct the necessary due diligence checks. This process can typically take 3-4 months.
- Pre-approval and investment: after the review process, the citizenship by investment will issue their decision. If approved, applicants will receive letter of pre-approval with instructions to proceed with the chosen investment option and settle any outstanding fees
- Citizenship certificate and passport: after the completion and clearance of your investment, your citizenship certificate will be issued. The local agent will then submit your passport application on your behalf, and upon approval, your passport will be couriered to your preferred address.
Tax considerations
Looking to become a tax resident of the tropical paradise Dominica? Simply spend 183 days embracing the island’s sun-kissed beauty, and you’ll be eligible. While Dominica doesn’t impose taxes on wealth, inheritance, or capital gains for residents or non-residents, tax residents are required to pay taxes on their global income on a progressive scale. Non-residents are only subject to income tax on locally sourced income.
| TAX CONSIDERATIONS | |
|---|---|
|
TAX RESIDENCY STATUS |
Presence of 183 days |
|
INCOME |
0% for non-residents and 0-30% on global income for tax residents |
|
WEALTH |
0% |
|
INHERITANCE |
0% |
|
CAPITAL GAINS |
0% |
|
WITHHOLDING TAX |
0% for resident or 15% for payments to non-residents including dividends, interest and royalties |
|
CORPORATE |
23% on global for resident companies 0% for non-resident companies with a 15% withholding tax on local income, dividends, interest and royalties |
|
STAMP DUTY |
2.5% for the seller and 4% for the buyer. The buyer is also required to pay 2.5% for a judicial fee and 1% assurance fee |
|
PROPERTY TAX |
0% with municipal taxes of 1.27% imposed on properties in roseau and canefield |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dominica allow dual Citizenship?
Yes, Dominica does allow dual citizenship, which means applicants can maintain their existing citizenship while also becoming citizens of Dominica.
However, it’s important to note that some countries have restrictions or limitations on dual citizenship. Acquiring citizenship in another country, such as Dominica, could potentially affect an individual’s existing citizenship status. It is highly recommended that potential investors understand their home country’s laws and regulations regarding dual citizenship before proceeding with any application or investment.
What is the cheapest Citizenship program?
The citizenship by investment programs offered by several Caribbean countries are widely recognized as some of the most affordable options available worldwide. Among these countries, Dominica stands out as a particularly competitive choice, offering a cost-effective pathway to citizenship. When compared to other nations, Dominica’s program is known for its attractive pricing and favorable investment requirements.
Is Dominica a strong passport?
The Dominican passport is considered strong in terms of global travel freedom, currently ranked 33rd out of 199 passports worldwide according to the Passport Index. This ranking reflects the significant number of countries that Dominican passport holders can visit without the need for a visa.
Can I travel to USA with Dominican passport?
No. Dominican passport holders are required to obtain a visa to travel to the US.
What countries can I visit with Dominica passport?
The Dominica passport provides its holders with extensive visa-free access to over 140 countries worldwide. This includes popular destinations such as the UK, EU, Hong Kong, Singapore, and China.
Take action: Begin your journey to dual nationality:
Make your money work smarter for you – enjoy enriched safety and security that comes with this legal advantage of dual nationality. The Dominica citizenship by investment Program offers an attractive pathway to obtaining a second citizenship with numerous benefits for individuals and their families. Take your first step by partnering with reputable professionals such as NTL Trust. Our experts will guide you through the application process, ensuring a seamless and successful experience tailored to your unique circumstances and aspirations.
