Dominica
Citizenship by Investment

An Introduction to Dominica

To obtain citizenship in Dominica, applicants and their families must make an economic contribution to the country through the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program. The Commonwealth of Dominica is an English-speaking island state often referred to as the ‘nature island of the Caribbean Population: 74,000 Language: English Economy: Agriculture- and tourism-based Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar

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The Commonwealth of Dominica, known as the “nature island of the Caribbean,” established its citizenship by investment program in 1993 to attract foreign investment. As a former British colony and a member of various international organisations, including the UN, the Commonwealth of Nations, and CARICOM, Dominica offers a stable and secure investment environment.

To obtain full citizenship through the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program, applicants and their families must make a minimum donation of USD 200,000. The processing time for the program is three months. A key benefit of obtaining citizenship is the right of free movement and visa-free access to 144 destinations worldwide.

Dominica’s economy is primarily based on agriculture and tourism, and the official language is English. With a population of around 74,000, Dominica offers a peaceful and tranquil lifestyle for its residents.

Citizenship by Investment Overview

The country’s constitution and Citizenship Act, specifically under § 101, § 8, and § 20, authorize the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program. This program enables the government to grant citizenship to those who meet its criteria and guidelines while enhancing economic investment.

Investors and their families enjoy various benefits, such as visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 144 destinations globally. The program also allows the addition of dependents after obtaining citizenship, citizenship by descent for future generations, and no restrictions on dual citizenship. Additionally, there is no minimum stay requirement. Furthermore, citizens have the right to live, work, and study in Dominica.

Additionally, the program has a relatively low investment threshold, with a minimum donation of USD $200,000. The processing time for the application is approximately three months.

Requirements of Dominica citizenship by investment

To be eligible for Dominican citizenship under the citizenship by investment program, single applicants must fulfill certain requirements. They have two options to choose from to qualify for citizenship.

One option is a non-refundable contribution to the Economic Development Fund of at least USD 200,000. The second option is an investment in an approved real estate development with a minimum value of USD 200,000. By meeting either of these requirements, single applicants can proceed with their application for citizenship in Dominica.

It is worth noting that additional fees and charges may apply, and applicants must also pass a background check to obtain citizenship. After taking an oath of allegiance, the Citizenship by Investment Unit processes the application. This government authority, part of the Ministry of Finance, manages the program. Processing a fully completed application takes approximately three months.

The Process and Timeline for the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program

The Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program requires applicants and their families to take an oath of allegiance before an authorized notary, justice of the peace, or commissioner of oaths. After the oath, the application for citizenship is processed and citizenship certificates are issued.

There is no physical residence requirement, but new citizens are encouraged to become involved in the economy. The program offers substantial incentives to increase economic involvement. Successful applicants have the right to reside in Dominica at any time and for any length of time.

If an applicant has been denied a visa to a country with which Dominica has a visa-free travel agreement, they must subsequently obtain a visa from that country to be eligible to apply. Dependents and future spouses of those who obtained citizenship through the program can apply for citizenship, subject to additional fees. Newborn children of program participants can be registered for citizenship at any time.

The Citizenship by Investment Unit, a government authority under the Ministry of Finance, processes the applications. The current processing time for fully completed applications is three months.

Dominica Real Estate

Dominica’s real estate market has remained stable and has seen growth over the past few years. The government has limited the number of real estate investments available through the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program to ensure that the program only offers economically viable projects. As a result, only a few small luxury developments are available for foreign investors. Real estate ownership in Dominica can be either sole or shared, with a minimum investment of USD 200,000 and a holding period of at least three years.

The market is dominated by eco-friendly luxury developments, including family homes and hotels secluded in the forest or along riverbanks. Rental income opportunities for such properties range from 2% to 5%. The government of Dominica supports sustainable infrastructure and encourages eco-tourism, which presents ample opportunity for beachfront developments.