The following questions are frequently asked by clients applying for Dominica citizenship by investment program.

How many visa free countries i can travel with Dominica passport?

Dominica citizens have visa-free or visa on arrival access to 140 countries and territories which include Schengen, Russia, Ukraine, Israel, South Korea etc.

Is the investment amount refundable?

If you do donation, it is not. For real estate, yes it is a recoverable investment.

Do i need to visit in person for Dominica citizenship?

Not required

Is dual citizenship allowed?

Yes, dual citizenship is allowed on dominica and there are no restrictions. However you will need to be careful with the immigration rules of your home country. In some countries dual nationalities are illegal or criminal offense. We askour clients to consult a immigration lawyer in your country and seek professional advice

Where is DOMINICA?

The Commonwealth of Dominica is a Caribbean republic with a parliamentary democracy. The capital city is Roseau and the population is approximately 70,000. The language is English. French Patois is also spoken and the currency is the East Caribbean Dollar. Dominica should not be confused with “The Dominican Republic” which is a different country.

What is Dominica Citizenship by investment program (CBIP)?

The Citizenship by Investment Programme allows foreign investors to obtain full legal citizenship and passports for an investor and their family where that investor has made a significant investment in Dominica which qualifies under the Citizenship by Investment Regulations. Presently the qualifying investments are a contribution to the Government Fund of a minimum amount of US$200,000 or the purchase of a property to the value of US$200,000.

How do i travel to Dominica?

International travellers from Europe and the USA arrive in Dominica through transit hubs in Antigua, Barbados, St Maarten, Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe and Martinique. Dominica’s main and larger airport is Melville Hall (DOM) which accommodates commercial airlines and has an updated terminal. Canefield Airport (DCF) currently serves only courier services and private charters. For more information your trip to Dominica, please see www.dominica.dm

How to renew my expired passport?

You can renew your passport at Passport and Immigration Department in Dominica or through any Dominican Consulate and may simply give your primary residence as address. If you applied through an authorized agent, they can do the formalities in Dominica.

Does Dominica recognize dual citizenship?

Yes, the laws of Dominica recognise and allow dual citizenship and you are not required to renounce your other citizenships. Further more, Dominica does not notify authorities of your country of residence or citizenship on your Dominican citizenship. You are not required to reside in Dominica to keep your citizen’s status.

How many years is the Dominica passport valid?

All Dominican passports are valid for up to 10 years. Passports for children under 16 years old are issued for 5 years.

Can i travel to UK with Dominica passport?

No. You need UK visa with dominica passport for short visits less than 6 months for tourism, visiting friends/family, business trip for conferences or meetings. You can check here: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

How many days i can stay in UK/Schengen countries with Dominica passport?

You can stay maximum upto 90 days in 180 day in schengen countries, combined under sliding window.  For stays over 180 days, you have to request a residence permit.

Can i renew my passport if i have already sold the real estate investment property?

Yes, as long as you held the property for the required number of years after obtaining your citizenship.

Will i be liable to any taxes in Dominica?

There are no wealth, gift, inheritance, foreign income or capital gains tax. You are only liable to pay personal tax if you reside in the country.

Can i submit the citizenship application myself to the CIP unit?

No. Applications must be submitted through authorized agents.

How long does the application process take?

From submission of the required documents to the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, the processing time is approximately 3-4 months

How does the Dominica CIP compare to other citizenship by investment programs in other countries?

This is second oldest reputable CBI programme has been running since 1993. Dominica offers the most affordable route to full, legal citizenship without living.

Can i vote in Dominica elections?

Yes you can, but must live for more than one year. More information here

Is the application process confidential?

The application process is confidential, with no disclosure of or exchange of information, your citizenship is not reported to other countries.

Does Dominica publish names of CBI citizens to public?

Yes, twice a year the government publishes names of all citizens who acquired passports are published in Dominica Gazette in paper format.

Are the application forms available online?

No. The latest application forms for Citizenship by Investment can only be obtained through an authorised agent.

Can i submit my application in other languages, other than english?

No. All applications must be in English.

What is Police clearance certificate (PCC)?

A Police Clearance Certificate is a document provided by a law enforcement agency confirming the absence of a criminal record. It should be less than 6 months old.

What is the Oath of allegiance?

Upon final approval of citizenship, each applicant is required to sign an Oath of Allegiance to the Commonwealth of Dominica. The oath must be signed before a Notary Public, Justice of Peace or Commissioner of Oaths.

Why dominica is the most popular citizenship program in the world?

Over 5000 individuals apply for dominica passport every year. The Dominica citizenship program has raised over $200 million dollars, that has helped dominica to reshape its economy. The funds from citizenship program are spent on public and private sectors in Dominica economy such as tourism, agriculture, travel, schools, sports, research, education etc.. Dominica has sold over 12000 passports since 2003.

What is the reputation of Dominica passport?

Dominica passport is ranked 41st best passport in the world with visa free access to 119 countries in the world, according to the statistics from Henley restrictions index 2016. Dominica offers a good, easy second citizenship option and powerful second passport, cheapest of all citizenship programs running in Antigua, St Kitts, Grenada and St Lucia, Malta, Cyprus, Portugal.

Do i have to pay the investment amount again after the expiry of passport?

No. It is just one time investment. After expiry you can renew your Dominica passport just by paying a small passport fee ($38)

How does the Government donation fund work?

Donation route is the cheapest and fastest route to get the citizenship. Applicants applying under the Government donation option must agree to pay lump investment amount $100,000, specified by the program within 30 days of receiving an Approval in Principle letter from the Citizenship by investment unit (CBIU).

Could the citizenship be refused by Dominica?

Yes, it is possible. The granting of citizenship is a the sole discretion of the Government and the Council of ministers. The citizenship may be refused under the reasons.

• False or concealment of information in the application.
• Failing due diligence and background checks done by Government.
• Criminal record or financial fraud.
• Previous visa denial to a country with visa waiver agreements with.
• Country national subjected to international sanctions (OFAC).
• Disrepute to Dominica.

Those who are involved in organized crime, financial crimes, money laundering, or terrorism will be denied citizenship. The Government may also revoke citizenship after granting the passport.

Does Dominica report my citizenship to other countries?

No. The citizenship granted is fully confidential. The Government does does not share or report to other Governments.

Is it possible to get a diplomatic passport from Dominica?

Currently no. Diplomatic passport will not give you citizenship in Dominica. Diplomatic passports only issued to government employees for work-related travel officially representing Dominica. Carrying a diplomatic passport does not entitle someone to diplomatic immunity. Unless you have high level government or political contacts, it is not possible to get one.

What are tax consequences after becoming citizen of dominica?

Taxation is not based on citizenship. Dominica has friendly tax regime, and citizens of dominica who dont live in the country, does not have any tax liabilities and enjoy a tax free foreign income status. There are no wealth, gift or inheritance taxes.

What are the benefits of incorporating an offshore company in Dominica?

Dominica is popular offshore company formation of IBC’s because of the high confidentiality of real owners and directors. There are no financial reporting requirement, no import duties and no restriction on the repatriation of corporate profits or imported capital.

Does the Government does background checks on individuals?

Dominica economic citizenship program will only accept individuals of outstanding character and repute in order to protect the integrity of the country. To ensure only credible persons of impeccable standing are given citizenship, the Government of Dominica performs a comprehensive due diligence procedure on all applicants older than 18 years of age through Interpol or other private detective agencies. Only individuals with no criminal record and whose funds have been legally derived will be permitted to acquire citizenship in the country.

Who is eligible to apply for citizenship under investment?

Applicants for citizenship must be at least 18 years of age, of good character, without criminal records and who are able and willing to make the required contribution. Applicants must engage an authorised agent who will assist them to prepare the required forms and supporting documents.

Can i invest in hotels?

Yes, you can invest in hotels, resorts buying a equity share or full deed. The prices for equity share start from $200,000

Do i need to visit in person for Dominica citizenship?

No, but you are welcome to visit Dominica anytime

Does dominica passport has lifetime validity?

Citizenship from Dominica is valid for life. The certificate of naturalization is the proof that you have become dominica citizen. Dominica passport issued is valid for ten years at a time, and can be renewed for life since citizenship is permanent for life. Dominica passports issued to children under 16 years old are valid for a duration of 5 years.

All expiring Commonwealth of Dominica passport can be easily renewed for a small fee $40 at any Dominica consulate or embassy or at the Dominica passport office in capital Roseau. The agent can also help you to facilitate the renewal process. No requirement to come to Dominica in person. You also dont need to have local registered address in Dominica.

Do i need visa to visit USA and Canada as Dominica citizen? dominica passport?

Yes, visa is required for US, Canada, Australia and UK.

Do i get right to vote in elections?

The citizenship of dominica will give you right to vote in political elections ,if you are registered as resident of dominica.

What is “Certificate of naturalization”?

The cerificate of naturalization is the proof that you have become “Citizen of Commonwealth of Dominica”. Citizenship from Dominica is valid for lifetime. They will ask for this certificate when you apply or renew the dominica passport.

Do i need an address in Dominica to renew my passport?

No, you do not need an address in Dominica. You can renew your passport at Passport and Immigration Department in Dominica or through any Dominican Consulate and may simply give your primary residence as address.

How many dependents can be included in citizenship application?

Please see the conditions for family members

How do i reach Dominica by air and sea?

By Air: International flights from US and Europe are connected to the island through hubs in Antigua, Barbados, St. Maarten, Guadeloupe and Martinique. The Leeward Island Transport (LIAT) and Caribbean Star usually complete the Dominican leg. LIAT and American Eagle also provide connecting flights to the island out of Puerto Rico.

By Sea: A 300-seat catamaran operated by L’Express des Îles ferries passengers between Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique and St. Lucia. The ferry service in Dominica also includes 400 capacity Catamaran operated by Jeans, traverses from Guadeloupe to Dominica into the town of Portsmouth. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors arrive on the island from Cruise Ships berthed at the Bayfront, Woodbridge Bay, and Cabrits. Captains of Yachts and Sailboats can also anchor their private yacht at any of the island’s official ports, but they should check in with customs and immigration on arrival. see: http://www.dominica.dm/index.php/how-to-get-here

How many years is the Dominica passport valid?

All Dominican passports are valid for up to 10 years. Passports for children under 16 years old are issued for 5 years.

What are the must see places in Dominica?

The Trafalgar Falls, Emerald Pool, and Cabrits National Park are very popular. Dominica has an organized tour operations system for cruise visitors.

Does Dominica have beaches?

Dominica is mainly of lush tropical forests and waterfalls. Dominica is not a typical Caribbean destination of white sand beaches, however there are many beaches within coves with glistening volcanic sand along the island’s west coast. Beaches at Mero, Macoucheri, and Portsmouth are splendid.

What are the investment opportunities available in Dominica?

Fishing, green tourism, soft adventure projects, highend boutique hotels, exclusive villas and nature related activities, manufacturing, shipping, banking and insurance.

How do i renew my dominica passport after expiry?

Expired passports or those with no free pages can be easily renewed for a fee at the Passport and Immigration Department in Dominica or through any Dominican Consulate (with no need to personally travel to Dominica or to its Consulates).

Are there any other ways to get citizenship in Dominica besides investment route?

Yes, right by birth or blood or naturalize by living 7 years in Dominica.

Can i renew my passport if i have already sold the real estate investment property?

Yes, as long as you held the property for the required number of years after obtaining your citizenship.

Are you an authorized agent of Dominica?

We work with approved agents and lawyers authorized by Dominica citizenship by investment unit. “authorised agent” is a person licensed by the Government to act on behalf of applicants for Citizenship by Investment. Our consulting services are free of charge.

Does Dominica recognize unisex?

Unisex marriage is not recognized in Dominica and therefore does not qualify for citizenship. Defacto marriages not accepted.

How safe is Dominica?

Dominica is like any other safe country, has the lowest crime rates in the caribbean.

Can i bring pets to Dominica?

Visitors wishing to enter the country with their pets must obtain an Import Permit. The Veterinary Office of the Ministry of Agriculture can assist with the requisite guidelines.

Does Dominica has hurricane season?

The peak of hurricane season is late August to early September. The dry season is usually between January and June, with the wet months between August and October.

Does Dominica have tax treaties?

Dominica has a tax treaty with Great Britain, the United States, and CARICOM countries to prevent double taxation of income earned in Dominica.

Is the application process confidential?

The application process is confidential, with no disclosure of or exchange of information, except where necessary checks are to be carried out by an authorised due diligence agency.

Does land transfer tax apply on real estate transactions?

Assurance Fund Fee, 1% of value, Judicial Fee 2.5% of value, Stamp Duty (buyer) 4% of value, Stamp Duty (vendor) 2.5% of value, Solicitor’s Fee 3% of value on which a 15% VAT is payable.

What are the corporate and VAT rates in Dominica?

28% corporate taxes apply and VAT is levied at 15% on all goods and services, except hotel accomodation 10%.

Are the application forms available online?

The application forms for Citizenship by Investment can only be obtained through an authorised agent.

Can i submit my application in other languages, other than english?

No. All applications must be in English.

Will my passport be taken away, if Dominica decides to close the citizenship program in the future?

No, you are entitled to 100% life time citizenship, backed by Constitution and necessary legislation of the country.

What is Police clearance certificate (PCC)?

A Police Clearance Certificate is a document provided by a law enforcement agency confirming the absence of a criminal record. It should be less than 6 months old.

What is the Oath of allegiance?

Upon final approval of citizenship, each applicant is required to sign an Oath of Allegiance to the Commonwealth of Dominica. The oath must be signed before a Notary Public, Justice of Peace or Commissioner of Oaths.

Is it possible to open bank account in Dominica?

Just show your passport to open a bank account. You can open account with any of these commercial banks: Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of Nova Scotia, First Caribbean International Bank, Royal Bank of Canada

Do i need to pay withholding tax if i buy a property?

If you buy a property and you reside in Dominica for less than 6 months of the year, you are liable to pay withholding tax of 15%. If you decide to rent it, this will be paid to you outside of Dominica.

Can foreigners freely hold real estate in Dominica?

Yes, foreign buyers can freely buy real estate, without even having a visa. If you are not citizen of OECS countries, have to pay additional 10% license fee upon purchasing a land. OECS countries are Anguilla, Antigua, British virigin islands (BVI), Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat,  St Kitts, St Lucia, St Vincent)

The real estate transactions are done as follows: Foreign buyer pays: 10% of the value of the land, legal fees 3%, judicial fees 2.5%, assurance fund fee 1%, stamp duty 4%. Vendor pays: stamp duty 2.5%, realtor’s fees 5%

Foreigners can buy upto 1 acre of land (residential) and 3 acres of land (commercial) purposes. Alien Landholding License is required if purchasing more than 1 acre of land for residential purposes, or 3 acres of land for commercial purposes.

What are the taxes on rental income?

Rental income earned by nonresidents is taxed at progressive rates from 15% to 35%. And VAT is also levied on rental income at a flat rate of 15% (a special rate of 10% can apply under certain conditions).

Rental yields are relatively low on residential and commercial properties in Dominica usually around 4% to 5%. The average rent in coastal areas start from $800.

What is the requirement for obtaining residence permit in Dominica?

If you plan to live for 6 months or more, you have to apply for residence permit in Dominica. If you are already a Dominica citizen holding passport, you dont need residence permit. You can live in Dominica indefinitely.

Can i buy freehold land and apply for citizenship?

No. Only Government approved real estate projects qualify for Dominica citizenship. Land costs in beach front near the shores, cost upward from $200 per square metre.

What if i retire in Dominica, will i be taxed on my pension?

If your pension is paid from outside Dominica, you will not be taxed.

Does Dominica have any tax exchange agreements with other countries?

According to OECD, Dominica has signed tax information exchange agreements (TIEA) with these countries.

• Portugal – Dominica (5 October 2010)
• Germany – Dominica (21 September 2010)
• Canada – Dominica (29 juin 2010)
• Finland – Dominica (19 May 2010)
• Faroe Islands – Dominica (19 May 2010)
• Denmark – Dominica (19 May 2010)
• Iceland – Dominica (19 May 2010)
• Sweden – Dominica (19 May 2010)
• Greenland – Dominica (19 May 2010)
• Norway – Dominica (19 May 2010)
• Australia – Dominica (31 March 2010)
• United Kingdom – Dominica (31 March 2010)
• New Zealand – Dominica (16 March 2010)
• Belgium – Dominica (26 February 2010)

Can foreigners apply for loan to purchase real estate in Dominica?

Yes, it is possible with banks such as National bank of Nova Scotia, National bank of Dominica. If you dont have bank account with Dominica banks, you may have to talk to your local banks in your country.

Are there any death duties in Dominica?

There are no death or capital gain duties apply upon death.

 What are the best places to buy real estate in Dominica?

Castle comfort and Wall house areas in Roseau. Luxury villas with great views available in Sandy beach, islands of Marie Galante and Guadeloupe. Secret bay, Kempinski hotel are the best options if you want also a citizenship in dominica.

How is the health care system in Dominica?

Dominica has a basic healthcare system with 52 health centres and two district hospitals. The Princess Margaret Hospital is the national capital hospital in Roseau providing complex medical services. There also smaller Portsmouth and cottage hospitals at Marigot and Grand Bay. Foreigners have to pay 4 times the price paid by Dominica citizens.

What are the major towns in Dominica?

Roseau is the capital city and Portsmouth on the North West coast is the second biggest town.

How is the real estate market in Dominica?

Dominica has a quiet and stable real estate market. The introduction of citizenship scheme has brought big demand for housing in the islands. Tourism is a big money spinner as hotels, villas and resorts are on demand during summer with surge in rental prices. Americans, Chinese and British are main investors in real estate market. Dominica has infact very affordable prices right now, compared to other expensive countries such Antigua, St Kitts, Belize, where the real estate prices are on sky high.

What is the current pricing per square metre for houses in Dominica?

According to global property guide, pricing for single houses cost $1200 per sq.m ( upto 100m2), $1800 (200m2),  $1200 (upto 300m2), $700 (400m2). Two to three-bedroom houses can be bought for an average price of US$500,000, depending on the location, area, quality of construction materials

How is the education system in Dominica?

Education is provided at primary, secondary and college level. There are 64 primary schools, 15 secondary schools and 1 college. Many young dominicans are university graduates in disciplines such as medicine, law, engineering, economics, management, with natural talents.

What are the languages spoken in Dominica?

English, French patois. English is the official language of Dominica, however, many locals communicate in a hybrid language known as Creole French.

What is the currency and payment systems used in Dominica?

ECD – East Caribbean dollar the local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$). The rate is set at EC$2.68 to US$1.00. Many businesses accept US Dollars, but you will get the most favorable exchange rate at the banks. Major Credit Cards are accepted in most places.

How is the public transport system in the islands?

Mini-buses (look for the number plate that starts with an ‘H’) serve routes from Roseau, Marigot / Douglas Charles Airport, Ross University and other prominent island locations… and to all villages they are a cheap (often exciting) way to get around the island. Prices are fixed by the government.

Taxis are readily available for reasonable prices and can either be arranged from your location of stay or from the street. Inquire about destination prices with someone before hailing a cab. Drivers most generally will take both US and EC dollars. If possible pay with EC. Riders will find most drivers very friendly.

What is the country code and  dialing code for Dominica?

The country code is DM and phone dialing code is +1 -767 for Dominica. Internet domains used as .dm

What can you tell me about Dominica for first time travelers?

Dominica has some of the richest mountain rainforest in the Caribbean. Dominica’s beaches generally consist of shimmering black sand or rocks. There are few expansive beaches. The island has over 360 rivers. There are 9 volcanoes on the Dominica.  Dominica’s Morne Trois Pitons National Park has been inscribed by UNESCO world heritage site. Throughout the island, the nature lover can see flora, fauna, and about 130 species of birds including the Sisserou Parrot (Amazona Imperialis) which is on the endangered species list.  Dominica has received great acclaim for its underwater “treasures” and picturesque qualities. The majority of the island is covered by densely wooded mountains and rain-forest. The overall terrain is very steep, and extremely rugged.

Why invest in Dominica?

The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica invites investments that will generate sustained economic growth and prosperity, and create jobs and business opportunities for their people.

• Dominica ranked #6 by FDI Intelligence for cost effectiveness in the Caribbean & Latin America
• “Gateway to Europe” 15 minutes by air to the French Overseas Departments of Martinique and Guadeloupe and less than 2 hours to the nearest US port.
• Free movement of profit and dividends with no capital gains, estate or death taxes
• An English speaking, educated, and trainable workforce with 95% literacy.
• Safe and good quality of life, with lower crime rate than the other Caribbean islands.
• Great opportunity to invest in green field operations in several investment sectors.
• A stable macroeconomic environment and mature democracy.
• Unrestricted foreign ownership of businesses.
• Concessions for large and small investment projects.
• Highly talented and multi lingual work force.
• Regular sea and air transportation to major markets and destination.
• Preferential access to major international markets and agreements with Europe (EPA) and CARICOM.

How is the economy in Dominica?

Dominica has GDP 1 billion with GDP growth of 1.1%.  Inflation is at 1.8%.  Dominica has population of 71,200 (2013) and has total area of 751 km2. The Commonwealth of Dominica has become in recent years a major international financial hub, and is quickly becoming one of the largest offshore banking centres in the world, and offshore services are also becoming its main source of income. Major industries are tourism, agriculture and light manufacturing. Major exports are bananas, citrus fruits, plantains, coconuts and tropical fruits. Exported manufactured products are soaps, paints and varnishes. Local production include water plants. Tourism and agriculture are big earners. About 25% of americans, 18% europeans visit Dominica every year. Over 250,000 visitors arrive by cruise ships every year.

What are the benefits of becoming a Dominican citizen?

As a citizen of Dominica, personal benefits include:

• Second citizenship through the oldest and most trusted citizenship by investment programmes
• Visa-free travel to over 140+ countries, including the Schengen area, Singapore, Hong Kong and Ireland
• Minimal taxation – no wealth, gift, inheritance, foreign income or capital gains tax
• Full residence status, with the right to live and work in Dominica
• Dual citizenship is allowed
• There is no requirement to reside in Dominica before or after citizenship is granted
• The application process is confidential.

What is the difference between the two countries, “Commonwealth of Dominica” and “The Dominican Republic”?

Both are 2 different countries. Only Commonwealth of Dominica has the citizenship by investment program. The Dominican Republic does not have one.  It is very common to confuse both the countries.

What must be validity of police clearance and HIV medical test certificates?

Police clearance document must be obtained from your home country and all countries you have lived in the past 10 years for more than 6 months old. It must be less than 6 months old . HIV clearance and medical tests from doctor must be less than 3 months old , before launching the application for citizenship with the Dominica CBIU. FBI clearance certificate may be needed if you have lived in the US. Please contact us and we will be able to advise you specifically what is needed.