Guide to Residency in Dominica

Obtaining a residency visa in Dominica is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Dominica gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the Residency Options
  • Dominica offers several paths to residency, including the Citizenship by Investment Program, residency through marriage, and residency through long-term stay.
  • Visit the official website of the Commonwealth of Dominica for more information: https://dominica.gov.dm/
• Choose a Reputable Agent/Lawyer
  • To navigate the residency process, it is highly recommended to hire a reputable agent or lawyer.
  • The Commonwealth of Dominica provides a list of authorized agents: https://cbiu.gov.dm/authorized-agents/
• Gather Required Documents
  • Obtain a valid passport.
  • Prepare birth certificate and marriage certificate (if applicable), with apostille or legalization.
  • Obtain police clearance certificate from your country of residence.
  • Gather bank references and financial statements.
  • Prepare medical certificate, including HIV test results.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Dominica Inland Revenue Division website for the application form: https://ird.gov.dm/index.php/forms
  • Submit the completed application form along with a valid identification document and proof of address to the Inland Revenue Division.
• Open a Bank Account
  • Choose a local bank and contact them to learn about their requirements for opening an account.
  • Typically, you will need to provide a valid passport, proof of address, and a bank reference letter.
• Investment or Donation (for Citizenship by Investment Program)
  • Choose either a US$100,000 donation to the Government Fund or a US$200,000 investment in real estate.
  • Follow the guidelines provided by your authorized agent to complete the investment or donation.
• Submit Residency Application
  • Complete the application forms provided by your agent or lawyer.
  • Submit the application along with all required documents and fees.
• Attend Interview (if required)

  You may be required to attend an interview as part of the residency application process. Your agent or lawyer will provide guidance on this step.

• Await Approval

  Processing times vary depending on the residency path chosen. Your agent or lawyer will keep you informed about the status of your application.

• Fulfill Any Additional Requirements

  Upon approval, you may be required to fulfill additional requirements, such as taking an oath of allegiance or paying additional fees.

• Obtain Residency Certificate

  Once all requirements have been fulfilled, you will receive your residency certificate.

Maintaining Residency Status

• Renew Residency Certificate

  Depending on the type of residency granted, you may need to renew your residency certificate periodically. Your agent or lawyer can assist with this process.

• Spend the Required Time in Dominica

  Certain residency paths require you to spend a specific amount of time in Dominica to maintain your residency status. Ensure you are aware of and comply with these requirements.

• Keep Your Documents Up-to-date

  Ensure your passport and other required documents remain valid and up-to-date.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Dominica?

"To apply for a visa to Dominica, applicants must submit a completed visa application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, and a return ticket. The visa application must be submitted to the nearest Dominican Embassy or Consulate. To apply for residency in Dominica, applicants must submit a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, a police clearance certificate, a medical certificate, and a birth certificate. The application must be submitted to the Immigration Department in Dominica. Additionally, applicants must attend an interview with the Immigration Department," commented one member living in Dominica.