Dominica
Citizenship

DOMINICA CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT PROGRAM (CIP)



One of the longest-running and most cost-effective economic citizenship programs in the world. Citizenship is attainable in approximately 3 months via a donation or real estate investment, with visa-free access to over 130 countries (excluding the UK).

Processing Time:
Approximately 3 months from application to passport issuance.

Visa-Free Access:
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 130 countries, including the Schengen Area (90/180 days), China (30 days), Russia (90 days), Singapore, and Hong Kong. Note: Visa-free access
to the United Kingdom was revoked in July 2023.

Key Benefits:
  • Citizenship for life with the right of abode in Dominica.
  • Often the most affordable CIP option in the Caribbean.
  • No residency, interview, or language requirements at any stage.
  • No worldwide income, capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes for non-residents.
  • Inclusion of a wide range of family members, including siblings.
  • Dual citizenship is permitted.
  • Efficient and well-established process.
Investment Options & Minimum Financial Requirements:
Applicants must choose one of two government-approved routes:
1.Donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF):
  • Contribution: USD $200,000 for a single applicant.
  • Family of Four: USD $250,000 (main applicant, spouse, and two children).
  • Additional Dependents: Typically $25,000 per additional qualifying dependent.
  • Note: This is a non-refundable contribution.
2.Real Estate Investment:
  • Minimum Investment: USD $200,000 in approved property (e.g., eco-resorts, hotels).
  • Government Fee: $25,000 (single) or $35,000 (family of four).
  • Holding Period: Minimum 3 years (5 years if resold to a future CBI applicant).
Additional Government Fees:
  • Due Diligence Fee: $7,500 for the main applicant, $4,000 for a spouse, $4,000 for dependents aged 16+.
  • Processing Fee: ~$1,000 per application.
  • Certificate of Naturalization Fee: $250 per person.
  • Passport Fee: $60 per person.
Eligible Family Members:
Spouse; children under 30 (financially dependent); unmarried daughters under 25; parents and grandparents (typically over 65 and financially dependent); unmarried siblings (aged 18-25, financially dependent, no children) for an additional fee.

Physical Presence (Residency) Requirement:
None. There is no requirement to visit or reside in Dominica before or after obtaining citizenship.

Pathway & Key Obligations:
  • Due Diligence: Mandatory background checks. A clean criminal record and legitimate source of funds are required.
  • Oath of Allegiance: Required before passport issuance (can be signed remotely).
  • Investment Holding: Real estate must be held for the minimum 3-year period.

Taxation:
No personal income tax, capital gains tax, wealth tax, or inheritance tax on foreign-sourced income for individuals who are not tax residents (i.e., do not spend more than 183 days per year in Dominica).

Important Considerations:
  • The UK's suspension of visa-free travel for Dominican citizens in 2023 is a significant limitation for those requiring frequent UK access.
  • The program is under increased international scrutiny, leading to enhanced due diligence procedures.
  • All applications must be submitted through a government-licensed Authorized Agent.

Additional Notes:
  • Dominica is a member of the Commonwealth, CARICOM, and the OECS.
  • The program is renowned for its straightforward, fast, and transparent process.
  • Known as the "Nature Isle," Dominica offers an eco-friendly lifestyle option for those considering residency.