Dominica Citizenship. How to get it? Legal and organizational Aspects

 

How to Obtain Dominica Citizenship: Legal, Organizational Aspects, and a Case Study

The Commonwealth of Dominica, known as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean,” offers a compelling Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, attracting global investors seeking enhanced mobility, security, and quality of life. Established in 1993, Dominica’s CBI program is one of the oldest and most respected in the world, providing a legal pathway to citizenship through economic contributions. This article outlines the legal and organizational aspects of obtaining Dominica citizenship, followed by a real-world case study illustrating how a passport from Dominica can transform lives.

Legal Framework for Dominica Citizenship

Dominica’s CBI program operates under Section 101 of the Constitution and Sections 8 and 20 of the Citizenship Act. These laws allow the government to grant citizenship to individuals who meet specific criteria and make qualifying investments. The program is managed by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CBIU), ensuring transparency, rigorous due diligence, and compliance with international standards.

Pathways to Citizenship

Dominica offers several routes to citizenship, but the CBI program is the most accessible for foreign investors. Other pathways include:

  1. Citizenship by Birth: Individuals born in Dominica or on a Dominica-registered vessel automatically receive citizenship under the principle of jus soli (right of the soil).
  2. Citizenship by Descent: Children with at least one Dominican parent or grandparent are eligible, provided the relationship is documented.
  3. Citizenship by Marriage: Foreign spouses of Dominican citizens can apply after three years of residency and demonstrating good character, English proficiency, and knowledge of civic responsibilities.
  4. Citizenship by Naturalization: Foreigners who have resided legally in Dominica for seven years may apply, subject to integration requirements.
  5. Citizenship by Investment: The most popular option for investors, requiring a financial contribution to the economy in exchange for citizenship within six months or more.

Citizenship by Investment: Legal Requirements

The CBI program is open to applicants aged 18 or older with no criminal record, good health, and the financial capacity to invest. Key legal requirements include:

  • Investment Options:
    • Economic Diversification Fund (EDF): A non-refundable contribution starting at USD 200,000 for a single applicant or USD 250,000 for a family of four. The EDF supports public sector projects like schools, hospitals, and tourism.
    • Real Estate Investment: A minimum investment of USD 200,000 in government-approved real estate, such as hotels or resorts, which must be held for at least three years (five years for resale under the CBI program). Investors also pay a state fee of USD 75,000 or more.
  • Due Diligence: Applicants undergo a thorough background check, including verification of financial history, criminal records, and reputation against international databases. A preliminary due diligence by authorized agents identifies potential risks.
  • Interview: Applicants aged 16 and older must attend a mandatory virtual interview to confirm their identity and intentions.
  • Oath of Allegiance: Upon approval, applicants sign an Oath of Allegiance before a notary public, justice of the peace, or commissioner of oaths.
  • Documentation: Required documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, police clearance (from countries of residence for the past 10 years), medical certificate, proof of investment, and bank statements. All documents must be in English, notarized, and legalized.

Dual Citizenship

Dominica fully recognizes dual citizenship, allowing investors to retain their original nationality unless prohibited by their home country (e.g., Afghanistan, Iran, or Thailand). The process is confidential, and Dominica does not share citizenship information with foreign governments.

Organizational Aspects of the Application Process

The CBI application process is streamlined but requires careful coordination through an authorized agent. Direct submissions to the CBIU are not permitted, ensuring professional oversight.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Select an Authorized Agent: Choose a licensed agent from the CBIU’s list to guide the application. Agents like Harvey Law Group, NTL Trust, or Immigrant Invest offer expertise in complex cases.
  2. Preliminary Due Diligence: The agent conducts a confidential check to identify risks that could lead to rejection, providing solutions if issues arise.
  3. Document Preparation: Gather and legalize required documents. Agents provide tailored checklists to ensure compliance with certification requirements, which vary by country.
  4. Investment Selection: Decide between the EDF contribution or real estate purchase. For real estate, sign a sale and purchase agreement to reserve the property.
  5. Application Submission: The agent submits the application to the CBIU, paying due diligence fees (USD 7,500 for the main applicant, USD 4,000 for dependents over 16) and processing fees.
  6. CBIU Review: The CBIU conducts due diligence and interviews applicants. Processing typically takes three to six months, with approval in principle granted upon successful review.
  7. Investment Completion: Pay the EDF contribution or finalize the real estate purchase. Provide proof of payment to the CBIU.
  8. Citizenship and Passport Issuance: Receive a Certificate of Naturalization, then apply for a Dominican passport (valid for 10 years for adults, 5 years for minors). Passports can be renewed remotely for USD 100.
  9. Family Inclusion: Include eligible family members (spouse, children under 30, parents/grandparents over 65) in the application for a single investment.

Costs

Total costs vary based on family size and investment option. For a single applicant:

  • EDF: USD 200,000 + USD 7,500 due diligence + USD 1,000 interview fee + additional fees (processing, passport, legal services).
  • Real Estate: USD 200,000 + USD 75,000 state fee + due diligence and other fees.
    Family applications incur higher costs but offer competitive pricing.

Organizational Benefits

  • No Residency Requirement: Applicants are not required to visit or reside in Dominica, making the process fully remote.
  • Efficiency: Processing times range from three to nine months, among the fastest in the Caribbean.
  • CARICOM Membership: Citizenship grants rights to live, work, and study in 15 CARICOM member states.
  • Tax Advantages: No wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes for non-residents.
  • Global Mobility: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the EU Schengen Area, UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Case Study: Faysal’s Journey to Dominica Citizenship

Faysal A., a Syrian entrepreneur based in the UAE, sought to enhance his global mobility and secure a better future for his family. Frustrated by visa restrictions tied to his Syrian passport, he researched CBI programs and chose Dominica for its affordability, reputation, and visa-free travel benefits.

Background

Faysal, a successful businessman, faced challenges traveling to Europe and other regions for business due to lengthy visa processes. After marrying, he also wanted to ensure his future children would not inherit the limitations of his Syrian passport. He discovered Dominica’s CBI program through online research and selected RIF Trust, an authorized agent, for their expertise and responsiveness.

Application Process

  1. Consultation (2022): Faysal met with RIF Trust, who conducted a preliminary due diligence check to confirm his eligibility. He opted for the EDF contribution of USD 200,000 for a single applicant.
  2. Document Collection: Faysal provided a valid passport, birth certificate, police clearance from the UAE and Syria, medical certificate, and bank statements proving his funds. RIF Trust ensured all documents were notarized and translated into English.
  3. Submission and Due Diligence: In early 2023, RIF Trust submitted Faysal’s application to the CBIU, paying the USD 7,500 due diligence fee. Faysal attended a virtual interview, answering questions about his background and investment intentions.
  4. Approval and Payment: After four months, the CBIU granted approval in principle. Faysal transferred the USD 200,000 EDF contribution, plus additional fees (processing, passport, and legal services totaling approximately USD 10,000).
  5. Citizenship Granted: In mid-2023, Faysal received his Certificate of Naturalization and Dominican passport, completing the process in five months.

Impact on Quality of Life

Faysal’s Dominican citizenship transformed his personal and professional life:

  • Global Mobility: With visa-free access to 144 countries, Faysal traveled effortlessly to Europe for business meetings, attending conferences in Germany and France without visa delays. He also vacationed in Switzerland with his wife, enhancing their lifestyle.
  • Family Security: Faysal’s children, born after he obtained citizenship, are automatically Dominican citizens, sparing them the challenges of a Syrian passport. “I have secured my second generation’s life,” Faysal said proudly.
  • Business Opportunities: As a CARICOM citizen, Faysal explored investment opportunities in other Caribbean nations, leveraging Dominica’s tax-friendly environment to protect his wealth.
  • Peace of Mind: Dominica’s political stability and confidentiality provided Faysal with a secure “Plan B” amid regional uncertainties in the Middle East.

Faysal described his Dominican citizenship as “the best personal investment I have ever made,” highlighting its role in expanding his horizons and ensuring his family’s future.

Conclusion

Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program offers a legal, efficient, and affordable pathway to citizenship, backed by a robust framework and stringent due diligence. With benefits like visa-free travel to over 140 countries, dual citizenship, and no residency requirements, it appeals to investors seeking global mobility and security. Faysal’s case demonstrates how a Dominican passport can unlock opportunities, improve quality of life, and provide a legacy for future generations. For those considering this path, working with an authorized agent and understanding the legal requirements are key to a successful application.

For more information, contact an authorized agent or visit the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Unit’s official website at www.cbiu.gov.dm.


This article is prepared by the team of dedicated professionals from Migrate Global Ltd.

We know the value of freedom! (c)

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