What is Dominica Citizenship by Investment?
Dominica Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is a program that allows individuals and families to obtain Dominican citizenship through qualifying investments. This program offers a fast-track route to gaining a second passport, providing access to visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including Schengen Zone, UK, and Hong Kong.
At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we assist clients in obtaining Dominica Citizenship by Investment, ensuring that all the required steps and documentation are handled efficiently for a successful application.
Eligibility for Dominica Citizenship by Investment
To qualify for Dominica Citizenship by Investment, applicants must meet the following criteria:
✅ Minimum Investment: The investment must be made in either real estate, a contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF), or an alternative investment route approved by the government.
✅ Clean Criminal Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record from their home country and any country of residence.
✅ Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for the applicant and their family members during the application process.
✅ Residency Requirement: Applicants must stay in Dominica for at least 5 days within the first 5 years of obtaining citizenship.
📌 Family members of the main applicant (spouse, children, and in some cases, parents or grandparents) can also apply for citizenship.
Investment Options for Dominica Citizenship by Investment
Dominica offers two main investment options for individuals seeking citizenship:
1. Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) Contribution
- Minimum contribution: $100,000 for a single applicant.
- Higher contributions for family members or additional dependents.
- This is a non-refundable donation directly contributing to the country’s economic growth and infrastructure projects.
2. Real Estate Investment
- Minimum investment: $200,000 in an approved real estate project.
- The property must be held for at least 3 years after obtaining citizenship.
- After 5 years, the investment can be resold to another applicant under the CBI program, provided the buyer holds the property for the required period.
3. Alternative Investment Options
- Government-approved bonds or business investments may also qualify for citizenship if they meet the established criteria set by the government.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Dominica Citizenship by Investment
Step 1: Choose Your Investment Option
- Decide whether you wish to make a donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF), invest in real estate, or choose an alternative investment route that meets the program’s requirements.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
📌 Valid Passport (at least 6 months validity).
📌 Proof of Investment (bank statements, contracts, or donation receipts).
📌 Criminal Record Certificate (from your home country and any other country where you have lived).
📌 Proof of Financial Stability (bank statements, tax returns, or business records).
📌 Health Insurance (valid in Dominica for the applicant and dependents).
📌 Proof of Source of Funds (evidence showing the legal source of the investment funds).
📌 Completed Application Form – Signed and filled out.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Submit your application and all the supporting documents to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
- Pay the processing fee (non-refundable government fee).
Step 4: Due Diligence and Background Check
- Dominica conducts thorough due diligence to ensure applicants and their family members meet the required legal, financial, and personal criteria.
- Processing time for this step: Typically 2-3 months.
Step 5: Make the Investment
- After the due diligence process, you will be asked to make the required investment (either through donation or real estate).
- The investment is placed in an escrow account and cannot be accessed until the citizenship approval is granted.
Step 6: Citizenship Approval
- Citizenship is granted once the application and investment are approved.
- Processing time for approval: 3-6 months after the initial submission and investment confirmation.
Step 7: Apply for a Dominica Passport
- Once your Dominican citizenship is granted, you can apply for a Dominica passport, which provides visa-free travel to over 130 countries.
Processing Time for Dominica Citizenship by Investment
🕒 Application Processing Time: 3-6 months from the submission of the application.
🕒 Due Diligence: Typically 2-3 months.
🕒 Final Citizenship Approval: Usually takes 1-2 months after the due diligence process is completed.
Benefits of Dominica Citizenship by Investment
✔️ Visa-Free Travel to over 130 countries, including the Schengen Zone, UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
✔️ Dual Citizenship Allowed – Retain your original nationality while holding Dominican citizenship.
✔️ No Worldwide Income Tax – There are no taxes on worldwide income for Dominican citizens.
✔️ Citizenship for Life – Once you obtain citizenship, it is permanent for you and your family members.
✔️ Pathway to Residency in the UK – Dominican citizens can apply for a UK visa under the Commonwealth citizens’ pathway.
✔️ Family Reunification – Your spouse, children, and parents or grandparents (under certain conditions) can be included in your application.
✔️ Business Opportunities – Set up or invest in businesses within the Caribbean and take advantage of tax incentives.
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
❌ Proving the Source of Funds
Solution: Ensure you provide clear and legitimate documentation of the source of your investment (e.g., bank statements, tax records).
❌ Delays in Processing
Solution: Submit complete documentation and ensure no gaps in information to speed up the approval process.
❌ Investment Requirements
Solution: Work with an experienced consultant to help you choose the right investment option for your needs.
FAQs About Dominica Citizenship by Investment
Q1: Can my family apply for citizenship with me?
- Yes, your spouse, children, and parents (under certain conditions) can apply for citizenship as well.
Q2: What is the minimum investment required?
- The minimum investment is $100,000 for a donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) or $200,000 in an approved real estate investment.
Q3: How long do I have to stay in Dominica after receiving citizenship?
- You must stay in Dominica for at least 5 days within the first 5 years of obtaining citizenship.
Q4: Can I sell my real estate after receiving citizenship?
- You must hold the property for at least 3 years before selling.
Q5: Is there a minimum stay requirement for citizenship after approval?
- No, but you are required to stay in Dominica for at least 5 days during the first 5 years after gaining citizenship.
Why Choose Sahin Legal Consultancy for Your Dominica Citizenship by Investment Application?
✅ Expert Legal Advice – We assist you in choosing the best investment option for your citizenship application.
✅ Comprehensive Document Review – Ensuring all documents are complete and meet the program’s requirements.
✅ Fast-Track Processing – We help you expedite the application process and avoid delays.
✅ Legal Support for Appeals – If your application is denied, we assist with appeals and reapplications.
📞 Call us today to start your Dominica Citizenship by Investment application!
📍 Based in London – Assisting clients worldwide with Dominica citizenship and immigration services.
