How to Get Dominican Citizenship:
A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for obtaining Dominican citizenship. Whether through naturalisation, descent, or investment, you’ll find all the essential information to navigate the application process and understand the requirements for becoming a citizen of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
What are the ways of getting Dominican Citizenship?
There are four primary ways to obtain Dominican citizenship: by descent, by naturalisation, by marriage, and through investment.
Below, we outline each method.
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Citizenship by Family/Descent: Individuals with Dominican parents or grandparents may be eligible for citizenship.
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Citizenship by Marriage: Foreign spouses of Dominican citizens can apply for citizenship after a qualifying period.
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Citizenship by Naturalisation​: Foreigners who have lived in Dominica for a certain period can apply for citizenship.
- Citizenship by Investment​: This route allows individuals to obtain citizenship through economic contributions, including real estate or financial investments. Learn more about Citizenship by Investment on our citizenship guide.
What ways are there to obtain Dominican Citizenship by Investment, and what does it cost?
Dominican Citizenship by Investment offers several pathways for individuals to gain citizenship through financial contributions. Learn about the available options and their costs in detail on our Investment Options page.
The Economic Diversification Fund
The Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) supports public and private projects within Dominica, covering industries such as education, healthcare, sport, and tourism. A single applicant must contribute US$200,000 to the EDF, though fees will increase if they wish to apply for additional dependants.
Real Estate Investment
Real estate is another investment option for Dominica CBI applicants. The property must be held for at least three years and be authorised by the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, with all approved real estate projects listed here. This must be valued at a minimum of US$200,000. Government fees starting from US$75,000 per applicant also apply.
Required fees for Dominica Citizenship by Investment
- Economic Diversification Fund– US$200,000 for a single applicant
- Real Estate Investment (Minimum Investment) – US$200,000
- Government Fees – From US$75,000 for a single applicant
- Processing Fees: US$1,000 per application
- Due Diligence Fees* – US$7,500 for main applicant; US$4,000 per each dependant aged 16 or over.
- Mandatory Interview Fee: US$1000 per application.
- Certificate of Naturalisation Fee:Â US$500 per person
These fees are approximate and will vary depending on the specific investment choice and applicant details.
*Enhanced due diligence checks and fees can be viewed here.
Step-by-step guide to the Dominica citizenship application process
Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to apply for Dominican Citizenship by Investment.
Each step outlines the requirements and estimated duration for a smooth application process.
STEP 1
Choose an Authorised Agent
The first step for applying for citizenship is to choose an agent from the list of Authorised Agents. These are people who have been officially licenced by the Citizenship by Investment Unit to be given the authority to act on behalf of the main applicant in relation to a Citizenship by Investment application.
Authorised Agents are the only people who can handle applications for Citizenship by Investment, and the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Unit (CBIU) will not accept direct submissions.
Getting in touch with your Authorised Agent will allow you to discuss the best way to prepare the required documentation you need to submit as your application to the CBIU. You will need to complete all official forms, attend a medical examination and obtain certain supporting documents for your CBI application. All this paperwork will need to be submitted in English and with the appropriate notarisation and legalisation. If you are purchasing property, this will need to be reserved through a sale and purchase agreement.
STEP 2
Contact your Authorised Agent
STEP 3
Processing of application
When all of your forms have been completed, and all documentation collected, your Authorised Agent will submit your application to the CBIU and liaise with them on your behalf. The Authorised Agent will attend to all correspondence, queries or questions which the CBIU may have during that time.
Your application will need to be vetted by means of a thorough due diligence background check in order to verify the information that you have provided.
All applicants sixteen years of age or over will be required to attend a mandatory interview.
The CBIU will consider your file taking into consideration the findings of the due diligence report and mandatory interview and make a recommendation on your application to the Government accordingly. You will then receive a letter through your Authorised Agent, which will inform you on the status of your application. This will let you know whether it has been successful (known as “approval in principleâ€), delayed for cause and is still being processed or denied.
STEP 4
Background checks
STEP 5
Payment of investment and issuing of Certificates of Naturalisation
If your application is approved in principle, the CBIU’s letter will also instruct you to make your contribution payment for the Economic Diversification Fund option or complete the payment on the real estate property. Upon receiving proof of payment, the CBIU will then issue your Certificate of Naturalisation, which stands as evidence of your citizenship and can be used by yourself or your Authorised Agent to apply for your Dominican passport.
For any further information, please visit our FAQs page.
Required documents for Dominica citizenship application
To apply for Dominican Citizenship by Investment, you will need to submit the following (non-exhaustive) supporting documents:
- Valid Passport: A copy of your current passport (must have at least 6 months before expiry).
- Proof of Funds: Documents showing your ability to meet the financial requirements (bank statements, asset verification).
- Birth Certificate: A certified and apostilled/legalised colour copy to prove your identity and nationality.
- Police Clearance: A certificate of good conduct from your birth country, the country you currently reside and any country you have lived for more than 6 months in the past 10 years issued within the last 3 months prior to submission.
- Medical Certificate: Completion of the medical form, blood, urine and HIV tests (no more than three months of at the time of submission).
- Proof of Investment: Documentation of your chosen investment (real estate or fund contribution).
- Passport-sized Photos: Recent photos meeting specific requirements.
These documents ensure a smooth and efficient application process.
Frequently asked questions about the Dominica citizenship application process
How long is a Dominica passport valid for?
A Dominica passport is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors.
Does Dominica allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Dominica allows dual citizenship, meaning you can retain your current nationality while becoming a citizen of Dominica.
Dominican citizenship offers numerous advantages, including:
- The right to live, work, and study in Dominica
- Access to the Caribbean’s growing investment opportunities
- Tax advantages and financial privacy
- Enhanced global mobility
Learn more about the benefits of Dominican citizenship here.
Who is eligible for Dominican citizenship?
Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old, have no criminal record, and meet financial and health requirements. Family members (spouse, children, and in some cases, parents and grandparents) can also apply.
Is Dominican citizenship worth it?
Yes, Dominican citizenship is highly valued due to the security, tax advantages, and enhanced global mobility it offers, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an alternative citizenship.
How long does it take to get citizenship in Dominica?
The process typically takes 3 to 4 months, from the submission of your application to approval in principle.