Options to obtain Dominica citizenship: Investment and Non-Investment Paths

Dominica offers a range of paths to citizenship, making it an attractive option for those looking to expand their global opportunities. Known for its efficient and accessible citizenship program, Dominica is open to high-net-worth individuals who want either a fast-track option through investment or a more traditional route. 

Lyle Julien, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains the different ways to become a citizen of Dominica, detailing Dominica citizenship by investment paths.

How to Become a Dominica Citizen

Two primary paths to citizenship. Becoming a Dominica citizen is possible through two main options: 

  1. By investment under the Dominica citizenship by investment program.
  2. By non-investment methods, such as birth, marriage, or naturalisation.

Dominica economic citizenship is the most common method for high-net-worth individuals to acquire citizenship. This option requires a financial commitment in exchange for fast-track citizenship.

For those who prefer not to invest, there are alternative methods, including citizenship by birth, descent, marriage, or naturalisation. These methods often involve longer timelines but are just as legitimate.

5 Benefits of Dominica Citizenship by Investment

1. Global mobility. Dominica citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries.

2. Dual citizenship. Dominica allows dual citizenship, so applicants do not need to give up their original nationality.

3. Tax benefits. Dominica offers favourable tax laws, with no wealth, gift, or inheritance tax, making it a suitable option for tax planning.

4. Family inclusion. One of the significant advantages of Dominica citizenship is that it extends to family members. Applicants can include spouses, dependent children, and even parents, grandparents and siblings in their citizenship applications. 

This is particularly beneficial for those looking to secure a better future for their families without additional complexities or fees.

5. Safety. Getting Dominica second citizenship leads to other benefits such as the opportunity to move to a peaceful country.

Dominica Passport by Investment Requirements

Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program offers a fast-track route for acquiring a Dominica passport within 6 months. This is one of the most popular options for individuals looking to gain citizenship through financial contribution.

The CBI program allows applicants to secure citizenship in exchange for either a donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) or an investment in government-approved real estate. Both options offer a streamlined process, often taking just a few months.

Economic Diversification Fund (EDF). This fund supports social and infrastructure projects in Dominica. A donation of $200,000 for a single applicant is required. The amount increases depending on the number of dependents included.

Real estate investment. For those looking to combine citizenship with a tangible asset, the real estate route requires a minimum investment of $200,000 in government-approved property. Real estate investments can be sold after a period, usually three years, providing an opportunity for financial return.

How to Get Dominica Second Passport by Investment

Getting a second passport through Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program follows a clear, step-by-step process:

  1. Choose your investment option. Applicants must decide between donating to the EDF or investing in real estate. The minimum donation amount is $200,000.
  2. Submit the required documents. Applicants need to provide proof of identity, financial records, and a clean criminal record.
  3. Undergo Due Diligence. Dominica conducts a strict Due Diligence process to ensure the credibility of applicants. This process is managed by the government and involves background checks.
  4. Receive approval and complete the investment. Once the application is approved, the investment or donation is finalised.
  5. Receive your passport. After the final steps are completed, applicants are granted Dominica citizenship and receive their passport.

It’s worth noting that applicants do not need to physically reside in Dominica to maintain their citizenship. This makes the process appealing for individuals who want to maintain their primary residence in another country while benefiting from the perks of Dominica citizenship.

Non-Investment Ways to Get Dominica Citizenship

Traditional methods for obtaining citizenship. While Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program is well known, there are also non-investment paths to citizenship. These methods are typically more time-consuming but still available to those who qualify.

By descent. If one or both of your parents are citizens of Dominica, you can claim citizenship by descent. This is a straightforward process, though you’ll need to provide sufficient documentation to prove your family connection.

By marriage. Foreign nationals who marry a Dominica citizen are eligible to apply for citizenship after a set period of marriage, typically five years. This option doesn’t require an investment, but applicants need to demonstrate a genuine relationship.

By naturalisation. Foreigners who have legally resided in Dominica for at least seven years may apply for naturalisation. This option requires proof of residence and a demonstrated connection to the country. While this path takes longer, it is an option for those who wish to make Dominica their permanent home.

Conclusion

Dominica offers both investment and non-investment paths to citizenship, making it a versatile choice for those seeking to expand their global opportunities. Whether you’re looking for the fast-track method of investment or willing to pursue a longer route through naturalisation, Dominica provides options to suit a range of needs. With benefits like global mobility, tax advantages, and family inclusion, Dominica citizenship is a valuable asset for high-net-worth individuals.