Gizane Campos
Thinking of moving to Dominica from the United States? Looking to diversify your lifestyle and get away from city life? Dominica is a fantastic preserved island in the Caribbean where you will find peace and tranquility. This guide aims to provide you with information concerning the different steps to take to ensure a smooth relocation.
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About Dominica
Located in the Caribbean in the lesser part of the Antilles archipelago in the Caribbean sea, Dominica is a small island inhabited by a population of 70,000. The island has a volcano, plenty of beautiful waterfalls and ¾ of its territory is covered by a luxurious rainforest.
Its economy revolves mainly around agriculture, tourism and manufacturing. The currency is the East Caribbean Dollar, the main language is English and its capital is Roseau and is famous for its colorful houses. Because Dominica has been preserved from mass tourism, it is the best place to live in the Caribbean for expats looking for a quiet and relaxed pace of life while still having a variety of activities to do and sites to see.
Dominica is a popular destination for expats and investors can obtain Dominican citizenship by contributing to the Dominica Economic Diversification Fund, which finances vital infrastructure and community development projects. This option provides a straightforward path to second citizenship while supporting the country’s economic growth.
Why consider moving to Dominica?
Benefits of moving to Dominica and living there as a US expat
- Live a healthy and tranquil lifestyle: Lead a healthy and tranquil lifestyle, far from the frantic activity of big cities.
- Natural beauty: Dominica is naturally beautiful. You’re always close to stunning landscapes, rainforests, waterfalls, and hot springs.
- Low-cost of living: Dominica is one of the cheapest Caribbean islands to live and life in is relatively affordable compared to the US.
- Community spirit: Dominicans are known to be friendly and have a strong sense of community, making expat residents feel like they belong.
- Tax free country: Dominica taxes do not include global income, wealth, or inheritance tax.
- Get expats health insurance schemes: Expats health insurance schemes are available in Dominica with global insurance companies such as Allianz, Cigna Global Health, and Clements Worldwide.
- Proximity with the US: Dominica is very close to the US which is practical for US expats wanting to relocate without being so far away from family and friends back in the US.
- Safety: Dominica is one of the Caribbean’s safest countries.
- Obtain the Dominica Passport: Thanks to the Dominica Citizenship by Investment program you are eligible to get the Dominica passport in six to nine months providing an investment of at least $200,000.
Living costs for Americans in Dominica
Depending on where you choose to live in Dominica, you will see that the Cost of living in Dominica is low compared to the US and other islands in the Caribbean. Everyday goods, such as groceries, accommodation, and healthcare, are considerably cheaper than many other countries. Basic meals cost about $7.40 versus $20 in the USA.
One of the main advantages of the island concerning prices is that rental prices are incredibly low: a three bedroom apartment in Roseau – the capital city – can cost about $800 per month, while it will cost about $400 outside the city centre.
Moreover, the island is self-sustainable which means that you will find plenty of local fresh fruits and vegetables to consume at low prices. However, imported goods are more expensive than average.
There is a large difference in the cost of preschooling. According to Number, Dominica residents pay around $110 monthly versus $1,375 in the United States
Live in Dominica as a US expat
When considering the pros and cons of living in Dominica as an American, the country is rated as one of the best places to live in the Caribbean for American expats. Life in Dominica offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure through its tropical climate and luxurious nature largely untouched by mankind. If you are dreaming of a life filled with adventure and/or absolute peace, Dominica is the Caribbean island for you. Private expats health insurance schemes for a Dominica expat are available in Dominica with global insurance companies such as Allianz, Cigna Global Health, and Clements Worldwide.
As a small Caribbean island, public transport in Dominica is quite limited. Expats living in Dominica typically own their own vehicles and a car can be helpful for exploring the island. Reliable broadband internet is available in Roseau, the capital city. More remote destinations may encounter difficulty with maintain stable internet connections.
Dominica is one of the safest places to live in the Caribbean. The US Department of State classifies Dominica Level One for safety, advising maintaining only normal precautions.
Enjoy a low-cost lifestyle in a tax-free country in one of the most beautiful places of the Caribbean.
Moving to Dominica from the US
Obtain residency in Dominica
In order for American expats to relocate to Dominica, you will need to apply for a visa. Here are different Dominica visa options available for Americans wishing to come to Dominica:
- Tourist visa: As an American, a tourist visa is not required for a stay under 6 months.
- Investor visa: Through its Citizenship by Investment Program, Dominica offers investors a second citizenship in only six to nine months, providing an investment of at least $200,000. The Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program is the cheapest in the Caribbean and its application process is fairly simple.
- Working visa: In order to apply for this visa you will need to have a job offer. This visa will allow you to stay on the island as long as your work contract is at least 6 months or longer.
- Temporary residency: This visa is for those who want to reside in Dominica without working or investing. You will need to renew the temporary visa annually.
Get a Dominica passport
If you choose to relocate permanently from the US to Dominica, the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program is an excellent option and the only one available if you wish to have full citizenship in Dominica quickly. This scheme gives you and your family the incredible opportunity to get a second citizenship following an investment of at least $200,000.
The Dominica passport is very powerful and allows you to travel in more than 140 visa-free countries, including China, Schengen Area countries, and Russia. You can choose to make an investment through the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) or through a Dominica real estate purchase.
Talk to our team
Are you considering moving to Dominica? Talk to one of our professional advisors here at Global Citizen Solutions.
We offer a service tailored to your specific needs and requirements. Our team of experts will work diligently from start to finish, ensuring a successful application. Professionalism and integrity are at the core of all we do.
Dominica real estate
If you are looking for property for sale in Dominica, you will find that Dominica real estate is cheaper than in most Caribbean islands due to its preservation from mass tourism.
Thanks to the Citizenship by Investment Program, you can purchase property on the island worth at least $200,000 and get the Dominica passport.
Dominica real estate options are plentiful and you will be able to find what you are looking for, whether it is an apartment in the city, a villa in the rainforest, shares in a luxury resort or a beautiful eco-lodge by the water.
American expat communities in Dominica
Relocating to a new country can be scary when you do not know anyone. Without doubts you will find other American expats in Dominica when you settle. Take a look at some of the following companies whose mission is to help you get in touch with other expats and create new relationships:
- InterNations: connect and exchange directly with other international expats. Build new friendships by attending events and activities.
- Meetup: Build-up and find new communities through activities and like minded-groups.
Frequently Asked Questions about moving to Dominica
What are the best expat communities in the Caribbean?
Dominica and Antigua Barbuda have some of the best expat communities in the Caribbean. If you are looking to make connections with other expats have a look at InterNations and Meetup.
Is it possible to find jobs for expats in Dominica?
It is possible to find jobs for expats in Dominica, as its main economy is based on agriculture, tourism and manufacturing.
Can a US citizen live in Dominica?
Thanks to the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program, US citizens have the incredible opportunity to get the Dominica passport and live permanently in the country providing an investment is made of at least $200,000.
