Joe Rice
The Dominica citizenship by investment (CBI) program grants eligible foreign nationals dual citizenship and an alternative passport in exchange for a financial contribution to the nation.
Often dubbed Dominica economic citizenship, the initiative running since 1993 paves the way for investors and their families to travel without a visa to 135 countries and enhance their personal security.
Gaining approval means making a significant financial investment, starting with a non-refundable contribution of $200,000 to the Dominica Economy Diversification Fund (EDF), which funds national development initiatives.
This guide will break down Dominica’s CBI program, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step application process.
Dominica CBI Key program details
- Visa free countries: 135
- Visa free to Schengen Area: Yes
- Tax framework: No worldwide income taxes
- Processing time: 6 to 9 months
- Minimum government fund contribution: $200,000
- Minimum real estate investment: $200,000
- Minimum total for one applicant: $210,500
- Minimum total family of four: $276,500
- Eligible dependents:
- Spouse
- Children under 30 or with disabilities
- Parents and grandparents over 65
- Passport validity:
- 10 years for citizens 16 and over
- 5 years for citizens under 16
- Visit or residency requirement: None
- Citizenship interview: Yes (virtual)
About the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program
Dominica Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is an economic citizenship program introduced in 1993 to allow foreign investors to gain Dominican citizenship in exchange for investing in the island nation. The Dominican government provides the option of a state fund donation or real estate investment as qualifying investments.
To attract foreign investment and boost the country’s economic development, within a few months, investors receive a second passport with numerous visa free destinations, including China, Russia, and EU Schengen countries, and the opportunity to obtain citizenship for their family members.
There are two foreign investment options, starting from $200,000 for a solo investor and $250,000 for a family of up to four:
- Contribution to the Dominica Economy Diversification Fund (EDF)
- Approved real estate investment
Dominica allows dual citizenship, and as a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and international organizations like the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), investors who gain a second passport benefit from enhanced protection and diplomatic privileges.
Benefits of the Dominica Second Passport by Investment Program
- Most affordable citizenship: Obtaining Dominican citizenship by investment starts from $200,000 for single applicants, making it the cheapest Caribbean program.
- Citizenship for family members: The main applicant’s family members, including spouses, children, parents, and grandparents, can gain citizenship in Dominica, which can be passed down to future generations.
- Dual citizenship: Dominica recognizes dual citizenship, allowing investors to obtain second citizenship and an alternative passport.
- Quick process: The Dominica citizenship process is quick, taking between six to nine months to complete.
- Flexible requirements: The application process for Dominican citizenship does not have residency requirements or language tests, and the entire process is remote.
- Economic and political stability: Dominica is a conflict-free country known for its stable economy and politically stable and neutral environment.
- Visa free access: Dominica passport holders can travel visa free to 135 countries, including EU Schengen Area countries, Russia, China, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
- Tax optimization: Dominica citizens do not pay worldwide income tax or wealth, capital gains, or inheritance taxes.
- Best CBI program: The CBI Index Report voted Dominica best country for citizenship by investment several years in a row, giving investors confidence in its credibility.
- Plan B security: Dominica citizenship is a worthy plan B, providing flexibility and opportunities in times of economic and political uncertainty.
Dominica Citizenship Investment Options
In order to qualify for Dominica citizenship, you must choose one of the two investment routes available:
1. Dominica Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)
The Dominica Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) supports socio-economic initiatives to drive Dominica’s development. To acquire citizenship, investors must make a non-refundable contribution of at least $200,000 to the fund.
Economic Diversification Fund | Single Applicant | Family of Up to Four | Additional Dependent Under 18 | Additional Dependent Over 18 |
Minimum Investment | $200,000 | $250,000 | +$25,000 | +$40,000 each |
Due Diligence Fee | $7,500 | $4,000 for each family member aged 16 or over | ||
Processing Fee | $1,000 per application | |||
Passport Fee | $500 per passport | |||
Interview Fee | $1,000 per applicant over 16 | |||
Certificate of Naturalization | $500 per person | |||
2. Pre-approved real estate
Dominica citizenship by real estate investment requires foreign nationals to invest at least $200,000 in government-approved real estate projects. Most options to purchase Dominica real estate and qualify for citizenship comprise shares in high-end tourist accommodation. Approved real estate developments include:
- Anichi Resort & Spa
- The Residences at Secret Bay
- Jungle Bay Resort
- Ocean Edge Development
- Sanctuary Rainforest Eco Resort & Spa
The properties can be resold on the open market after three years of obtaining citizenship. For buyers is making a qualifying investment for citizenship, the property becomes eligible for resale after a five-year holding period.
Enhanced due diligence procedures will be conducted on citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran applying for a Dominica passport, with the following increased due diligence charges:
- Primary applicant: $25,000
- Spouse: $15,000
- Dependents aged 16 and older: $15,000 each
- Dependents aged 12 to 15: $10,000
Dominica Citizenship Document Requirements
Disclosure Form- Fingerprint and Photograph Verification Form (to be completed in front of a fingerprinting officer)
- Medical Questionnaire and Certificate (to be completed by a licensed medical practitioner)
- Investment Agreement (EDF option only; to be completed by the main applicant only)
- Sales and Purchase Agreement – (real estate option only)
- Application Form completed and notarized copies
- Color copies of all passports held
- Birth Certificate
- Marriage Certificate/Dissolution of Marriage Certificate, if applicable
- Police records from the country of birth, country of citizenship, country of residence (if different), and any country in which the applicant has resided for more than six months in the past ten years, for each applicant 16 years and over. For children aged 12-15, a sworn affidavit by the parent that a child does not have a criminal record is required
- Color copy of your driver’s license
- Color copies of all identity documents/books or cards
- Color copies of all military service and discharge documents, if applicable
- Color copies of all documents evidencing a name change (other than through marriage), if applicable
- 8 passport-size photos
- Proof of residential address (lease agreement or utility bill)
- Color copies of university/college diplomas
- Letter of recommendation from the head of the school/university for children between 12 and 18 years old
- Notarized affidavit of support for each dependent aged 18 or over included in the application, with the exception of the spouse
- HIV test results (for all applicants aged 12 or above)
- Routine blood and urine test results
Disclosure FormSupporting documentation
- Professional reference
- Letter of employment/financial statements
- 12 months of bank statements
- Notarized affidavit of the source of investment funds
- Detailed business background reports/resume/CV
- Letter to the Minister
- Proof of payment of relevant fees
Certification of documents
The Dominica citizenship by investment official website, cbiu.gov.dm, states applications for citizenship by investment are only handled by registered Authorized Agents. The required documents list is not exhaustive.
Where a document is required to be produced in support of the application, it must be certified and authenticated in accordance with the law of the jurisdiction from where the document originates. Non-English documents must be accompanied by a SWORN translation.
How to Apply for Dominica Citizenship by Investment
- Choose your investment route: Decide which of the investment routes is best for you.
- Select an Authorized Agent: From the list of approved Authorized Agents provided by the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Unit (CBIU), choose one to submit your citizenship application.
- Prepare documents and forms: Complete all the application forms and necessary documents as provided by your Agent.
- Submit your application: Your dedicated specialist will submit the application on your behalf*.
- Take the citizenship interview: As part of the citizenship process, you must complete the mandatory interview requirement, which can be done virtually.
- Receive approval of the application: Within six to nine months, you will receive a confirmation letter with the status ‘Approved in Principle’ from the CBIU.
- Make your investment: Make the required investment, pay the additional fees, and send proof to the CBIU.
- Become a citizen: Take the oath or affirmation of allegiance at an Embassy, High Commission, or Consular Office of the Commonwealth of Dominica and become a citizen.
*The Citizenship by Investment Unit does not accept applications directly from applicants. An Authorized Agent or Dominica citizenship by investment lawyer must submit applications on the applicants’ behalf.
Dominica Citizenship by Investment Estimated Cost
Here is an example of the estimated cost to obtain Dominica citizenship through the EDF donation and real estate shares options for a single applicant and a family of four, including government fees. The family example includes a primary applicant, spouse, and two children aged 7 and 17.
Costs | Economy Diversification Fund | Real Estate Investment | ||
Single Applicant | Family of Four | Single Applicant | Family of Four | |
Investment Required | $200,000 | $250,000 | $200,000 | |
Government Fees | - | $75,000 | $100,000 | |
Due Diligence Fees | $7,500 | $15,500 | $7,500 | $15,500 |
Processing Fees | $1,000 | $4,000 | $1,000 | $4,000 |
Interview Fees | $1,000 | $3,000 | $1,000 | $3,000 |
Passport Fees | $500 | $2,000 | $500 | $2,000 |
Certificate of Naturalization | $500 | $2,000 | $500 | $2,000 |
Total | $210,500 | $276,500 | $285,500 | $326,500 |
Is there any difference between Dominica CBI and Dominica Economic Citizenship?
There is no difference between Dominica Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Dominica Economic Citizenship—both represent the same initiative with distinct wording, allowing foreign nationals to obtain Dominica dual citizenship by making a qualifying financial investment.
About Dominica
Known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean”, Dominica is a former British colony known for its stunning and well-preserved nature. The Caribbean island nation is covered in endless rivers, waterfalls, rainforests, lush green mountains, and volcanoes, all ready for you to explore.
It has a population of around 71,000 people. The Official language is English, but Dominican French Creole is also spoken. Dominica is home to the world’s first long-distance hiking trail, the Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT), which is about 183km and split into 14 sections. It is also home to the world’s second-largest boiling lake.
Despite the similar names, Dominica is a completely separate country from the Dominican Republic, which is a former Spanish colony in the Greater Antilles, near Cuba. The Commonwealth of Dominica is much smaller and lies in the Lesser Antilles.
Dominica is also regarded for focusing on eco-tourism and sustainability, having invested in numerous eco-resorts (such as Jungle Bay Resort), conservation programs (such as the Mountain Chicken Recovery Program), and sustainable practices (such as banning single-use plastic).
Why use Global Citizen Solutions?
Global Citizen Solutions is a multidisciplinary firm offering bespoke residence and citizenship solutions in Europe and the Caribbean. In a world where the economy and politics are unpredictable, having a second citizenship opens up opportunities and creates flexibility for you and your family.
So, why work with Global Citizen Solutions to obtain Caribbean citizenship?
- Global approach by local experts: We are corporate members of the Investment Migration Council, with local expertise in all five Caribbean CBI programs.
- 100 percent approval rate: We have never had a case rejected and will offer you an initial, free-of-charge, due diligence assessment before signing any contract.
- Independent service and full transparency: We will present to you all the investment options available, and all expenses will be discussed in advance, with no hidden fees.
- An all-encompassing solution: A multidisciplinary team of immigration lawyers, investment specialists, and tax experts will take into consideration all your and your family's mobility, tax, and lifestyle needs.
- Confidential service and secure data management: All private data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dominican Citizenship by Investment
How to get Dominica citizenship by investment?
To obtain citizenship through the Dominica citizenship investment program, you must be at least 18, have a clean criminal record, and make a government fund contribution or real estate investment worth at least $200,000.
What is the Dominica Golden Visa cost?
The Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program is sometimes called the Dominica Golden Visa. The cost of obtaining citizenship starts from $200,000 if you are a single applicant and choose to make a donation to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund. The real estate investment option has a minimum investment threshold of $200,000, plus additional fees such as application fees and passport fees. The minimum investment amount is non-refundable if your application is rejected.
Is it possible to have Dominica dual citizenship?
Yes, Dominica recognizes dual citizenship, meaning you can keep your existing citizenship and also be granted Dominica nationality through the Dominica economic citizenship program.
Is a Dominica passport good?
A Dominica passport is an excellent passport as the country is politically neutral and the passport offers visa free travel to 135 countries, including China, Russia, Hong Kong, Thailand, and EU Schengen states.
Can I sell my investment in Dominica?
The Dominica CBI real estate option allows you to sell shares purchased to acquire Dominican citizenship after three years to maintain Dominica citizenship status. Choosing the real estate purchase options offers a recoverable and potentially profitable investment, as Dominica’s real estate market is seeing stable growth, and property values may appreciate. This serves as a valid exit strategy compared to the non-recoverable donation option.
Does my Dominica citizenship extend to my family?
Yes, it is possible to include family members in your Dominica citizenship by investment application. The program is inclusive in its definition of ‘family member,’ allowing you to include your spouse, children under 18, dependent parents, and grandparents. Additionally, unmarried daughters under 25, children under 30 in full-time studies, and adult children with disabilities also qualify as dependents.
How do I get Dominica citizenship for $50,000?
The $50,000 investment in Dominica refers to the Dominica Entrepreneur Visa. This is a visa program that does not grant citizenship. However, it can lead to citizenship by naturalization after two years of residency.
How to become a citizen of Dominica?
There are four ways to acquire Dominica citizenship. According to the Commonwealth of Dominica Citizenship Act, a person can become a Dominican citizen by being born in Dominica, having a Dominican parent, marrying a Dominican national, living in Dominica for seven years, or investing in the country.
Can you buy a Dominica passport?
It isn’t possible to buy a passport for Dominica. However, the Dominica economic citizenship program allows you to make an economic contribution to the country’s government fund to qualify for citizenship and a Dominican passport.
Is Dominican citizenship worth it?
For many investors, obtaining Dominican citizenship by investment is worth it due to expanded visa free access to numerous countries, access to economic opportunities, and the option to live in a Caribbean paradise with a commitment to sustainability. Furthermore, Dominica second citizenship is the most affordable in the Caribbean and offers enhanced protection and tax incentives for wealth protection, including foreign income, capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes.
Do I need to reside in Dominica before or after obtaining citizenship?
The Dominica citizenship by investment program, also known as the Dominica investor visa, has no requirements for investment applicants to visit or reside in Dominica before or during the due diligence process or after obtaining citizenship.
Does Dominica allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Dominica allows dual citizenship, so you will be able to maintain your current passport once you obtain Dominican citizenship. Of course, you will need to check whether the country in which you currently have citizenship also permits dual nationality.
What is the Dominica Golden Visa?
The Dominica investment citizenship program comprises part of the Golden Visa industry. Investors and their families can economically contribute to Dominica and obtain second citizenship and a Golden Passport. Dominica’s passport offers political protection and visa free or visa on arrival access to key destinations worldwide.
What are the cons of Dominica?
Though Dominica’s citizenship program is more affordable than others in the Caribbean for single applicants, it’s more expensive for family applicants. Due to international scrutiny, Dominica’s Caribbean passport is the only one available by investment that does not provide visa free access to the UK or Ireland. Furthermore, most St Lucia, Grenada, and Antigua allow siblings of the main applicant to apply for citizenship, whereas Dominica does not.
Different types of Dominica citizenship
The types of Dominica citizenship include citizenship by birth for those born in Dominica, citizenship by descent for those with a Dominican parent or grandparent, citizenship by naturalization for those who have lived in Dominica for at least seven years, and citizenship by investment for those who invest in the Dominica citizenship program.
What is the minimum investment required to obtain citizenship in Dominica as of 2025?
The minimum investment needed to get citizenship in Dominica is $200,000. The total investment required, including government fees, is $210,500 for a single applicant and $276,500 for a family of four.
