Dominica’s citizenship procedure for investors has been active since 1993, offering a structured path to an alternative citizenship for eligible applicants and their dependents. The concept is relatively simple: make a qualifying investment in the economy and pass the government’s background screening process.
$200,000 is the minimum investment, making Dominica’s program the most affordable in the Caribbean, and applicants who meet the requirements can gain a second passport with the potential for increased freedom of movement internationally.
The program is designed to drive economic growth and sustainable development, with investments taking the form of either a donation to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund or an approved real estate investment.
Created by Global Citizen Solutions, this guide offers a clear overview of the qualifying criteria, program procedures, and investment routes to apply for Dominica citizenship successfully.
Key Details
Dominica Citizenship Program Overview and Rules in 2026
The Dominica Citizenship by Investment became part of the country’s citizenship law in 1993. It offers foreign investors a streamlined pathway to obtain Dominica citizenship and a strategic second passport in exchange for a qualifying investment.
A state fund contribution or the purchase of real estate are the program’s two qualifying investments, with a minimum investment of $200,000. The Citizenship Unit (CBIU) processes applications, ensuring all applicants are properly vetted.
Due diligence
The procedure requires applicants over 16 to pass comprehensive background checks, including a remote interview with a third-party firm based in the US or the UK to verify their identity and information on residency, financial history, and general political views.
A medical examination and supporting documents, including a valid passport, birth certificate, source of funds, and professional history, are also required.
On 10 June 2026, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit revealed that successful applicants will be required to visit Dominica to collect and renew their passports. Once the measure takes effect, it will effectively end the program’s fully remote model. Applicants submitted before the end of June.
Applications submitted before the end of June 2026 are expected to fall under the current rules, though the government has not yet confirmed a formal cutoff date.
Restricted nationalities
In April 2026, Dominica updated its basis for how nationalities are restricted. Restricted nationals are now categorized more clearly.
Outright ban:
- Belarus
- Russia
- Yemen (suspended since January 2024)
- Northern Iraq (Erbil, Amedi, Dahuk, Kirkuk, Lalish, Raniya, Soran, Sulaymaniyah, and Zakho)
Applicants from these countries are not permitted to apply for citizenship.
Partial restriction:
- Iraq (except for applicants from Northern Iraq)
- Iran
- North Korea
- Sudan
Closer scrutiny is applied in these situations. These nationals should not have ties to the country, including no major assets or business interests there. It’s important to assess eligibility early, especially for those living abroad or engaging in business activities internationally.
What You Gain with the Dominican Citizenship Program
Affordability for single applicants
Dominica citizenship is the ideal option for single applicants in terms of affordability. With qualifying investments starting at $200,000, it is the most affordable option for single applicants in the Caribbean.
It’s worth emphasizing that the real estate option also starts at $200,000, making it considerably more affordable than alternative program’s in the region.
Citizenship for family members
While the program stands out for its single-applicant affordability, investors can add their family members to their application from $250,000, including their spouse, children, parents, and grandparents. Families gain the right to citizenship for life, which can then be passed down to future generations.
High standard of living in a politically stable country
Dominica offers a unique quality of life, shaped by peace, a dedication to a sustainable environment, and a lifestyle oriented around financial security and local communities.
Known in the region as the “Nature Isle,” while some Caribbean islands have seen overdevelopment, Dominica’s environment is largely untouched and promotes calm living and an eco-friendly lifestyle distant from mass tourism and dense populations.
It’s no wonder that Global Citizen Solutions ranked number one in the Caribbean for quality of life in its 2026 Global Citizenship Programs Report.
Improved global mobility
For applicants with limited passport strength, Dominica can offer easier travel opportunities, facilitating international business and personal travel to 160 countries, according to the Global Passport Index.
Through modern visa free entry, such as a visa on arrival or an eVisa, access is granted for Dominican passport holders to destinations such as Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Saudi Arabia, and countries in the Schengen Area.
Tax incentives
Dominica’s tax system is attractive for wealth preservation and protecting accumulated assets. Citizens and residents do not pay tax on capital gains, inheritance, or wealth.
The country does not charge an annual property tax, with only a small municipal fee applied to property in Roseau and Canefield.
Low overall living expenses
Dominica is proven to be among the most affordable countries in the Caribbean. According to Numbeo, the cost of living is over 20 percent lower than in the United States, with rent, the difference is even wider.
With tourism modest demand and a smaller economy that promotes sustainable living, expats and retirees relocating there can maintain an affordable lifestyle.
Sustainable investment opportunities
Dominica is gradually developing a sustainable tourism base, with real estate largely centered on eco-friendly projects and boutique hospitality. Resorts like Jungle Bay and Secret Bay combine natural surroundings with comfort, while Sanctuary Rainforest Eco Resort and Spa offers a quiet escape immersed in the rainforest.
With the new international airport expected to open in 2027, introducing direct flights from Europe and North America for the first time, alongside the highly anticipated world-record-holding Dominica Cable Car development, early investors are well positioned to benefit from rising visitor numbers and growing demand for accommodation.
The investment in approved real estate qualifies for citizenship, offering the dual benefit of earning a stable income for the owner through a fully resort-managed system.
Pathway to a second citizenship
The citizenship rules applied in Dominica allows citizens to hold dual citizenship. Investors can apply for the program without renouncing any other nationalities they have, provided the nation also allows dual citizenship.
Who qualifies?
To qualify, the primary investor must be at least 18 years old, present official records of no criminal history, and agree to make the required investment.
Whether a contribution or real estate investment is made, the funds used must be verified as originating from a legal source. Successful applicants must commit to maintaining their legal name for five years after being granted citizenship, except in the case of marriage.
Passing the background checks is also essential to determine whether any of the following disqualifying factors apply to the applicant:
- Criminal convictions other than minor offenses.
- Ongoing criminal investigations or omission of relevant legal proceedings.
- Being previously rejected for citizenship by other nations.
- Past visa refusals from countries that grant visa free entry to Dominicans.
- Taking part in activities that could bring the country into disrepute.
- Identified as a security risk or submission of falsified documentation.
While there is no minimum residency requirement, the process will shift to requiring applicants to visit Dominica in person to collect their passport or renew an expired one.
Dominica separates fully banned, regionally restricted, suspended, and nationalities subject to a partial restriction. Belarusian and Russian nationals are fully banned, while all Northern Iraqi nationals, including those from the Kurdistan region, are also banned. Yemeni citizens remain under a 2024 suspension.
North Korean, Sudanese, and Irani citizens may qualify, but undergo an enhanced due diligence procedure and require demonstrating they have had no ties to a restricted country for at least ten years.
Eligible family members
Family members who qualify as dependents include the following:
- Spouse
- Children
- Under 18
- Under 30, attending an institution of higher learning, and supported by the investor or their spouse
- Unmarried daughters under 25, supported by and living with the main applicant or their spouse
- Dependent parents and grandparents over 65 and supported by the investor or their spouse
If a child has a physical or mental disability, they may still qualify as a dependent regardless of age.
Investment Requirements in 2026
The program offers a non-refundable contribution or a real estate purchase as qualifying investments, each designed to support the nation’s economic and sustainable development.
1. Contribution to the Dominica Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)
The Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) is a government-operated fund established to support socio-economic initiatives, including sustainable energy production, road construction, school improvements, and expanded healthcare infrastructure.
Investors make a one-time contribution of $200,000 to apply as a single applicant, with an additional $50,000 required to include up to three dependents
As a non-refundable investment with no return, this option appeals to investors seeking the quickest, most efficient route to citizenship.
| Contribution | Single Applicant | Family of Up to 4 | Additional Dependent Under 18 | Additional Dependent Over 18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Contribution | $200,000 | $250,000 | $25,000 per person | $40,000 per person |
| Due Diligence Fee | $7,500 | $10,000 (main investor) $4,000 (per dependent over 16) |
||
| Processing Fee | $1,000 per application | |||
| Passport Fee | $500 per passport (enhanced fee dependent on nationality) | |||
| Interview Fee | $1,000 per person over 16 | |||
| Certificate of Naturalization Fee | $500 per person | |||
2. Real estate investment
The real estate option allows investors to purchase a unit in a government-approved project, combining property ownership and potential returns with citizenship.
The minimum purchase value is $200,000, excluding the government application fee and purchase costs. The ownership structure is either shared or whole.
Investors can earn rental income while securing a second passport. There is a minimum holding period of five years attached to the investment.
Approved project examples
Ay Ay Holdings Caribbean Ltd. Jungle Bay Resort
- Location: Morne Acouma, Soufriere
- Property type: Eco villa
- Price: $255,000+
The Residences at Secret Bay
- Location: Tibay, Portsmouth
- Property type: Luxury villa
- Price: $216,000 (fractional ownership), $1.39 million+ (whole ownership)
| Purchase | Single Applicant | Family of Up to 4 | Additional Dependent Under 18 | Additional Dependent Over 18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | $200,000 | |||
| Government Application Fee | $75,000 | $100,000 | $25,000 per person | $40,000 per person |
| Due Diligence Fee | $7,500 | $10,000 (main investor) $4,000 (per dependent over 16) |
||
| Processing Fee | $1,000 per application | |||
| Passport Fee | $500 per passport (enhanced fee dependent on nationality) | |||
| Interview Fee | $1,000 per person over 16 | |||
| Certificate of Naturalization Fee | $500 per person | |||
Current Estimated Citizenship Cost for a Single
Here is an example of the estimated citizenship for a single investor, as of 2026.
| EDF Contribution | EDF Contribution | Real Estate Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | $200,000 | |
| Government Application Fee | – | $75,000 |
| Due Diligence Fee | $7,500 | |
| Processing Fee | $1,000 | |
| Passport Fee | $500 | |
| Interview Fee | $1,000 | |
| Certificate of Naturalization Fee | $500 | |
| Total | $210,500 | $285,500 |
Background Screening and Document Assessment
All applicants are screened thoroughly by the CBIU.
Background checks
To maintain the program’s integrity, extensive background screening is conducted on all applicants to verify that there is no criminal history, financial irregularities, or prior visa denials.
The CBIU applies a $7,500 due diligence fee for the main applicant and a $4,000 fee for each dependent over 16 years old. The process takes several weeks and authorities may coordinate with international law enforcement agencies if necessary.
Document requirements
Documents the applicant must provide include the following:
- Valid passport: A clear copy of your current passport, with at least six months validity remaining.
- Proof of funds: Documents confirming you have the necessary finances, such as bank statements or asset verification records.
- Birth certificate: A certified, apostilled, or legalized color copy used to confirm your identity and nationality.
- Police clearance: A certificate of good conduct from your country of birth, current residence, and any country where you have lived for more than six months in the past 10 years, issued within the last three months before submission.
- Medical certificate: A completed medical form along with blood, urine, and HIV test results, all dated within three months of submission.
- Proof of investment: Documentation confirming your selected investment route, whether real estate or a contribution.
- Passport-sized photos: Recent photographs that meet the specified official requirements.
All documents must be notarized, apostilled, and, if required, translated into English.
Process for Obtaining Citizenship
1. Choose a licensed agent
Timeline: 1+ day
Begin by choosing a licensed representative from CBIU’s list. The CBIU officially licenses this representative to submit the application and communicate with them on behalf of the main applicant. Only Authorized Agents can handle citizenship applications.
2. Initial compliance review
Timeline: 1–2 days
Your agent will carry out a confidential preliminary compliance assessment to identify potential risks that may disqualify your application under the program’s updated rules.
Only a valid passport is required at this stage, keeping the procedure simple and discreet. In our experience at Global Citizen Solutions, this step effectively removes the risk of complications. Applicants can also assess whether it aligns with their priorities before making a formal commitment.
3. Document preparation
Timeline: 2+ weeks
Once eligibility is verified, a dedicated legal advisor prepares a tailored checklist of required documents. This stage involves gathering and verifying the required documentation, such as:
- Passports
- Criminal record certificates
- Professional references
- Marriage and birth certificates
The licensed agent also assists with completing application forms and sourcing supporting documentation. After a careful review, the complete application file is submitted to the CBIU.
4. Government due diligence and processing
Timeline: 3-5 months
After the application is submitted, the CBIU conducts a detailed analysis of the main applicant’s profile and dependents included in the application.
Background verification, financial history checks, and requests for supporting documents are typically requested at this stage to ensure full compliance.
Applicants aged 16 or over are required to attend a virtual interview. Though the agent is not involved in the interview, the discussion typically focuses on the applicant’s financial circumstances, source of funds, and residency, as well as any factors that may disqualify the application.
5. Approval in principle and making the investment
Timeline: Up to 1 month
After the applicant clears the due diligence stage, the agent receives confirmation that the application has been approved in principle. At this point, the applicant is asked to complete the investment.
One-time contributions are fairly straightforward. With real estate, the advisor and local specialists assist with identifying a suitable property. The funds are held in an escrow account for security and released only after the application is approved.
6. Citizenship approval and passport collection
Timeline: 1-2+ weeks (complete timeline averages 6 months)
Currently, passports can be sent to the applicant’s address. However, the process is set to change, requiring applicants to visit Dominica to collect their passports in person.
Discuss Your Options with Global Citizen Solutions
After reviewing your eligibility, pricing, and the procedure for applying, Global Citizen Solutions works with its team on island to provide personalized insights tailored to your specific circumstances and goals.
During a complimentary consultation, a specialist migration advisor will assess your eligibility, explain the available investment routes, outline estimated costs and timelines, evaluate what’s required to include family members, and answer any questions you may have about the program.
Citizenship Rights and Obligations
The Commonwealth of Dominica has relatively few ongoing obligations for its economic citizens. There is no requirement to live in Dominica to maintain citizenship. Citizens must maintain a valid passport, which can currently be renewed remotely; however, a new rule pending implementation will require an in-person visit to Dominica as part of the renewal process.
Citizens are free to enter, live in, and leave Dominica at any time without restriction. One aspect to be aware of is that individuals who obtained citizenship through investment cannot automatically pass it on to future children or a spouse free of charge. A combined fee of just under $5,000 is required for a newborn child and $55,000 for a new spouse. A spouse can naturalize without a charge under the three-year residency rule.
Change of name updated rule
In 2023, the Government of Dominica introduced new name change rules for CBI applicants. Under the new legislation, applicants can request a name change only after maintaining at least three years of residency in Dominica. The rule was introduced to eliminate the potential of the program, including applicants using the framework to create new identities to escape criminal prosecution or financial obligations.
