The Dominican Republic offers investors (investing at least US$200,000 in the local economy)​, retirees (with a lifetime monthly pension of at least US$1,500), independent means(people with a stable passive income of at least US$2,000/month)​, and those with Dominican family ties (married to a Dominican or children of residents). There are also specific visa categories like work residency (sponsored by a Dominican employer) and students residency. Each type has its own criteria and leads to temporary residency and permanent residency. ·

The application process has two main stages: first obtaining a Residency Visa from a Dominican consulate abroad, and then applying for the actual residency permit in the Dominican Republic. A new applicant will start with Temporary Residence, which is valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually​. After 5 years of holding temporary residency, you become eligible to apply for Permanent Residency​. Each category (temporary, investor, retiree, etc.) may have specific paperwork – for example, investors provide evidence of their investment through government program, retirees provide proof of pension, etc. The paperwork can seem daunting, but we assist clients in preparing the full application package, obtaining necessary translations/legalizations, and submitting to the authorities to make it as straightforward as possible.

Dominican residency offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows you to live in the country year-round without worrying about tourist visa extensions or overstay fines. You’ll receive a national ID card (cédula), which makes everyday transactions easier – for example, opening a bank account, signing a lease, getting a local driver’s license, or even getting local rates for attractions. Residency (especially permanent) can also simplify business and property dealings; some banks and institutions prefer or require a cédula for significant transactions.

Another benefit is that the DR does not tax most foreign-source income for your first few years as a resident​, making it attractive for retirees or remote workers living off income from abroad. As a resident, you can also import personal goods with certain tax exemptions under laws designed to encourage foreign retirees/investors. Additionally, after a couple of years as a resident, you have the option to apply for citizenship, which can grant you a Dominican passport (this can be useful for travel in Latin America and other benefits).

Finally, having residency means peace of mind: you are legally recognized in the country, which can be reassuring in terms of access to local healthcare, ability to work and invest, and overall integration. Many expats find that the cost and effort to obtain residency pay off through these tangible and intangible benefits.

Processing times can vary, but generally after you submit your residency application in the DR, it may take a few months (3–6 months) for approval and issuance of your first residency card. Temporary residency cards are valid for one year and must be renewed annually​. After 5 years of holding temporary status (renewed each year), you can apply for permanent residency​. If you qualify for permanent residency immediately (through investment, pension, etc.), your first permanent card is typically valid for 1 year, and the next renewal will give you a 4-year card​(retirees and certain others renew every 2 years). After 10 years as a permanent resident, you can get a “definitive” or non-expiring residency card (with only annual fee payments)​. It’s important to note that you must keep your residency current – if you let it lapse, you might have to start over.

Keep in mind the exact timing can vary and immigration policies can update, so it’s wise to stay in touch with your attorney during the process.

No – there is no strict residency “physical presence” requirement in the Dominican Republic, unlike some other countries. You are not required to live in the DR for a certain number of days per year to maintain your residency. However, keep a few things in mind: Your residency card needs to be renewed on time (annually for temporary, per the schedule for permanent), and renewals often must be done in person in the DR​. If you stay outside the country for extended periods, you may need a re-entry permit if your residency will expire while you’re abroad​. Just remember to plan trips to handle renewals and keep your local address updated with immigration. If you plan to be away during renewal time, talk to us – we can often help arrange the re-entry permit or coordinate your renewal so you remain in compliance.