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What Are The Advantages and Criteria To
File For Residency In The DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
If you are thinking about filing for residency in the DR keep reading to find out the Advantages and Criteria.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF FILLING FOR RESIDENCY IN THE DR?
Many foreigners living in the DOMINICAN REPUBLIC question the usefulness of obtaining resident status given the lax enforcement of immigration laws by the Dominican government. In fact, however, foreigners who have obtained their residencies enjoy very definite advantages over the illegal alien, among them, the following:
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A legal resident can work and do business legally in the Dominican Republic; a nonresident cannot.
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A resident is allowed to bring in tax-free his household items, ranging from kitchen appliances to furniture (Article 13 of Law #146-00). A nonresident must pay applicable duties on these goods.
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For many foreigners interested in not paying taxes in their home countries on income earned outside their home country, it is a prerequisite to obtaining residency status in another country.
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A resident can enter the Dominican Republic without having to buy a tourist card; a nonresident must obtain a visa or buy a tourist card.
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A resident in certain categories can obtain significant tax exemptions.
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A resident can obtain a Dominican driver’s license and car insurance; a nonresident can drive with his own driver’s license and obtain car insurance that will be valid ONLY for the length of his LEGAL stay in the DR.
WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA TO FILL FOR RESIDENCY IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC?
The people who meet the following criteria can apply for permanent residency without first obtaining temporary residency status:
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Investors of 200,000 US$ or more.
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Retirees with a monthly pension of at least 1,500 US$ (plus 250 US$ per dependent).
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Applicants with a monthly income of at least 2,000 US$ for five years or more.
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Spouses or children of Dominicans or foreigners with permanent residency status in DR.
The application process is essentially the same for temporary and permanent residency, but additional documents are required in permanent residency.
IS AN ATTORNEY REQUIRED TO FILE FOR RESIDENCY IN THE DR?
Having an attorney is NOT required in order to file for residency in the DR, but it is highly recommended in order to avoid costly mistakes! Attorney fees vary based on the individual case.
DISCLAIMER: We are NOT attorneys, and we are hereby NOT providing legal advice in any way—for such advice or counseling, we recommend that you consult with Licensed attorneys. If you need a referral, please contact us and we will gladly refer you to a reputable attorney to adise you.
