Rated Excellent 4.8 out of 5
April 27, 2025
6
min read
The Dominica Entrepreneur Visa is an innovative pathway that offers foreign investors the opportunity to obtain Dominican citizenship through active participation in the country’s private sector. As of 2025, the Entrepreneur Visa stands out as a cost-effective, long-term solution for individuals and families seeking second citizenship through business engagement in the Caribbean region.
To obtain Dominica citizenship with an investment starting from USD 50,000, applicants can consider the Entrepreneur Visa Program, introduced in September 2020. Unlike Dominica’s direct Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program, which provides citizenship in a few months via a donation or real estate purchase, the Entrepreneur Visa follows a residency-based path to citizenship. Below is how it works:
In short, this is a more affordable route to Dominican citizenship over time, especially suited for those looking to invest in local businesses and gradually obtain second citizenship through legal and economic participation in the country.
By making a qualifying investment in a local business, applicants can take a significant step toward acquiring Dominican citizenship through investment. The program provides multiple options, allowing applicants to choose the most suitable path based on their financial capabilities and business goals. Here is a breakdown of the main investment routes available:
One of the most accessible options is contributing to a government investment fund. Under this route, the applicant is required to invest a minimum of USD 50,000 into a government-approved business. However, this business must be a fully functioning operation, and the investment must directly support its growth and sustainability. This route is ideal for individuals who prefer to support existing businesses rather than starting a new one.
Entrepreneurs who wish to build something from the ground up or support local innovation can opt to invest in a startup. This option requires a minimum contribution of USD 100,000 into a startup business that is registered locally in Dominica. To ensure that the investment supports local employment, the business must have at least three full-time employees on its payroll. This route is perfect for investors looking to have an active role in the company’s development and day-to-day operations.
For those who are not looking to launch their own business but still want to invest, the program also permits participation as an equity investor. Investors can contribute funds to either government-approved public sector projects or private sector ventures. This pathway offers more flexibility in terms of the type of project and level of involvement, making it suitable for passive investors who prefer a hands-off approach.
The Dominica Entrepreneur Visa program has straightforward criteria, making it accessible for many investors. To qualify, applicants must meet two primary conditions. Applicants are required to make an economic contribution of at least USD 100,000, which must be deposited into a locally registered financial institution in Dominica. Once the visa is granted, these funds can be utilized during the applicant's stay in the country. To maintain eligibility for citizenship, successful applicants must reside in Dominica for a minimum of three months. This physical presence is a mandatory part of the program, and skipping this requirement will disqualify candidates from progressing toward citizenship.
The Dominica Entrepreneur Visa offers a unique opportunity for foreign investors to access second citizenship while enjoying a range of lifestyle, business, and family benefits in one of the Caribbean’s most serene destinations. Unlike fast-track citizenship options, this visa emphasizes real economic participation and offers a gradual yet rewarding path to naturalization.
Though not instant, the Entrepreneur Visa ultimately leads to Dominican citizenship and a highly respected passport—enabling visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the EU, and many parts of Asia and Latin America. This enhanced mobility gives investors a reliable second home and a safety net during uncertain global events, whether political, economic, or personal.
The visa offers not just individual residency but also extends to spouses and dependent children, allowing the entire family to live, study, and eventually apply for citizenship. This makes it a comprehensive Plan B for the whole family, combining economic opportunity with long-term security, stability, and future citizenship benefits for future generations.
Dominica offers a business-friendly climate with tax advantages such as no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and generous import/export concessions. Entrepreneurs who establish or invest in local businesses under this visa gain hands-on access to Caribbean markets and favorable operational conditions. This is ideal for individuals looking to expand their global footprint while actively contributing to a developing economy.
With an entry point of just USD 50,000, the Entrepreneur Visa is one of the most accessible investment-based options in the Caribbean. It focuses on real economic activity—through starting or investing in businesses—rather than passive donations, aligning with investors who seek meaningful, sustainable, and ethical immigration pathways.
Dominica’s untouched natural beauty, clean air, and tranquil lifestyle offer a refreshing contrast to crowded urban centers. It’s ideal for remote workers, early retirees, and families seeking a slower pace of life, while still maintaining access to modern services. The island’s strong sense of community and safety makes it a perfect base for long-term relocation.
To apply for the Dominica Entrepreneur Visa, applicants must prepare and submit a detailed set of supporting documents in original or certified copy format, with notarized translations into English if the originals are in another language. Below are the required documents and their specific forms:
All documents must be current, accurate, and professionally presented to meet the evaluation criteria of the Dominica Entrepreneur Visa program.
The process is well-structured, involving document preparation, official review, and step-by-step approvals leading to passport issuance. Below is a detailed breakdown of each stage to help guide applicants through the journey.
Before applying, gather all necessary documentation to ensure a smooth review process. It is advisable to work with an authorized agent to ensure all forms are correctly filled and documents meet Dominica’s legal requirements.
Once your documents are in order, submit your application through an authorized agent. The agent will conduct a preliminary review and forward your file to the immigration authority for formal assessment. At this stage, you will also need to pay the initial due diligence and application processing fees.
The immigration authority will thoroughly examine your application. This involves a background check and verification of all the information provided, especially regarding the legality of your funds and any criminal history. This step may take several weeks.
If your application passes the review, you will receive an “Approval in Principle” letter. This document confirms that you meet the eligibility criteria and are approved to proceed with the investment. Note: This is not the final approval, but a conditional green light from the government.
After receiving the Approval in Principle, you will be asked to make your investment. You must transfer the full amount to the designated account. The government will verify receipt and proper allocation of the funds.
Upon successful investment and final verification, the government will issue you a 2-year residence permit card.
Dominica offers two distinct pathways to obtain citizenship: the Entrepreneur Visa and the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program. While both routes ultimately lead to Dominican citizenship and global mobility, they cater to different types of investors and timelines.
The Entrepreneur Visa is designed for those who prefer a gradual, business-oriented approach to citizenship, starting with a minimum $50,000 investment and a 2-year residency. In contrast, the CBI program provides fast-track citizenship in as little as 3–6 months through a larger one-time donation or real estate investment, with no residency requirement. You can find a side-by-side comparison below:
Golden Harbors is an international advisory firm specializing in citizenship, residency, and long-term visa programs. Our team of experts assists individuals and families in obtaining second citizenships, including Dominica's Citizenship by Investment Program as well as Entrepreneur Visa. We work closely with local agents licensed by the Dominica government. Our services encompass personalized consultation to understand client needs, document preparation and review to meet Dominica's due diligence standards, application submission, and provide a full range of post services such as applying for driving licenses, tax ID numbers, social security numbers, etc.. By leveraging our expertise, We aim to streamline the application process, ensuring compliance with all legal and procedural requirements, thereby enhancing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
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Victoria
Lead Attorney at Golden Harbors
Victoria
Lead Attorney at Golden Harbors