Residence in Dominican Republic: permits and requirements
Living legally in Dominican Republic is possible through 4 permit types: permanent, family, investment. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Temporary Resident
Residence type #1 of 4
1-year temporary residence permit for foreigners who wish to stay in the Dominican Republic for work, study or family ties.
Requirements
- Apply before the Dirección General de Migración (DGM)
- Show lawful means of subsistence
- No serious criminal record
- Enter the country through an authorized checkpoint
Documentation
- Valid passport
- Temporary residence application
- Criminal record certificate from the country of origin
- Medical examination (blood, urine, chest)
- Guarantee letter or work contract
- 2x2 photos
- Legalized birth record
Frequently asked questions about residence in Dominican Republic
How many types of residence permits are there in Dominican Republic?
Dominican Republic offers 4 residence permit types, grouped into the categories permanent, family, investment. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Dominican Republic last?
Durations vary by permit type: 1 year renewable (Temporary Residency; annual extensions); Permanent (the identity card is renewed every 6-10 years like citizens'); Permanent. The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Dominican Republic be renewed?
It depends on the type: 1 of 4 permits are renewable. Each fact sheet on this page indicates whether the permit in question allows renewal.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Dominican Republic?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Valid passport; Certificado de antecedentes penales; Medical examination. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Dominican Republic lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Ordinary naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 2 years of uninterrupted residence in the Republic (Law 1683, art. 1.b). The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Dominican Republic.
Residence and nationality updates
Subscribe to know when a country changes its residence or nationality routes. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about Dominican Republic?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about residence pathways in Dominican Republic, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.