Dominican Republic Forum

[Tatiana]

Hi, I am looking for information on the entire immigration process, to reside in Cabarete. I am in Vancouver Canada.
What is required besides a Visa? What is the process around "landing" in the DR, or becoming a permenant resident, is there such a process? What about medical requirements/ tb tests and what not?
Legally what MUST you do to live in the DR?
Can you just plant yourself, and not go through any type of immigration procedure? LOL (as someone suggested this to me, I had to ask )
What about staying extended periods of time? Is 3 months ok? 6 months?
Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Regards-

[dave]

Hi Tatiana

The imigration process here is relatively easy compared to many other countries. To acquire a residency visa, there is a process and some requirements, such as a medical test etc. This can all be done whilst living in the DR. You can do the entire process yourself or pay a lawyer to do it. Cost for using a lawyer are around $1000.

Many people have just 'overstayed' without geting a residents visa, and they just pay a small 'fine' when they leave.

Hope this helps!

Dave

[Tatiana]

Hi Dave,
Thanks for the reply I appreciate that. So it sounds as simple actually as my friend sugested.
What about aquiring residency, or employment? What type of documentation is needed?
Thanks for any help

[dave]

For residency you need a medical exam to be done in Santo Domingo. You also need a Police report which you can get done a various police stations in the country. There's obviously a whole load of forms you need to fill in and you'll also need copies of things like your passport/marriage certificate/etc. The residency process is two part. The first part is provisional and is good for one year. Then you apply for permanent residency, good for 2 years and then you renew it.

Employment here is totally different from Canada. There aren't many jobs, particularly unless you speak several languages. Maybe you can work in real-estate or for a tour company. I don't expect they'll need specific documentation from you, but don;t expect finding a job to be easy.

Best of luck

Dave