Few questions on expatriation

Hi Danielle1986,

Welcome to Expat.com

I would like to inform you that i have created a new thread with your post on the Dominican Republic forum for more visibility and interaction with the members.

For a good start, i would like to invite you to have a look at the Living in Dominican Republic guide, it might help you to prepare yourself for a future expatriation in Dominican Republic.

Thanks,

Priscilla 

First off welcome.  There is lots of information here on this board so read, read and read some more and feel free to ask away.

It sounds like you are doing it the correct way as the DR is not for everyone.  To answer some of your questions:
1.  $800 will be a little tight these days but if you can supplement it with online work you should do fine.  You will need to use, and eat local products instead of imported ones. We do this and live for about 60% of what the costs would be in the US.

2.  Your best bet for apartment hunting is with boots on the ground.  Maybe a week at a hotel while you are looking around.  There are lots available but you have to hunt them down.

3.  Just use your ATM do draw cash when you need it or bring some with you.  Most major credit cards are also accepted in most groceries and shops.  Get one with no foreign transaction fees.  We use Untied airlines visa and Bank of America cards for this.

4. Just pay the overstay fees this first time ($4,000RD for over 90 days and less than 6 months).  If you are going to make the move then you should get your residency.  This needs to be started in your home country.

Hope this helps.

Bob K

Bob did a great job answering.  800 will be tight, you will need more then that. Start researching virtual jobs.

And welcome to the forums.

Great response Bob! Thanks for the handy information. I'm going to start looking into some freelance work and be able to supplement my income that way. Looking forward to this adventure!