Living in Dominican Republic: the ultimate expat guide

The visa process for the Dominican Republic is generally straightforward for many nationalities, making it relatively easy for expats to enter and stay in the country.

1. Tourist visa: citizens from many countries can enter visa-free for up to 30 days, paying for a tourist card on arrival.
2. Temporary residency: allows expats to stay up to one year, with the option to renew.
3. Permanent residency: can be applied for after holding valid temporary residency visa.
4. Student visa: for international students enrolled in recognized Dominican educational institutions.
5. Work visa: required for foreigners employed by a Dominican company or running a business locally.

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Many expats move to the Dominican Republic for its growing economy, expanding job market, and entrepreneurial opportunities. The country's strong tourism, finance, and service sectors attract professionals with international experience. At the same time, its lower cost of living and relaxed lifestyle make it an appealing place to work and live.

Key sectors in the Dominican Republic hiring expats:

1. Tourism and hospitality: with its thriving tourism industry, there's a demand for hotel staff, tour guides, and customer service professionals.
2. Education: English-speaking teachers are sought after in international schools.
3. Healthcare: medical professionals, especially those fluent in Spanish, are in demand.
4. Technology and IT: the growing tech sector offers opportunities for software developers and IT specialists.

Starting a business in the Dominican Republic

The climate for start-ups in the Dominican Republic is generally favorable, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises in sectors like tourism, hospitality, real estate, and technology. The country offers a growing consumer market, strategic Caribbean location, and government incentives for foreign investment. English-speaking professionals and entrepreneurs can find opportunities in niche markets, and the relatively low cost of living reduces operational overhead. However, challenges include navigating local bureaucracy, understanding tax and labor regulations, and competition in popular sectors such as tourism and hospitality. Establishing local partnerships and seeking professional advice can help mitigate these hurdles.

Key employment figures and facts

Data correct as of October 2025

Sources: Trading Economics, World Bank.

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The Dominican Republic offers higher education options for international students, though most programs are in Spanish, and the majority of students come from surrounding countries. The country's top institutions provide courses in medicine, business, engineering, and other fields. International students must obtain a student visa, show proof of financial means, and register with the General Directorate of Migration. While English-language programs are limited, students from other Caribbean and Latin American countries, as well as Spain, often choose the Dominican Republic for its affordable tuition, vibrant culture, and proximity to home.

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The Dominican Republic is one of the Caribbean's most popular retirement destinations. Its warm climate, affordable living costs, and well-established expat communities make it appealing to retirees from North America and Europe. The country also offers a dedicated retirement visa, allowing foreign nationals with a stable income to live there long-term.

Benefits of retiring in the DR

1. Lower cost of living than in the U.S. or Western Europe.
2. Beautiful beaches, warm weather, and modern healthcare in major cities.
3. Easy flight connections to North America and Europe.
4. A welcoming, bilingual expat community.

Where retirees live in the DR

Most expats in the Dominican Republic come from the United States, Canada, Spain, Italy, and other European or Latin American countries. Popular places to settle in include:

1. Punta Cana/Bávaro: resort lifestyle, gated communities, beach access.
2. Santo Domingo: cultural capital with top hospitals and urban comforts.
3. Puerto Plata/Sosúa/Cabarete: established expat areas, lower costs, relaxed pace.
4. Santiago de los Caballeros: inland city living with strong local culture.
5. La Romana/Casa de Campo: upscale resorts and golf communities.

Expats can open a bank account in the Dominican Republic with a valid passport, proof of address, and a Tax Identification Number (RNC). Major banks offer checking and savings accounts, as well as access to online banking, loans, and credit services.

And for expats living and working in the Dominican Republic, understanding your tax obligations is essential. Whether you pay tax on all income or only local earnings depends on your residency status:

1. Resident expats: if you have temporary or permanent residency, you are considered a tax resident. This means you must pay taxes on all income, both from the Dominican Republic and from other countries. To qualify, you usually need a residency permit or to spend more than 183 days in the country per year.
2. Non-resident expats: if you are living in the country temporarily—on a tourist visa or without a residency permit—you are considered a non-resident. You only pay taxes on income earned within the Dominican Republic, such as a local job, business, or rental property.

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Access to reliable health care is essential when living abroad, and the Dominican Republic offers a mix of public and private health services to suit a range of needs. Foreigners can access the National Health Service (SNS) once they have legal residency in the Dominican Republic, including temporary or permanent permits. Public health care provides basic medical services at low cost, while private hospitals and clinics offer higher-quality care with faster access, though fees are higher.

Health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including expats, with options available through the SNS or private providers, depending on your needs and budget. Preventive care—such as regular check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings—is offered in both systems, with private facilities generally providing quicker service.

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Expat children in the Dominican Republic have several schooling options, including international, private, and public schools. International schools offer curricula in English, French, or other languages and cater to expatriate communities. Private schools primarily teach in Spanish, with some providing bilingual programs. Public schools follow the national curriculum in Spanish and are generally available only to children of expats who have legal residency, including temporary or permanent permits. Many expat families choose international or private schools for smaller class sizes, bilingual instruction, and more consistent academic standards, particularly in urban areas where options are most accessible.

Documentation needed to enrol in school in the Dominican Republic:

1. Proof of residency
2. Birth certificate
3. Previous school records
4. Vaccination or medical documentation

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Expats in the Dominican Republic can choose from a variety of housing options, ranging from modern city apartments and beachfront condos to traditional homes in quieter towns. Whether you're looking for the energy of urban life, the relaxation of coastal living, or the calm of the mountains, there are properties in the Dominican Republic to suit different lifestyles and budgets.

Buying property in the Dominican Republic

Foreigners are generally allowed to purchase property in the Dominican Republic, with the main restriction being areas near national borders where ownership may be limited. As a foreigner, you have the same property ownership rights as Dominican citizens, including the right to buy and own real estate, including land.

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Relocating to the Dominican Republic requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to shipping your belongings and navigating customs. Expats are advised to work with a reliable moving company and create a detailed inventory of all items, including fragile or valuable possessions. Taking out damage insurance is recommended to protect against unexpected incidents during transit. It's also important to know whether your shipment will be delivered directly to your new home or stored temporarily, as this can affect both cost and timing.

The moving company usually handles customs procedures, but understanding prohibited items and import regulations can save time and stress. Signing the waybill is essential, as it confirms the terms of transport, including payment, volume, and handling. Checking in with the Dominican embassy or consulate before your move can provide clarity on documentation and legal requirements, helping to ensure a stress-free relocation experience.

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Living in the Dominican Republic offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure, making it easy for expats to enjoy a balanced lifestyle. From sun-soaked beaches to vibrant cities and scenic mountains, there are activities for all tastes. Expats often find themselves exploring local culture, enjoying outdoor sports, or socializing in friendly communities.

Popular leisure activities in the Dominican Republic

Beaches and water sports: swimming, snorkeling, kiteboarding, and sailing along the coast.

Golf and tennis: numerous courses and clubs cater to both casual and serious players.

Hiking and nature: mountains and national parks offer trekking, birdwatching, and waterfalls.

Dining and nightlife: from street food to international cuisine, and bars and clubs in cities and tourist areas.

Cultural activities: music, dance, festivals, and local markets provide a rich cultural experience.

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Life in the Dominican Republic is generally relaxed and community-oriented, with a warm and friendly culture that welcomes newcomers. Expats can expect vibrant social interactions, frequent festivals, and a strong emphasis on family and community. Daily routines may be more flexible than what many are used to, and learning some Spanish will significantly help with integration, navigating services, and building relationships. Major cities offer modern amenities, shopping centers, and reliable Internet, while smaller towns and coastal areas provide a slower pace and a closer connection to nature.

Safety is an important consideration for expats wherever you are in the world, and while violent crime is relatively low in most residential areas, petty theft can occur in urban and tourist-heavy destinations. Transportation in the country includes buses, motoconchos (motorcycle taxis), and private cars; traffic in cities can be congested, and driving habits may differ from what expats are used to. Overall, newcomers often find that engaging with local communities, embracing the lifestyle, and respecting local customs make day-to-day life in the Dominican Republic enjoyable and rewarding.

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The Dominican Republic offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared with North America and Europe, though prices vary between urban centers, coastal resorts, and rural areas. Housing is the most significant expense, with rents higher in cities like Santo Domingo or Punta Cana and lower in suburban or rural locations. Food, transportation, and utilities are generally inexpensive, while private healthcare and international schools add to monthly costs. Overall, many expats find that their income stretches further, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses of more developed countries.

Data correct as of October 2025

Source: Numbeo.