A Practical Guide to Moving to the Dominican Republic

Yes, you can move to the Dominican Republic, and owning property at a development like Andara Cap Cana can be a key part of that plan. The country offers established residency pathways for investors and property owners, and you can purchase your home with its delivery date of Q4 2028 long before you decide to relocate full-time.

Can I own property at Andara before I have residency?

Absolutely. Dominican law makes it straightforward for foreigners to invest. You can purchase and hold full, fee-simple title to real estate in your own name, affording you the exact same property rights as a Dominican citizen. There is no requirement to have a local partner, a special permit, or an existing residency status to complete the purchase of a condo at Andara.

This legal framework is a significant advantage for those planning a future move. It allows you to secure your residence at Andara—with units starting from 926 square feet and priced from $280,600—and then organize your relocation on a timeline that works for you, without pressure. With construction delivering in Q4 2028, you have a clear, multi-year runway to plan your transition.

What are the main residency pathways for property owners?

The Dominican Republic offers several routes to residency for foreigners. While owning property is not a prerequisite for all of them, it can be a central component of your application.

Pensionado and Rentista Visas (Law 171-07): This is often the most direct path for those with stable foreign income. To qualify for the Pensionado (pensioner) visa, an applicant must demonstrate a monthly pension of at least $1,500 USD. For the Rentista (person of independent means) visa, the requirement is a stable monthly income of at least $2,000 USD from investments or other non-salaried sources.

Investment Residency: The country also has a residency-by-investment program, which requires a minimum investment of $200,000 USD. However, it is critical to note that sources conflict on whether, and at what amount, a real estate purchase qualifies for this specific program. While residences at Andara surpass this threshold, you cannot assume the purchase automatically qualifies you. Your attorney must confirm whether your specific situation meets the criteria for the investment residency program.

Successful applicants typically receive a provisional residency card for one year, which can then be renewed for longer periods.

What does the path to Dominican citizenship look like?

For those considering making the Dominican Republic their permanent home, property ownership can accelerate the path to citizenship. The country permits dual citizenship, so you would not have to renounce your current nationality. The process, governed by Law 1683, generally follows these steps.

1. Obtain Legal Residency
   Before applying for citizenship, you must first hold legal residency status in the Dominican Republic through one of the established pathways, such as the Pensionado, Rentista, or investment programs.
2. Fulfill the Continuous Residence Period
   After obtaining residency, you must reside in the country for a set period. The standard path requires two years of continuous residence. However, the law provides a privileged, shorter path of just six months of continuous residence for those who own real property in the country. It is important to note that the law does not specify a minimum value for the property, and legal experts have differing interpretations of what constitutes 'uninterrupted residence.' Your attorney can provide clarity on how this applies to your circumstances.
3. Submit a Naturalization Application
   Once the residency requirement is met, you can formally apply for naturalization. This involves submitting documentation, undergoing interviews, and demonstrating a connection to the country. The President of the Dominican Republic ultimately grants citizenship.

What are the key tax considerations for owners planning a move?

Understanding the tax landscape is crucial for any property owner. Andara's CONFOTUR approval provides significant advantages, but it's important to distinguish which taxes are covered. The main taxes to consider are the one-time transfer tax, the annual property tax (IPI), and taxes on any rental income you might earn.

What is the infrastructure like for full-time living in Cap Cana?

Moving to a new country involves more than just legal paperwork; it's about day-to-day life. Cap Cana is a master-planned, gated community designed to provide a high standard of living and security for residents and visitors. Private security is a regulated industry in the Dominican Republic, and Cap Cana maintains its own extensive security infrastructure.

Furthermore, the government operates a dedicated tourist police force (Politur), which has a permanent sub-command for the Punta Cana-Bavaro area. For medical needs, Global Affairs Canada advises that while ambulance services can be unreliable in many parts of the country, they "are more reliable and available in major cities and tourist areas," specifically including Punta Cana. Andara itself is located just a 15-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), providing easy connections for international travel.

How does Andara's Q4 2028 delivery date factor into a relocation plan?

The Q4 2028 delivery schedule for Andara is a distinct strategic advantage for anyone planning a move. This multi-year timeframe allows you to transition smoothly, without the stress of a rushed timeline. It gives you ample time to consult with legal and financial advisors in both your home country and the Dominican Republic to structure your assets and plan effectively.

You can use this period to gather all necessary documentation for residency applications, make informed decisions about your tax situation, and plan the logistics of your move. By securing your future home at Andara now, you lock in your place in Cap Cana while giving yourself the valuable gift of time to orchestrate a seamless and successful relocation.

Common questions

Do I need to be a resident to buy property at Andara?

No, you do not need to be a resident to buy property. Foreigners can purchase and own real estate in the Dominican Republic with the same rights as citizens, and the title is registered in your personal name.

Does buying a condo at Andara guarantee I can get residency?

While owning property can be part of a residency application, it does not guarantee it. The investment residency route has specific requirements, and sources conflict on how a real estate purchase qualifies. It is essential to consult with a Dominican attorney to determine your eligibility and the best pathway for your situation.

Is dual citizenship allowed in the Dominican Republic?

Yes, the Dominican Republic permits dual citizenship. If you become a naturalized Dominican citizen, you will not be required to renounce your original citizenship.

What does CONFOTUR approval mean for me as an owner?

Andara's CONFOTUR approval means that as a first-time buyer from the developer, you are exempt from the 3% property transfer tax. The law also provides a 15-year exemption from the 1% annual property tax (IPI) for the project. Your attorney will confirm how these benefits apply to your purchase.