Expat Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has had its ups and downs in recent years, but it s once again thriving. While most parts of the Dominican Republic are not developed and under the poverty level, many areas of this country are well developed with above average infrastructure and services. For expats looking for a low cost of living, sub tropical climate and warm people with a colorful culture, the Dominican Republic should not be missed.
Climate
The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti. It is located in the Caribbean Sea. The Dominican Republic has a sub tropical maritime climate with warm temperatures that range from the 70's to 90's during the year. There are lower temperatures, but mostly at higher elevations, such as Mt Constanza where temperatures can drop to freezing. There is a rainy season which lasts from May to November and during the late summer months the island can see some hurricane activity.
Government
The Dominican Republic is located on the island of Hispaniola in which it shares with Haiti in the Caribbean Sea. While the Dominican Republic has had a difficult time in the past with poverty and political instability, today, there is a representative democracy and a flourishing tourist industry.
In order to enter the Dominican Republic, you must first either request a visa or at your port of entry, purchase a tourist card which costs $10. A tourist card allows you to stay within the country for up to 60 day. However, you can extend your stay by paying the Migration Department in Santa Domingo a visit. It should be noted that if you overstay your visa, you will be asked to pay a surcharge when leaving the country. You can find out more information about entry and exit requirements at the Directory General of Immigration.
Tax System
Taxes in the Dominican Republic are generally considered to be moderate. Individual income tax rates can be as high as 30 percent. Corporate income taxes are usually as high as 30 percent as well. Besides income tax there is also a Value Added Tax (VAT) and tax on dividends.
Medical Care
Medical care in the Dominican Republic is categorized as limited or barely adequate at best. If you are outside the major tourist centers or main cities, care is very limited. There is a private ambulance service and a few private clinics on the island that mostly cater to foreigners; however facilities are not located out of touristy or main cities. If you are seriously injured or become seriously ill, you will probably be evacuated to the United States. For expats living in the Dominican Republic it is important to have some type of private insurance with a medical evacuation component.
Real Estate
Buying real estate in the Dominican Republic is usually straight forward, however it is usually necessary for foreigners to retain a real estate attorney to protect their interests. The good news is that there are no restrictions for foreigners buying property in the Dominican Republic, in fact it is encouraged. Talk to your real estate attorney about any paperwork that needs to be filed with the government along with any fees or taxes that you must pay when purchasing your property.
Real estate prices in the Dominican Republic are relatively affordable; however there are high priced luxury estates and condos in key locations. If you have a small budget, you can find homes and apartments for very low prices, much lower than in the United States.
Shopping
Shopping in the Dominican Republic can be hit or miss. While many touristy areas do have great items including hand crafts and luxury goods, other parts of the island have trouble providing their residents with the basic necessities.
For those looking to live a little, there are plenty of entertainment choices, especially in the touristy areas. If you love water sports, you can easily enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, boating, etc. There are also plenty of great beaches to sunbathe on. Because of the growing tourist industry, there are plenty of great restaurants and nightclubs available and many younger aged people are attracted to this island because of the great choices in entertainment.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the Dominican Republic is extremely affordable. The currency is the DR peso and it is usually traded at about 30 to 1 against the dollar. An apartment in the main towns are about 6K to 7K DR and about 50% more for a furnished home with all the amenities. Labor is extremely cheap costing about $100 US dollars per month for a live in maid. Many families have a live in maid to care for the children when the parents are out of the home for work, business or entertainment. Food is usually cheap as well, however restaurants can be expensive.
Firearm Rights in the Dominican Republic
Firearm rights in the Dominican Republic are governed by Law No. 36 of 1965.
To legally obtain a firearm, you must first obtain residency.
Centerfire rifles are not allowed, nor are .45 caliber handguns.
Shotguns and other centerfire caliber handguns are allowed.
Extradition from the Dominican Republic
The extradition treaty between the Dominican Republic and the United States of America entered into force on 2 August, 1910.
As is typical of extradition treaties of that time, this treaty lists specific offenses for which extradition will be granted. As such, extradition is ony possible under this treaty for real and serious offenses.
Web Sites for Expats in the Dominican Republic
DR1 is the world's largest Dominican Republic related online community where over 30,000 members from around the world come to discuss all issues related to the Dominican Republic in over 58,000 posted discussions with more than 500,000 posts.
Blogs from Expats in the Dominican Republic
The chronicles of an expat in Santo Domingo.
Map of the Dominican Republic
