The Dominican Republic has gained traction as a viable destination for second citizenship, thanks to its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. One of the most popular routes to obtaining Dominican citizenship is through real estate investment. But for many investors, paying the full amount upfront isn’t always the most practical option. This is where a real estate loan strategy can come into play—allowing investors to participate in the program while managing liquidity and cash flow.
Here’s how a real estate loan strategy can work as a smart, flexible approach to securing a Dominican passport.
1. Understanding Dominican Citizenship by Investment
The Dominican Republic offers a citizenship program that grants a second passport in exchange for an economic contribution. There are two main investment paths:
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Donation to a government fund (non-refundable)
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Real estate investment in approved projects
The real estate option generally requires a minimum investment of around $200,000, though this may vary slightly depending on the developer and project. After the investment and due diligence process, citizenship can be granted in a relatively short time—typically 6 to 12 months.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
2. Why Use a Loan Strategy?
Using a loan or financing option to fund your real estate investment allows you to:
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Maintain liquidity for other investments or personal use
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Leverage financing while still qualifying for citizenship
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Reduce the upfront capital outlay, making the passport more accessible
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Benefit from property value appreciation, even while repaying a loan
This strategy is particularly appealing to entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals who want to diversify their global mobility without tying up large sums of money.
3. How the Real Estate Loan Strategy Works
The process generally looks like this:
Step 1: Choose an Approved Real Estate Project
Only developments approved under the CBI program are eligible. Many of these are luxury resorts, beachfront condos, or branded residences.
Step 2: Secure Developer-Backed or Bank Financing
Some CBI-approved developers offer in-house financing, while others may connect you with local or international banks that offer secured loans for investment purposes. Typical terms might include:
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Loan-to-value (LTV): 50–70%
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Interest rates: 5–8% (can vary)
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Loan term: 3 to 7 years
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Collateral: Usually the property itself
Step 3: Make Down Payment & Submit Application
You’ll typically need to make a minimum down payment (usually 30–50%) before your citizenship application is submitted. The rest can be financed over time while your application is being processed.
Step 4: Complete Due Diligence and Processing
The government will carry out background checks and review your financial standing. Approval generally comes within a few months if all requirements are met.
Step 5: Receive Citizenship & Manage Loan
Once citizenship is granted, you can begin enjoying the benefits of your Dominican passport while continuing to pay off the remaining property loan over the agreed term.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
4. Key Considerations and Risks
While the real estate loan strategy offers flexibility, investors should consider:
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Eligibility for financing: Some lenders may require international credit assessments or collateral beyond the property.
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Total cost of ownership: Interest payments and administrative fees may raise the overall cost of the investment.
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Resale restrictions: Some CBI real estate projects have a holding period (often 3–5 years) before you can resell.
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Currency risks: If the loan is denominated in a foreign currency, exchange rate fluctuations could impact repayment costs.
5. Benefits of Dominican Citizenship
Acquiring a Dominican passport through this strategy offers numerous advantages:
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Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Zone, the UK, and much of Latin America.
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No residency requirement—you don’t need to live in the Dominican Republic to maintain citizenship.
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Attractive tax regime, including no tax on foreign income, capital gains, or inheritance.
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Dual citizenship is allowed, so you don’t need to renounce your original nationality.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
