TIPS ON MOVING TO THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
The Dominican Republic is a sovereign state, located in the Caribbean in the Greater Antilles archipelago, on the island of Hispaniola. The most sought after real estate on the island remains the most popular for many decades, those towns are Sosua, Cabarete and Puerto Plata, all located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.
Before you move to any foreign country here are a few things you might check further into that will be helpful when relocating.
Your first encounter may be as a tourist, when you fall in love with this beautiful country, come back several times or stay for at least 6 months to a year, to fully comprehend the politics, get to know the people, the language, their culture, food, climate, entertainment, infrastructure, laws, customs and search the real estate markets for just the right home.
As a progressive country you will still find all the amenities that you have been used to, such as high speed internet, wifi services, modern upscale housing made of the finest qualities by North American standards, quality appliances and sound structures. Depending on your price range and your needs, you will find what you are looking for on the north coast.
Check with long term resident expats and business people, as well as locals, to get their opinions and suggestions before you make your commitment.
If you are coming here to work, there are certain requirements that must be met, to obtain a business visa (Visa de Negocios) which allows either one entry for 60 days or multiple entries for one year, but only for a maximum of two consecutive months at a time, or a business visa for employment purposes (Visa de Negocios con Fines Laborales), which is issued for one year.
If you are looking to buy real estate, find a reputable real estate agent among the many on the island. Keep in mind that realtors do not have to be licensed to claim they are a realtor. So ask questions and do a little research, the laws are complicated and you will also need a trusted lawyer to assist when closing on a purchase.
Once you feel comfortable with your agent, by this time you have chosen the area within the North Coast, in which you want to live. Stay within your means and look at everything available property that meets your requirements. You can compare workmanship, quality, location of the property, prices, etc., to determine the differences and establish what you really want to buy.
Check on the costs of having your belongings transported from your homeland, compare prices to see if that would be a feasible option, or to make your purchases here in the Dominican Republic.
Check with your own country to see if there are any restrictions, fees or complications on such things as pensions, bank transfers, health plans or licenses in which you may want to retain before you move.
Also opening a bank account in the Dominican Republic, now requires you to be a resident. You will find information regarding this on the internet as how to complete the forms and go through the process. With excellent interests rates on deposits the Dominican Republic has become a good place to invest, save and diversify.
If you have children, be informed of the education system in the Dominican Republic, which is of high-standards, check into extra-curricular activities, as well as neighborhoods that are safe and kid friendly.
If you plan on bringing or purchasing a vehicle you will need certain documents and residency to obtain a Dominican drivers license, as well you will need insurance both for home and vehicles.
If you have decided not to purchase property, but, still want to live here, there are many rentals available from studios, apartments, condominiums and villas that are affordable. The above information would still apply, whether you are a single person, married or a family moving to the Dominican Republic, the best advice is to be informed.
