Did you know that in 2022, a whopping 1,000 people from all over the world decided to make Dominica their new home? That’s right, folks! Living in Dominica has become a really popular choice for expats lately because of its beautiful rainforests, beaches, and some of the friendliest people in the world.
If you’re thinking about making a big change and trying out a new way of life, Dominica might just be the perfect place for you. But before you pack your bags, there are a few things you should know before moving to Dominica.
What Makes Dominica an Attractive Destination for Expats?
First of all, Dominica is an absolutely beautiful travel destination for everyone. It’s known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean” because it’s got so many cool natural features, like:
- Rainforests with lots of different plants and animals
- Volcanoes (don’t worry, they’re not active!)
- Hot springs that you can soak in
- Waterfalls that are really fun to swim in
- The weather is nice and warm all year round
Another great thing about Dominica is the people, like I said earlier. They’re super friendly and welcoming, so you’ll feel right at home in no time. And since English is the main language, you won’t have any trouble talking to people and making new friends.
How Can Expats Obtain Residency in Dominica?
If you’re dreaming of living in Dominica for a while, there are a couple of ways you can do it:
- Get a Work in Nature Extended Visa. This lets you live and work in Dominica for up to 18 months, which is perfect if you have a job that lets you work from anywhere.
- If you have family members who are already citizens of Dominica, like your grandparents, parents, or spouse, you might be able to get residency through them.
What Are the Key Aspects of Life in Dominica That Expats Should Know?
Before you move to Dominica, there are a few important things you should know about what life is like there. Here’s what expats like you should know before living in Dominica:
Language
Even though English is the official language, you’ll also hear a lot of people speaking Kwéyòl, which is a kind of French Creole. It’s a good idea to learn a few phrases so you can talk to locals and fit in better.
Currency and Banking
In Dominica, they use the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) for money. It’s tied to the US Dollar, so EC$2.70 is worth about US$1. But don’t worry if you have US Dollars, British Pounds, or Euros – most businesses will take those too.
When it comes to banking, you have a few options:
| Bank Name | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| National Bank of Dominica | Mon-Thu: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Dominica Agricultural Industrial & Development Bank | Mon-Thu: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Republic Bank | Mon-Thu: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| First Caribbean International Bank | Mon-Thu: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Royal Bank of Canada | Mon-Thu: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Business Hours
Most businesses in Dominica are open from Monday to Friday, and some are open for a bit on Saturdays too. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Shops and stores: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Mon-Fri), 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Sat)
- Banks: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Mon-Thu), 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Fri)
- Government offices: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Mon-Fri)
Keep in mind that some places might close for lunch for an hour or two in the middle of the day, so plan accordingly.
Telecommunications
Dominica has pretty good phone and internet service, so you’ll be able to stay connected with friends and family back home. Most places have Wi-Fi, and there are two main cell phone providers: Flow and Digicel. Just remember that the country code for Dominica is +1-767, so make sure to give people your full number.
Electrical Standards and Outlets
The electricity in Dominica is 220-240V, and they use a mix of UK-style plugs (three square pins) and US-style plugs (two flat pins). It’s a good idea to bring some adapters with you, just in case. If you have any electronics that are only rated for 110V, you might need a voltage converter too.
Medical Facilities and Emergency Contacts
Dominica has a few hospitals and clinics that can help you if you get sick or hurt:
- Princess Margaret Hospital (Roseau)
- Portsmouth Hospital (Portsmouth)
- Marigot Hospital (Marigot)
There are also some private doctors and specialists you can see if you need to. Take note that healthcare in Dominica might be a bit different than what you’re used to back home.
In case of an emergency, the number to call for police, ambulance, or fire is 999.
Personal Safety and Low Crime Rates
One of the great things about Dominica is that it’s a really safe place to live. The crime rate in Dominica is super low, and you don’t have to worry too much about things like theft or violence. Of course, it’s always a good idea to be careful with your belongings and use common sense, but overall, you can feel pretty secure in Dominica.
Cost of Living Guide
Compared to some other places, the cost of living in Dominica is actually pretty affordable. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect to pay for things:
- A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: Around EC$15-20 per person
- Groceries for a month: About EC$400-500 per person
- Renting a car for a day: About EC$160 and up
- Monthly rent for an apartment: Around EC$900-3500, depending on the size and location
- Electricity, water, and internet per month: About EC$380 total
- Childcare per month: Around EC$300
These are just estimates, okay? Your actual costs might be a bit different depending on your lifestyle and where you choose to live.
What Is the Cultural Heritage of Dominica?
Dominica has a really cool mix of cultures that have shaped the island over the years. The original inhabitants were the Kalinago people, who still have a special territory on the east coast where they keep their traditions alive.
You can visit the Kalinago Territory to learn more about their history and way of life, and even buy some of their beautiful handmade crafts as souvenirs.
The Kalinago People and Their Preserved Culture
Later on, Dominica was colonized by the British, so you’ll see a lot of English influences in things like the language, education system, and government. But the island has been independent since 1978, so it has its own unique identity too.
British Colonial Influence and Dominican Independence
The Dominican culture is full of music and festivals. They have a big Carnival celebration every year before Lent, with lots of colorful costumes, dancing, and calypso music. And in October, there’s the World Creole Music Festival, which brings in musicians from all over the Caribbean and beyond.
What Educational Opportunities Are Available in Dominica?
If you’re moving to Dominica with kids, or if you’re interested in going to school yourself, you’ll be happy to know that there are some great educational opportunities on the island.
PreK-High School
Dominica has both public and private schools for kids from preschool up to high school. The public schools are free, and they follow a curriculum that’s similar to what you’d find in the UK or US. Some of the private schools offer extra programs like sports, music, and art.
One thing you’ll appreciate as an expat with a family is that schools in Dominica put a big emphasis on environmental education. Kids learn about the island’s unique ecosystems and how to take care of them, which is super important for a place known as the “Nature Island.”
Higher Education
After high school, many students in Dominica go on to attend Dominica State College. It’s a public college that offers associate’s degrees and certificates in a bunch of different fields, like:
- Arts and humanities
- Business and entrepreneurship
- Education
- Health Sciences
- Technology and Engineering
If you want to get a bachelor’s degree or higher, you might have to go to a university in another country. But Dominica does have a few medical schools that are popular with international students, like All Saints University School of Medicine and Ross University School of Medicine.
How Does Dominica’s Healthcare System Work?
Dominica has a pretty good healthcare system, with a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics. The main public hospital is Princess Margaret Hospital in Roseau, which offers a wide range of services including:
- Emergency care
- Surgery
- Maternity and pediatrics
- Dialysis
- Physical therapy
There are also a few smaller public hospitals and health centers around the island, as well as some private clinics and doctors’ offices.
Emphasis on Natural and Holistic Medicine
Dominica’s healthcare system really emphasizes natural and holistic medicine. Lots of people use herbal remedies and traditional treatments alongside modern medicine, and there are even some specialty clinics that focus on things like acupuncture and chiropractic care.
National Health Insurance Program and Payment Options
When it comes to paying for healthcare, Dominica has a national health insurance program called the Dominica Social Security (DSS).
If you work in Dominica and pay into the DSS system, you’ll be covered for things like doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. But if you’re not covered by DSS, you’ll have to pay out of pocket or use private insurance.
What Outdoor Activities and Attractions Can Expats Enjoy in Dominica?
If you love spending time outdoors, Dominica is like a giant playground. There are so many cool things to see and do, you’ll never be bored!
Hiking the Waitukubuli National Trail and Other Trails
One of the most popular activities is hiking. Dominica has a bunch of amazing trails that take you through the rainforest, past waterfalls and hot springs, and up to stunning viewpoints.
The Waitukubuli National Trail is the longest one, stretching over 115 miles from one end of the island to the other. But don’t worry, you don’t have to do the whole thing at once – it’s broken up into 14 different segments that you can tackle one at a time.
Exploring the Underwater World Through Snorkeling and Diving
If you’re more into water sports, Dominica has you covered there too. The island is surrounded by warm, clear water that’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
There are tons of beautiful coral reefs and underwater caves to explore, and you might even spot some cool animals like turtles, dolphins, and whales.
Some other fun outdoor activities in Dominica include:
- Canyoning (hiking and rappelling through river canyons)
- Birdwatching (Dominica has over 160 species of birds)
- Ziplining through the rainforest canopy
- Visiting natural hot springs and mud baths
- Taking a boat tour along the coastline or up the Indian River
Must-See Natural Wonders and Attractions
Of course, living in Dominica isn’t complete without checking out some of its most famous attractions. Here are a few that you definitely don’t want to miss:
- Trafalgar Falls: Two huge waterfalls that you can hike to and swim under.
- Emerald Pool: A gorgeous blue-green pool at the base of a waterfall in the rainforest.
- Champagne Reef: An underwater hot spring where tiny bubbles make it look like you’re swimming in champagne.
- Boiling Lake: A huge flooded fumarole that’s one of the largest of its kind in the world.
- Morne Trois Pitons National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with tons of amazing hiking trails and natural wonders.
What Is the Climate Like in Dominica?
Dominica has a tropical climate, which means it’s warm and humid all year round. The average temperature is around 26-32°C (79-90°F), with slightly cooler temperatures in the mountains.
Dry Season and Wet Season
There are really only two seasons in Dominica: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season runs from about December to May, while the wet season is from June to November. But even during the wet season, it doesn’t rain all day every day – usually, you’ll get short bursts of rain followed by sunshine.
Hurricane Season and Preparedness
One thing to keep in mind is that Dominica can sometimes be affected by hurricanes since it’s in the Caribbean hurricane belt. The official hurricane season runs from June to November, with peak activity in August and September.
But don’t let that scare you off – Dominica has pretty good infrastructure and emergency plans in place. So, as long as you stay informed and prepared, you’ll be fine.
How Does the Cost of Living in Dominica Compare to Other Countries?
One of the great things about living in Dominica is that it’s generally pretty affordable, especially compared to other Caribbean islands or big cities in North America and Europe. But of course, the exact cost of living will depend on your lifestyle and personal needs.
To give you a rough idea, here’s how Dominica stacks up against some other popular expat destinations:
| Country | Cost of Living Index | Rent Index | Groceries Index | Restaurant Price Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominica | 57.75 | 26.02 | 62.09 | 49.50 |
| USA | 69.91 | 40.32 | 72.08 | 71.08 |
| Canada | 67.62 | 35.15 | 70.10 | 65.94 |
| UK | 67.28 | 33.17 | 57.16 | 73.55 |
| Australia | 78.55 | 38.96 | 76.25 | 74.14 |
As you can see, Dominica has a lower overall cost of living than the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Rent, in particular, is much cheaper – on average, you can expect to pay around 25-35% less for housing in Dominica than in those other countries.
As usual, there are always trade-offs. Dominica is a small island, so you might not have access to all the same goods and services that you would in a bigger country. And some things, like imported foods and electronics, can be more expensive because of shipping costs.
But overall, if you’re looking for a beautiful, laid-back place to live where your money can go a bit further, Dominica is definitely worth considering.
What Are the Travel and Transportation Options in Dominica?
Getting around Dominica is pretty easy, thanks to its two airports and network of roads. Here’s a quick overview of your main travel and transportation options:
By Air
Dominica has two main airports: Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM) in the northeast and Canefield Airport (DCF) near the capital city of Roseau.
Douglas-Charles is the larger of the two, with flights from several major cities in the US, Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean. Canefield is mostly used for short-hop flights within the region.
Some of the airlines that fly to Dominica include:
- LIAT
- Air Sunshine
- Winair
- Air Antilles
- Air Sunshine
- Seaborne Airlines
By Sea
If you prefer to travel by boat, Dominica has a few different ports of call for cruise ships and ferries. The main one is the Roseau Ferry Terminal, which has regular service to and from the neighboring islands of Martinique, Guadeloupe, and St. Lucia.
There are also several smaller ports around the island where you can catch a ferry or water taxi to other coastal towns and villages. Remember that the schedules can be a bit irregular, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance.
Getting Around the Island
Once you’re on the island, there are a few different ways to get around:
- Rental cars: If you want the freedom to explore on your own, renting a car is a great option. Just be aware that driving in Dominica can be a bit challenging, with narrow, winding roads and occasional potholes. You’ll need to get a local driver’s license, which you can do at the police station in Roseau.
- Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Dominica, and they’re a good way to get around if you don’t want to deal with driving yourself. Just make sure to agree on a price before you get in, as not all taxis use meters.
- Buses: Dominica has a network of public buses that run between the major towns and villages. They’re cheap and convenient, but they can be a bit crowded and the schedules aren’t always reliable.
- Hitchhiking: Believe it or not, hitchhiking is a pretty common way to get around in Dominica. It’s generally safe and easy to do, and it’s a great way to meet locals and learn more about the island.
What Are the Tax Implications for Expats Living in Dominica?
If you’re planning to live and work in Dominica, it’s important to understand the local tax system and how it might affect you as an expat. Here’s a quick rundown of the key things you need to know:
Income Tax
Dominica has a progressive income tax system, which means that the more you earn, the higher your tax rate will be. The rates for the 2023/2024 tax year are:
| Annual Income (EC$) | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to 25,000 | 0% |
| 25,001 to 50,000 | 15% |
| 50,001 to 75,000 | 25% |
| Over 75,000 | 35% |
If you’re employed by a company in Dominica, your employer will usually deduct income tax from your paycheck and remit it to the government on your behalf.
If you’re self-employed or have other sources of income, you’ll need to file a tax return and pay any tax owed by March 31st of each year.
Residency and Domicile
Dominica taxes its residents on their worldwide income, not just on income earned in Dominica. So, if you’re considered a tax resident of Dominica (which generally means you spend at least 183 days per year on the island), you’ll need to declare and pay tax on all of your income, no matter where it comes from.
However, suppose you’re not a tax resident of Dominica, and you only earn income from sources within the country (like a rental property or a local business). In that case, you’ll only be taxed on that specific income.
Other Taxes
In addition to income tax, there are a few other taxes you should be aware of in Dominica:
- Value Added Tax (VAT): Dominica has a VAT of 10-15% on most goods and services. This is usually included in the price you see on the shelf or menu, so you don’t have to worry about adding it on top.
- Property Tax: If you own a home or land in Dominica, you’ll need to pay an annual property tax based on the assessed value of the property. The rates vary depending on the type of property and its location, but they’re generally quite low (less than 1% of the property’s value).
- Stamp Duty: When you buy a property or vehicle in Dominica, you’ll need to pay a one-time stamp duty based on the value of the asset. The rates are 4% for properties and 2.5% for vehicles.
Double Taxation Treaties
Dominica has double taxation treaties with several countries, including the US, UK, and Canada. These treaties are designed to prevent you from being taxed twice on the same income (once in Dominica and once in your home country).
If you’re an expat from one of these countries, you may be able to claim a foreign tax credit or exemption on your home country tax return for any tax you pay in Dominica.
But the rules can be complex, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified tax professional to make sure you’re not paying more than you need to.
What Do I Need to Do to Move to Dominica?
To move to Dominica, you’ll need a valid passport and a visa. If you’re planning to work, you’ll need to apply for a work permit. If you’re retiring or just want to live there without working, you can apply for a residence permit. You may also need to show proof of income or savings, such as bank statements or investment records. It’s a good idea to do your research and gather all the necessary documents before you start the application process.
Is it Expensive to Live in Dominica?
Compared to other Caribbean islands, living in Dominica is actually pretty affordable. Of course, the cost of living will depend on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. But in general, you can expect to pay less for things like housing, food, and transportation than you would in places like the US or Canada. To give you an idea, a nice apartment in Dominica might cost around $500-$1,000 USD per month, while a meal at a local restaurant will probably be less than $10 USD.
What is Healthcare Like in Dominica?
Dominica has a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics. The main public hospital is in Roseau, with smaller facilities around the island. If you’re working and paying into social security, you’ll be covered for doctor’s visits and hospital stays. Otherwise, you may need to pay out of pocket or get private insurance. Dominica also uses natural and holistic treatments like herbal medicine and acupuncture.
