Dominica offers one of the most cost-effective citizenship programs in the world and is one of the oldest countries to have successfully implemented the program since 1993. The program has earned a solid reputation through robust and effective due diligence procedures. Like most Caribbean CIPs, applicants and eligible family members do not need to reside or visit Dominica to qualify. Once approved, a Dominica passport allows visa-free entry to over 140 countries, including the UK, the EU, Brazil, Russia (and many more countries), along with inherent benefits as a Commonwealth passport holder.
                                            

                                                
Dominica offers two citizenship investment options, meaning applicants can choose their preferred route. The first option requires a contribution of at least $100,000 (this amount increases based on family composition; $100,000 is for a single applicant), directly benefiting the economy and helping to fund projects in renewable energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and tourism.
The second option is a real estate investment of at least $200,000 in a government-approved project (the amount may vary by project, but is fixed regardless of family composition). Most (if not all) of Dominica's real estate investments go into hotels, villas, or resorts.
                                            

                                                
The fact that Dominica remains pristine and undeveloped is also a disadvantage — at least for those considering visiting or migrating to Dominica. The country still lacks an international airport, and although its facilities and runways are being upgraded, it will not accommodate long-haul international flights until after 2023. Currently, travelers usually transit through Barbados, Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe, or Martinique.
                                            

                                                
Before the global lockdown, Dominica witnessed the rise of an eco-tourism industry that gained international acclaim. The island's real estate offerings have caught the attention of major publications like Caribbean + Leisure, Caribbean Tourism Awards, and Conde Nast Traveller. Additionally, thanks to Dominica's citizenship program, the tourism industry has seen growth in recent years. The CIP has funded globally recognized brands such as Hilton and Kempinski, as well as unique boutique resorts like the six-star Secret Bay.
Under the program, the investment is a qualifying one. A single share in the resort is valued at $218,000. Independent villas, available for mature investors seeking full ownership, start at $1,221,000.
                                            

                                                
From a practical perspective, real estate development projects related to CIPs in the Caribbean and Europe are often overpriced (and in many cases, never actually completed). However, Secret Bay is one of the exceptions. First, Secret Bay is an existing and operational resort with strong financial performance and positive returns. It also has stable resale value, supported by strong demand from lifestyle buyers. In terms of exit strategy, while economic citizens are only allowed to sell their investment to others seeking Dominica citizenship after five years of obtaining citizenship, the investment market allows resale beyond citizenship after three years.
Secondly, the lack of five-star amenities on the island and its remoteness, along with the friendly locals, made it a logical choice to establish a unique and sustainable resort. Secret Bay offers a rare opportunity to own a residential-style villa managed and marketed by one of the world’s most renowned luxury boutique resorts.
Finally, Secret Bay Dominica is a cost-friendly option. Considering the overall expenses, Dominica's government fees are lower than those of neighboring islands offering similar citizenship programs, making it a more attractive investment among competitive programs.
                                            

                                                
The most obvious benefit is Dominica citizenship and passport.
The investment itself grants investors the right to receive quarterly dividends in USD. There are no annual maintenance, service, or hidden fees. Quarterly returns are, of course, based on the performance of the hotel and facilities.
In addition to the above, investors are entitled to 7 additional nights of accommodation annually at the resort or can deposit them into a separate exchange program to stay at other luxury resorts in over 80 countries worldwide.