Dominica to Require In-Person Visits for New CBI Applicants

Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme is preparing for one of its most significant procedural changes in years. Prime Minister Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit has announced that successful applicants will be required to travel to Dominica in person to receive their citizenship documents, with passport renewals also requiring a visit to the island going forward. 

The announcement marks a notable shift for a programme long known for its fully remote application process, and reflects a wider regional effort to strengthen oversight of Caribbean citizenship programmes.

What the New Requirement Involves

• Successful applicants will be required to visit Dominica in person as part of finalising their citizenship.
• New citizens will receive their passports during this visit, rather than through remote delivery.
• When the time comes to renew, citizens will once again need to travel to Dominica to collect the renewed passport.
• The visit is intended to allow new citizens to experience the country’s communities, culture and development priorities firsthand.

The implementing legislation is still being drafted, and the specific requirements, including the length of the required stay and how the visit attaches to passport collection, are expected to be confirmed during the upcoming national budget presentation. 

Part of a Wider Regional Shift

The Prime Minister framed the move as part of a coordinated effort among Caribbean nations operating citizenship programmes. 

In September 2025, the five Caribbean states that offer CBI, including Dominica, signed a shared regulatory agreement committing to a minimum physical presence requirement of at least 30 days within the first five years of citizenship. 

Implementation was delayed until mid-2026 following a change of government in one of the signatory states. Dominica’s own legislation to bring the requirement into force is still being prepared. 

International Pressure Behind the Changes

The changes are largely driven by international pressure. In late 2025, the US imposed restrictions on Dominican nationals, reducing visa validity and limiting immigration access, partly due to the lack of residency requirements in Dominica citizenship by investment program. 

The EU also warned that such programs could risk visa-free travel privileges. In response, Dominica introduced a mandatory in-person visit to safeguard the program’s credibility and protect its economic benefits, which fund key national infrastructure.

What This Means for Prospective Applicants

For those currently exploring Dominica’s CBI programme, the practical takeaway is straightforward: a visit to the island should now be factored into both the planning timeline and the overall budget for the application. 

For citizens who already hold a Dominica passport obtained through the programme, the new renewal requirement is worth noting well ahead of any upcoming renewal date, particularly for those who have not visited the country since their citizenship was approved.

As Caribbean Citizenship by Investment programs change quickly, these new measures show a clear move toward greater transparency and stronger oversight. This proactive approach not only secures the long-term viability of these programs but also reinforces the unwavering trust of global partners.

At Karibi Consultants, we keep you informed about regulatory changes so you don’t have to. We provide our clients with the sharp insights and precise strategies needed to navigate new legal landscapes seamlessly, protecting your investment plans and keeping your timeline perfectly on track.