Living in the Dominican Republic – The 7th Heaven Properties Guide
Living in the Dominican Republic can be a dream come true. Breathtaking surroundings, year-round sunshine and a warm, tropical climate, a laidback lifestyle by the beach… What’s not to love?
We put together this guide for anyone thinking about investing in property in the country, relocating and living in the Dominican Republic.
So, read on to discover everything you need to know from how you can move to essential information on subjects such as healthcare and how to buy property in the country.
The 7th Heaven Properties guide to living in the Dominican Republic
Contents
The Best Things About Living in the Dominican Republic
How to Move
Cost of Living
Healthcare
Buying Property
Find Out More About Living in the Dominican Republic
The Best Things About Living in the Dominican Republic
Deciding to live in the Dominican Republic may be one of the best decisions you make. First and foremost, the country is stunning. The views of world-class white sand beaches, warm, clear sea and ocean waters varying in hues from brilliant turquoise to deep blue and a backdrop of lush, green, tropical mountains are the stuff dreams are made of. The landscape lends itself to all kinds of activities and adventures from water sports such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, surfing and sailing to land-based activities such as hiking and zip lining.
As the most visited destination in the Caribbean, there are all kinds of high quality facilities in place for indulging your hobbies and passions too. The country is home to some of the region’s best golf courses and superb marinas. The food scene is equally exciting, whether your prefer to sample freshly caught seafood in the fisherman’s village in the quiet coastal town of Las Terrenas on the country’s northern coast, a fine dining establishment in the cosmopolitan capital city Santo Domingo or a lively beach bar in vibrant tourism mecca Punta Cana.
Unlike many other destinations in the region, the country even has an IMAX movie theater, great shopping malls with designer boutiques, art galleries and convert venues.
Read more: Why Invest in the Dominican Republic?
How to Move to the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is welcoming of foreign nationals relocating to the country. To move to the country, you will first need to apply for “provisional residency” via a temporary residency permit. After 1 year you can then apply for permanent residency. Successful applicants will receive a Permanent Residency Card which is valid for 2 years and can be renewed for 2 to 10 years. Buyers investing in property in the country and individuals with a guaranteed minimum income looking to retire in the Dominican Republic can apply for residency visas via a fast-track process.
Read more: How to Get Residency in the Dominican Republic
Read more: Best Places to Buy Property in the Dominican Republic
Cost of Living
As elsewhere, the cost of living in the Dominican Republic varies considerably depending on your lifestyle. Prices for day to day living and entertainment generally compare favorably to other parts of the Caribbean and it is possible to live very well on a lower budget than might be possible at home. For example, you can dine out and enjoy a fantastic meal for a fraction of the cost you would find in many parts of North America or Europe. However, living costs would of course be much higher, as you would no doubt expect, should you choose to splurge on the indulgences the country has to offer.
Healthcare
The quality of healthcare in the Dominican Republic varies from hospital to hospital. Public health facilities provide limited services compared to private institutions which tend to offer a wider range of services, a higher standard of care and well trained staff. The best quality care is available in the capital Santo Domingo at facilities such as the Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud. Punta Cana offers several private hospitals and clinics such as the Centro Medico Punta Cana private hospital, the International Medical Group and Hospiten Bavaro in the Bavaro area of Punta Cana and Punta Cana Doctors in Punta Cana Village, while in Las Terrenas there is a private international hospital. However, private medical care can be costly so you should ensure you have adequate private health insurance in place. Foreign residents have the option of purchasing medical insurance from a local provider or an international provider. There are various options available which offer different levels of cover so be sure to research all your options very carefully.
Buying a Home
The Dominican Republic has long been one of the hottest real estate markets in the Caribbean for good reason. Property is generally to built to a high standard and prices are very attractive, particularly for those looking for beachfront real estate. With a strong market for vacation homes and full time homes, there are great options available whether you are looking to make a permanent move to the country and live in in your property full time or whether you only plan on using your home part-time and generating a Return on Investment during the remainder of the year. Buying property in the Dominican Republic is a relatively straightforward process. Foreign buyers enjoy the same rights as Dominican citizens and, unlike in many other destinations in the Caribbean, no permit (such as an Alien Landholding License) is required.
Read more: Buying a House in the Dominican Republic
Read more: Buying a Condo in the Dominican Republic
Find Out More About Living in the Dominican Republic
Would you like to find out more about living in the Dominican Republic? If you are thinking of buying a property in the country and relocating and you would you like to browse property perfect for enjoying life in the Caribbean’s leading destination, we would be delighted to help.
Start your property search by exploring real estate in the Dominican Republic on our website or contact 7th Heaven Properties, the Luxury Caribbean Property Specialist, to discuss your options in more detail.