Dominica citizenship for Nigerians: Legal pathways to obtaining a second passport by investment

Dominica offers a straightforward and legal pathway to obtaining a second passport for Nigerians through its Citizenship by Investment program. This program provides an opportunity for investors and their families to secure a second citizenship in a Caribbean country with several advantages, including visa-free travel, tax benefits, and more. 

Lyle Julien, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, will explore the steps involved, the benefits, the requirements, and the investment options available for Nigerians seeking to obtain Caribbean citizenship by investment.

What is Dominica Citizenship by Investment?

Dominica's Citizenship by Investment Program allows foreign nationals to obtain citizenship by making a qualifying investment in the country. This program has been designed to attract investors and entrepreneurs, offering them a legal route to secure a second passport. Citizenship is granted to individuals and their families after meeting specific investment requirements, without the need for residency or language proficiency.

Read more why the Dominica investment program is one of the most affordable and efficient options for acquiring a second passport. The program focuses on economic contributions that benefit the country's development, ensuring that applicants play a role in the growth of the nation.

11 Benefits of Dominica Citizenship for Nigerians

1. Visa-free Travel. One of the most significant advantages of Dominica citizenship is visa-free access to many countries, including many Commonwealth nations. This makes international travel much easier for Nigerians holding a Dominica passport.

2. No Residency Requirements. Unlike many other citizenship programs, Dominica does not require applicants to reside in the country before obtaining citizenship. Investors can maintain their business or lifestyle anywhere in the world while still enjoying the benefits of Dominica citizenship.

3. Dual Citizenship. Dominica allows dual citizenship, meaning Nigerians can keep their original nationality while enjoying the privileges of a second passport.

4. Tax Advantages. Dominica offers a favourable tax system, with no inheritance tax, capital gains tax, or wealth tax. This can be particularly appealing to high-net-worth individuals seeking to optimize their tax liabilities.

5. Business Opportunities. Dominica citizens can enjoy various business opportunities within the Caribbean region and gain access to a growing market. The country's strategic location also makes it an attractive hub for international trade.

6. Fast Processing. The application process for Dominica's CBI program is relatively fast, with citizenship granted within six months upon meeting all requirements. This allows Nigerian investors to secure their second passport quickly.

7. High-Quality Healthcare. Dominica offers affordable and reliable healthcare to its citizens, with a well-established medical infrastructure in place.

8. Safe and Stable Environment. Dominica is considered one of the safest countries in the Caribbean. The nation is politically stable, which provides a sense of security for investors and their families.

9. Access to Education. Citizens of Dominica can benefit from access to high-quality education at both the primary and secondary levels. There are also opportunities for further education in the Caribbean and abroad.

10. Family Inclusion. Dominica’s CBI program allows applicants to include their spouse, children, parents, and grandparents, making it an ideal option for family relocation.

11. Easy Travel within the Caribbean. As a member of the Caribbean Community, Dominica citizens can travel freely within the region, which can be advantageous for business and leisure.

Dominica Citizenship Requirements for Nigerians

To apply for Dominica citizenship by investment, Nigerians must meet the following basic requirements.

Minimum Age. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

No Criminal Record. The applicant must have a clean criminal record, both domestically and internationally.

Financial Stability. Applicants must prove that they have the financial capacity to make the required investment, and that their source of wealth is legitimate.

Health Check. Applicants and their dependents must undergo a medical examination to confirm they are in good health.

Investment Options

Dominica provides two primary investment options for individuals seeking citizenship:

1. Contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund. The EDF is a government fund used to support social and economic development projects in Dominica. Applicants can make a non-refundable donation to this fund to qualify for citizenship. 

The required donation amounts are as follows:

• single applicant: $200,000;
• family of up to four: $250,000.

2. Real Estate Investment. Alternatively, applicants can choose to invest in government-approved real estate projects in Dominica. The minimum investment amount for real estate is $200,000. 

The property must be held for at least three years, after which it can be sold, allowing the investor to recover their investment. This option can be attractive for those looking for a long-term asset while obtaining citizenship.

Both options have their advantages. The Economic Diversification Fund option is a faster and more cost-effective choice, while the real estate option offers the potential for returns on investment through property appreciation.

Conclusion

Obtaining Dominica citizenship by investment provides Nigerians with numerous benefits, including visa-free travel, tax advantages, and access to a stable environment for business and family growth. The process is relatively fast and straightforward, making it an ideal choice for investors seeking a second passport. Whether through a donation to the Economic Diversification Fund or by investing in real estate, Dominica offers flexible pathways to citizenship that align with the goals of high-net-worth individuals.