Dominica citizenship for Iranian families: mobility, protection and global access

What is Dominica citizenship by investment?

Dominica’s citizenship by investment program has been operating since 1993 and is one of the longest-running and most regulated in the Caribbean ^[109] Source: Dominica Citizenship by Investment — Regulations 2024 . Over the years, the government has repeatedly updated its rules to improve transparency, strengthen Due Diligence, and align with international compliance standards, factors especially relevant for applicants from high-risk jurisdictions such as Iran.

Why Dominica remains attractive — especially for Iranians

Dominica’s CBI program consistently ranks among the top options globally, taking 2nd place in the 2024 CBI Index ^[110] Source: Dominica CBIU — CBI Index 2024 press release . The program offers a clear legal framework, remote processing, and no residence or visit requirements. These features are valuable for Iranians who often face:

• visa limitations with their primary passport;
• banking and sanctions-related compliance challenges;
• the need for predictable and transparent application procedures.

Historically, the picture for Iranians was very different. Between 2018 and mid-2022, Dominica either fully barred Iranian nationals or accepted only those who had lived and earned income outside Iran for at least 10 years and had no strong ties to the country. 

In 2022—2023, these restrictions were lifted. Iran is now listed as a “specified country”, and Iranian applicants are formally allowed to apply.

The CBIU rules no longer require Iranians to prove 10 years of non-residence. This condition now applies only to applicants from high-risk states such as North Korea and Sudan ^[111] Source: Commonwealth of Dominica — FAQs .

Stronger compliance: interviews and enhanced checks

Since 2023, all applicants aged 16 and over must attend an interview. The interviews are held online, in English, by authorised representatives. Iranian applicants usually face more detailed questions. Topics may include business activities, source of funds, travel history, and any potential sanctions exposure.

Dominica applies Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) to applicants from specified high-risk countries, including Iran. This does not prevent Iranians from applying but involves deeper background checks and, in some cases, higher EDD fees.

Harmonised Caribbean standards

In 2024 Dominica signed a Memorandum of Understanding with other Caribbean CBI jurisdictions to harmonise program rules ^[112] Source: OECS — CBI Memorandum of Agreement . The most significant change for investors is the increase of the minimum investment threshold to $200,000 across all participating states. This step strengthens the resilience and credibility of Caribbean CBI programs amid changing global compliance expectations.

While Dominica does not publicly disclose the number of citizenships granted, available budgetary data indicates that the program generated approximately $1.2 billion between 2017 and 2020 ^[113] Source: Dominica CBIU — Program revenue 2017—2020 . This underscores its economic importance and the government’s commitment to maintaining strict standards, a factor that directly benefits serious applicants from Iran who can meet the program’s compliance expectations.

Why is Dominica citizenship relevant for investors from Iran?

For many Iranian HNW and UHNW families, second citizenship is more than a mobility tool. It is a strategic response to sanctions pressure, banking restrictions, and visa limitations. 

Key reasons why Dominica is particularly relevant for Iranians:

1. Visa constraints. Iranian passport holders face some of the highest Schengen and UK refusal rates. A Dominica passport significantly reduces travel friction for business, family visits, and urgent trips.
2. Sanctions and banking risk. International banks often treat Iranian nationality as a high-risk factor. A second passport does not remove sanctions screening but helps reduce “country risk” perception in KYC procedures when accounts are opened outside the EU and UK.
3. Education and family security. Many Iranian families have children studying in Europe, North America, or the Gulf. Dominica citizenship simplifies travel, guardianship arrangements, and long-term planning.
4. Asset and currency protection. High inflation, restrictions on international transfers, and regulatory uncertainty in Iran make offshore diversification essential.
5. Remote and predictable process. Investors can complete the entire CBI procedure online — important for Iranians who may face travel restrictions.

11 advantages of Dominica citizenship by investment

Dominica’s program is one of the few reputable, established CBI options that explicitly accepts Iranian applicants, offering a predictable process and clear compliance framework. Below are the core advantages with additional context relevant to Iranian nationals.

1. Visa-free travel to more than 130 countries

Dominica citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations. This includes the Schengen Area, where they may stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period ^[114] Source: EU and Dominica — Short-stay visa waiver agreement , as well as Singapore, China and Hong Kong for short visits.

For Iranian investors, who often face significant delays and refusals in visa processes, this represents a major improvement in real-world mobility for business meetings, family visits and access to international events.

2. A straightforward route to citizenship

Dominica offers one of the simplest CBI frameworks: the application is handled entirely through licensed agents, and the government does not require physical presence at any stage.

This contrasts with programs such as Turkish citizenship, where investors must appear in person to lodge biometrics and complete the application. For Iranian applicants affected by travel restrictions or limited access to certain consulates, Dominica’s remote pathway is particularly advantageous.

3. Fast procedure

On average, investors receive their approval and passport in about six months, assuming the due diligence process is clear and the payment route has been properly structured.

For many Iranian families, especially those planning university enrolments, medical travel or time-sensitive business commitments, this predictable timeline is a key strength of the program.

4. Citizenship for the entire family

Dominica allows applicants to include a spouse, children, parents and grandparents. Additional family members can be added after the investor has already received citizenship, provided they meet program requirements.

Newborn children obtain citizenship by descent through a straightforward administrative process. This structure is appealing to Iranian families, who often seek solutions that support multi-generational planning.

5. A relatively affordable entry point

The minimum investment threshold is $200,000 ^[115] Source: Commonwealth of Dominica — Investment Options , which is lower than several comparable programs. For example, Egypt requires at least $250,000 and Türkiye starts at $400,000.

Even with Due Diligence fees for Iranian applicants, Dominica remains one of the most cost-efficient options among reputable CBI programs.

6. Dual citizenship is allowed

Dominica recognises dual citizenship and does not require applicants to renounce their existing nationality. This is important for Iranian investors, as renunciation of citizenship is not a practical or desired option for most families.

7. Tax optimisation opportunities

Dominica tax residents do not pay capital gains tax, inheritance tax or tax on worldwide income. To become a tax resident, one must spend more than 183 days in the country ^[116] Source: Dominica Inland Revenue — Tax residence and rates .

While most Iranian investors do not intend to relocate permanently, the option of flexible tax planning can be useful for structuring international assets.

8. Long-term US tourist visa options

Dominica citizens are eligible to apply for a 10-year B-1/B-2 US Visitor Visa, allowing visits of up to 180 days per year.

Iranian nationals often face heightened scrutiny when applying for US visas with their original passport. Holding a Dominica passport typically leads to a more streamlined process, although approval is still subject to US security checks.

9. Business opportunities within the Caribbean region

As a member of CARICOM’s common external tariff arrangement, Dominica benefits from duty-free trade across a bloc of 15 countries, including Jamaica, Haiti and the Bahamas ^[117] Source: CARICOM — Dominica member profile .

While most Iranian investors will not relocate their enterprises to the Caribbean, the citizenship can support the establishment of their business reputation internationally.

10. Access to British universities

As part of the Commonwealth of Nations, Dominica provides its citizens with certain advantages when studying in the UK, including more streamlined procedures and supportive residence pathways.

For Iranian families prioritising education in the UK or Europe, this is a practical, long-term benefit.

11. Guaranteed right of entry at any time

Citizens of Dominica can enter the country at any time, even during border closures for foreign nationals.

In an unpredictable geopolitical climate, many Iranian families value the stability and international recognition that come with Dominica citizenship. 

Dominica is often referred to as the Nature Island of the Caribbean, known for its unspoilt forests, volcanic springs and clear coastal waters. While most Iranian applicants pursue citizenship primarily for mobility and regulatory advantages rather than relocation, the country’s stability and natural environment add to the overall appeal of the status.

Disadvantages of Dominica citizenship

A second passport can reduce visa barriers and improve banking perceptions, but it does not remove all geopolitical, regulatory or sanctions-related challenges. The points below outline the most relevant constraints for investors from Iran so they can plan their strategy with realistic expectations.

No visa-free entry to the United States

Dominica citizens must still apply for a B-1/B-2 tourist visa before travelling to the United States. While many applicants find the process more straightforward with a Dominica passport than with an Iranian one, US security and sanctions checks continue to apply, and approval is not guaranteed. 

Iranian nationals should therefore view the Dominica passport as an improvement in procedure, not a bypass of U.S. screening.

Limited opportunities for work and business in Dominica

Dominica is a small island state with a modest labour market and limited industrial base. It ranks 114th out of 203 countries by GDP per capita, and its economy relies heavily on tourism and agricultural exports.

For Iranian investors, Dominica citizenship should be seen primarily as a mobility, compliance and diversification tool, not as a platform for relocating a business or seeking local employment. Most Iranian applicants continue to base their commercial activity in the UAE, Türkiye, Qatar or Europe.

Double taxation considerations

Dominica has double taxation avoidance agreements with the United States and CARICOM member states ^[118] Source: CARICOM — Double Taxation Agreement . For Iranian investors, the implications depend entirely on their actual tax residency, which is separate from citizenship. 

Holding a Dominica passport does not automatically change one’s tax status, and Iranian nationals who maintain tax residence in Iran, the UAE or another jurisdiction must structure their affairs accordingly. Professional tax advice is recommended for complex cases.

Additional note for Iranian applicants: banking and sanctions compliance

While not a disadvantage of the citizenship itself, Iranian investors should note that global sanctions and banking policies still apply, even with a Dominica passport.

Enhanced Due Diligence, documentation of source of funds, and pre-approved payment routes remain essential steps. A second passport improves perception of country risk but does not eliminate underlying regulatory obligations.

How to obtain Dominica citizenship?

Dominica grants citizenship by investment of at least $200,000. Applicants may choose between two options: a non-refundable contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund or the purchase of government-approved real estate.

Non-refundable contribution

Investor funds go to the Economic Diversification Fund, which supports socio-economic projects. Program revenue has been used to build an international airport, renovate primary and secondary schools, and restore infrastructure damaged by hurricanes.

The required contribution depends on the number of applicants:

• $200,000 for a single applicant;
• $250,000 for a family of four.

If a citizenship application includes more than 5 people, the investor must add an additional $25,000 for each child under 18. For each child aged 18 or older, as well as for each parent, the additional amount is $40,000.

Purchase of government-approved real estate

The value of the property, or the share in a property, must be at least $200,000. In addition, the investor pays a government fee of $75,000 for a single applicant or $100,000 for a family of four. The fee increases for each additional family member from the fifth applicant:

• by $25,000 for each child under 18;
• by $40,000 for each parent or each child aged 18 or over.

The real estate option is refundable. The property may be sold three years after citizenship is granted.

Additional costs

Besides the investment, applicants pay for the application processing fee, Due Diligence checks, the mandatory interview, and the issuance of the naturalisation certificate.

Requirements for applicants for Dominica citizenship by investment

Citizenship is available to foreign nationals over the age of 18 who have lawful income, no criminal record, and no serious medical conditions.

Family members of the investor may also obtain citizenship. The application may include:

• spouse;
• children up to and including 30 years old;
• parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents over 65.

All additional applicants must be financially dependent on the investor.

A citizenship application may be refused if an applicant has violated the visa regime of the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, or Canada, has committed an offence and received a criminal conviction, cannot prove the source of their funds, or poses a reputational or national security risk to Dominica.

Dominica accepts citizenship applications from Iranian nationals. However, they are subject to Enhanced Due Diligence considering the country's classification as a higher-risk jurisdiction. All applicants aged 16 and over must complete a mandatory online interview, during which they may be asked detailed questions about their business activities, travel history, source of funds, and any potential exposure to sanctions.

Iranian applicants should also be prepared for:

• more extensive documentation relating to source of wealth and source of funds, including corporate records and audited financial statements;
• higher due diligence fees, as standard DD fees do not apply to specified jurisdictions;
• strict sanctions screening, even if the applicant resides outside Iran;
• the need to use a pre-approved payment route, typically through banks located in jurisdictions with acceptable compliance profiles.

Applications may be declined if enhanced checks reveal inconsistencies in financial documentation, undisclosed business links to sanctioned sectors, or other factors that create reputational or national-security concerns.

Pros and cons of Dominica citizenship by investment

Criterion	Advantages	Disadvantages
Investor requirements	Any foreign national over 18 from a non-sanctioned country may apply.	One must prove lawful income, good health, and the absence of a criminal record.
Process	The procedure is fully remote; the investor does not need to visit Dominica.	The application must be submitted through a licensed agent. Applicants aged 16 and over must attend an interview.
Eligible family members	The investor may include a spouse, children, parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.	Age limits apply: children up to 30 inclusive; parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents over 65. The investor must confirm financial dependence.
Validity	Citizenship is granted for life.	The passport must be renewed every 10 years, or every five years for children under 16.

Key points about Dominica citizenship by investment

1. Dominica citizenship by investment is available to foreign nationals over 18 who have lawful income, good health, and no criminal record. Iranian applicants are accepted, but they undergo Enhanced Due Diligence and a mandatory interview as part of the compliance process.
2. Dominica also grants citizenship to an investor’s family members: a spouse, children up to and including 30 years old, and parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents over 65. 
3. The processing time for Dominica citizenship by investment is six months, and the procedure is completed remotely, including the interview. This is particularly convenient for Iranian applicants who may face travel restrictions or lengthy visa processes.
4. The minimum investment is $200,000. Applicants choose one of two options: a non-refundable contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund or the purchase of approved real estate. Iranian applicants should also budget for higher EDD fees and ensure a compliant, pre-approved route for international payments.
5. A Dominica passport is valid for 10 years and must then be renewed. Citizenship is lifelong, and there is no requirement to live in the country to maintain the status, an important advantage for Iranian investors who primarily seek mobility, banking flexibility and long-term security rather than relocation.