Clients are advised to obtain 3 certified or offical copies of thier birth certificate prior to their arrival in Santo Domingo. You will not need all three copies, but it is a good idea. Depending upon where you live and your local government office or health department, this may cost anywhere from $5 to $15 per official copy.
It is also highly suggested that a letter of good conduct from your local police department be obtained. While we have assisted clients that did not posess such a reference letter, it is a good idea to have a document indicating up-front that you do not have a criminal record in your home country. This helps with your own credibility. A to "whom it may concern" letter stating your lack of a criminal record is sufficient.
Clients will also be required to take a general physical, chest x-ray and aids test, which is quick and inexpensive.
Upon completion of all paperwork, and aproval, the client will receive a temporary residence card. This process can take anywhere from 60 to 90 days. This card is normally valid for six months, but we have seen validation dates of up to 12 months on some. Regardless of the expiration date on your temporary resident card, you will have the right to live and work in the Dominican Republic. You will also have the right to leave the country whenever you wish and re-enter with your temporary residence document (you will not need a tourist card or toursit visa to re-enter).
Six months from the issuance of your temporary card, you will receive your official residence card or "Cedula", which is valid for one year. Upon completion of that initial one year period, you will re-new your residence for a second year. Upon completion of this second year period, you can become formally nationalized and obtain your Dominican Passport. All told, you would have obtained the immediate right to live and work in the Dominican Republic (or own a business), with a legititmate and official government issued passport after about 2 1/2 years from the date you started. All told, for under $3,000, it is a very good deal.
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