In a bid to make Citizenship by Investment Program more attractive, the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica has simplified the addition of other family members, who can be included as dependants with the main applicant, on 24^th June, 2020. The new changes will allow adult children, parents, grandparents, and siblings to be added along with the main applicant. Under the new changes, a list of previously non qualifying dependants can now be added with the main applicant irrespective of the investment channel used. However, passing the due diligence checks to qualify is still mandatory for all dependants aged 16 years and above.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit responded to the changes as “exciting”. He added that these changes “are meant to accelerate family reunification in a world where togetherness, and the right to all be able to live in a safe, stable, and welcoming environment is more important than ever,".

According to the revised guidelines, the main applicant can now include a child between 18 to 30 years of age not necessarily attending a higher learning institution or even living with them. Similarly, parents and grandparents of the main applicant or their spouse’s no longer need to show they live with the main applicant. Under the new rules, demonstrating that the main applicant or their spouse supports the child, parent or grandparent is sufficient to qualify as an eligible dependant.

Another important guideline in the changes introduced a new 'sibling' category. The main applicant or spouse can now add biological or legally adopted siblings who are 18 years or above, single, and childless as qualifying dependant.

The Government of Dominica now allows children born and spouses married – after the main applicant receives citizenship of Dominica. These provisions are valid for main applicants as well as the dependants. Previously, there were limitations on new-born children, and no clear provisions on new spouses.

Due Diligence requirements will remain as it is, all dependents and applicants above 16 years and above must pass the check to qualify, exempting only the new born child.

Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program has been ranked as the best CIP in the world by FT's PWM magazine for three consecutive years. The program provides citizenship within 3 months giving economic citizens right to live, work, and study in Dominica, accessing its healthcare and education systems. A Dominica passport received after the grant of citizenship, extend visa-free travel benefits to as many as 130 countries.

Source: The Government of The Commonwealth of Dominica