Scamana Relocation Starter Kit

Scamana Relocation Starter Kit
Photo by Michal Balog / Unsplash

What every foreigner should know before moving to the Dominican Republic

1. Can Foreigners Own Land in the Dominican Republic

Yes — foreigners have the same property rights as Dominicans. However, all property must have a clear title (called a Certificado de Título) and an official land survey (deslinde).

Never rely solely on the seller’s word. Always hire a bilingual Dominican attorney to verify the documents and ensure no legal disputes are attached to the land.

2. Hidden Costs of Moving

Beyond your rent or home purchase, many new expats are surprised by extra relocation costs. These may include:

  • Attorney/legal fees for contracts or property registration
  • Import taxes for vehicles or furniture
  • Furnishing costs (many rentals are unfurnished)
  • Residency application fees
  • Health insurance (public options are limited)
  • Schooling, if relocating with children
  • Transportation (car rental or purchase)

Tip: Budget at least 15–25% more than your expected moving costs to allow for delays, surprises, or unexpected red tape.


3. Rental Scams to Avoid

Rental fraud is common, especially in tourist zones. Watch out for:

  • Fake listings with stolen photos
  • “Owners” who don’t have the legal title
  • Re-renters using Airbnb without authorization
  • Demands for wire transfers or deposits before you’ve seen the place

How to protect yourself:

  • Ask to see the landlord’s Dominican ID (cedula) and title
  • Request a bilingual lease that is notarized
  • Pay with traceable methods, not cash
  • Never commit to a long-term rental sight unseen

4. Residency & Legal Status

Most tourists are allowed to stay 30–60 days with a visa-on-arrival. But if you’re planning to:

  • Buy property
  • Enroll your children in school
  • Work remotely
  • Retire here full-time

…you should consider applying for temporary residency through an attorney. Requirements include:

  • Police background check from your home country
  • Medical exam
  • Proof of income
  • Bank statements or investment proof

Residency allows you to stay longer without penalty fees and simplifies things like car purchases and banking.

5. Local Red Flags for Foreigners

Some “friendly” locals may have ulterior motives. Here are red flags to watch for:

  • Love bombing: Locals you just met asking for financial help
  • Too-good-to-be-true deals: Property at 50% market price? Be cautious.
  • Unlicensed “agents” offering to handle legal processes
  • Verbal agreements only — always demand documentation
  • Guilt trips or cultural excuses like “that’s not how we do it here”

When in doubt, pause and ask a neutral expat or legal advisor for input.


6. Verified Resources

Don’t go it alone. Use Scamana’s Verified Business Directory to find:

  • Real estate agents
  • Attorneys
  • Property managers
  • Interpreters
  • Tour providers

🧭 Visit: www.scamana.com/directory to see vetted service providers you can trust.

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