The Nature Island — Rainforests, Volcanoes & Caribbean Wilderness
Dominica taxes individuals on the basis of residence and source rather than citizenship. Genuine residents are subject to Dominican income tax, but there is no capital gains, inheritance, estate or wealth tax, and non-domiciled individuals often benefit from favourable treatment of foreign income. Holding citizenship without living there does not create tax liability on worldwide income.
The standard VAT rate is 15%, with a reduced 10% rate for hotel accommodation and zero-rating or exemption for basic foods, certain medicines, education, financial services and exports.
No. Dominica levies no capital gains tax and no inheritance, estate, gift or net-wealth tax, which is a major part of its appeal to internationally mobile individuals.
The personal allowance is EC$30,000 per year, so income up to that threshold is not subject to personal income tax. Above it, progressive rates of 15%, 25% and 35% apply.
Yes. Dominica Social Security contributions are separate from income tax and are shared between employer and employee, funding pensions and other benefits.
Public healthcare is heavily subsidised and low-cost, especially primary care through community health centres, but it is not entirely free — there are nominal charges for many services, and residents are expected to contribute. Private care is paid out of pocket or via insurance.
Yes, it is strongly advised. Dominica's facilities handle routine and moderate care well, but serious or specialised cases are often referred off-island. A policy that includes international coverage and medical evacuation is highly recommended for relocators.
The primary acute-care hospital is the Dominica–China Friendship Hospital in Roseau. District hospitals in Portsmouth and Marigot and community health centres provide care elsewhere on the island.
Common medications are available in Roseau pharmacies, but availability of specialised drugs can be inconsistent. Bring a sufficient supply and a doctor's letter, and identify a reliable pharmacy soon after arriving.
Yes, Dominica is generally safe with low violent crime by regional standards. Take normal precautions against petty theft. The most significant day-to-day risks come from the tropical environment — hurricanes, flash floods and landslides during the wet season.
In urban areas tap water supplied by DOWASCO is generally potable, and Dominica is one of the most water-rich islands in the world. After heavy rain, water can become temporarily cloudy, so many residents filter or store water as a precaution.
Local food, fish and rum are affordable, but imported goods, electronics, vehicles and electricity are expensive because nearly everything is shipped in. Eating and living locally keeps costs moderate; importing a Western lifestyle raises them significantly.
It helps, given the mountainous terrain and dispersed villages, but the minibus network connects Roseau with most areas cheaply during the day. If you drive, you need a visitor's or local permit and should be comfortable with steep, winding roads.