I don’t know if we’ll ever need to use this opportunity, but I definitely feel much calmer now — I know there’s always somewhere safe to go, or to send my children.
Tom S.
Software Engineer , US
PROFILE
Software Engineer & Family
| Applicant |
42 y.o. |
| Spouse |
39 y.o. |
| Children |
12, 9 y.o. |
goals
Client Requirements
- A backup plan in case of political instability
Background
Tom and Sarah are Americans working in IT and online education. They live in Seattle with their two children and hold active political views that differ from the current U.S. administration’s direction. This motivated them to explore alternative options in case the situation deteriorates.
After consulting with Astons experts, the couple chose Dominica — a country with a neutral foreign policy, a transparent and affordable investment program suitable for their family of four, a fast application process, and no taxes on global income.
Solution
During their first consultation, Astons specialists proposed several suitable citizenship programs, including Antigua & Barbuda, St. Lucia, and Grenada. The clients ultimately chose Dominica.
Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Program is one of the oldest and most trusted in the world. Its due diligence system is internationally recognized, and the country’s passport enjoys a strong global reputation. Compared to Grenada, Dominica’s compliance process is also more flexible.
Dominica does not require applicants to relocate or even visit the island — the entire process can be completed remotely.
There are two investment routes:
- Non-refundable donation starting from $200,000 (depending on family size)
- Real estate purchase from $200,000, plus a government fee of $75,000
The family chose the non-refundable contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) — the most straightforward and efficient route.
Their total contribution amounted to $250,000, plus government and administrative fees.
Astons handled the entire process: preparing documentation, organizing background checks, and representing the family before the Dominican government, as we are an officially licensed marketing agent for the program.
Step-by-Step Process of Obtaining Dominican Citizenship
1. Consultation with an Immigration Specialist
During the initial call, Tom and Sarah outlined their goals. The Astons expert explained the available citizenship options and legal requirements, ultimately recommending Dominica for its reliability and strong global standing.
2. Choosing the Investment Option
The family selected the non-refundable donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF), totaling $250,000 for four applicants.
3. Document Preparation
Astons’ lawyers conducted a preliminary eligibility assessment — 100% of clients who pass this stage successfully obtain citizenship.
- Passports of all applicants
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Educational documents (for the main applicant)
- FBI background check
- Proof of residence
- 12-month bank statement
- Proof of source of funds
- Passport photos
- Employment verification letter
- Resume
- Medical certificate
- Government forms (completed with Astons lawyers)
All documents were prepared in English, notarised, and apostilled with Astons’ assistance.
4. Application Submission
After a final review, the complete file was submitted through an authorized agent to Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Unit (CBIU).
5. Due Diligence Process
- Identity and financial background verification
- International records review (Interpol, World-Check, etc.)
- Sanctions and criminal record checks
Within two months, Tom and Sarah received an official approval letter.
6. Investment Payment
Upon approval, the family transferred the donation to the Economic Diversification Fund through secure banking channels under Astons’ supervision.
7. Issuance of Passports
Three weeks later, the family received their Certificates of Naturalisation and Dominican passports.
Comparison of Citizenship by Investment Programs
| Program |
Investment Threshold |
Processing Time |
Schengen Access |
Physical Presence Requirement |
|
Turkey
Citizenship
|
from $400,000 |
8 months |
None |
None |
|
Vanuatu
Citizenship
|
from $130,000 |
3 months |
None |
None |
|
Egypt
Citizenship
|
from $250,000 |
9 months |
None |
None |
|
Grenada
Citizenship
|
from $235,000 |
6 months |
None |
None |
|
Dominica
Citizenship
|
from $200,000 |
4 months |
None |
None |
|
Saint Lucia
Citizenship
|
from $240,000 |
10–12 months |
None |
None |
Investment Breakdown
EDF donation for a family of four
$250,000
| Due Diligence fees (for adults 16+) |
$11,500 |
| Application processing fee |
$1,000 |
| Government fees (passports, certificates, oath) |
$1,100 |
| Bank charges |
$405 |
|
Additional Costs:
|
|
| Astons service fees |
calculated upon request |
| Total: |
approximately $264,005 |