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Cost of Living in The DR: Let Your Dollar Go Further!

Cost of Living in The DR: Let Your Dollar Go Further!

Jan 20, 2022 | Expat Life, News, Relocating to the Dominican Republic

If you’ve been moving or retiring aboard, there’s no doubt that finances are likely among the top of your concerns when it comes to planning. It’s no secret that your budget plays a huge role in determining where you can settle down, and for many, this aspect of getting ready can often feel stressful.

Fortunately, for those looking to retire in a tropical paradise, the Dominican Republic is the perfect fit! With a low cost of living that makes affordable luxury an easy possibility, you really can have the lifestyle you’ve always wanted, all without pushing your budget too far. At Casa Linda Quality Communities, we know how important it is to feel confident when taking the leap to move abroad. That’s why our team is always here to make sure you have the information you need when it comes to moving to the Dominican Republic! Below, we’ll cover some of the cost of living essentials to be aware of when moving to the DR.

Buying a New Home

Whether you’re planning on relocating permanently or setting up a winter escape, it’s no surprise that everyone’s top priority when settling in the Dominican is ensuring you can find safe, affordable, housing. As we mentioned above, the lower overall cost of living in the Dominican Republic makes it easier to find a gorgeous home, without blowing through your savings. In fact, at Casa Linda, we’re proud to offer exceptional floor plans from as low as $207,300 USD. Affordable living is an easy reality with our community!

Utilities

Just like you do in North America or Europe, you will need to pay for the standard utilities that come with homeownership, as well as day to day essentials. The good news is, however, that utilities like water, electricity, and even your internet bill are usually significantly less than what you pay back home, with some costs coming in as low as just $50 USD a month! The only difference that you will want to be aware of is that the reality of island life is that power outages do happen frequently. With that being said, the purchase of a backup generator will keep you running smoothly even with little hiccups hit, minimizing your downtime and allowing you to enjoy life as usual.

 

cost of living in the dominican republic

Food

Groceries and eating out are another one of those daily essentials that you can expect to be quite happy about where your budget is concerned. While places all over the world may have seen a steep jump in the cost of food, in the DR, you can still expect to spend much less than you are accustomed to. From stocking the kitchen to eating out with your newfound friends, your can expect your food budget to be very affordable on all fronts.

Healthcare

Finally, moving is a big life decision, and it makes sense to want to know that you’ll have the care you need when it matters most. Whether you have existing health concerns or like to plan ahead for the future you’ll be pleased to learn that the Dominican Republic has exceptional healthcare that is incredibly accessible, as well as affordable. With state-of-the-art facilities and services available in both English and Spanish, you can rest easy knowing you’ll always have the help you need when it matters most.

Need more Info About Budgeting For Life Abroad?

Contact Casa Linda to learn more about purchasing your dream home in paradise today!

Work From Home in the Dominican Republic!

Work From Home in the Dominican Republic!

Sep 28, 2021 | Expat Life, News, Relocating to the Dominican Republic, Working in Dominican Republic

Have you spent the majority of 2020 and 2021 working from home and found yourself contemplating making the shift to “WFH life” a little more permanent? With recent events influencing a massive shift to remote working for many companies all around the world, more people than ever are experiencing the benefits that come with a flexible workspace. Whether you’re an entrepreneur that needs a change of pace or a remote-based worker that’s tired of being stuck staring at the same 4 walls, there’s never been a better time to seriously consider giving yourself the ultimate office upgrade: the Dominican Republic.

As a foreign investment-friendly country that loves to welcome newcomers to our sunny shores, the DR is an ideal locale for those who wish to work from home while enjoying the benefits of settling down in paradise. At Casa Linda, we’re happy to help expatriates from all over the world explore their potential and create a new life on the island, complete with their very own custom villa to call home. If you’ve been considering working from home in the DR, below are a few logistics you’ll need to keep in mind. Read on to learn more!

dominican republic working from home

Visas Are Necessary

For all non-residents, you will need a work visa in order to legally conduct business on Dominican soil. At present, there are two kinds of work visas available: one that allows either one entry for 60 days or multiple entries for one year (only for a maximum of two consecutive months at a time) or a full-on business visa that is issued for up to one year. The latter is preferable for those wishing to work on a fixed-term contract as it allows you to do everything you’ll need to in order to operate fully, including getting a driver’s license, opening a bank account, etc.

Residency Permits

For anyone intending to working in the DR for more than 2 months, you will also need to obtain a temporary residency permit for work purposes. These are relatively easy to obtain, and give you all the same rights as legal citizens under the Labor Code, including allowing you to register in the country’s Social Security System and access social services. It’s important to note that obtaining a residency permit also means you will need to pay taxes back to the country as well. Depending on your income, you can expect to pay 15 to 25% income tax, which will be withheld and paid by employers or, as a self-employed operator, you will be required to pay these taxes on your own.

You Must Have a Written Contract

The DR also requires you to obtain a written contract from your employer containing your contract terms, compensation details, and grounds for termination. This contract must be signed and two copies will be filed with the labour department.

Know Your Rights

As with employment anywhere in the world, it’s important to remember that you have rights as an employee. It may surprise you to learn that you’ll have access to the same labour rights as Dominican Nationals, including the right to unionize, strike, bargain, to a minimum wage, to limited work hours and to specific health and safety regulations. Protect yourself by familiarizing yourself with these rights, and never be afraid to take a stand for your well-being!

Are you ready to learn more about working and living in the Dominican Republic? Take a look at our expat resources here and contact Casa Linda today!

Six Frequently Asked Questions About Living in the Dominican Republic

Six Frequently Asked Questions About Living in the Dominican Republic

Jul 26, 2021 | Dominican Republic Retirement, Dominican Republic Villas, News

Are you and your loved one eagerly planning your retirement? Congratulations! Retirement is an incredibly exciting accomplishment and gives you the chance to enter a new stage of life with plenty of time to explore your passions and undertake a new adventure without the stress associated with full-time working. Many couples opt to use this newfound freedom as an opportunity to travel abroad and even permanently relocated to a new, warmer location. As one of the most popular destinations for expatriates from all over the world, the Dominican Republic is a safe, stable country that offers plenty of benefits for couples to enjoy once they settle down. With miles of white sandy beaches, daily temperatures that average 85°F (28°C) and a welcoming community that makes it easy to feel at home, it’s no wonder that retirees love the Dominican Republic. Casa Linda is happy to welcome homeowners to our beautiful “backyard” and help them settle into life in the Dominican Republic. Learn more about retiring in the DR, as well as Casa Linda’s villas, below!

Peace of Mind in Paradise

Moving abroad is no small feat, and (understandably), one of the biggest concerns facing any expatriate is finding a new location that’s safe, affordable, and allows you to live life to the fullest with minimal concerns. The Dominican Republic is a safe and stable country that allows you to settle in comfortably and feel confident in your decision to move to the Caribbean. As one of the safest locales in the Caribbean, you can expect to live much the way you would at home, and when using the same general precautions you would anywhere else (i.e. avoiding walking around late at night with valuables, locking things away when not home, staying alert in new areas, etc), you’ll be just fine in your new home. For added security, Casa Linda Quality Communities feature 24/7 security on-site and diligent staff that is always ready to help if you need us. Simply put, when settling down in our communities, you’ll have everything you need to feel at home.

As far as economy and political structure, you can rest easy in the knowledge that the Dominican is incredibly stable. The Dominican Republic has a dependable government that, over the past 20+ years, has focused on growing the country and ensuring that all residents have access to vital resources. With economic and political stability, as well as dependable infrastructure all a hallmark of life in the Dominican, it’s no wonder that the country is a preferred place for those looking for a new place to live.

retiring in the dominican republic

Healthcare You Can Count On

Your personal wellbeing is important, and so it’s completely understandable that expatriates are highly concerned with relocating to a country that has a medical system that is up to date and able to provide them with quality care at affordable rates. Fortunately, the Dominican not only offers dependable healthcare but is home to a world-class system that includes state-of-the-art facilities and leading experts that provide care in both English and Spanish. Best of all, many new residents are pleased to find that healthcare here is extremely affordable and wait times for procedures are typically much faster than what you’re accustomed to back home.

Sunny Weather All Year Round

If you’re tired of long, unrelenting winters and are looking forward to settling into a much warmer locale, the Dominican Republic has you covered. With over 200 days of sun each year and daily temperatures that are sure to put a smile on your face, you’ll be able to wave goodbye to snow and colder temperatures in no time.

Choose A Casa Linda Villa For Your Next Home

With 10 floor plans available ranging from 2-bedroom bungalows to large homes featuring up to 5-bedrooms, there’s a custom villa available in Casa Linda for everyone. Each of our custom-built homes includes your very own swimming pool, landscape services, and plenty of options for customization. Relax in a professional community designed with your comfort in mind, and soak up the tranquil atmosphere of the island, one day at a time, all with the help of our talented staff.

Ready To Learn More?

Casa Linda is one of the most in-demand gated communities in the Dominican. Find out why we’re the perfect fit for you by contacting our team today!

4 Cost of Living Perks in the Dominican Republic!

4 Cost of Living Perks in the Dominican Republic!

Jun 28, 2021 | Expat Life, News, Relocating to the Dominican Republic

Are you considering making the move from recreational sunseeker or perennial snowbird to a permanent resident of paradise? Settling down abroad can be an incredible way to improve your quality of life and start a brand new adventure that brings plenty of personal fulfilment for you to explore. With miles of stunning coastline, crystal blue oceans and breathtaking beauty around every corner -not to mention endless sunny days and warm weather- it’s no surprise that the Dominican Republic is one of the most coveted spots to relocate to for expatriates from all over the world.

The north end of the island, where Casa Linda’s communities are located is shielded during hurricane season, offers affordable housing, and has plenty of benefits for residents, including a much lower cost of living. If you’ve been looking into the realities of moving abroad, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn just how affordable life in the Dominican Republic can be. Below, we’ll highlight four areas where you can expect to save when living on the island!

Housing

It comes as no surprise that one of the biggest reasons people choose to relocate to the Dominican Republic is our affordable housing. If you’ve ever dreamed about retiring on the beach and spending the rest of your days in a beautiful custom villa that’s built exactly to your specifications, Casa Linda is here to help make it a reality. Our 10 custom villas are available at very approachable price points (starting as low as $185,000 USD) and have endless ways to tailor your floor plan to your exact tastes. With affordable living at your fingertips, you never have to worry about compromising on quality or safety when moving abroad!

dominican republic cost of living

Healthcare

Did you know that the Dominican Republic has a world-class healthcare system featuring high-end facilities, leading medical experts and service in both English and Spanish? If your answer is no, you’re not alone! Healthcare is often one of the biggest surprise perks for potential ex-pats, and they’re even more excited when they find out that the cost for health insurance can be as low as $1200 a year per couple. Exceptional care at low costs gives immense peace of mind, especially for those that may have existing medical conditions or are highly concerned with planning for the future.

Food

The benefits of living on a tropical island is that fresh produce and even your meat and dairy are often much cheaper than back home. New residents are often pleased to see just how much their weekly grocery bill drops and how much farther their budget can go. Best of all, you’ll even find many of your favourite treats in stores here as well!

Daily Essentials

Much like food and groceries, other essentials like power, water, internet and even cell phone service tends to be much cheaper than the rates that many are accustomed to. This is fantastic news for anyone looking to make their dollar go farther and hoping to extend their ability to enjoy their time in paradise.

Discover Affordable Living in the Dominican Republic Today

Are you ready to make your island dreams a reality? Contact Casa Linda today to learn more about our homes and community in the Dominican Republic!

 

Common Questions about Dominican Republic Permanent Residency

Common Questions about Dominican Republic Permanent Residency

Jun 28, 2021 | Expat Life, News, Relocating to the Dominican Republic

Have you been contemplating saying goodbye to winter for good? Whether you’re a seasoned snowbird or have simply had your fill of busy cities, cold weather, and a hectic lifestyle, the Dominican Republic is one of the world’s most beautiful locales to settle down and start a new chapter in life. Perfect for retirees, savvy property investors, and those who want to take advantage of many companies deciding to make the work from home shift permanent, the Dominican Republic is a sunny oasis full of beauty and tranquillity for residents to enjoy all year round. If you’ve been seriously considering making the move abroad, below are common questions that you’ll need to know the answers to about obtaining residency status and living in the DR. Read on to learn more!

Do I Need to Become a Permanent Resident?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions the team here at Casa Linda answers, and for an understandable reason. Moving abroad is a complicated process, and with many eventual long-term residents choosing to start out as snowbirds, the answer isn’t always as straightforward as one would think. Generally speaking, if you plan to remain in the country for more than 3 months at a time (the length of a government-issued tourist visa), yes, you will need to look at getting your permanent residency (PR). Permanent residency not only allows you to stay in the country indefinitely but also entitles you to a wealth of benefits (more on that shortly) given only to residents and makes it easier to conduct business transactions as needed.

dominican republic permanent residency

Is it Complicated to Get My PR?

Yes and no. The good news for anyone pursuing official residency within the Dominican is that the process is, as a whole, pretty straightforward. Even though it can be time-consuming, with the right legal assistance you should be able to navigate the process with minimal headaches and few problems along the way. At the start, you’ll need to apply for temporary (provisional) residence upon arriving in the DR (NOTE: you must do so within 6 days of arrival). This provisional residency allows you to remain in the country for up to a year at a time and permits you to work while residing in the country if necessary, which is particularly essential for anyone looking to be able to maintain their job abroad under WFH circumstances.

Once the initial year has passed, you can renew your provisional residency for a total of 4 years, and then, once that 4 year period is completed, you then typically become eligible to apply for PR status. The in-between time period can be used to collect the various documents required for your PR application and give you time to ensure that everything is submitted properly (mistakes can lead to denial and/or significant delays). Documents you will be expected to submit include:

  • Bank statements for the last three months.
  • Two frontal photos (2×2).
  • Lab Test (HIV, drug test) and a letter from a doctor stating that you do not have communicable diseases. For those already in the D.R., we provide information on facilities that perform the medical test and provide the medical certificate.
  • Birth certificate (apostille or legalized).
  • Certificate of good conduct from the police (apostille or legalized).
  • Copy of valid passport.
  • Provide the required documentation according to the visa category. (Work, retired, investment, married to a Dominican or a resident; proof that you have been living in the country for a long period). If you are a missionary or NGO you will need a letter confirming your status from your organization.

It’s important to note that you must pay attention to all details on the above documents and ensure that they are sent to the right locations in order to avoid complications. Working with a skilled immigration lawyer will make it easier to sort through all documents and avoid costly errors, as well as help you stay on top of the overall progress of your application.

What Are the Benefits of Receiving My PR?

Aside from being able to legally live in the country, receiving your PR gives you access to a more favourable tax structure (including avoiding the 50% surcharge on estate taxes), allows you to work within the country, and conduct important business transactions such as getting bank loans and applying for credit. The Dominican Republic is incredibly welcoming to foreign investors and new residents, and receiving your PR truly is the best way to make the most of your life abroad and gain peace of mind.

Want More Information?

Casa Linda is here to help! If you’re ready to live your dream life in paradise and build the dream villa that you’ve always wanted. Contact us today.