Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about living on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic.

  • Yes. There are regular direct flights from major U.S. and Canadian cities to airports on the North Coast.

  • No visa is required for U.S., Canadian, and Western European countries.

  • You simply pay a modest overstay fee when exiting the country—no major penalties for overstays.

  • The Dominican Peso is the official currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted in most areas.

    Other foreign currencies are not generally accepted, so visitors from outside the U.S. should be prepared to exchange currency either in their home country or at one of the many currency exchange locations in the Dominican Republic.

  • Yes. High-speed internet and Wi-Fi are widely available, including fiber internet in many areas.

  • Power outages are not uncommon, but electricity is generally reliable and most modern developments include backup generators.

  • Yes. The North Coast has a large and active expat community from the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Many expats open restaurants featuring cuisine from their home countries where communities gather socially.

  • Close to half compared to the U.S., Canada, and Europe, especially for real estate, services, dining, and property maintenance.

  • Yes. Foreigners have the same property ownership rights as Dominican citizens.

  • Yes. Full-service property management is widely available for rentals and maintenance.

  • Due to geographical and environmental factors, hurricanes do not directly impact the North Coast.

  • Yes. The North Coast has a welcoming mix of locals and expats, with many social opportunities to connect.

  • There are beach bars with live music and dancing, rooftop lounges, bachata and salsa nights, merengue and reggaetón clubs, DJ beach parties, karaoke bars, casino nights, sports bars, Latin dance classes, catamaran parties, local festivals and carnivals, food truck nights, artisan markets, language exchange meetups, expat networking events, yoga and wellness groups, cooking classes, and community sports events throughout the area.

  • The North Coast of the Dominican Republic is generally considered safe by international travel standards. Most people find it significantly safer and more relaxed than many major cities around the world. Resort areas in the Dominican Republic are well-known safe travel destinations.

  • Yes. There are modern private clinics and hospitals with high-quality care at lower costs than in North America and Europe. Many doctors are trained in the U.S. and Europe.

  • Tap water is not recommended for drinking, similar to many major cities worldwide. Bottled and purified water is inexpensive and readily available.

  • Yes. Short-term and long-term rentals are popular and common. Many owners generate income while away.

  • Policies vary by development, but most properties allow vacation rentals.

  • Yes. Residency is available through a straightforward application process and offers benefits such as longer stays and local identification.

  • Yes, with proper documentation. Many foreigners maintain both local and international accounts.

  • Yes. Many expats and property owners work remotely thanks to reliable internet and convenient time zone alignment with North America.

  • Absolutely. The North Coast offers year-round warm weather and activities. With outdoor adventures, local attractions, and social events always happening, there is something to enjoy in every season.

  • Yes. The area offers modern supermarkets, local markets, and shopping centers with a wide variety of international goods.