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
Minimum required stay
Turkey
Citizenship
from $400,000
8 months
None
None
Vanuatu
Citizenship
from $130,000
3 months
None
None
Egypt
Citizenship
from $250,000
8 months
None
None
Grenada
Citizenship
from $235,000
6 months
Up to 90 days within 180 days
None
Dominica
Citizenship
from $200,000
4 months
Up to 90 days within 180 days
None
Saint Lucia
Citizenship
from $240,000
10–12 months
Up to 90 days within 180 days
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
Personalised Cost Breakdown for Program Participation
Thanks to their Dominican citizenship, the family can now legally live and work in any member country of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) — including Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Kitts & Nevis, Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago.
They have diversified their banking and investment options and benefit from Dominica’s tax-friendly system, which exempts foreign income from taxation. Most importantly, Tom and Sarah now have a secure plan for their children’s future — providing educational, investment, and lifestyle freedom.
Key Benefits of Dominican Citizenship by Investment
Processing time: 3–5 months
No residency or visit required
Family inclusion (children up to 30 years old)
Visa-free access to 140+ countries
No taxes on worldwide income, inheritance, or property
Full confidentiality
One of the most affordable programs in the Caribbean
Why Choose Astons
Astons is a recognised leader in citizenship and residency by investment, with over 30 years of experience.
We guide clients through every stage — from consultation to passport delivery — ensuring legal compliance, transparency, and efficiency.
Contact our experts for a free consultation — we’ll find the best investment immigration solution for your needs.
Maximum Freedom
Citizenship by Investment
Antigua & Barbuda
Citizenship
from $230,000
~8 months
Processing time
Non-refundable contribution / real estate investment
Visa-free travel to 150+ countries, including the UK and Schengen states
MOST AFFORDABLE CARIBBEAN PROGRAM FOR LARGE FAMILIES
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Susanna Uzakova
Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor
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