Buying Land in Dominica: Alien Landholding Licence, Conveyancing & CBI Guide (2026)
Complete legal guide to buying real estate in the Commonwealth of Dominica: Title by Registration Act, Alien Landholding exemptions, government taxes, and CBI property rules.
Known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” the Commonwealth of Dominica attracts eco-tourism developers, diaspora returnees, and international investors participating in its renowned Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. Purchasing land in Dominica is governed by the Title by Registration Act (Chap. 56:50) and the Alien Landholding Regulation Act (Chap. 56:02).
1. The Torrens Land System: Title by Registration
Dominica operates a clean, reliable Torrens land registration system under the Title by Registration Act. Virtually all registered real estate is evidenced by an indefeasible Certificate of Title issued by the High Court Registry in Roseau. When land is sold, the vendor executes a formal Memorandum of Transfer, and the Registrar of Titles cancels the old certificate and issues a fresh Certificate of Title in the purchaser’s name.
2. Do Foreign Buyers Need an Alien Landholding Licence in Dominica?
Under the Alien Landholding Regulation Act, Dominica provides generous statutory exemptions for foreign buyers (non-citizens):
- Up to 1 Acre for Residential Use (No Licence Needed!): A foreign national may purchase up to one (1) acre of land for residential purposes without having to apply for an Alien Landholding Licence, though the 10% Alien Landholding Fee is still payable unless exempt.
- Up to 3 Acres for Commercial/Business Use (No Licence Needed!): A foreign buyer may acquire up to three (3) acres of land for trade or business purposes without a prior licence.
- Exceeding 1 Acre (Residential) or 3 Acres (Commercial): If you wish to purchase larger acreage, you must submit a formal application to Cabinet for an Alien Landholding Licence prior to acquiring title.
- OECS & Qualifying CBI Citizens: Citizens of OECS member states and investors acquiring approved real estate projects under Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program enjoy special statutory exemptions from Alien Landholding Licence requirements.
3. Breakdown of Government Taxes & Closing Costs in Dominica
Dominica requires statutory transfer fees based on the higher of the purchase price or the Government Valuation Engineer’s official market valuation:
| Statutory Fee / Tax | Statutory Rate | Paid By |
|---|---|---|
| Stamp Duty (Purchaser) | 4.0% of property value | Paid by Purchaser |
| Stamp Duty (Vendor’s Fee) | 2.5% of property value | Paid by Vendor |
| Judicial Fee (Court Registry) | 2.5% of property value | Paid by Purchaser |
| Assurance Fund Contribution | 1.0% of property value | Paid by Purchaser |
| Legal / Solicitor Fees | 3.0% of property value + 15% VAT | Paid by Purchaser |
| Alien Landholding Fee (Non-Citizens Only) | 10.0% of property value | Paid by Foreign Purchaser |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a Government Valuation required before closing in Dominica?
In Dominica, Stamp Duty and Judicial Fees are calculated on either the agreed purchase price or the official valuation assessed by the Lands and Surveys Division—whichever is higher. Your attorney will request a formal government inspection and valuation certificate during conveyancing.
Do returning Dominicans living in the UK, US, or Canada pay the 10% Alien Fee?
No. Citizens of Dominica (including those born in Dominica or holding Dominican citizenship by descent while also holding foreign citizenship) are not ‘aliens’ and are completely exempt from the 10% Alien Landholding Fee.
What is the minimum real estate investment for Dominica Citizenship by Investment (CBI)?
To qualify for citizenship under Dominica’s CBI real estate option, an applicant must purchase an interest in an approved government eco-resort or hotel development valued at a minimum of US $200,000 (plus statutory government CBI fees) and hold it for at least 3 to 5 years.
Join the discussion on our Community Forum Thread.
Comments