Moving to Dominica guide for expatriates
 

Dominica

Dominica

Dominica is part of the Caribbean chain of islands. While the same geographical features and especially the weather, Dominica displays a sense of uniqueness brought about by distinct blend of African, Carib, French and English influences. Here are some useful information to prep you before your travel. 


Dominica

Expat Clubs

There are no expat meet up clubs as such in Dominica and most expats communicate online through websites such as ExpatWoman.com.

International Schools 

Pioneer Preparatory School

The Pioneer Academy was formed through the dedication and commitment of a group of parents who wished to provide an enriched and stable learning environment for children. Established in 1997 as a non-profit organisation with open membership opportunities for parents and others, the school is entrusted to the vision of elected Trustees commonly devoted to the well-being and optimum development of children. They offer primary education from Kindergarten through to Grade 6. Through smaller class sizes, hands-on experience, individual attention, a broad curriculum, and highly qualified teachers, children are encouraged to become self-motivated learners, equipped with the skills necessary to face the world of tomorrow.

Address: P.O Box 1254, Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica

Tel: +767 449 9500

Fax: +767 448 5510

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.avirtualdominica.com

Local News in English

The Dominican

This is an English-language news site that brings local news, Sports and live radio streaming.

Website: www.thedominican.net

Country Information 

Location: Caribbean

Capital City: Roseau

Other Important Cities:

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$)

Language: Antillean Creole, France, English

Calling Code: +767

Internet TLD: .dm



Electricity: The country runs on 220V or 240V 50Hz. Electricity is provided by Dominica Electricity Services Ltd.

Address: P.O, Box 1593, 18 Castle Street, Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica

Tel: +767 255 6000, +767 448 2681

Fax: +767 448 5397

Website: www.domlec.dm/index.php/welcome



Emergency Numbers: 

Ambulance: 999

Fire: 999

Police: 999



Country Information

en.wikipedia.org



Country Study

lcweb2.loc.gov/frd


Embassy Information

embassy.goabroad.com/embassies-in/dominica

Residents Visa and Work Permit information

Foreigners may enter and stay in Dominica for a set period visa free. Passengers on tourist vessels like cruises also do not require a visa. Click here for a full list of exemptions>>



Documents Required (but not limited to)

  • Valid Passport
  • Valid return ticket
  • Sufficient funds to sustain oneself for length of time intended to stay
  • Local address

- from Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica site



For information on how to apply for a residence permit, click here>>

Accommodation

There are a number of options within the island that expats may choose from: Resorts, hotels and cottages/villas/apartments.



The resorts to choose from are; Jungle Bay Resort, 35 luxury cottages located amidst the rustic canopy of the jungle; Rosalie Bay Resort, a wellness facility at the foot of Morne Trois Pitons and Rosalie River; Secret Bay, set on a cliff-top overlooking the Caribbean with villas and bungalows.



Hotels are plentiful in Dominica. The best ones: La Flamboyant Hotel, a boutique hotel situated within Roseau, it’s hard to miss with its whimsical, colorful exterior; Zandolin Inn, the chic and petite hideaway with forest trails and ocean views.

For a more private accommodation, cottages, apartments and villas are also available. Top choices: Fire Fly Cottage, an exclusive villa, like bed and breakfast with upscale amenities; Cocoa Cottages, located in Roseau Valley, a 5 bedroom guest house and a tree house; Chez Ophelia, feature 5 traditional Dominican Cottages.



Discover Dominica Authority has a full listing of the available accommodations on the island.

Driving License

Expats must have a valid domestic license (from their home or host country) coupled with a local (Dominican) permit from the airport, rental agencies or the Traffic Division in Roseau.

Healthcare

Facilities are limited. The main hospital is Princess Margaret Hospital, it is equipped with general surgery and emergency facilities. There are also smaller hospitals and clinics spread throughout the island. It is highly advised to secure a comprehensive travel and health insurance that also covers medical evacuation for complicated medical cases.



Insurance Companies



Cigna Global Health Options

Cigna provides international insurance coverage for expats. International medical evacuation is also available in cases where emergency treatment must be sought outside of the host country.

Website: www.cignaglobal.com



Hospitals



Princess Margaret Hospital

Princess Margaret Hospital is the major trauma facility of Dominica, located in the northern Goodwill part of the capital, Roseau.

Tel: +767 448 2231, +767 448 5720



Grand Bay Hospital

Tel: +767 446 3706



Marigot Hospital

Tel: +767 445 7091



Portsmouth Hospital

Tel: +767 445 5237