When traveling to the Dominican Republic, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if you require a work permit. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to the Dominican Republic, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend a business meeting
• » Tour a company facility
• » Attend a trade show or seminar convention
• » Visit a project site for information purposes

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for the Dominican Republic?

All foreign nationals must obtain a Business Visa (NM) from a Dominican Embassy or Consulate prior to travel if they intend to conduct business activities while in the Dominican Republic. While visa exemptions are available, they may only be used for tourist activities.

What types of activities require a work permit?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Dominican law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in the Dominican Republic, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Hands-on training
• » Technical installations and maintenance work
• » Consulting
• » Auditing

If I am traveling to the Dominican Republic for work, what type of work permit do I need?

The requirements for a work permit depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in the Dominican Republic. The most common Dominican work permit is:

• » Business Visa for Work Purposes (NM1) and Temporary Residence Permit (long term work authorization)

Is it possible to be exempted from work permit requirements?

There are no work authorization exemptions based on nationality or specific industries in the Dominican Republic.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2019 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.