While many surrounding countries offer special work visas, Dominica has permits that allow applicants to work for a specific period.

If the work lasts more than six months, the work permit can grant the worker automatic residency. Each work permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. Owners can renew their permits every year.

Dominica Work Permit Requirements

To apply for a work permit, employees need the following documents and information:

• Two completed copies of the work permit application
• A medical certificate stating that the applicant is healthy
• A written offer of employment - usually a letter from the employer confirming the role of the employee and accepting responsibility for him/her
• Police report
• Information about the vacancy and working conditions
• A return ticket to the applicant's country of residence or confirmation of the availability of funds to cover their return ticket
• Receipt confirming payment of the application fee
• Passport valid for at least six months
• Copy of the bio page of the passport
• Two passport-size photos
• Marriage certificate, if required
• Proof of tourist visa extension to cover waiting time
• Application fee payment  and copy of treasury receipt as proof of payment

The employment permit is issued by the Labor Department of the Ministry of National Security and Internal Affairs. To apply, employees must submit the above documents to the Department of Labor in Roseau.

The application process can take several months, so applicants should prepare accordingly for the waiting time.

Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have the right to live and work in the country without a visa on a long-term basis.

While most people must obtain a work permit, there are a few exceptions. Some workers who may be exempt from work permit requirements are:

• Qualified nationals subject to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Qualified Nationals Act.
• UN representatives.
• Representatives of other international and regional organizations in which Dominica participates.
• Accredited diplomats.
• Expatriates who work in the government.
• Ministers for Legal Affairs, Immigration and Labor.

Dominica has officially launched an extended visa program called "Work in Nature" (WIN), which provides the opportunity to work remotely for up to 18 months on the island. Dominica is well positioned to host professionals and entrepreneurs under the WIN program, which targets remote workers, digital savants, academics, families and vacationers looking for a healthy work-life balance.

The island offers high-speed Internet and technology services, modern medical facilities, educational opportunities for families, and opportunities to implement volunteer programs with non-governmental and private sector organizations. The program offers attractive incentives such as duty-free on selected goods and discounts from various service providers. Applications are available online and cost $100. Responses will be provided within seven days, and confirmed applicants will have a three-month grace period to move to Dominica. The visa costs US$800 for individuals and US$1,200 for families.