Punta Cana has become one of the most attractive destinations not only for vacationing but also for investing and starting a business.Every year, thousands of foreigners decide to establish businesses here, motivated by the growth of tourism, the real estate boom, and the country’s economic stability.
The good news is that in the Dominican Republic, foreigners have the same opportunities as locals to open a company, which makes Punta Cana an ideal place for those who want to diversify their investments and generate income in an expanding environment.
Legal requirements for foreigners
Opening a company in Punta Cana does not require Dominican citizenship, but you do need to comply with the legal steps:
- Define the type of business entity: SRL (very common), EIRL, or SA depending on your goals.
- Reserve a trade name with ONAPI.
- Mercantile Registry: through the local Chamber of Commerce.
- Obtain the RNC (National Taxpayer Registry) from the DGII.
- Register with TSS and the Ministry of Labor, if you will have employees.
👉 Foreigners can own 100% of a company in the Dominican Republic, with no need for local partners.
Key documents:
- Valid passport.
- Articles of incorporation and bylaws.
- Certified translation of documents (if not in Spanish).
- Power of attorney, if handled through a representative.
Costs and processing times
- Trade name reservation (ONAPI): approx. RD$5,000.
- Mercantile Registry: between RD$6,000 and RD$12,000 depending on share capital.
- Obtaining the RNC (DGII): free of charge.
- Legal and accounting fees: range between US$700 and US$2,000 depending on complexity.
⏳ Estimated time: 2 to 4 weeks, depending on how quickly documentation and professional support are provided.
Benefits for investors (Confotur)
One of the main attractions for foreigners is Law 158-01 for Tourism Development (Confotur), which offers tax exemptions of up to 15 years for tourism and real estate projects.
- Exemption from ITBIS on material purchases.
- Exemption from income tax on earnings and dividends.
- Exemption from property tax (IPI).
👉 If you plan to invest in hotels, villas, tourism real estate projects, or complementary services, Confotur can be a great ally.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in the DR?
Yes, there are no legal restrictions.
Is it necessary to reside in the DR to open a company?
No, but having residency or a business visa makes it easier to open bank accounts and carry out local operations.
Are you a foreigner looking to invest in Punta Cana? At Gadax, we simplify the process so you can open your company without legal or tax concerns. Let us be your trusted partner in the Dominican Republic.
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