Registering a company in the Dominican Republic is not as complicated as many people think, but it does require organization, knowledge of the requirements, and compliance with a series of legal procedures. Formalizing your business not only provides legal certainty, but also opens the door to bank financing, contracts with large companies, and tax benefits.
In this guide, we show you step by step how to register a company in the Dominican Republic in 2025, including estimated costs, timelines, and practical recommendations to help you start on the right foot.
Basic Legal Requirements
Before starting the process, you must have the following documents and conditions ready:
- Identification documents of the shareholders:Dominican ID or valid passport.
- Defined corporate purpose:Clearly state the business activities your company will engage in.
- Minimum share capital:Although there is no high mandatory minimum, the law requires the capital to be defined in the bylaws. In practice, many companies start with RD$100,000 or more.
- Drafting of the company bylaws:These outline the rights and obligations of shareholders, ownership structure, and operating rules of the company.
Procedures Before the Mercantile Registry
This is the first official step to give your company legal existence.
- Trade Name Registration
You must reserve the company name with the National Office of Industrial Property (ONAPI). This ensures that no other company can use your business name. - Filing of Incorporation Documents
Once the bylaws and incorporation documents are prepared, they must be filed with the corresponding Chamber of Commerce. - Obtaining the Mercantile Registry Certificate
After approval by the Chamber of Commerce, you will receive the Mercantile Registry Certificate, which officially confirms the legal existence of your company.
Obtaining the RNC and Registration with the DGII
The National Taxpayer Registry (RNC) is essential for operating legally.
- Procedure:The RNC is requested from the General Directorate of Internal Taxes (DGII) using the Mercantile Registry Certificate and shareholder information.
- Tax obligations:Once you have an RNC, your company is required to file monthly tax returns (ITBIS, withholdings, etc.) and annual tax returns (Income Tax – ISR).
Registration with the TSS and Ministry of Labor
Any company with employees must comply with labor regulations:
- Registration with the Social Security Treasury (TSS):Employees are enrolled to ensure health insurance and pension coverage.
- Registration with the Ministry of Labor:A mandatory step for proper labor compliance.
Estimated Costs and Timelines
- Trade name reservation (ONAPI): approx. RD$5,000.
- Mercantile Registry (Chamber of Commerce): Cost varies depending on share capital.
- Obtaining the RNC (DGII): No direct cost, but it creates ongoing tax obligations.
- TSS and Ministry of Labor registration: No government fees, except for professional service fees if applicable.
Estimated timeline: Between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on processing speed and whether you have professional assistance.
Benefits of Having an Accounting Advisor
Many entrepreneurs try to complete the process on their own, but in reality, mistakes during incorporation can delay operations for months or lead to penalties.Working with an accounting advisor offers clear advantages:
- Time savings and error reduction:An expert knows each step and avoids document rejections.
- Tax compliance:Ensures your company operates smoothly with the DGII and other authorities.
- Tax optimization:A specialized accountant can help you take advantage of incentives such as CONFOTUR or special tax regimes depending on your business activity.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a company in the Dominican Republic?
The average cost is around USD 700, depending on the company’s share capital.
How long does the process take?
Between 2 and 4 weeks under normal conditions.
Can it be done online?
Some steps can be completed online; however, most procedures still require in-person processing or representation by an authorized agent.
Ready to Take the Big Step and Formalize Your Business in the Dominican Republic?
At Gadax we support you at every stage—from legal procedures to tax strategy. Contact us today and register your company with confidence and without complications.
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