The Caribbean island of Dominica, often called the “Nature Island,” has become an attractive option for global citizens seeking a peaceful, sustainable lifestyle in an English-speaking country. Whether you’re considering relocation for retirement, remote work, investment migration, or family life, safety is one of the most important factors. But is Dominica safe?
Let’s break it down. From crime rates and healthcare access to disaster preparedness and infrastructure, here’s what you need to know before making the move.
Crime in Dominica: What Relocators Need to Know
Violent Crime and Petty Theft
Dominica maintains a reputation as one of the safer Caribbean islands. According to the latest U.S. State Department travel advisory (Level 1), the island is considered low-risk, requiring only standard precautions. Violent crime is rare, and Dominica sees fewer incidents than regional neighbors like Jamaica or Trinidad.
That said, petty crime such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft from vehicles can occur—especially in busy tourist areas or during large public events like Carnival or the World Creole Music Festival. These incidents are typically opportunistic, not targeted, and can often be prevented by taking common-sense precautions: lock your doors, avoid isolated areas after dark, and keep valuables out of sight.
Expats frequently report feeling safe, particularly in residential and coastal communities where neighbors look out for one another.
Safety for Women, Families, and the LGBTQ+ Community
Solo female travelers and mothers with children are generally welcomed, though some women report occasional unwanted attention in public spaces. The risk of sexual assault is considered low, but it’s wise to remain cautious when out at night.
Same-sex sexual activity remains technically illegal in Dominica, and while enforcement is rare, LGBTQ+ individuals should exercise discretion. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may attract attention or disapproval in rural areas.
Families, on the other hand, find Dominica’s slower pace and strong community culture ideal for raising children.
Political Stability and Public Demonstrations
Dominica is a stable democracy, but small-scale protests occasionally occur, especially around elections. These are typically peaceful but can become unpredictable. In 2023, police used tear gas to disperse a political gathering in Roseau. Travelers and residents are advised to avoid demonstrations and political rallies as a safety precaution.
Healthcare in Dominica: Is the System Equipped for Expats?
Public vs Private Healthcare Options
Dominica’s healthcare system is functional but basic. The main public facility, Dominica China Friendship Hospital in Roseau, offers general emergency care and routine surgeries. However, the island lacks advanced medical technology and specialists.
Private clinics are available for common health issues, though they’re concentrated in Roseau and Portsmouth. Payment is usually expected upfront, and costs vary depending on treatment.
Medical Evacuation and Insurance Essentials
Expats and long-term visitors should carry international health insurance that includes air evacuation coverage. For complex procedures, trauma, or long-term care, patients are often flown to Martinique, Guadeloupe, or the U.S.
Ambulance services are limited and response times can be slow, especially in remote areas. Most expats keep a private vehicle or rely on trusted drivers for medical transport in emergencies.
Health Considerations for Retirees and Families
Dominica’s clean air, organic produce, and natural hot springs appeal to retirees, especially those with arthritis or respiratory issues. But anyone with ongoing medical needs should assess whether they can manage without nearby specialists or a modern hospital.
For families, vaccinations and basic pediatric care are accessible. More complex pediatric or prenatal services may require travel.
Natural Disaster Risk in Dominica
Hurricanes and the Annual Storm Season
Dominica lies directly in the Atlantic hurricane belt, and the risk of tropical cyclones is a significant safety factor from June to November. The island was devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017, a Category 5 storm that caused USD 1.3 billion in damages—nearly 226% of its GDP at the time.
Since then, Dominica has made major strides in disaster preparedness, including stricter building codes and resilient infrastructure projects. Still, power and water outages are common after storms, and it’s vital to keep an emergency kit stocked during hurricane season.
Flooding, Landslides, and Earthquakes
Dominica’s mountainous terrain makes it prone to landslides and flash floods during heavy rain. Roads in highland areas can become impassable or dangerous, especially after tropical depressions.
Seismic activity is common across the Eastern Caribbean, and Dominica experiences minor earthquakes frequently. While no major quake has occurred recently, the potential exists. The island also hosts nine volcanoes, all considered dormant but geologically active.
How Residents Prepare and Stay Safe
Local authorities issue regular storm and quake updates via radio, SMS alerts, and social media. Homes with backup generators, rainwater tanks, and hurricane shutters are recommended.
Many expats either build to storm-resistant standards or leave the island temporarily if a major storm is forecast.
Infrastructure and Daily Living Conditions
Roads, Transportation, and Power Supply
Dominica’s main roads connect Roseau, Portsmouth, and Douglas-Charles Airport, but road quality is mixed. Potholes, steep drop-offs, and minimal street lighting make night driving risky. Landslides can close roads in the rainy season, and some rural areas may be inaccessible for days.
There’s no formal public transport system—minibuses are the primary mode for locals, but expats typically own or rent vehicles.
Electricity reliability remains a concern. In late 2023, rolling blackouts affected most of the island due to generation shortages. Power cuts remain common in 2025, although a geothermal plant is under construction and new diesel generators are improving supply.
Internet Access and Digital Nomad Readiness
Dominica offers decent internet speeds in populated areas, especially Roseau and Portsmouth, where fiber-optic services are available. Speeds average 20–50 Mbps, suitable for video conferencing and online work.
The government’s “Work in Nature” visa has attracted digital nomads who report stable connections and few issues—provided they stay in serviced areas. Rural internet can be slow or unreliable.
Mobile data from providers like Digicel and Flow is widely available, though 3G/4G service can be spotty in mountainous regions.
Utilities, Clean Water, and Emergency Services
Tap water is considered safe in most towns and is sourced from natural springs. Water service disruptions can occur after storms, so many homes store backup supplies.
Waste disposal and garbage collection operate in towns but are limited in rural zones. Emergency services are basic, and response times may vary—particularly for fire or ambulance dispatch.
Government Advisories: What the U.S., UK, and Canada Say
Security Ratings from Major Countries
As of June 2025:
- U.S. State Department: Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions
- UK Foreign Office: No warnings; advises usual safety practices
- Government of Canada: Low risk; take normal security precautions
No countries currently advise against travel or relocation to Dominica. All highlight petty theft and natural disasters as primary concerns.
Common Recommendations for Travelers and Expats
Travelers are encouraged to:
- Keep belongings secure
- Avoid walking alone in unlit areas after dark
- Monitor weather alerts, especially during hurricane season
- Enroll in embassy assistance programs for emergencies
Legal and Cultural Sensitivities to Be Aware Of
- Camouflage clothing is illegal (including for children)
- Same-sex activity is criminalized, though prosecutions are rare
- Importing certain medications requires approval—check before traveling
What Expats and Long-Term Visitors Are Saying
Safety in Everyday Life
Most expats describe Dominica as calm and welcoming. Violent crime is rarely a concern, and community values are strong. Neighbors often know and help each other, adding a layer of informal security.
Visitors commonly remark things like, “I’ve never felt unsafe walking around town. Just use common sense.”
Adapting to Infrastructure Challenges
Living in Dominica requires patience and flexibility. Blackouts, road closures, and bureaucratic delays are part of daily life.
Internet is strong enough for remote work in Roseau, but it’s best to test your setup during a trial stay before committing long term.
Community Life and Personal Wellbeing
Dominica offers an excellent quality of life for those who appreciate natural beauty, slower living, and a strong connection to community. Activities like hiking, diving, and local festivals enrich daily life.
For retirees, it’s a peaceful, clean-air lifestyle. For digital nomads, it’s an unplugged, scenic base with just enough tech to stay connected. And for investors and families, it’s a stable country with a government-backed Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program—offering a real path to second citizenship.
So Is Dominica a Safe Place to Relocate?
Dominica is one of the safest and most welcoming islands in the Caribbean. With low violent crime rates, a friendly population, and minimal geopolitical risk, it stands out as an attractive destination for expats, retirees, and investors.
However, safety here comes with caveats: infrastructure is still developing, medical care is limited, and natural disasters are a seasonal reality.
If you’re prepared for occasional power outages, rural road conditions, and the need for a good insurance policy, Dominica offers a unique opportunity to live amid tropical beauty with a strong sense of community and an accessible path to second citizenship.
Thinking about relocating to Dominica through its Citizenship by Investment Program?
Next Generation Equity has helped hundreds of families secure second citizenship safely and efficiently. Contact us today to speak with a government-approved advisor.
