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For those who intend to stay longer than is allowed by their Tourist card or visa, residency status should be obtained through the Immigration Authority in the Capital of Santo Domingo. The first step is to obtain temporary residency that is valid for one year. At the end of that first year, a second procedure will convert that to permanent residency status which will be renewable every two years. The associated procedures are handled by lawyers in the country. For further information please look at our law firm's web site www.rvhblaw.com
In the Sosua/ Cabarete area the Servi-Med center is available 24 hours a day for emergency medical assistance. A well equipped private clinic with an excellent reputation, Clinica Bournigal is located in Puerto Plata 30 minutes away. Other excellent medical services are available in Santiago about 1.5 hours drive from Sosua. A private nationwide ambulance service Movi-Med operates in the area for emergency transportation needs.
Servi-Med Sosua/ Cabarete 809-571-2903
Clinica Bournigal Puerto Plata 809-586 2342
Clinica Corominas Santiago 809-580-1171
Clinica Union Medica Santiago 809-241-0328
Movi-Med Ambulance 1-200-0911
Yes. There are reputable professionals in the area that can provide information about global health insurance policies for coverage both in the country and elsewhere throughout the world including the U.S.
Presently, there are no necessary vaccinations prior to moving to the area.
Yes, there are procedures that are fairly straight forward for the transport of dogs and cats into the country. Birds require a quarantine period and are not recommended for shorter stays. Pets are generally allowed at Infiniti Blu, however there are some guidelines regarding containment and walking in common areas.
You can get by without since many people working in the tourism related businesses whether Dominican or foreign understand some English, and possibly other languages such as German, French, Italian, etc. Usually with a little kind effort on the part of both parties, you will get by just fine. Learning a few key words and phrases can be fun. It can also provide extra enjoyment in your experience by providing a better opportunity to communicate with local people. Dominicans definitely appreciate those who make an attempt to speak their language and are generally helpful in assisting with your efforts.
For more formalized Spanish language education there are good language schools in Sosua.
Spanish Language School
Holiday Spanish School
Schools in Sosua range from free public schools, to private institutions teaching a U.S. curriculum in English. Classes in private schools are normally taught in English but are bilingual and usually attended by children of many nationalities. Students must meet a certain level of English fluency for entrance. Tuition varies considerably with the maximum between $2100-$5300 USD per academic year depending on the age of the student. Additional charges may apply for lunches, uniforms, books, and materials.
Schools that are accredited by the Dominican Ministry of Education offer certificates that are valid for entrance to Dominican, European, and U.S. universities. However, those planning to attend higher education in the U.S. may wish to attend a school that has been accredited by the U.S. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Those interested in studying in Europe should consider a school where the International Baccalaureate curriculum is used. Only the International School of Sosua is accredited by SACS.
International School of Sosua - 809-571-3271
The Learning Center learningcenter@sosua.net 809-571-0478
Garden Kids 809-571-2857
Yes, but there can be dangerous areas in every town, city, and country in the world. International statistics have shown that many other areas of the world in the Caribbean, U.S. and Europe have crime statistics that exceed those in the Dominican Republic. Poverty is a predominant cause of criminal activity throughout the world. Common sense goes a long way in contributing to your safety. This means not leaving valuables unattended, wearing flashy articles, visibly displaying large quantities of cash and avoiding more isolated areas especially at night. |
