Alfonso Ayala
American looking for information about Dominican Republic
Forum posts
43
About me
American
Speaks english and spanish
Registration: 20 June 2021
Best Bank for US Expats by brodies2013
We are finally in the planning stages of our move to DR! (We've been members here since 2014 and purchased a fixer upper on the north coast in 2015!) We are also shopping for a new bank...what bank would US 大咖福利影院 members recommend?
@CHRISTOPHER DAVID56 Yes I already do that @Banreservas. Thanks for info Read More
Best Bank for US Expats by brodies2013
We are finally in the planning stages of our move to DR! (We've been members here since 2014 and purchased a fixer upper on the north coast in 2015!) We are also shopping for a new bank...what bank would US 大咖福利影院 members recommend?
@CHRISTOPHER DAVID56 Yes they do, but planner said banco popular app now lets you deposit checks online like most USA banks do, my question was if it was available for USD accounts or only DOP accounts. Thanks Read More
Best Bank for US Expats by brodies2013
We are finally in the planning stages of our move to DR! (We've been members here since 2014 and purchased a fixer upper on the north coast in 2015!) We are also shopping for a new bank...what bank would US 大咖福利影院 members recommend?
@planner Will have to check them out. Do you know if it's offered for USD accounts. Thanks Planner. Read More
Best Bank for US Expats by brodies2013
We are finally in the planning stages of our move to DR! (We've been members here since 2014 and purchased a fixer upper on the north coast in 2015!) We are also shopping for a new bank...what bank would US 大咖福利影院 members recommend?
@brodies2013I use PNC bank as my USA and Banreservas as my Dominican Republic bank. The good, PNC has favorable international transfer rate with Banreservas and a few other banks in D.R. I can transfer $1500 USD to my Banreservas USD account for ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
Naranja agria are the sour oranges and regular one simply Naranja. You can tell difference by texture rough skin sour smoother skin sweet or regular Read More
PAYING TRAFFIC TICKETS by 7ROZES7
I received a traffic ticket while driving in the DR....I have tried to go onto the "Procuraduria General de la Republica" website to pay it, but it won't let me - keeps giving me errors. How else can I pay it? Is it essential to pay it? Will I have ...
@7ROZES7 If it doesn't appear on website and you just got the ticket it may not be in system yet . I had one that took a few weeks to be in system, Once it appeared, I paid on banreservas app online Read More
Residency - updates and changes 2024 by planner
We are seeing changes in processes here and it's time for a new thread with updates.LIshali had agreed to update us here on those changes and to clarify a number of issues as we go along!First let's talk the basics: how you start and which type you ...
@planner That was on my initial visa, I had various set backs as changes had been made and I had done various trips back to USA and FBI had expired but at that point I had not left the Dominican republic for over 8 months and we had to submit all my ... Read More
Residency - updates and changes 2024 by planner
We are seeing changes in processes here and it's time for a new thread with updates.LIshali had agreed to update us here on those changes and to clarify a number of issues as we go along!First let's talk the basics: how you start and which type you ...
If you have not left the Dominican Republic since your last entry into country and submitted FBI background before it expired, you might be able to do a Dominican Republic "buena conducta " submitting " Movimientos Migratorio" migration movements ... Read More
Retirement Visas by Pat Kitchen
My wife and I are in the process of obtaining retirement visas for the DR.聽 We have been in contact with a couple of Dominican law firms.聽 We are a bit taken aback with the fees they are charging.聽 Also, we know there are going to be ...
@DRforme I think the info you got is wrong as my visa is by family reunification and since my wife is Dominican and we have been married for more than 2 yrs I actually qualify for D.R. citizenship after 6 month temp. Residency and living in ... Read More
OUCH!! I flunked the DR's "practical" Driving Test!!! by ExpatRusher
Woe is me. I must report a failure on my part. (after crowing about how I passed the written test with a great score, I figure I full disclosure on the practical test is appropriate). Late last week we went from Punta Cana over to the Intrant ...
I appreciate all info provided in our forums I read and took into account others experiences when getting their Dominican drivers license . Had no issue passing written portion and from reading others experiences driving portion in that simulator ... Read More
Residency - updates and changes 2024 by planner
We are seeing changes in processes here and it's time for a new thread with updates.LIshali had agreed to update us here on those changes and to clarify a number of issues as we go along!First let's talk the basics: how you start and which type you ...
I just finished process of residency by family reunification and they ask for proof of solvency. I submitted vehicle title, six months of bank statements showing at least USD 5,000.00 . I believe if I would have had my house title that would have ... Read More
Changes in Immigration policy by planner
Lishali and I were chatting! We started this thread to detail the changes that are happening! Lishali will post about them.By the way- her user was eliminated by Expat! So you will see her under a new name
As many have said time frame from when you get appointment to deposit documents in person and go get medical exam to actually get notified to come pick up residency card varies. I can only speak to my case . I deposited everything March 2025, in ... Read More
Residency - updates and changes 2024 by planner
We are seeing changes in processes here and it's time for a new thread with updates.LIshali had agreed to update us here on those changes and to clarify a number of issues as we go along!First let's talk the basics: how you start and which type you ...
I filed paperwork online November 2024 after they finally approved all documents submitted online I got email and also notification on the portal to confirm appointment to deposit documents in person and take medical examination in May 2025. A ... Read More
Can you deposit a US check into a Dominican bank account? by wondering9
I'm hoping it won't come to this, but I might end up receiving a paper check at the last minute before I leave the US. Is a Dominican bank likely to accept it as a deposit?I imagine there would be a long hold on the funds, which would be OK in this ...
I deposit checks from my PNC bank in USA to my dominican dollar account @ banreservas and funds are usually available to use in 5 business days. If I need funds quicker I can do international transfer for just USD $5 fee from PNC bank and no fee ... Read More
The Toilet Paper Question by Combies
I鈥檒l apologize up front for asking this question..I know the Can you flush t.p. question has been asked before..but my question is ..for brand new construction are the septic systems better? I guess I鈥檓 asking if a brand new home is ...
@Combies When building our home we made sure they used sewage pipes large enough to handle flushing toilet paper and garbage disposal waste. Have not had any issues, normally just wife and I but we do have mix of local and guest from USA and pipes ... Read More
Bank account(s) in pesos or dollars (or both)? by wondering9
I finally got a bank account 馃榾馃榾馃榾 and all I can say is to echo other people's comments that the requirements can vary from one bank/branch/employee/day to another so bring as much paperwork as you can think of and be prepared ...
I have both and it would have probably been a good idea to open both at same time 1st reason is even though you have a visa for residency the banks look a date of entry to country and you have that 30 day window. 2nd reason you don't have to return ... Read More
Las Terrenas - New TV by samberwilliamson
I haven鈥檛 seen many electronics stores, and was hoping for a recommendation on purchasing a new one. The video just stopped working after n ours. They鈥檙e pretty inexpensive in the US, think $90-100 for one on Amazon. Is it worthwhile to ...
i was in laSirena supermarket in Nagua this week and they have starting @ DOP$12,495.00 for 32 inch and up to DOP$33,995.00 for a 55inch UHD 4K Brand TCL aprox USD$225,00 to USD$590.00 . Unless you are looking for specific brands they are a good ... Read More
Starlink Internet in the Dominican Republic Update 鈥� by Ian1272
Great news for those with poor internet service/provider for all that reside in the Dominican ...
Starlink has dropped equipment cost in some USA areas by 50% , but even better for us in the D.R. the price has dropped to DOP$20,600.00 for equipment. monthly still the same. I know this is old thread but good news for anyone needing reliable ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
I think that the need for air conditioning depends on your location and your personal comfort. When we built our home in the mountain area of Rio San Juan we had wiring and plumbing provisioned for a/c and ceiling fans in all rooms including outdoor ... Read More
DL exchange Dominican Republic by reddazzlechic
I am a dual citizen of both USA and Dominican Republic but I only have the American license. Can I do the exchange for a Dominican license? The intrant requirements for an exchange mention residents on various visas can do the exchange but I am a ...
If you have a New York State license you can get Dominican license by just paying fee. https://dr1.com/news/2023/08/14/new-york-licenses-are-valid-in-dr-and-vice-versa/ Read More
KEEPING US CELL PHONE NUMBER by alvarez7361
Hello everyone, I am planning a permanent move from Florida to Puerto Plata. Will be looking for a house or apartment to rent and hope to get residency as a pensioner in the near future. I plan on maintaining a physical address in Florida, so I can ...
I use mint mobile for USA # and Claro for local D.R. # , e-simm for both and just set configuration for My USA #'s calling to use USA esimm # and everything else goes to Dominican e-simm . As far as calling USA , I use my USA # via wifi calling to ... Read More
American Kitchen Appliances in Dominican Republic by mibojones
We're building in Punta Cana and asked our builder about installing a garbage disposal (InSinkerator) in our kitchen. He thought we meant trash can. We shared the details with him from Lowe's online, but he had never seen one before.Has anyone seen ...
I actually have one installed in my house , plumber had never seen one. I shipped from USA gave guidance on installation. Had to have electrician install outlet and switch for operation of disposal. I don't really put much waste in system, mostly ... Read More
Cost of living in Dominican Republic in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in Dominican Republic, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in ...
@JuliettelzLarimar/Senasa Read More
Cost of living in Dominican Republic in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in Dominican Republic, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in ...
@Herman.KaYes 2 people male 62 and female 65 Read More
Cost of living in Dominican Republic in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in Dominican Republic, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in ...
We live in R铆o San Juan mountain area. Our expenses are a little different as we did many things to plan for minimal expenses long term. Don't pay electric as we are solar completely off grid. We grow alot of our own fruits and vegetables. ... Read More
SSA Benifit Check by CHRISTOPHER DAVID56
Hello, Has anyone have knowledge or have thier monthly SSA benifit check sent automatically monthly EFT to a Dominican Bank.Have you heard of any issues or delays with posting?I know we have the option with SSA to EFT the monthly amount directly to ...
I deposit US checks at Scotiabank in R铆o San Juan and they post in 12 business days. Funds available 12 business days. Read More
SSA Benifit Check by CHRISTOPHER DAVID56
Hello, Has anyone have knowledge or have thier monthly SSA benifit check sent automatically monthly EFT to a Dominican Bank.Have you heard of any issues or delays with posting?I know we have the option with SSA to EFT the monthly amount directly to ...
I have my SSA direct deposited to my USA checking account and write myself a check and deposit into my Scotiabank USD account. No fees, no hassle. Read More
drivers license in DR by terrywilson3010
Okay, I am receiving several different answers to a simple question, coming from Canada, what are the rules and regulations regarding driving here eg we were to;d to get an international license and then were informed that an international license ...
Not 100% sure, I do have many Dominican American friends who have never had a Dominican drivers license and have seen them being pulled over on road several times and just give c茅dula and USA drivers license and have never had issues . From ... Read More
Window repair and window screening replacement by Bigskydomes
does anyone know of a place in the Bavaro / Punta Cana area that repairs windows (I have a couple "hinges / pivot brackets" that need replaced -- or the entire window replaced. Window screening: It looks like the screens for ALL of the windows in ...
I recently had issue with screens not keeping all bugs out and orded magnetic window screen kits from amazon. You buy according to window size and custom make yourself. Very easy to make no special tools required and they keep all bugs and insects ... Read More
Air Conditioner by Gman123
I need to buy 3 ductless air conditioners for the house I am going to rent. 2 small ones for the bedrooms and a larger one for the main living room. What brands would you recommend keeping in mind price is an issue?
I'm completely off grid solar and have 5 mini-split units in my home and have them connected via wifi, What we do is turn on different rooms on for a few hours daily when away from home via phone app and can also monitor our solar power via another ... Read More
Claro bill assistance by Tripp789
I have two postpaid cell phone accounts. Can anyone explain what the Rentas balance is for on the invoice? It keeps growing, so I鈥檓 sure it can be applied for something, but can鈥檛 find anything on the app or website that explains ...
@Tripp789I believe the Renta balance is just a running total of what you have paid in total for your service .when you make your next payment your total renta balance should go up by that amount. Read More
New and Unusual words by planner
We need a thread about Dominican words! Why not!I learned a new term toda "nini"Ni trabaha ni estudia.No working and not studying! Serious article but interesting term about unemployment between age 15 and 14. So what words make you smile or ...
Chapiadora - Gold diggerestropeado- feel tired, feel beat, bushed Read More
drivers license in DR by terrywilson3010
Okay, I am receiving several different answers to a simple question, coming from Canada, what are the rules and regulations regarding driving here eg we were to;d to get an international license and then were informed that an international license ...
If you entered with a residency visa does the same 30 days apply or are you legal to drive with your foreign license while legally going through the residency process? Read More
Prescript Meds Question: Ozempic? by ExpatRusher
Hey, everyone.聽Hope everybody is having good days/week/months/life!I'm a Type 2 Diabetic, previously only on Metformin, which I know is available in the DR.聽However, I've just been prescribed the add-on Ozempic drug.聽I did a search on ...
ozempic (semaglutide) showing available @ armaciasloshidalgos.com.do . you can probably find in your area of DR under the semaglutide name. Read More
Pros and Cons between Scotiabank and Banco Popular? by Gylla
I am opening a bank account here in DR. I have heard mixed reviews about both banks. I was thinking about opening a Banco Popular account because their offices are everywhere. But a friend advised me that Scotia follows international banking laws ...
FYI I bank @scotiabank which has an agreement with banco popular , no fees for using ATM for their customers and withdrawal limits are based on each customers bank limit regardless of ATM used Scotiabank or Banco Popular dominicano. This applies to ... Read More
Sending cash to USA bank account by LT American
Good afternoon, I need to send cash to my USA bank account. Is western union the only option?
I have not had the need to do this while living in the DR but my USA banks have apps that allow me to deposit checks online. If I needed to deposit money from my Dominican Republic bank account in Dollars I could deposit by scanning pic of check ... Read More
Money Transfer Issue by Gman123
Someone In my chat group reported the a bank he uses to send money transfers to himself was rejected at the bank here because the stamp in his passport was over the 30 days. He used Remitly. Anyone else had this issue yet? Can someone who knows a ...
I usually just keep checks from USA bank account and deposit in DR scotiabank account , no fees just wait 12 days for check to post in account. Saves money unless you need funds immediately. Read More
Using a US based cell phone in the DR by Mark and Al
We are (finally) making our 1st trip to the Dominican in June. I'm trying to figure out how or if we can use our ATT cell phones without racking up a bunch of international phone charges. We will be in the Sosua/Cabarete area for about 2 weeks.
I'm not 100% sure but if you have wifi calling available with ATT as long as you have access to wifi you can make calls as if calling from the USA. I live in the DR and have dual simm on phone one with my USA # and one with my Dominican #, use local ... Read More
Ikea kitchen cabinets ??? by Bigskydomes
I have done a LOT of rehabs in the US and have had great luck with the Ikea kitchen cabinets (their better grade / not the lower entry price-point ones) -- BUT will they hold up to the moisture here in the DR? I have under contract a couple of ...
@BigskydomeWhat area of the DR are your units. Probably could get more recommandations for alternative cabinet types and contractors in your area. I'm in Rio San Juan area and my cabinet contractor would not be of use to you if not in your area. Read More
Businesses in the DR do solar power installations by crabelramble
I'm looking for recommendations from those of you who have had a recent solar installation done at your home. I've only been able to find recommendations that are several years old.My wife and I have a home in the rural area surrounding La Vega. You ...
@kentonflaigI used a company called Solarwave SRL out of Sosua Puerto Plata area . My installation was new build and installation was done in one day, they came out to construction site and we discussed what my electricians needed to leave for them ... Read More
Canadian Snowbirds looking for Information prior to the final decision by revmarlenarouzes
HiMy husband and I are currently talking with a real estate person and are interested in having a house built in Bahai Principe residential in Romana.We are semi-retired and therefore coming to live in winter months but back and forth monthly since ...
Scotia banks is clearing my USA checks in 12 days now, before it was 30 days or more Read More
New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell ...
Hello to all !! Joined Forum back in June 2021. My wife and I have been planning to retire in the Dominican Republic for some time now. We bought a condo in Punta Cana which because of covid completion date has changed and will probably be ... Read More
Moving to DR from US by montuspeese
Anyone have any pearls of wisdom for my wife and I? Already have housing. Do we really need a return ticket to enter the country?
I did not purchase return ticket when I entered DR through Puerto Plata, but was ready if required to purchase on [link under review] . Read More