To legally operate in the Dominican Republic, companies must comply with a series of legal requirements, including obtaining specific licenses and permits. These permits ensure that businesses meet local and sectoral regulations, guaranteeing a safe and regulated business environment.
In this article, we will cover the licenses and permits required to start a business in the Dominican Republic.
General Commercial Licenses and Permits to Operate in the Dominican Republic
Mercantile Registry
Description: Every company must register with the corresponding Chamber of Commerce and Production.
Entity: Local Chamber of Commerce and Production.
Process:
- Application: Complete the registration form.
- Documentation: Submit identification documents of the owner, company bylaws, and proof of address.
- Payment: Make the payment of the corresponding fees.
National Taxpayer Registry (RNC)
Description: Mandatory for all companies operating in the country.
Entity: General Directorate of Internal Revenue (DGII).
Process:
- Application: Complete the form online or at the DGII office.
- Documentation: Present the owner’s identification and Mercantile Registry certificate.
- Approval: Obtain the RNC after the documentation is reviewed.
Land Use Permit
Description: Necessary to operate in a specific location.
Entity: Local City Hall.
Process:
- Application: Complete the application form.
- Documentation: Submit location plans and proof of ownership.
- Inspection: An inspection of the premises by municipal authorities.
- Approval: Receive the permit after the inspection approval.
Environmental License
Description: Required for businesses with significant environmental impact.
Entity: Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.
Process:
- Environmental Impact Study: Conduct an environmental impact study (if required).
- Application: Submit the study and complete the application form.
- Evaluation: The ministry reviews the study.
- Approval: Obtain the environmental license.
Registration with the Social Security Treasury (TSS)
Description: To meet social security obligations for employees.
Entity: Social Security Treasury.
Process:
- Application: Complete the registration form.
- Documentation: Submit the RNC and employee details.
- Approval: Register with the TSS and obtain a taxpayer number.
Permits and Licenses by Production Sector
Tourism Sector
Ministry of Tourism License
Description: Mandatory for hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and tourism businesses.
Entity: Ministry of Tourism.
Process:
- Application: Complete the Ministry of Tourism form.
- Documentation: Submit location plans, RNC, and land use permit.
- Inspection: Inspection of the premises by the ministry.
- Approval: Obtain the license after the inspection approval.
Food and Beverage Operation Permit
Description: Required for restaurants and bars.
Entity: Ministry of Public Health.
Process:
- Application: Complete the application form.
- Documentation: Mercantile Registry certificate, RNC, and location plans.
- Inspection: Health inspection of the premises.
- Approval: Obtain the permit after the inspection.
Electricity Sector
National Electrical System Concession
Description: Required for companies generating, transmitting, or distributing electricity.
Entity: Superintendency of Electricity (SIE).
Process:
- Application: Complete the application form.
- Documentation: Submit location plans and technical specifications of the project, RNC.
- Evaluation: Technical and economic evaluation of the project.
- Approval: Obtain the concession after approval.
Generation, Transmission or Distribution License
Description: Depending on the specific activity (generation, transmission, or distribution).
Entity: Superintendency of Electricity (SIE).
Process:
- Application: Complete the application form.
- Documentation: Mercantile Registry certificate, RNC, and technical specifications.
- Inspection: Technical inspection by the SIE.
- Approval: Obtain the specific license.
Health Sector
Operating License from the Ministry of Public Health
Description: Mandatory for hospitals, clinics, and medical offices.
Entity: Ministry of Public Health.
Process:
- Application: Complete the application form.
- Documentation: Submit location plans, RNC, and Mercantile Registry certificate.
- Inspection: Health and technical inspection of the premises.
- Approval: Obtain the license after inspection.
Pharmacy and Laboratory Operating Permit
Description: Mandatory for hospitals, clinics, and medical offices.
Entity: Ministry of Public Health.
Process:
- Application: Complete the application form.
- Documentation: Mercantile Registry certificate, RNC, and location plans.
- Inspection: Health inspection of the premises.
- Approval: Obtain the permit after inspection.
Construction Sector
Construction Permit
Process:
- Application: Complete the application form.
- Documentation: Submit architectural and structural plans, RNC, Mercantile Registry certificate, as well as information about the owner and contractor.
- Inspection: Review of the plans and, in some cases, site inspection.
- Approval: Obtain the construction permit.
Civil Works License
Description: Required for major infrastructure projects.
Entity: Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC).
Process:
- Application: Complete the application form.
- Documentation: Submit architectural and structural plans, RNC, Mercantile Registry certificate, as well as information about the owner and contractor.
- Inspection: Review of the plans and, in some cases, site inspection.
- Approval: Obtain the construction permit.
Food Sect
Sanitary Registration
Description: Required for companies that produce, process, or distribute food.
Entity: Ministry of Public Health.
Process:
- Application: Complete the sanitary registration form.
- Documentation: Mercantile Registry certificate, RNC, and product specifications.
- Evaluation: Evaluation of production processes and facilities.
- Approval: Obtain the sanitary registration after evaluation.
Food Handling Permit
Description: Mandatory for all employees handling food.
Entity: Ministry of Public Health.
Process:
- Training: Employees must complete a food handling course.
- Certification: Obtain food handling certification.
Steps to Obtain Commercial Permits and Licenses
Research and Preparation
- Identify requirements: Determine which licenses and permits are necessary for your type of business.
- Gather documentation: Collect all required documents, such as the Mercantile Registry certificate, RNC, architectural plans, and technical studies.
Application and Submission
- Complete forms: Fill out the corresponding application forms for each permit or license.
- Submit documents: Submit completed forms and necessary documentation to the appropriate entities.
Inspections and Evaluations
- Schedule inspections: If necessary, schedule and coordinate required inspections with the relevant authorities.
- Technical review: Ensure that all technical specifications meet current regulations.
Payment of Fees
- Make payments: Pay the fees associated with the permit and license applications.
- Obtain receipts: Keep payment receipts as proof of compliance.
Follow-up and Approval
- Monitor the process: Follow up on applications and ensure there are no delays or issues.
- Receive approval: Obtain the necessary approvals and licenses to operate legally.
Importante
Obtaining the necessary permits and licenses to operate in the Dominican Republic is a comprehensive process that requires careful planning and compliance with various regulations.
From the Mercantile Registry to sector-specific licenses, it is crucial to understand the requirements and follow the appropriate steps to ensure your business meets all regulations.
With this knowledge, both local and international entrepreneurs can navigate the Dominican regulatory environment with confidence, establishing a solid foundation for their businesses’ success.
If you would like to know the processes and requirements for establishing a company in the Dominican Republic from abroad, you can read the following article: processes for establishing a company in the Dominican Republic.
Now that you know the permits to create a company in the Dominican Republic, at Contadores Dominicanos, we have legal support professionals ready to assist you throughout the entire process of creating your business or corporation.
