The legal framework for creating call centers in the Dominican Republic is governed by Law 8-90 on the Promotion of Free Zones, which provides significant tax benefits.
Call centers can be located outside industrial parks, in urban or commercial areas. The benefits include exemptions from taxes such as income tax, construction tax, and taxes on imports and exports. The legislation encourages investment and employment in the country.
Labor Legislation for Free Zone Companies in 2024
In 2024, the labor legislation applicable to free zone companies in the Dominican Republic stands out for providing a specific regulatory framework that aims to protect workers’ rights.
Clear rules are established regarding working hours, minimum wage, paid vacations, and safe working conditions:
- Compliance with the current labor laws in the country is guaranteed, protecting employees from potential abuses and discrimination in the workplace.
- Free zone companies must adhere to established labor regulations, including social security affiliation and occupational risk prevention.
- In 2024, the hiring of local staff is promoted, fostering job creation within the country and contributing to the region’s economic development.
- Measures are also established to ensure equal employment opportunities, promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment.
Legal Requirements for Establishing a Call Center in Free Zones
These requirements are essential to comply with current regulations and ensure the proper installation and operation of the call center in free zones:
Obtaining Permits from the National Council of Free Export Zones and Presenting a Technical Profile of the Project
To establish a call center in the Dominican Republic, it is necessary to obtain a permit issued by the National Council of Free Export Zones.
This involves presenting a technical profile of the project that meets all the requirements established by the council, demonstrating compliance with the country’s legal and regulatory standards:
- Presenting a detailed project plan that includes relevant information about the location, infrastructure, operational capacity, and other key aspects of its operation.
- Demonstrating the economic and financial viability of the call center, as well as its potential impact on job creation and economic development in the region.
- Ensuring compliance with current labor and tax laws in the Dominican Republic, guaranteeing adequate working conditions for employees and the payment of corresponding taxes.
Once the application is submitted and all requirements are met, the National Council of Free Export Zones will evaluate the project and, if it meets the established criteria, will grant the necessary permit for the installation and operation of the call center in the country.
Tax Benefits for Creating a Call Center in the Dominican Republic
Legislation in the Dominican Republic offers significant tax benefits for creating call centers, allowing them to be located outside traditional industrial parks, in urban or commercial areas.
Recommendations
As a consultant for dozens of contact centers in different countries and based on my experience in the Dominican Republic, I can affirm that the Dominican Republic is the most convenient territory in terms of labor conditions for those who decide to establish a call center. The conditions have been ideally developed, adjusted to the reality of what is expected from an employee working in this industry.
This results in better productivity and, in turn, maintains employee satisfaction, contributing to lower turnover and better results in any type of campaign, whether customer service, appointment setting, surveys, translation, among others.
Moreover, the fiscal conditions guarantee significant benefits that result in incentives only available in the Dominican Republic.
Tax exemptions such as income tax, construction tax, imports, and exports, among others. Learn about all the benefits in the following article: Tax Incentives for Call Centers in the Dominican Republic.
