Q & A: “You cannot put a price on freedom”

By Marie Ekberg Padilla, Uglobal Immigration Magazine Staff

Why did you choose to go with Dominica?  

When I initially started researching, the first option that popped up was moving somewhere else and uprooting my life. But that wasn’t an option for me as I wanted to continue living in Dubai. Following more research, I came across citizenship-by-investment and started to read more about it and found RIF Trust, a local agent based in Dubai. 

I met in person with RIF Trust’s CEO, Mimoun Assraoui, and all my options were explained to me from  A-Z. Together we decided that the Dominica Citizenship by Investment program was the best option for me based on my requirements. I then took a “leap of faith” and started the process of acquiring my Dominican passport.  

How did you do your due diligence? 

During due diligence, my documents were collected and my agent made this process as smooth as possible as they guided me every step of the way. Two months later, I received my approval from the government of Dominica and they instructed me to wire the remaining funds due using the government bank details. Within a few weeks the process was completed, and I received my new passport hand delivered to me in Dubai.  

What did you choose to invest in?  

I chose the government donation option of $100,000. It was the best option for me based on my personal requirements.  

Why did you want to get a second passport and what does it mean for you and your family?  

Because I had visa travel restrictions, I felt my passport had no real power or value. When I originally acquired my second passport, I was single. However, I’m now married and we are excited for our future children to also have Dominican passports. I was born in Saudi Arabia and left Lebanon 15 years ago to live in Dubai, my current home.  

When did you start this process and how long did it take?   

The process started in 2015 and took three and a half months from the time I applied. Initially, it hadn’t really sunk in until I used the passport at the airport on a flight to France. It was so easy, and I had no issues whatsoever. No documents were needed. I just walked straight through and that’s when it really sunk in that this process was completely worth it.  

What was the biggest challenge and biggest achievement during the process?  

The biggest challenge was the documentation process, many documents were required and collecting them all was tough. The biggest achievement was the freedom of travel I obtained for both leisure and business. 

What advice do you have for other investors who want to get a second passport? 

It’s the best investment I have ever made. You cannot put a price on freedom. Go for it, trust the process and it will be fruitful. 

What have you been able to do after you received your new passport?  

Traveling freely and expanding my horizons. All my plans, including expanding my business, are a real possibility now.  

Anything else you would like to share about your decision to do investment immigration? 

I’m just very thankful for the existence of this service and for the people who are willing to help with facilitating the process.

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