Legal Compliance Checklist for Dominican Entrepreneurs (2025 Version)

Starting a formal business in the Dominican Republic requires following a series of essential legal steps. This practical guide, updated for 2025, offers a clear checklist for entrepreneurs, with simple explanations that will allow you to operate legally from the start and avoid penalties or delays.

Initial requirements

1. Registering your business name with ONAPI: You must ensure that your chosen business name is available and register it with the National Industrial Property Office (ONAPI). This protects your business identity and prevents future conflicts.

2. Obtaining a Commercial Registry: Once your business name has been registered, you must register your company with the Chamber of Commerce and Production corresponding to your registered office. This registration is required under Law No. 3-02 on Commercial Registry and Law 479-08 on Commercial Companies, and it legally certifies the company's existence to third parties.

3. Obtaining the RNC: The National Taxpayer Registry (RNC) is obtained from the General Directorate of Internal Revenue (DGII) and is required for invoicing, filing taxes, and opening a business bank account.

4. Registration with the DGII: Once you have obtained your RNC, you must complete your registration with the DGII, indicating your tax regime and economic activity. This will determine your monthly and annual tax obligations.

Corporate and commercial obligations

1. Define the type of company: Choose the most appropriate legal structure for your business (SRL, EIRL, SAS, etc.). Each has different tax, administrative, and liability implications. (Law 479-08 as amended by Law 31-11).

2. Draft and sign the articles of incorporation: This document establishes the key details of the business: partners, capital, corporate purpose, and governing bodies. It must be legalized and registered with the Commercial Registry.

3. Obtaining a Commercial Registry: This is processed through the corresponding Chamber of Commerce. This is necessary to operate legally, sign contracts, and conduct commercial transactions on behalf of the company.

4. Designate an administrator or manager: Every company must have a designated person legally responsible for third parties. This designation must be reflected in the corresponding bylaws or minutes.

Sectoral licenses or permits (if applicable)

1. Land Use Permit and Municipal License: Issued by the city council where your business will operate. You must present a rental agreement, a sketch of the premises, and the owner's identification card.

2. Health registration or other specific licenses: If your activity requires it (catering, health, cosmetics, food), you must obtain permits from Public Health, MITUR, INDOCAL, or other institutions.

Basic labor and tax issues

1. Registration with the Social Security Institute (TSS): Every company with employees must register with the Social Security Treasury (TSS) and pay monthly social security contributions (Law 87-01).

2. Drafting employment contracts: Although they are not required, it is recommended that written contracts be signed in accordance with the Labor Code, specifying duties, salary, hours, and conditions.

3. Issuance of tax receipts (NCF): To invoice legally, you must request tax receipts from the DGII. This is mandatory for deducting expenses, declaring income, and complying with VAT.

New or relevant aspects for 2025

1. Digitization of processes: ONAPI, DGII, and Chambers of Commerce now allow multiple procedures to be completed 100% online, including applications, renewals, and payments. Take advantage of these platforms to save time.

2. Simplified tax compliance for microenterprises: Under the Simplified Tax Regime (STR), you can file your tax return more easily if you meet certain annual income requirements. Consult with your accountant if this applies.

3. Anti-money laundering: Some activities must comply with minimum due diligence requirements under Law 155-17. If you manage third-party funds, carry out significant financial transactions, or are a self-employed professional, find out if you must apply basic controls.

Following this checklist will allow you to operate your business with legal and financial security from the start. At Mejía Pérez Legal Consulting, we guide you through every step so that starting your business is a clear and surprise-free process.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute personalized legal advice or a formal legal opinion. Each case requires a specific analysis. For legal guidance tailored to your situation, we invite you to contact Mejía Pérez Legal Consulting directly.