Can a non-resident get a mortgage on a property in Punta Cana?

One of the most recurring doubts among foreign investors and expats who decide to purchase property in the Caribbean is whether it is possible to use financial leverage at the destination.

Can you apply for a mortgage in the Dominican Republic as a non-resident?

The short answer is yes, absolutely. The Dominican financial system is fully accustomed to working with international buyers and offers specific products for US, Canadian, European, and Latin American citizens.

Below, we analyze the actual conditions for foreigners in 2026, the main banks leading this segment, and the smartest payment alternatives to avoid bank bureaucracy.

Main Banks and Conditions for Non-Resident Mortgage in Punta Cana

Dominican banking entities look very favorably upon the profile of foreign investors, especially in high-appreciation areas like Punta Cana. The three leading banks in international financing are:

• Banco Popular Dominicano and Banreservas: These are the two most powerful local entities. They have specialized departments in the tourism sector that significantly streamline paperwork for foreigners.
• Scotiabank: As a Canadian-based entity with a strong presence in the country, it offers a very familiar and agile structure for North American and European investors.

Standard Conditions for a Non-Resident Mortgage in Punta Cana:

• Loan Currency: Generally granted in US Dollars (USD) to protect the investor from currency fluctuations, although Dominican Pesos (DOP) can also be chosen.
• Financing Percentage (LTV): Banks finance between 50% and 70% of the property’s official appraisal value. This means the buyer must contribute between 30% and 50% as a down payment from their own funds.
• Terms: Amortization periods for non-residents usually range between 10 and 25 years, depending on the applicant’s age.
• Interest Rates: For loans in USD, interest rates typically move within a range of 7% to 9% fixed annually (subject to review according to international monetary policies).

Requirements to Apply for a Mortgage From Abroad

Although you do not need to be a legal resident in the country to qualify, you must demonstrate financial strength in your country of origin. The underwriting process will require the following basic documentation, translated and apostilled (if applicable):

• Identification: A valid passport and a second official ID from your country.
• Tax Solvency: Tax returns from the last two years (tax returns, IRPF, or the equivalent depending on your country).
• Credit History: An official credit report from your country of origin (such as Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion). The Dominican bank will check your international score.
• Provable Income: Bank statements from the last 6 months and job reference letters (if you are an employee) or audited financial statements (if you are self-employed/an entrepreneur).

The Smart Alternative: The Developer’s Payment Plan

Many international investors find that turning to traditional banking is not always the most convenient route due to paperwork and loan closing costs. Therefore, the most widely used alternative in Punta Cana is direct financing from the developer during the construction phase.

How does it work?

When buying a property off-plan (pre-construction), top-tier developers allow you to structure an interest-free payment plan during the 18, 24, or 36 months that construction lasts:

• 20% upon signing the contract.
• 30% or 40% in comfortable monthly or quarterly installments while the building is being constructed.
• The remaining 40% or 50% is paid upon delivery of the property.

The Key Strategy: Many buyers pay the initial 50% during construction and, only at the time of delivery, decide whether to settle the rest with their own funds or apply for a bank mortgage for the final stretch, drastically reducing the interest paid.

Secure Leverage for Your Investment

Applying for a mortgage in the Dominican Republic as a non-resident is a perfectly viable and regulated process that allows you to multiply your buying power in the Caribbean. The key to success lies in pre-qualifying your income before making a reservation and choosing projects that have pre-approved financing agreements with local banks.

At Punta Cana Top House, we maintain direct alliances with the international credit directors of Banreservas, Banco Popular, and Scotiabank. We take care of presenting your financial profile properly to secure the best rates on the market and structure your payment plan so that the investment works in your favor from day one. Contact us and we will analyze your financing options.