Dominican Republic: Haitians sidelined in naturalization as Lamborghini expands in Santo Domingo

Naturalization 2025: Haitians lag behind as Venezuelans and Cubans lead

The Dirección General de Migración reported that 169 foreign nationals obtained Dominican citizenship in 2025, with Venezuelans (19.5%) and Cubans (18.9%) topping the list.

Colombians and Spaniards each accounted for 8.3% of naturalizations, while nationals from a total of 33 countries were granted citizenship.

Despite being the largest foreign population in the country, Haitians represented only 3% of those naturalized. Authorities attribute this low figure to administrative challenges, particularly difficulties in obtaining official documents due to the ongoing institutional crisis in Haiti.

The report also highlights the presence of applicants from developed countries, including the United States, France, Italy, Germany, Spain and Taiwan among newly naturalized citizens.

In absolute numbers, Venezuelans (33) and Cubans (32) formed the largest groups.

Luxury investment: Lamborghini targets Santo Domingo for regional growth

At the same time, Lamborghini is set to establish its first official showroom in Santo Domingo by the end of 2026.

The project, confirmed by regional media, is being developed through a partnership between Dominican investors and Martín Josephi via his firm Grand Chelem, which specializes in premium and supercar services across the region.

The move is part of Lamborghini’s broader expansion strategy in Latin America and the Caribbean, where the brand already operates in Brazil, Mexico, Peru and Puerto Rico, with additional openings planned.

The upcoming showroom will offer a full luxury experience, including vehicle customization, tailored client support and premium after-sales services—aligned with the global shift toward “experiential retail,” which emphasizes customer immersion and brand engagement.

Soraya Ades.