travel to dominican republic covid vaccine

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Dominican Republic Vaccine Requirements & What Vaccinations Are Recommended?

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A jewel of the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is one of the top 10 international destinations for travelers from the United States. And no wonder! The nation beckons with its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. Renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture, the DR, as it is affectionately known, is a melting pot of native Taino, African, and Spanish influences, reflected in its music, dance, and festivals. Birthplace of merengue and bachata, it offers a rhythmic soundtrack to any visit and is a paradise for dancers. From the historic streets of Santo Domingo , the oldest European city in the Americas, to the serene Samaná Peninsula and the breathtaking beauty of Punta Cana , the Dominican Republic is an unforgettable destination for tourists.

If you’re planning a trip to the Dominican Republic, it’s important to know what vaccinations are recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for travel to this location. (Be sure to visit your doctor at least a month prior to your trip to get any vaccines or medicines you may need.)

Recommended vaccines for travel to the Dominican Republic

As of December 2023, here are the current CDC guidelines:

Routine vaccinations

Vaccines the CDC recommends prior to every trip include those for chickenpox (varicella), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP), flu (influenza), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), polio, and shingles.

COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral respiratory infection. It spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets or small particles containing the virus, which can then enter through the eyes, nose, or mouth of an uninfected person (or contaminate surfaces, in some cases). 

For everyone who is eligible, the CDC also recommends being up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations.

Cholera is an extremely contagious condition that can cause severe watery diarrhea. It is spread when an uninfected person consumes food or water that is contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacterium from the feces of an infected person.

According to the CDC, vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of the Dominican Republic with active cholera transmission.

Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent this condition.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that is caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is primarily spread when an uninfected person consumes food or water that has been contaminated by the feces of an infected person, or when an infected person uses dirty hands to prepare food.

This vaccine is recommended for unvaccinated travelers 1 year old or older who will be going to the Dominican Republic. Infants who are 6 months to 11 months old should also be vaccinated for hepatitis A. (According to the CDC, “the dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.”)

Those who are allergic to a component of the vaccine or who are under 6 months old should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which can provide protection for up to 2 months (depending on the dosage given).

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or who have chronic health conditions who are departing to a “risk area” in less than two weeks are advised to get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It is spread when blood, semen, or another bodily fluid from someone who is infected enters the body of someone who is not infected, as can happen during sexual contact, sharing drug-injection equipment, or during birth from mother to baby. 

The CDC recommends this vaccine for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 going to the Dominican Republic, and notes that those 60 years old and up may get vaccinated prior to traveling to the Dominican Republic.

Malaria is a serious, sometimes fatal condition that is spread by a certain type of mosquito that feeds on humans.

For travelers going to certain parts of the Dominican Republic, the CDC recommends taking prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine used, it will need to be taken multiple days prior to the trip, as well as during and after the travels. The CDC advises speaking with your doctor to determine which malaria medicine you should take.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, airborne disease that can lead to a variety of complications, including death. It is spread when an uninfected person comes into contact with infected nasal or throat secretions (for example, from coughing or sneezing) or breathes the air that was breathed by someone with the condition. 

The CDC recommends that infants 6 to 11 months old who are traveling internationally get one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before their trip. (The dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.)

(Note that measles is also listed among the CDC’s “routine vaccinations” above.)

Rabies is a viral disease most often spread through the bite of an infected, or “rabid,” animal. It infects the central nervous system in mammals, causing disease in the brain and, ultimately, death.

The CDC notes that rabid dogs are commonly found in the Dominican Republic and adds that rabies treatment may not be available if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal in the country. The organization suggests that those who will be around dogs or wildlife on their travels, such as campers, cave explorers, veterinarians and other animal handlers, and visitors to rural areas should consider rabies vaccination prior to their trip. (A more complete list of those who should consider the rabies vaccine is available on the CDC’s website .) Because children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal, rabies vaccine should also be considered for this group prior to travel to the Dominican Republic.

Typhoid is a bacterial condition caused by salmonella bacteria. It is spread when an uninfected person consumes food or beverages that have been prepared by a person shedding the bacteria or when sewage contaminated with the bacteria gets into the water a person uses for drinking or washing food.

The CDC recommends the typhoid vaccine for most travelers, and particularly for those who will be staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Yellow fever

Yellow fever is a viral illness spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. The sickness can cause symptoms ranging from a fever with aches and pains to severe liver disease with bleeding and yellow skin (a condition known as jaundice).

This vaccine is required for travelers at least 1 year old arriving in the Dominican Republic from the following states in Brazil: Espírito Santo, Mina Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo. (This includes greater than 12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these states.)

Last-minute reminders

Prior to any travel to the Dominican Republic, be sure to check the official CDC Traveler’s Health page , as vaccination recommendations may have been updated since the publication of this article. 

With these health safeguards in place, you’re ready to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, rich history, and warm, tropical beaches of the Dominican Republic. You can set forth on your adventure with confidence, ready to create unforgettable memories in this Caribbean paradise.

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: This information does not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals to meet your individual needs.

Diane Fennell, a New York City-based editor and writer, served as the Editorial Director of the Wellness Division for Diabetes Self-Management and its sister publications, covering diabetes and related health conditions for more than 20 years. A graduate of Columbia University, she is a proud pharophile and enjoys traveling to visit lighthouses in her spare time.

Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is known to have it all. From its beautiful beaches to its vibrant culture, there is no surprise why so many choose to vacation there.

It is widely known for its friendly and welcoming people. Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Samaná, Puerto Plata and La Romana are the most popular cities for tourists to visit. Tourists choose to stay in resorts and hotels for safety. The country is also popular for its destination weddings and honeymoons.

For historians and history lovers alike, the Dominican Republic has a lot to offer. The Colonial Zone’s architecture in the capital gives a sense that you have traveled to Spain. Ciudad Colonial is the oldest standing European settlement of the New World. Thus a central historic neighborhood in the oldest city of the New World, Santo Domingo.

Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, a relaxing vacation or a thrilling adventure, the Dominican Republic has it all.

Do I Need Vaccines for the Dominican Republic?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Dominican Republic. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Dominican Republic: hepatitis A , hepatitis B , yellow fever , typhoid , cholera , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne & Direct Contact – Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals who qualify for vaccination
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Areas of active cholera transmission include the provinces of Elías Piña, Espaillat, Independencia, Monseñor Nouel and Santo Domingo. Vaccination is recommended for travel to these regions.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Some areas of the Dominican Republic are known to have malaria . Be sure to speak with a travel health specialist about the possible need for antimalarials.

Zika is also a risk in country. The CDC recommends women who are pregnant or may become pregnant consider the risks before traveling. The best protection against the virus is mosquito repellents and netting.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to the Dominican Republic if arriving from a region with the virus. Immunization is not otherwise recommended for the country.

Typhoid vaccination is highly recommended for travelers to the Dominican Republic. Individuals who visit friends or relatives or go to rural areas are at greater risk and should be immunized.

To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page . Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now .

Is Cholera in the Dominican Republic?

The Dominican Republic has had fewer cholera outbreaks than its neighbor, Haiti, but still has some risk. The CDC recommends travelers avoid unsafe food and water and receive a cholera vaccine for protection.

The best protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer the cholera vaccine. Book your cholera vaccination appointment today!

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Dominican Republic?

Visitors to the Dominican Republic must get either a Dominican visa or buy a tourist card . This card can be bought at the airport for $10 USD once you have entered the country or online before your trip.

You do not need a visa for tourist purposes for a stay under 30 days.

Sources: Embassy of Dominican Republic and U.S. State Department

What is the Climate Like in the Dominican Republic?

As a Caribbean island, the Dominican Republic has tropical weather year-round. The temperature can span from 90°F (32°C) at noon to 70°F (21°C) at sunrise during the summer. Whereas in the winter, temperatures can go as low as 65°F (18°C). With the warmest months being between June through September.

In the more mountainous areas of the country the weather is cooler. Going as low as 50°F (10°C) early in the morning and even below 0° F higher up in the mountains during winter.

Tropical islands are subject to rainstorms that can occur during any time of the year. As well as hurricanes between the months of June and November. Rain falls for small periods of time in the afternoon and evening.

Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic?

Within touristic areas such as resorts, hotels, and beaches the Dominican Republic is fairly safe. Outside of these areas, especially at night, take extra precautions.

Crime persists to be one of the major concerns of safety in the Dominican Republic. Crime rates tend to increase during the holiday season and during Carnival.

To stay safe in the Dominican Republic:

• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or name brands.
• Pay attention to potential scams.
• Take caution when entering a public bathroom.
• Keep your hotel room keys with you if possible.
• Leave valuables in your hotel room.
• Cash, electronics, expensive jewelry, and your passport should be kept in a safety box
• Keep a copy of your passport with you
• Steer clear of renting vehicles or driving unless acquainted with the local traffic laws and way of driving
• Avoid traveling at night
• Avoid using public transportation such as taxis known as carros públicos and buses are known as guaguas in Spanish

Zip Lining in the Dominican Republic

Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs, insect-borne disease are a threat throughout the world., keep the bugs away with passport health’s repellent options .

You can go zip lining almost anywhere in the Dominican Republic.

Compare prices before booking your zip line experience. Make sure that the operator of the zip line tour is authorized, as well. Ask questions about any concerns and what their safety record is.

Listen carefully to your zip line operator’s instructions and advice to avoid getting hurt. Keep in mind that you should avoid zip lining if you are pregnant or have any heart issues.

Be sure to wear the proper attire; such as a helmet, comfortable and closed shoes, and no dresses or skirts. The longer the pants the better as the straps may cause some discomfort against bare legs.

What Should I Take To the Dominican Republic?

Often, travelers only think of bringing their swimsuit and lightweight clothing. While those items are vital to your trip, here are a few more items to consider taking with you.

• Cash is key if you are not from the Dominican Republic. Locals may try to take advantage and up-charge you. Try to negotiate on price when purchasing souvenirs and always pay with Dominican pesos. Use credit cards only in safe places like hotels or resorts.
• Sunscreen is essential when traveling near the equator! Make sure to pack some to protect yourself from the sun rays you’ll be catching while tanning on the white sand beaches of DR. Be aware that most hotels and resorts sell sunscreen, but very overpriced.
• Wear the right clothing for what you are doing. Being fashionable is a plus but not always right for the situation, like zip-lining. Bring a light jacket for chilly nights and hat or sunglasses for warm days.
• Bug repellent to keep mosquitoes at bay.
• Do not forget your passport at home and keep a copy of it with you if you plan to go outside a resort or hotel.
• Anti-Diarrheal medicine is key to ensuring a good trip. Many travelers will fall prey to diarrhea during their trip.

U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic

The U.S. embassy in the Dominican Republic offers many services to American travelers. These include things like helping with passports and visas, providing emergency assistance, and offering legal help. They can also give travel alerts and warnings, which let people know about any dangers or risks. If there is an emergency, the embassy can provide medical help and even help people get back to the United States.

U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo Av. República de Colombia #57 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Telephone: +(809) 567-7775 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(809) 368-7777 Email: [email protected]

It’s important to remember that the services offered can change over time. It’s a good idea to check the embassy’s website or contact them directly for the most current information.

If you have any questions about traveling to the Dominican Republic or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.

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On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for the Dominican Republic? Is Cholera in the Dominican Republic? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Dominican Republic? What is the Climate Like in the Dominican Republic? Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic? Zip lining in the Dominican Republic What Should I Take To the Dominican Republic? U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic

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Dominican Republic Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to the Dominican Republic

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to the Dominican Republic from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Dominican Republic.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the Dominican Republic without restrictions.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the Dominican Republic without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter the Dominican Republic?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering the Dominican Republic.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in the Dominican Republic?

Mask usage in the Dominican Republic is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in the Dominican Republic?

Restaurants in the Dominican Republic are open. Bars in the Dominican Republic are .

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Below are the most frequently asked questions about travel to the Dominican Republic, to help ease your journey just a little more. For COVID-19 related questions,   please click here .

How can I get to the Dominican Republic?

The Dominican Republic has  eight international airports ,  five cruise destinations  and a variety of  marinas  for boats and yachts of all sizes, as well as smaller airports for private planes. Because this is such a large and diverse island, it is important to choose your arrival airport to coincide with the final destination of your stay.

For additional information, please review our  Recommended Links , or get in touch with one of our overseas  offices .

Which documents do I need to go to the Dominican Republic?

Most visitors arriving to the Dominican Republic–including those from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, the European Union, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Mexico, many South American countries, Central America, Japan, Israel, etc. do not need a visa to enter the country. 

CLICK TO READ ABOUT THE COMPLETE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR FOREIGNERS ENTERING THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AS TOURISTS

All foreign and Dominican passengers entering or departing the Dominican Republic on commercial flights must complete the free electronic entry and exit form at:  https://eticket.migracion.gob.do

It is no longer required to fill it out 72 hours prior to the trip . It can be filled out as soon as you have your flight information, even months in advance. However, it must be filled out before arriving at the airline counter at the airport, as it is required to present it to the airline. To avoid delays at the airport, it is advised to complete the form before the trip.

If your specific home city is not shown in the form, you can choose the nearest large city in your state or province. If you are staying at a vacation rental, please ask the host to provide the complete address, including province, municipality and sector.

If you are  traveling as a family , you must fill out the form with the data of all the family members who will be traveling, however, it is only necessary that a single user be created in the system and that this user fill in the data of all the members of the family that belong to that trip, up to 6 members additional to the one filling out the form (7 persons in total per form). It is not necessary for each traveler in the same family to fill out an individual form. If more than 7 people are traveling, you must fill out an additional form for the rest. Children do not fill out the Customs section, only adults. A single QR code will be generated for the family.

You can print or make a screenshot of the arrival and departure confirmation QR codes. If you need to make any changes to the E-TICKET, you can consult it with the application code that was issued when you started filling out the form and make changes.

Passengers arriving on private flights, non-commercial vessels, ferries, cruise ships, etc., do not need to fill out the E-TICKET. The physical Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms will be accepted for the aforementioned passengers.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

As of April 23, 2022, all passengers and crew members do not need to present a COVID-19 Vaccination Card, PCR, or antigen test to enter the Dominican Republic or to enter tourist centers, any establishments or to receive services such as excursions. Random COVID-19 testing for passengers and crew upon arrival in the Dominican Republic will no longer be performed. However, when required, random testing operations may be performed. Passengers who present their Vaccination Card will be exempted from random testing.

ROUND TRIP FLIGHT TICKET

As of April 28, 2023, during the process of registration and verification of travel documents prior to boarding, national and foreign air operators operating to and from the Dominican Republic must ensure that all foreign passengers have an air ticket to and from the Dominican Republic (roundtrip). Dominican national passengers, as well as foreigners residing in the Dominican Republic, are exempted from this requirement.

The national and foreign air operators are responsible for the strict compliance of such requirement. Failure to comply with the above will result in the denial of entry to the Dominican Republic of foreign passengers, as well as the corresponding sanctions to national and foreign air operators, established by the General Directorate of Migration of the Dominican Republic.

The Dominican Republic issues tourist, business, work, student, and residency visas. Tourist visas can be issued for one or several entries. Any person, regardless of their nationality, can visit Dominican Republic if they are a legal resident of or, if they have one of the following valid visas in their passport: United States, Canada, United Kingdom or Schengen. Travelers who do not have a passport or visa from countries listed above or from other authorized countries will need to apply for a visa. To issue a visa the passport needs to have a validity of at least six (6) months.

The Dominican Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the institution that issues visas. They have a chat line available in English and Spanish, where you may contact them for specific visa questions or for other inquiries:  https://mirex.gob.do/en/

Click  HERE  to check if your country requires a tourist visa.

See  Dominican consulates abroad here.   Please make sure to always check for updated requirements before traveling.

Who are Exempt From Needing a Visa?

• Residents in the Dominican Republic and Dominican nationals.
• Diplomatic and consular personnel with missions assigned in the country, as long as they remain on duty.
• Passengers using non-commercial private aviation as long as the aircraft meets the following requirements: the trip must be for sport, leisure, tourism and business purposes, and the aircraft must not weigh more than thirty thousand (30,000) pounds and have a maximum capacity of 12 passengers.

For more information, please visit  GETTING HERE .

What happens if I decide to stay in the country for more than 30 days?

If staying beyond 30 days, expect an additional fee upon departure–determined on a sliding scale according to the total length of your stay. See the applicable fees and upload required documents  here , to be paid online before departure or at the airport’s immigration section–after check-in and past security–upon departure.

What is the cost of the departure tax?

The departure tax is US$20. It is already included in your airline ticket fare.

What is the telephone area code for the Dominican Republic?

The country code is +1. There are three area codes: 809, 829, and 849.

What is the legal drinking age?

In the Dominican Republic, you can purchase and consume alcoholic beverages from the age of 18. This means that bars will not admit anyone under 18, even when accompanied by parents or an adult.

What is the weather like? When is the rainy season?

The Dominican Republic is surrounded by over 1,600 km (1,000 miles) of coastline on its north, east, and southern borders, and the climate is tropical. Noontime temperatures range from 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F ), and can fall to 18°C and 23°C (64°F to 73°F) during the winter. Because we are in the tropics, it is hard to say if and when there is a rainy season. Rains are usually short lasting.

When is the Hurricane Season?

The  Atlantic hurricane  season begins on June 1 and extends to November 30. In the Dominican Republic, these are the summer and early fall seasons when the weather is sunny and humid, with some cloudiness and occasional rain showers in the late afternoon or at night. Historically, most hurricanes have occurred in the month of September. But chances of one hitting are slim, and if it does occur, resort staff is trained in handling these situations, and resort buildings today are equipped to withstand hurricane force. You should also take note that the Dominican Republic is a large country–this means that while one coast may be affected, another may be completely unscathed by a storm.

How does the Dominican Republic compare in size with Puerto Rico or Jamaica?

Located in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has a surface area of over 48,442 km² (18,704 square miles), which means that Puerto Rico could fit into the country five times, and Jamaica four times. Due to its size and the variety of its terrain, the Dominican Republic offers visitors an incredible diversity in landscapes, including beaches, mountains, pre-historic caves, deserts, lakes, islands, rivers, and numerous waterfalls. That’s why we say the Dominican Republic “Has it all.”

I hardly speak any Spanish. Will this be a problem?

You won’t have any problems communicating in the DR. Dominicans are very friendly and even if they do not speak your language, they will help you find someone who can or find a way to communicate. In the big cities, as well as in most tourist destinations, staff in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas, as well as tour guides understand and speak English, in addition to other languages. Fluency is less common in the villages and countryside, but they will still make out the basics and help you find your way.

What clothes should I bring

The Dominican Republic has warm sunny weather all-year-round. But it does get chilly in the morning and evenings from November to March, whether in the city or in the mountains, so packing in layers is key. You should bring light cotton or linen clothing for warm weather, aside from swimwear, a light cardigan, pants, and a light jacket. Even if staying at a resort, make sure you pack a dressy outfit for special occasions, or to dine in upscale restaurants. If you are staying in Santo Domingo, bring your regular city clothes, as well as a couple of dressy options. If you go to a National Theater performance, for instance, you will need a jacket, and no jeans are allowed. In addition, if you are visiting churches or certain national monuments and museums, you may not be able to enter if you are in shorts or mini skirts. Some government offices will not admit you with a sleeveless shirt or without closed footwear.

Can I travel with my pet?

Prior to traveling with your cat or dog, call your carrier for up-to-date information. Know the cost of transporting your animal either on board or in the cargo load. Make your reservation early because some airlines restrict the number of pets that can be carried on a single flight.

A health certificate issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian must accompany each animal. The certificate needs to establish that the pet was examined within 30 days prior to departure and was found to be free of any infectious diseases, has been treated for external and internal parasites, and was vaccinated against rabies. The rabies vaccination certificate should include the date of vaccination, the established period of immunity, the product name, and serial number.

Upon arrival in the DR, ask to speak to the animal control official who will review your veterinary certificate(s), and fill in the official pet entry permission form required.

How safe is it?

The Dominican Republic continues to be one of the countries with the lowest crime rates in the region. Common sense rules, however, and it’s best to take precautions just as you would when visiting any new country or large city in the world. Don’t flash your valuables, such as smartphones and cameras–use them discreetly when you are away from tourist areas. Leave the jewelry at home, dress simply, and don’t wander down isolated streets during the day or night.

Is it the custom to address people with the polite or the familiar form of “you”?

Even though times are changing and becoming more informal, it is best to err on the side of formal rather than informal. Use the formal form of “you”  (usted)  when you don’t know the person well. Gentlemen can be referred to as  Don  or  Señor  (Mr.) and ladies as  Doña  or  Señora  (Mrs.).

At the same time, informality is common and acceptable because Dominicans are very open and sociable people. The term  amigo  (friend) and  hermano  (brother) are frequently used. Don’t be surprised if you are referred to as  mi amor  (my love) or  cariño  (dear) in the street or in local businesses–that’s just how Dominicans communicate.

Is it safe to drink tap water at the hotels?

No, it is not safe to drink the tap water in the DR, as it is not purified. Always drink bottled water, available in abundance at your resort or in the neighborhood stores and supermarkets.

Is my driver’s license valid in the Dominican Republic?

Yes it is valid, but only for the duration of your legal stay–i.e. your 30-day tourist card or visa term.

Should I rent a car?

The Dominican Republic has the  most modern road infrastructure in the Caribbean , with excellent highways leading to and linking major tourist destinations. That being said, driving in the DR is known to be nerve-wracking; you must drive defensively and keep an eye out constantly for other drivers, motorbikes, pedestrians, cows, and other potential road companions and intruders. Driving out to the countryside is less stressful than in the big cities, though once you are in the villages, you should look out for potential road obstacles. You should be experienced, with preferable prior experience driving in big cities like New York, or driving in the Caribbean.

Avoid speeding, and don’t drive at night at all costs–lighting is often poor and nonexistent, which brings opportunities for car accidents and crime.

There are tourist destinations where having your own car is easier because there is so much to see. For example, if you are traveling the north coast from Montecristi to Puerto Plata or to Cabrera, or to the beaches of Samaná, renting a car will allow you to stop and see the sights along the way. On the east coast, having a car allows for more affordable exploration of the popular tourist areas of La Romana, Bávaro, Punta Cana, and Cap Cana. The southwest of the Dominican Republic–from Barahona to Pedernales–is one of the most beautiful and untouched regions in the country, where public transportation is limited. Having a car will help you save time and money, particularly to well-known, distant sights such as Bahía de Las Águilas. The beaches and attractions surrounding the major destinations will be more accessible and affordable to you with a rental car.

For Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Puerto Plata cities, however, it is best to rely on the vast network of taxis, including UBER. You can get a taxi by calling a 24-hr dispatch taxi company. Most offer a fixed rate of approximately US$5 one-way for most in-city destinations.

Can I use my cell phone there?

If your cell phone is on the GSM network, you can use it. However, your roaming costs will be high. Your best option is to bring an unlocked phone, and purchase a  SIM card  here to have a local number–you can obtain one with your passport ID, and activate it at any of the telecommunications companies here, including Claro and Altice. The SIM card costs less than US$5, and you will need to purchase additional phone credit for calls, at your discretion.

Will businesses accept American dollars or euros?

Businesses in tourist destinations, including restaurants, bars, department stores, souvenir shops, and supermarkets tend to accept dollars, though you will receive a less favorable rate than at the banks. That said, most prices in the Dominican Republic are in Dominican  pesos . If you plan to make a big purchase in small shops and markets, negotiate first with the seller who may be interested in receiving the payment in American dollars or euros. Prices are fixed, however, in supermarkets and shopping mall stores. Your best bet is to use an ATM to withdraw local currency at the best daily  exchange rate .

Is it best to change money at the airport?

This is fine for convenience only–to pay for your airport taxi and your first transactions. Otherwise, if you must exchange money, head to one of the main banks in the Dominican Republic–they use the Central Bank’s daily rate as the benchmark for exchange transactions, so the difference in the exchange rate between banks is negligible. Banks close at 5pm on weekdays, but most branches inside shopping malls remain open until around 7pm-8pm. ATM machines are available at supermarkets and shopping malls until later hours. For security reasons, it is best to use the exchange services or withdraw from ATMs as you go along.

How much is the sales tax?

The  ITBIS  ( Impuesto sobre Transferencia de Bienes Industrializados y Servicios  or the value-added tax for transferring industrial goods and services) is 18% and is applied to most purchases. In restaurants, bars, and hotels, a further 10% is automatically added as a service charge.

What is the current exchange rate?

Foreign currencies fluctuate from day to day, according to the market. You can check the  exchange rates  directly with commercial banks and exchange offices.

What regulations exist for traveling with children?

If the child is a foreigner, only a passport is required. There are exceptions if the child has a parent who is a resident in the Dominican Republic. Consult your airline for travel requirements for unaccompanied minors.

I have booked my vacation in Dominican Republic and I have limited mobility. Can I rent a mobility scooter in the DR?

Yes, of course. Very simple: you can call 1-844-283-8989 (toll-free number) or visit  www.scootersdr.com

What are the typical foods that I should try?

Dominican food  is very diverse. In the morning, sample  mangú  (green plantains, boiled and mashed) with eggs, fried cheese, and fried salami–the traditional Dominican breakfast. At midday,  la bandera dominicana ( Dominican flag) is the typical lunch plate with rice, red kidney beans, a meat stew, and  tostones –mashed and double-fried green plantains. Also popular are  chicharrón  or pork rinds ,   locrio de pollo  or fried rice with chicken,  mofongo –plantain mound with deep fried pork or shrimp, and garlic, fish in coconut sauce, stewed crab and conch, roasted or stewed goat with boiled cassava, and  sancocho  (a seven-meat stew) accompanied by avocado for dinner. And of course, don’t forget to try cassava bread, and  queso de hoja –an artisanal cow’s milk cheese.

Dominican desserts are popular as well–sample grated coconut in cream, sweet beans, sour milk desserts, orange sweets, milk sweets, papaya and pineapple desserts, and guava and cashew paste soaked in syrup. Tropical fruit juices abound, often made into fruit milkshakes or  batidas : passion fruit, guava, pineapple, orange, strawberry, mango, mandarin, and papaya.

Don’t miss out on tasting fresh sugar cane juice from one of the fields located throughout the country. You should also sample Dominican coconut water from one of the hundreds of coconut groves and forest–you will love the Dominican coconut’s delicious, thick pulp.

Is it worth visiting the capital city of Santo Domingo?

Absolutely!  Santo Domingo  is the first city of the Americas, and was designated the American Capital of Culture for 2010. Its  Colonial City  is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with museums, arts, culture, and the city’s most popular restaurants. The good news is that you can get to Santo Domingo easily and affordably, for less than US$10, from various parts of the country– including from Punta Cana, Samaná, La Romana, and Puerto Plata, among others– comfortable air conditioned coach buses:  Expreso Bávaro ,  Caribe Tours , or  Metro Tours . Staying overnight is your best bet. If you are only day tripping, keep the travel distances in mind.

Will I be able to see a baseball game during my stay?

To make sure you catch a baseball game–“ juego de pelota ” as we call it in the DR–you will need to visit during the winter baseball season which runs from mid-October through the end of January. The tournament champion goes on to represent the DR in what is known as the Caribbean Series, when the winning teams from Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Venezuela compete. No matter where you are staying in the country, you will have a stadium in your destination, or one that is less than an hour’s drive away. They are located in these main cities: Santo Domingo (Quisqueya Stadium), Santiago (Cibao Stadium), La Romana (Francisco Micheli Stadium), San Pedro de Macorís (Tetelo Vargas Stadium), and San Francisco de Macorís (Julián Javier Stadium). For schedule, tickets and prices, and other information visit official website of the  Dominican Baseball League .

I’d like to bring my drone on the trip – do I need any permits, and what are the drone-flying restrictions in DR?

Drone flying is regulated by the Dominican Civil Aviation Institute (Instituto Dominicano de Aviación Civil or IDAC). As of April 2018, if your drone weighs less than 4.4 pounds (two kilograms), you are not required to have a permit. However, we strongly suggest that you still request permission from IDAC ( http://www.idac.gob.do ) before entering the country because the customs department at the airport tends to hold this kind of item in order to charge duties taxes. Having a letter of permission ahead of arrival will make it easier for you upon entering the DR.

In addition, you must always comply with the following:

• The drone must be made of flexible materials, in case of possible impact towards any object or person, for minimum danger to the person or object struck.
• The drone must be manually operated, allowing you or the operator to maintain direct visual contact at all times and not exceeding 400 feet (122 meters) of distance from you or the operator;
• You must not fly the drone inside a five-mile radius (8 kms) of any airport.
• You must operate the drone in conditions of weather flight vision—not at night—and it must be permanently in your sight and control or that of the operator; and
• You must be sure, prior to commencing flying your drone, that the aircraft and its control system are in safe operating conditions.
• Obtain verbal permission from the resort or any private property over which you intend to fly your drone, and to operate when the area is not crowded so as not to invade anyone’s privacy, particularly over busy beaches.
• If your drone is over the above 4.4 pounds (two kilograms) weight limit, you will need a permit issued from IDAC.  Contact them directly at  [email protected]  to receive an application and start the process at least a month before your trip.

If your drone weighs over 4.4 pounds (two kilograms), you are required by law to submit a permission request to IDAC ( http://www.idac.gob.do ). In this request, you must specify the date, time, and place of use, and the nature of usage (commercial or personal).

Be sure to check regularly on any changes in IDAC drone regulations.

Are there closed fishing seasons in the DR?

Yes, the Dominican Republic imposes several closed fishing seasons. By law, it is prohibited for anyone to fish, consume, or possess the following marine species during these designated time periods:

Lobster:  March 1- June 30 Crab:    March 1 – June 30 Conch:  July 1- Oct 31

This also means that these species should not be available for sale nor served at food establishments, markets, or other commercial locations during closed fishing months.

Fishing for parrotfish and sharks is strictly prohibited at all times, year round. Violating these laws will result in hefty fines and imprisonment.

I have other questions I would like to ask–who can I speak with before arrival?

The Ministry of Tourism has over 30  offices and representations abroad , including in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, South America, Europe, and Asia. Feel free to contact them directly with your additional questions.

Is the Yellow Fever vaccine required for passengers coming from Brazil?

All passengers arriving in the Dominican Republic from the Brazilian states of Espiritu Santo, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo, must present their International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (CIVP) showing proof of vaccination against yellow fever at least 10 days prior to their arrival in the country.

Exempt from this provision are children under 10 months of age, pregnant women and travelers who have only transited for a period of less than 12 hours at an airport in any of the Brazilian states mentioned above. Any person who has a contraindication to the vaccine must present a medical certificate justifying it.

Is the Yellow Fever vaccine required for passengers and crew members coming from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela?

As of October 15, 2021, all passengers and crew members arriving to the Dominican Republic from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela must present the Vaccination Card, evidencing that they have been vaccinated against yellow fever. This measure also applies to all passengers coming from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela arriving to the Dominican Republic from another country, and for those who have been in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in the last 14 days or less. This measure applies to all passengers aged one (1) or over.

Are there any restrictions for passengers and crew from the Republic of Equatorial Guinea due to Malburg Virus?

As of February 21, 2023, the entry into the Dominican Republic of passengers and crew coming from the Republic of Equatorial Guinea is suspended, due to the sanitary alert declared in said country for the Marburg virus.

This measure also applies to all passengers and crew coming from a third country that have been in the Republic of Equatorial Guinea since February 8, 2023, as well as transit passengers and minors.

This measure may be revised, rescinded, or extended by the Dominican Civil Aviation Board, according to updates received on the health alert issued by the Republic of Equatorial Guinea.

Travel to the Dominican Republic without a COVID-19 test or vaccine

Apr 29, 2021 • 2 min read

Beaches in the Dominican Republic are a big attraction © Filippo Carlot / Getty Images/iStockphoto

There's a change in rules affecting those planning to travel to the Dominican Republic , as the Caribbean nation is lifting travel restrictions for incoming visitors.

This means that travelers don't have to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to be permitted entry, nor do they have to provide a negative PCR test upon arrival or undergo quarantine. Airports and other ports of entry will now perform a breath test to between 3 and 15% of arriving passengers, and will also administer it to those with virus symptoms. The latter will be put into quarantine, as will anyone who tests positive for the virus.

Visitors to the Dominican Republic must complete an electronic entry and exit form in advance, which combines a traveler’s health affidavit, customs declaration and international embarkation/disembarkation forms. As part of its range of incentives to encourage travelers to visit, it is offering those arriving on commercial flights and staying at hotels a temporary, free health insurance plan that provides coverage in the event that the visitor contracts COVID-19.

Viral antigen and PCR testing is also being offered to international visitors staying at a selection of hotels, either free of charge or for a small administration fee. This will be convenient for those who require testing for the return leg of their trip, such as US citizens. 

Prospective travelers should note that until May 16, there is a curfew in place Monday through Friday from 10 pm to 5 am, and Saturday and Sunday from 9pm to 5am. There is free transit between the evening curfew and midnight to ensure tourists can  return to hotels. Hotel guests can move within their resort property after curfew, but they must stay within the property during the curfew hours. Further information is available from the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism's website here . Travelers should always check the guidelines of their country of origin and destination before planning travel. 

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Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 6, 2023, dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Country Summary:  Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Dominican Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Dominican Republic travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 15, 2024 13:01 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, dominican republic - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

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Border closure with Haiti

The Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo cannot help you enter the Dominican Republic from Haiti.

Crime occurs in the Dominican Republic, including violent crime, especially in major cities. However, most incidents are opportunistic crime which is the most significant threat for tourists.

Petty crime

Petty crime, including pickpocketing and bag-snatching, occurs throughout the country. Tourists are common targets for theft. Crime tends to rise during holiday periods.

Incidents occur:

• at airports
• at bus stations
• on public transportation

Theft also occurs from all-inclusive hotel rooms and from hotel room safes, as well as from cars, particularly rentals.

Drive-by robberies, where thieves on motorcycles, scooters or bicycles grab bags and other valuables from pedestrians, occur frequently. Thieves may even reach into vehicles, including taxis, stopped at red lights to steal belongings.

Theft of items from checked baggage at airports has been reported. These thefts have taken place most frequently when travellers are departing. Money and personal items have also been stolen from carry-on luggage while travellers are going through security checks. All bags are routinely X-rayed upon arrival and departure.

• Be wary of individuals who ask for directions or who try to be too helpful
• Watch out for hustlers selling various wares, particularly in Santo Domingo
• Stay at hotels or resorts with good security
• Be wary of anyone who tries to enter your room
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid carrying your bag slung over your shoulder
• Carry only small amounts of money and avoid showing signs of affluence
• Keep electronic devices like cellphones, tablets, laptops and cameras out of sight
• Keep car doors locked, windows up and your belongings out of sight
• Don’t pack valuables in your checked luggage
• Verify that your luggage has not been tampered with before you check in at the airport

Violent crime against foreigners, including assault, occasionally occurs. Incidents take place mainly in large cities, at night or early morning. Some have been targeted in armed robberies when travelling to the Las Américas International Airport, sometimes in taxis.

• Arrange your arrival to and departure from the Dominican Republic in daylight hours
• Use the taxi service authorized by the airport
• Avoid unmarked taxis, especially in Santo Domingo
• Keep car doors locked and windows up, especially at a traffic light
• Avoid walking alone in unpopulated areas and unpatrolled beaches after dark
• If threatened by robbers, don’t resist

Security forces are understaffed and underequipped. The police are often unable to respond in a timely manner to calls for assistance.

Criminals impersonating police officers will stop vehicles and ask foreign drivers for payment of fines for made-up offences.

Regulations require police to wear a nametag with their last name. You have the right to ask police for identification.

If Dominican police stop you for a traffic violation:

• request a traffic ticket
• don’t pay the ticket on the spot

Rogue lawyers

Rogue lawyers are a problem in tourist areas, particularly in Punta Cana.

These lawyers stand near the tourist police (CESTUR) station and try to recruit desperate foreigners, brought to the station for detention purposes, as clients. Then, they try to extort excessive amounts of money from them by offering legal representation or assistance getting out of jail.

Credit card and ATM fraud and cloning are significant concerns. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have occurred, including at beach resorts. In some cases, hotel employees have been implicated.

• Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
• Be wary of rides or other invitations
• Avoid taking public transportation or walking alone at night

If you are a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the nearest Canadian consulate or embassy.

You should also file a report with Dominican authorities. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint to Dominican authorities before departing the country.

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations take place from time to time throughout the country, particularly in Santo Domingo.

Demonstrations have largely been peaceful and have not affected tourist areas, although local travel outside resorts could be affected.

Labour strikes occur frequently in the town of Higuey, near Punta Cana, and may affect hotel service.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Power outages

The power infrastructure is unreliable and lacks maintenance. Power outages are frequent although they mainly occur in poor neighbourhoods of major urban areas.

Recreational activities

Sporting and aquatic equipment may not meet Canadian safety standards.

If engaging in recreational activities:

• ensure that equipment is safe and in good condition
• ensure helmets and life jackets are available
• before undertaking extreme or eco-tourism activities, ensure that businesses offering excursions follow proper safety measures
• avoid excursions that are not offered by tour operators
• avoid participating in any water activities when you are under the influence of alcohol or other substances
• check that your travel insurance covers accidents related to recreational activities

Water safety

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

Water safety abroad

Road safety

The Dominican Republic has one of the highest road accident rates in the world.

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Although major highways connecting cities and tourist areas are generally in good condition, most secondary roads, are poorly maintained and poorly lit. Marked lanes are lacking. There are vehicles travelling in the wrong direction. Traffic is congested due to the significant number of trucks and motorcycles. Pedestrians don’t have the right of way, even at traffic lights.

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds, and are extremely aggressive and reckless. Drinking and driving is prevalent. Many vehicles are in poor condition and don’t have working headlights or mirrors.

Military and police road blocks are common, especially in areas near the Haitian border.

• Don’t drive after dark
• Be especially cautious if you need to drive during holiday periods, such as Christmas or Easter
• Take extra care when walking, particularly in Santo Domingo

The number of moped and scooter accidents involving tourists is increasing.

If renting a scooter or moped:

• be vigilant while driving
• avoid renting from operators who don’t provide a helmet with the rental
• avoid driving on roads in disrepair

Border with Haiti

The security environment is highly unpredictable in the border areas between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, particularly in Dajabón, with regular disturbances and incidents which can lead to violence. Emergency services are often not available near the border. 

If you choose to travel near the border with Haiti:

• exercise caution at all times
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local media to stay informed of the current situation
• follow instructions from local authorities and security forces.

Public transportation

Private companies operate reliable buses between cities.

Avoid public buses and gua-guas – microbuses – which often don’t have doors.

Taxis are not metered. Upon arrival to the Dominican Republic, use the taxi service authorized by the airport.

During your stay:

• use hotel taxis or ride-hailing apps which are generally safe
• avoid unmarked taxis
• avoid using or renting motorcycle taxis (motoconchos)
• avoid route taxis (gua-guas or carros publicos)
• negotiate the fare prior to departure

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of the Dominican Republic. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after the date of your arrival in the Dominican Republic.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for up to 30 days Work visa: required Student visa: required Residence visa: required

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket.

Electronic ticket for entry and exit

You must complete an electronic form to enter and exit the country in order to share information about your health and your stay with local authorities.

You must fill this form before boarding your flight to the Dominican Republic. This electronic form doesn’t replace the Tourist card.

Electronic ticket for entry and exit – Government of the Dominican Republic

Tourist card

As a tourist, you must obtain a tourist card to enter the Dominican Republic. It is included in all air tickets issued outside the country.

If you enter the Dominican Republic by land or sea, you can obtain the card from the General Directorate of Internal Taxes at your point of entry. It is valid for one year from the issuance date and it can be used for a 30-day stay period.

If you overstay the duration of your tourist card, local authorities could deny you entry, on your next trip, if you don’t have the proper visa, even if you paid a fine when leaving the country.

Dominican tourist card  – Directorate general of internal taxes (in Spanish)

Stay extension

You can apply for a stay extension for a period up to 120 days. You must request your stay extension to the Dominican Directorate General for Migration once you are in Dominican Republic, before your tourist card expires.

If you wish to stay in the Dominican Republic for more than 120 days, you must obtain a resident visa from the Dominican authorities in Canada prior to your departure.   

If you overstay the period for which you have been authorized to stay, you will have to pay fine to immigration authorities when leaving the country.  You may also need to apply for a visa the next time you wish to return to the Dominican Republic.

Local authorities could deny you entry in the country if you don’t have the proper visa.

Stay extension  - Dominican Directorate General for Migration

Identification

Immigration officials may conduct random ID checks.

You must carry photo identification and a copy of your entry stamp with you at all times.

• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it’s lost or confiscated
• Cooperate with authorities if they question you

As a foreign national, you will be required to provide biometrics to enter the Dominican Republic. For instance, authorities will take your fingerprints and a photograph.

Drug screening

The Dominican Republic is actively working to fight drug trafficking.

You may be subjected to drug screening measures by authorities upon departure from the country. They may search your luggage and ask you to sign a form, in Spanish, stating that the search was performed within procedural requirements.

In some cases, they may ask you to undergo an X-ray.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Yellow fever  is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito. Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if arriving from some states in Brazil, including travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport in those same states.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Salmonellosis is a common illness among travellers to this country. It can be spread through contaminated food or beverages, such as raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, as well as fruits or vegetables.

Practice safe food and water precautions . This includes only eating food that is properly cooked and still hot when served.

Pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, those over 60 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.

Most people recover on their own without medical treatment and from proper rehydration (drinking lots of fluids).

• Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Travellers with severe symptoms should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Good health care is generally available only in major cities.

Private hospitals and clinics are better equipped than public ones. However, there are reports of overcharging for medical services, variable pricing and unnecessary overnight hospital stays at private facilities.

Beware of aggressive sales tactics of in-house resort doctors, who are often contracted out by private hospitals and try to sell you on their facility.

If you go to the hospital:

• inquire about fees prior to undergoing treatment
• let the hospital administrators know if you feel you have been overcharged after a visit
• request assistance in English or French from the hospital’s guest services desk

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medical tourism

Canadian citizens have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for a medical travel:

• make sure you have done your research
• use reputable health-care providers only

Receiving medical care outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

In accordance with Dominican law, a person detained or arrested by the authorities may be held without charges for up to 48 hours before the case is presented to a judge.

Judicial processes may last several years during which accused individuals are normally detained. It could lead to very long prison sentences in harsh conditions.

Overview of the criminal law system in the Dominican Republic

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

The island is used as a drug trafficking hub between South and North America.

The authorities are enforcing strict border controls. Should you be found transporting illegal substances, you will be taken into custody right away.

• Carry only your personal belongings, and don’t leave them unattended
• Don’t agree to carry packages that are not your own

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Reporting crime

Dominican law stipulates that victims of crime, including foreigners, are responsible for reporting incidents to police.

If you wish to pursue prosecution or seek compensation, you will have to retain Dominican legal counsel to file a formal complaint to the police and to pursue the case through the justice system.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the Dominican Republic.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the Dominican Republic, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the Dominican Republic.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Dominican Republic, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Dominican court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Dominican Republic to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Investments

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in the Dominican Republic, seek legal advice in Canada and in the Dominican Republic. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Many tourists have reported financial problems and complications involving time-share arrangements and other property investment activities.

Time-share representatives may be very persistent. They use pressure tactics and offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages. At the airport, they pose as tourist operators and try to force tourists to make property investments.

• Exercise caution whenever approached by time-share representatives
• Provide your credit card only if you are sure you want to make the purchase

Before purchasing a timeshare:

• gather as much information as possible
• review carefully the contract; anything not included in the contract will not be honoured
• ensure that constant vigilance of land will take place, as there have been several instances of disputed land occupation in the absence of the alleged owner
• keep copies of all correspondence

Legal representation

If you are arrested or detained in the Dominican Republic, you have the right to a lawyer, who can be present during any questioning and at any trial or hearing.

If you cannot afford a lawyer, the Dominican government can provide you with a public defender.

Marriages legally performed in the Dominican Republic are legally recognized in Canada.

If you wish to marry in the Dominican Republic, you should consult the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Canada for information on documents and procedures.

• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
• Marriage overseas factsheet

If you are involved in a road accident, you may be detained by police until the circumstances of the accident have been investigated.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso (DOP).

U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Canadian dollars are not.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Seismic activity

The Dominican Republic is located in an active seismic zone. Tremors occur from time to time.

Emergency operations centre  - Dominican Republic government (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 911.

Tourist police

The tourist police (CESTUR) provide a security presence in tourist areas and first response assistance to tourists.

If in tourist areas, contact CESTUR: 1 809 200 3500

Road assistance

Free road assistance is offered on all major toll highways 24 hours a day.

Dial 1 829 688 1000.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to the Dominican Republic, in Santo Domingo, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is known to have it all. From its beautiful beaches to its vibrant culture, there is no surprise why so many choose to vacation there.

It is widely known for its friendly and welcoming people. Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Samaná, Puerto Plata, and La Romana are the most popular cities for tourists to visit. Tourists choose to stay in resorts and hotels for safety. The country is also popular for its destination weddings and honeymoons.

For historians and history lovers alike, the Dominican Republic has a lot to offer. The Colonial Zone’s architecture in the capital gives a sense that you have traveled to Spain. Ciudad Colonial is the oldest standing European settlement of the New World. Thus a central historic neighborhood in the oldest city of the New World, Santo Domingo.

Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, a relaxing vacation or a thrilling adventure, the Dominican Republic has it all.

Do I Need Vaccines for the Dominican Republic?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Dominican Republic. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Dominican Republic: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , cholera , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Areas of active cholera transmission include the provinces of Elías Piña, Espaillat, Independencia, Monseñor Nouel and Santo Domingo. Vaccination is recommended for travel to these regions.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Some areas of the Dominican Republic are known to have malaria . Be sure to speak with a travel health specialist about the possible need for antimalarials.

Zika is also a risk in country. the PHAC recommends women who are pregnant or may become pregnant consider the risks before travelling. The best protection against the virus is mosquito repellents and netting.

To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page . Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now .

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Dominican Republic?

With a valid passport, Canadian citizens do not need a visa for business our tourism visits under 30 days. Upon arrival, all Canadians will be issued a Tourist card at the airport.

Sources: Embassy of Dominican Republic and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

What is the Climate Like in the Dominican Republic?

As a Caribbean island, the Dominican Republic has tropical weather year-round. The temperature can span from the low-30’s at noon to low-20’s at sunrise during the summer. Whereas in the winter, temperatures can go as low as 18 degrees. With the warmest months being between June through September.

In the more mountainous areas of the country the weather is cooler. Going as low as 10 degrees early in the morning and even below -15 degrees higher up in the mountains during winter.

Tropical islands are subject to rainstorms that can occur during any time of the year. As well as hurricanes between the months of June and November. Rain falls for small periods of time in the afternoon and evening.

How Safe is the Dominican Republic?

Within touristic areas such as resorts, hotels, and beaches the Dominican Republic is fairly safe. Outside of these areas, especially at night, take extra precautions.

Crime persists to be one of the major concerns of safety in the Dominican Republic. Crime rates tend to increase during the holiday season and during Carnival.

To stay safe in the Dominican Republic:

• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or name brands.
• Pay attention to potential scams.
• Take caution when entering a public bathroom.
• Keep your hotel room keys with you if possible.
• Leave valuables in your hotel room.
• Cash, electronics, expensive jewelry, and your passport should be kept in a safety box.
• Keep a copy of your passport with you.
• Steer clear of renting vehicles or driving unless acquainted with the local traffic laws and way of driving.
• Avoid travelling at night.
• Avoid using public transportation such as taxis known as carros públicos and buses are known as guaguas in Spanish.

Zip Lining in the Dominican Republic

You can go zip lining almost anywhere in the Dominican Republic.

Compare prices before booking your zip line experience. Make sure that the operator of the zip line tour is authorized, as well. Ask questions about any concerns and what their safety record is.

Listen carefully to your zip line operator’s instructions and advice to avoid getting hurt. Keep in mind that you should avoid zip lining if you are pregnant or have any heart issues.

Be sure to wear the proper attire; such as a helmet, comfortable and closed shoes, and no dresses or skirts. The longer the pants the better as the straps may cause some discomfort against bare legs.

What Should I Take To the Dominican Republic?

Often, travellers only think of bringing their swimsuit and lightweight clothing. While those items are vital to your trip, here are a few more items to consider taking with you.

• Cash is key if you are not from the Dominican Republic. Locals may try to take advantage and up-charge you. Try to negotiate on price when purchasing souvenirs and always pay with Dominican pesos. Use credit cards only in safe places like hotels or resorts.
• Sunscreen is essential when travelling near the equator! Make sure to pack some to protect yourself from the sun rays you’ll be catching while tanning on the white sand beaches of DR. Be aware that most hotels and resorts sell sunscreen, but very overpriced.
• Wear the right clothing for what you are doing. Being fashionable is a plus but not always right for the situation, like zip-lining. Bring a light jacket for chilly nights and hat or sunglasses for warm days.
• Bug repellent to keep mosquitoes at bay.
• Do not forget your passport at home and keep a copy of it with you if you plan to go outside a resort or hotel.
• Anti-Diarrheal medicine is key to ensuring a good trip. Many travellers will fall prey to diarrhea during their trip.

Canadian Embassy in the Dominican Republic

If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in the Dominican Republic, there is a Canadian Embassy in the capital city of Santiago.

Canadian Embassy in the Dominican Republic Av. Winston Churchill 1099 Torre Citigroup en Acrópolis Center, piso 18 Ensanche Piantini, Santo Domingo, República Dominicana Tel.: (809)-262-3100

If you have any questions about travelling to the Dominican Republic or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.

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On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for the Dominican Republic? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Dominican Republic? What is the Climate Like in the Dominican Republic? How Safe is the Dominican Republic? Zip lining in the Dominican Republic What Should I Take To the Dominican Republic? Canadian Embassy in the Dominican Republic

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Why Is Everyone Going to the Dominican Republic?

The country is a rare pandemic success story, with recent visitor numbers far surpassing those of most other Caribbean destinations. Easy entry rules are a draw, but some residents are uneasy.

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By Heather Murphy

Some had come for the beach, some had come for the sun, others had picked it because, at the time, the Covid numbers seemed reasonable. Many had chosen it over resort destinations because getting there seemed easy. Still others liked the idea of not having to take a test to enter the country.

Together, they made up around 25 of the mostly American, Canadian and British guests enjoying the “Preferred Club” adults-only pool at Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana on a recent weekend, even as Omicron drove coronavirus cases to record highs in the Dominican Republic.

The pool, which is roughly 10 lounge chairs wide, offered a peaceful retreat from the boisterous main pool, which snakes out from the buffet to the sandy stretch of coastline the resort shares with around 90 other all-inclusives.

In the Preferred area, a teacher from Chicago quietly read a book as new resort friends from Michigan and Ontario chatted about whether the woman hanging out on her room’s private terrace about three lounge chairs away, was quarantining. They were pretty certain she was, given that she had not left her room for days. This was a bummer. So, too, was the fact that at least three other Preferred guests had tested positive since they’d arrived.

Still, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.

They, along with all the other visitors who filled the majority of Punta Cana’s roughly 42,000 hotel rooms that January weekend, were part of what many consider a rare pandemic tourism success story. In December the Dominican Republic drew 700,000 visitors from abroad, more than it had attracted not only before the pandemic, but in any single month ever, according to the Ministry of Tourism. That pushed 2021 totals to nearly five million visitors, more than any other country in the Caribbean. In December, some financial analysts calculated that the country was having its best year economically in 30 years.

And Punta Cana isn’t the only getaway that’s booming in the Dominican Republic. Las Terrenas, a small seaside town that tends to attract a crowd that despises all-inclusives, has exploded in popularity during the pandemic.

The Dominican Republic’s visitor figures have to do, in part, with its unconventional strategy for gaining a competitive advantage. Unlike most Caribbean beach destinations, the country doesn’t require proof of vaccination, a Covid test or quarantine for most incoming travelers. Instead, authorities have chosen to manage Covid by pushing vaccination and mask wearing among those who interact with tourists. Nearly 100 percent of the 174,000 people who work in the tourism sector are vaccinated, according to the Ministry of Tourism. And though all-inclusive resorts require only a reservation to enter, many banks, government institutions and some shopping malls require proof of vaccination or a recent P.C.R. test.

“We knew it was a risk and we wanted to take it,” Jacqueline Mora, the deputy minister of tourism, said in a recent phone interview. The strategy has worked, she added, noting that the country estimates that it earned around $5.7 billion from tourism last year while maintaining a Covid death rate lower not only than Mexico, the other major beach destination to take a similarly lax approach to entry, but also many far more restrictive countries, including the United States.

Until recently, few pushed back. But as Omicron has driven Covid rates up by several hundred percent in the Dominican Republic (now categorized as Level 4, or “very high” risk, on the C.D.C.’s rating system), infecting many vaccinated people, long-simmering resentments about letting tourists get away with so much have surfaced among some doctors, politicians and resort employees.

In early January, more than a dozen lawmakers endorsed a proposal, supported by the president of the Colegio Médico, the Dominican Republic’s largest association of doctors, urging President Luis Abinader to require recent tests and proof of vaccination from visitors. The resolution calls the current policy “discriminatory,” given that “Dominican residents have to carry a vaccination card or recent negative P.C.R. test, while visitors don’t face the same requirements to enter Dominican territory.” On Jan. 31, the government is requiring banks, shopping centers, restaurants and other public transport to ask for proof that customers have been boosted. Airports and all-inclusive resorts will not be affected.

In Punta Cana, off with the masks

Australia had been their first pick, but the borders there were still closed to visitors, said Michael Rogers, 28, an event planner from London, who was celebrating a belated honeymoon in Punta Cana.

“We’re the guinea pigs for our family. If we don’t get it,” he said, referring to Omicron, “they’ll all go on holidays.”

Behind him, people were checking into Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana. In 2021, nearly half of the foreign tourists who went to the Dominican Republic stayed in Punta Cana, at places like Dreams or the Iberostar Grand Bávaro on popular Playa Bávaro. Each one of the area’s 90 or so all-inclusive resorts is a bit different: Some are fratty party hubs, others are minimalist wonders. Some serve stale rolls. Some serve towers of fresh ceviche. Some cater to Americans, who made up nearly 60 percent of all visitors to the Dominican Republic last year. Others court Europeans, Latin Americans and Canadians who made up most of the other 40 percent.

The 500-room Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana falls somewhere in the middle in terms of price and Tripadvisor ratings. On a recent Friday, staff members scanned visitors’ temperatures upon arrival and offered spritzes of hand sanitizer along with a glass of champagne. By check-in, many guests were no longer wearing their plane masks, but it was nearly impossible to find a staff member who was letting their nose peek out. This was the first hint that guests and employees follow different rules.

This generally works for the guests.

“We’ve been dealing with it for two years straight and sometimes you just want to throw in the towel and live a little,” said Cara McQueeney, 27, a mental health worker from Concord, N.H., as she and her boyfriend awaited their final beachside dinner. She was not trying to be careless; she’d been avoiding buffets. But she was glad that she didn’t have to wear a mask.

Dealing with Covid feels more reasonable in the Dominican Republic, said Gaelle Berthault, 45, later that weekend. She, her husband and 9-year-old son had moved to Santo Domingo from Brittany early in the pandemic because they were so fed up with the restrictions they faced at the time in France, she said while sitting on the porch of a turquoise cabana in Las Terrenas on the country’s northern coast. She resented having to carry a government-issued permission slip on her walks, which she had to limit to one a day.

“It felt like war time,” she said.

Since she found a new job in Santo Domingo, she feels freer. On the weekends, her family explores coastal towns like Las Terrenas, where her son might spend the morning splashing in the pool of a boutique hotel before venturing to a beach. In Santo Domingo, public buses sometimes require proof of vaccination, but she has never taken one.

A challenging time

The arrival of the virus had come at a terrible time for the Dominican Republic’s tourism industry. In March 2020, when the World Health Organization upgraded the epidemic to a pandemic, the country had just recovered from a different crisis. In 2019, 10 American tourists had died there, several mysteriously passing away in their sleep. Ultimately, the F.B.I. deemed that the incidents weren’t connected, but it was not good publicity. Visitor numbers fell by 9 percent, according to Ms. Mora. And then, just as they bounced back, the pandemic shuttered its borders.

For the 174,000 people who work directly in the tourism sector it was a challenging time. Though the government gave them money, a number of workers, including a maid, butler, server and concierge, calculated that they took home one quarter to one half of what they normally made.

When the country opened back up to tourists in July 2020, authorities briefly required visitors to show the results of a recent test. Then in August, President Abinader, who has a long history in the tourism industry, took office. The strategy began to revolve around making entry as easy as possible. Through last April, the country offered to cover the costs of medical care, lodging and flight changes, should guests fall sick with Covid. The airport did continue testing some visitors randomly, a policy that continues, according to the Ministry of Tourism.

To this day, most other Caribbean nations require proof of vaccination, test results and, in some cases, quarantine, and they also may restrict hotel bookings to 30 or 50 percent capacity to mitigate viral spread, according to Michael Lowery, the executive vice president of consumer business for Apple Leisure Group, which owns Dreams resorts and CheapCaribbean.com, a vacation booking platform used by millions. He said that the Dominican Republic has been one of the two most popular destinations for his company during the pandemic — behind Mexico — because travelers don’t want to deal with restrictions and because resorts fill up their rooms, keeping prices reasonable.

“They’ve done a good job of keeping their borders open and allowing 100 percent occupancy in all the resorts,” he said.

Large groups, even bigger than before, began to flock to the Dominican Republic, said TJ Murray, the owner of Punta Cana Tours , a booking site.

Couples who might not have considered the Dominican Republic previously for a destination wedding began to see it as a sure thing for guests traveling from across the world, said Jennifer Collado, the owner of a wedding and events agency based in Punta Cana.

The turnaround

By August 2021, about a year after the Dominican Republic reopened to tourism, you might have noticed something intriguing if you happened to be looking at Kayak.com’s flight trends. For more than a month, destinations in just one country consistently displayed green, meaning they had generated more search interest than they had two years earlier: the Dominican Republic.

September, November and December were good months for the country. Tourism numbers surpassed prepandemic levels, and coronavirus case counts stayed low, typically hovering between 100 and 300 daily. But then Omicron hit. On Jan. 12, a record 7,439 people tested positive in the Dominican Republic, far more than any other day during the pandemic. On Dec. 29, the country also reported eight Covid-related deaths, more than it had seen in a single day in months.

“The hospitals are full; children, old people, everyone, sick with Covid,” said Dr. Senén Caba, the president of the Colegio Médico.

He blamed the government’s lax entry policy for the suffering. Though people who work in the tourism sector may be largely young, healthy and vaccinated, they can still transmit the virus to family members and others. (Only 54 percent of the population overall is fully vaccinated.)

According to the tourism ministry the spike is not a reason to adjust the country’s approach.

“Omicron is everywhere,” and testing requirements offer countries little more than the illusion of security, Ms. Mora said. Willie Walsh, the director general of the International Air Transport Association, a trade organization representing nearly 300 airlines, echoed this argument in a recent statement.

Asked if interacting with potentially contagious visitors all day made him nervous, Maiken Mercedes, a server at Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana, said, “What gives me fear is not the virus, it’s not making money for my family.” Other employees in the hospitality industry also expressed concerns that more restrictions would mean fewer guests.

But there has to be a way to encourage responsible tourism, said Ivan Lorenzo, a senator for the Dominican province of Elías Piña, which shares a border with Haiti.

“We cannot rationalize the human losses with what we generate economically,” he said.

Neither he nor several hospitality workers interviewed were convinced that requiring tests would derail the country’s growth. In fact, some found the suggestion that the lax policy is what’s drawing people to the Dominican Republic insulting.

The dreaded end-of-vacation test

No matter how much they try not to think about the coronavirus, at the end of the day, visitors have to think about it because the United States, Canada and many other countries require a test to re-enter.

For Kelly Lynn Gasper, 57, a behavioral health nurse from Oakley, Mich., the possibility was particularly nerve-wracking because early in her one-week visit with her 18-year-old daughter to Punta Cana, she’d started to feel like she was coming down with something. She took two rapid tests she’d brought and tested positive twice, she said.

Ms. Gasper was conflicted about how to proceed, but ultimately opted not to spend her whole vacation in her room, instead upping her mask wearing and avoiding indoor spaces. As her daughter, Caitlyn Gasper, who’d already had Omicron back home, pointed out, other people were probably positive around her, but didn’t know it, so why should she be penalized for testing positive?

Much to her relief, Ms. Gasper tested negative that morning at the resort clinic. The results had come so fast — within a couple of minutes, instead of the 15 that is more typical — she had wondered about their accuracy.

Kris Milavec, 59, of Concord Township, Ohio, did not share Ms. Gasper’s skepticism, because earlier that day her husband and one other member of her group of nearly 20 had quickly tested positive and were now stuck in their rooms.

As to whether it was worth it, given that her husband, an anesthesiologist who was expected back at the hospital, was apparently stuck abroad, Ms. Milavec paused.

“I don’t think it was worth it,” she said as the rest of the group posed for poolside photos in their matching white outfits.

Enzo Conte, the owner of a software company in Quebec, would also prefer not to get Omicron. But if he’s going to get it, he said, it might as well be while he’s staying at a beachside villa in the Dominican Republic. Since early December, he has been alternately vacationing and working remotely from Las Terrenas.

Should he test positive, he said, “I’ll just stay a little longer.”

Hogla Enecia Pérez contributed research from Santo Domingo.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

Heather Murphy is a reporter on the Travel desk. She welcomes tips, questions and complaints about traveling during the pandemic. More about Heather Murphy

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Dominican Republic

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Dominican Republic Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Canada to the Dominican Republic

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

Documents & Additional resources

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Can I travel to the Dominican Republic from Canada?

Most visitors from Canada, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Dominican Republic.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Canada can enter the Dominican Republic without restrictions.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Canada can enter the Dominican Republic without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter the Dominican Republic?

Visitors from Canada are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering the Dominican Republic.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic without quarantine?

Travellers from Canada are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in the Dominican Republic?

Mask usage in the Dominican Republic is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in the Dominican Republic?

Restaurants in the Dominican Republic are open. Bars in the Dominican Republic are .

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Dominican Republic vaccine requirements: Complete guide for 2024

Are you looking for a destination in Latin America for your next trip? The Dominican Republic is a country worth visiting in Caribbean waters. Santo Domingo and Punta Cana are fantastic spots to include in your travel plans.

Before your trip, you should learn what vaccinations are required to enter the Dominican Republic . Do travelers need to present proof of vaccination? Are there any Covid-19 antigen test requirements upon arrival at Las Américas International Airport? Most travelers may have questions like these before traveling.

This article will provide you with helpful information before your trip. Keep reading to learn more about the vaccine requirements , COVID-19 entry rules, and the travel documents you'll need.

Dominican Republic Vaccine Entry Requirements

Dominican authorities recommend many vaccinations, especially for travelers visiting rural areas. However, only yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and just for travelers from some risk areas . In this case, the Dominican authorities may ask for proof of vaccination on arrival.

What vaccines should I take to visit the Dominican Republic?

Vaccines are pretty important for disease control. Learn below about the vaccines you should take before your trip to travel safely.

Routine Vaccines to travel to the Dominican Republic

The recommendation is to be up-to-date on all the following routine vaccines before every trip.

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis

Flu (influenza)

Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Cholera vaccination for the Dominican Republic

The provinces and districts of Distrito National, Elías Piña, La Altagracia, Monte Cristi, and Santo Domingo have reported cholera cases in 2023. If you're planning on traveling to areas with active cholera transmission , it's recommended that both children and adults get vaccinated if possible.

Hepatitis A vaccination for the Dominican Republic

Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for 1-year-old travelers or older going to the Dominican Republic.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose doesn't count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or younger than six months old should receive a single dose of immune globulin instead. Depending on your dosage, this will provide effective protection for up to 2 months.

For unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions and are planning to travel to a risk area in less than 2 weeks, it's recommended that you get the initial dose of the vaccine and also receive an immune globulin at the same appointment. This will help protect you from the disease you may be exposed to during your travels.

Hepatitis B vaccination for the Dominican Republic

If you're planning a trip to the Dominican Republic and you're younger than 60 years old , it's highly recommended that you get vaccinated before you go.

Measles vaccination for the Dominican Republic

Infants 6 to 11 months old traveling internationally should get one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before the trip. Please note this dose doesn't count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.

Rabies vaccination for the Dominican Republic

Rabid dogs are commonly found in the Dominican Republic. This means that if you're bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while you're there, there may be limited or no rabies medical treatment available.

To help protect yourself, it's a good idea to consider vaccinating against rabies before your trip if you think you'll be around dogs or other wildlife. This is especially important for certain types of traveler:

Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers

Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers who handle animal specimens

Visitors to rural areas

Also, remember that children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal. So if you're traveling with kids to the Dominican Republic, consider getting them vaccinated against rabies too.

Typhoid vaccination for the Dominican Republic

The Typhoid vaccine is recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas .

Yellow Fever vaccination for the Dominican Republic

You must present proof of yellow fever vaccination if you're traveling from certain states in Brazil, including Mina Gerais, Espirito Santo, São Paulo, or Rio de Janeiro, and you're at least 1 year old. This applies even if you pass through an airport in one of these states and have a layover longer than 12 hours.

For some rural areas, taking prescription medicine to prevent malaria and avoiding mosquito bites using insect repellent is recommended.

Click here to check the CDC Public Health's website for all vaccine recommendations.

Covid-19 restrictions

At the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, the World Tourism Organization recommended many measures to keep travel safe for tourists. At that time, the Dominican government introduced restrictions during the crises. But the disease is currently controlled, and health risks are low, so the local authorities have left the Covid-19 restrictions . Learn more details below.

Does the Dominican Republic require a Covid vaccine?

No, a foreign national doesn't have to present a vaccine certificate to enter the Dominican Republic. Currently, a COVID vaccination card or certificate is not mandatory to enter the country.

Do Dominican authorities require a Covid-19 PCR test before arrival?

There are no COVID-19 procedures at entry , so there are no temperature checks, and you don't need to present negative test results before departure or upon entry. Random COVID-19 testing for passengers and crew upon arrival in the Dominican Republic is no longer a protocol, but authorities may still perform random testing operations for unvaccinated travelers.

Do I have to quarantine when I get to the Dominican Republic?

There are no quarantine requirements on arrival to visit the Dominican Republic.

Entry and exit requirements to visit the Dominican Republic?

You may ask yourself: “Do I need a visa to travel to the Dominican Republic?” Most travelers can enter the Dominican Republic without a visa . The Dominican government has a long list of visa-exempt countries. Use the Visa Checker Tool to see if you're from one of them.

Otherwise, the eTicket is a mandatory document for all visitors. This digital permit combines a health and customs declaration.

In any case, you can check additional entry requirements with the embassy in your home country.

Dominican Republic eTicket: What is this electronic form?

You'll have to present the eTicket to the Dominican authorities to enter or leave the Dominican Republic . This electronic form combines the Traveler's Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration, and International Embarkations into a single document. The authorities developed it to help track the passengers and facilitate the tourist flow.

The best thing is that you can complete and submit the document online! Get your Dominican Republic eTicket with us in a few minutes.

Who needs the Dominican Republic eTicket?

Anyone who wants to enter or leave the Dominican Republic has to complete the eTicket form , whether a national or a visitor.

If traveling with your family, you can apply once and fill out the form with all your family members' information, including minors.

When should I apply for the Dominican Republic eTicket?

You can apply for the Dominican Republic eTicket anytime – even on the same day you travel . If you apply more than 60 days in advance, we'll keep your application on hold and submit it for you when you're eligible to do so. Our travel advice is to apply in advance to plan the trip relaxed.

How long is the Dominican Republic eTicket valid?

The eTicket is a Single Entry document , so you must apply for one each time you travel there.

What documents will I need to apply for the eTicket?

It's easy to complete the eTicket form! You'll need your passport and a few documents:

Valid passport - The passport must be valid for at least six months after arrival.

Flight tickets and itinerary

Email address - We'll use this to communicate with you at any point if we need to, and you'll receive your confirmed document via email.

Payment method - A credit or debit card to pay the fees.

How to apply for the Dominican Republic eTicket?

You must follow these three simple steps to submit the eTicket application:

First , complete the eTicket application form with your details (like name, home country, and date of birth). Then, choose the preferred processing time for your document.

Second , double-check your information to avoid any mistakes. After that, introduce a payment method for the service fee.

Third , attach any other documents and click 'submit' to apply for your eTicket. You'll receive the document in your email. If you have any doubts, count on our customer service team to help you.

How much does the eTicket cost?

Technically, you can get your Dominican Republic eTicket for free on the government website . Despite this, it can be tedious to do on your own due to the government's lengthy and ambiguous language. If you want to avoid the headache of completing tiresome paperwork , we recommend counting on our services to apply for the Dominican Republic eTicket . Fees may differ depending on your nationality and chosen processing time.

What are the eTicket processing times?

We offer three options to get the Dominican Republic eTicket:

Standard processing time: This is the least expensive alternative, and you'll receive the eTicket in 24 hours .

Rush processing time: You'll get the eTicket in 4 hours with this option.

Super Rush processing time: This is an excellent option for last-minute travel because you'll receive the document in only 30 minutes .

I still have doubts. How can I contact iVisa?

Suppose you still have questions about the eTicket or another travel document for the Dominican Republic. In this case, you can chat with our customer service team or email us at [email protected] .

Travel tips for the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful destination for holidays! Ensure you check out our Dominican Republic Travel Guide , which is full of information to prepare you for this trip. Learn about daily costs, the best transportation to get around, and which typical food you should try.

Also, here are some tips for enjoying your travels!

Public transportation may not be the most comfortable way to travel between cities. If you get an international driving permit, it can be a nice road trip to explore cities like Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and La Romana on your own time.

The Dominican Republic has high temperatures , so ensure you have some lightweight clothing and sunscreen for daylight hours among your personal items.

Always prefer bottled water to avoid contaminated water. You should also avoid contaminated food: small hotels, independent restaurants, and street vendors can pose a risk to your health care. For safe food , prefer places that follow the same regulations as the FDA.

Like other countries in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is affected by the hurricane season , which runs from June to late October. It's better to choose another time of the year to avoid natural disasters and ensure you can enjoy your vacation.

Medical insurance is not mandatory, but it is always a good idea if you need medical services during the trip.

Follow the local laws to avoid any problems with the Dominican authorities.

Best places to visit in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful Caribbean country with a rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the must-see attractions to add to your itinerary:

Punta Cana - This resort town is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and all-inclusive resorts. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation and offers plenty of water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing.

Santo Domingo - As the country's capital city, Santo Domingo is a must-visit for its well-preserved colonial architecture, lively nightlife, and delicious food. Explore the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Alcázar de Colón, the former residence of Christopher Columbus' son.

Samaná Peninsula - This beautiful peninsula on the northeast coast is a nature lover's paradise, with lush forests, waterfalls, and secluded beaches. Don't miss the chance to witness the majestic humpback whales that migrate to Samaná Bay from January to March.

La Romana - Located on the south coast, La Romana is home to some of the country's most luxurious resorts, world-class golf courses, and stunning beaches. Visit Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village now an artists' colony.

Jarabacoa - Known as the "city of eternal spring," Jarabacoa is a picturesque mountain town surrounded by pine forests, rivers, and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for adventure activities like rafting, canyoning, and hiking.

No matter where you go in the Dominican Republic, you'll surely be amazed by its natural beauty and warm, welcoming people. Get your Dominican eTicket and be well-prepared for this trip!

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• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://migracion.gob.do/en/

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Last update on April 24, 2024, 4:47 pm

Tourism April 20, 2024 | 12:30 pm

New JetBlue offer: flights to Dominican Republic from $89

JetBlue  announced the  Hit Refresh  offer with two days of airfare starting at $89 to different cities, such as Santo Domingo, Miami,  and  Cancun , for travel between Tuesday, May 7, and Wednesday, June 12.

Flights from the airports of New York City and New Jersey (JFK-EWR) to the airports of Punta Cana, Santiago de los Caballeros,  and  the AILA in Santo Domingo in the Caribbean country of the Dominican Republic start at $129.

However, for travel between May 7 and June 12, the fare for an air ticket from Puerto Rico to Punta Cana or Santo Domingo starts at $89, while from  Boston to Punta Cana, the ticket can cost $169, arriving in Santo Domingo and Santiago for a value of $149.

Hit Refresh air ticket offers have no blackout dates, giving passengers the flexibility to start their summer vacations.

Offer Details

• Boston (BOS) to Santo Domingo (SDQ) starting at $149

• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Santo Domingo (SDQ) starting at $114

• Boston (BOS), New York (EWR & JFK), Raleigh (RDU), and Tampa (TPA) to Cancun (CUN) starting at $124

•Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Guayaquil (GYE) starting at $84

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World Immunization Week 2024: mRNA vaccines hold potential in multiple disease areas

According to GlobalData, there are currently 507 prophylactic vaccines in late-stage development for a wide range of infectious diseases.

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World Immunization Week occurs annually during the last week of April. The campaign aims to highlight the collective action needed and to promote the use of vaccines in all age groups to prevent disease and protect life. The ultimate goal is to raise awareness of the importance of immunisation amongst the public, thereby increasing vaccination rates and reducing the number of vaccine-preventable illnesses and deaths.

Vaccinations have heavily reduced the burden of disease in society; the eradication of smallpox, as well as the vast reduction in polio cases, exemplifies the effectiveness of this strategy. Promoting immunisation, improving vaccination schedules, and developing new vaccines are all methods that will contribute towards the decrease in morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable illnesses. Global immunisation has been one of humanity’s greatest achievements, with 3.5–5 million deaths averted each year from diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). There are now vaccines available to prevent over 20 life-threatening diseases. In addition to this, novel mechanisms are expected to broaden the scope of available prophylactic vaccines in the near future. The success of the first approved mRNA vaccines for Covid-19 showed promise for utilisation of this technology in other disease areas. mRNA vaccines use messenger RNA (mRNA) that corresponds to a viral protein, such as a small piece of protein found on the outer membrane, to induce an immune response. However, while immunisation is one of the cheapest and most effective public health interventions, enabling the eradication of disease, vaccine hesitancy is still very much present. The Covid-19 mRNA vaccines sparked a lot of vaccine hesitancy with individuals wary about the accelerated R&D process. However, key opinion leaders (KOLs) interviewed by GlobalData have expressed that mRNA technology offers the advantage of rapid production and adaptability for evolving targets. They also emphasised the safety of this vaccine design.

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The recent Covid-19 pandemic has emphasised the need for effective vaccines, improving vaccination access and acceptance, to protect the health, wellness, and security of the world population. Nonetheless, the Covid-19 pandemic led to a setback in vaccine administration, thereby resulting in regional outbreaks of diphtheria and measles. Therefore, as we celebrate 50 years of the WHO’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), a global endeavour to ensure equal access to life-saving vaccines for all children, we emphasise the need for leaderships worldwide to ramp up investments in immunisation programmes to protect the next generation. The theme of this year’s World Immunization Week—Humanly Possible—signifies that there is hope and possibility in achieving the goal of worldwide immunisation.

According to GlobalData, there are currently 507 prophylactic vaccines in late-stage development for a wide range of infectious diseases. Of these, 88 are mRNA vaccines in late-stage development for the prevention of diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, influenza, Covid-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Lyme disease, amongst others. New vaccines reaching the market increase the momentum for reducing vaccine-preventable illnesses. Vaccines also serve as the frontline defence against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Making better use of existing vaccines and developing new ones are important ways to tackle AMR and reduce preventable illness and death.

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Ottawa injects another $36M into fund for those seriously injured or killed by vaccines

The federal government has added $36.4 million to a program designed to support people who have been seriously injured or killed by vaccines since the end of 2020.

The program was announced shortly after COVID-19 shots first became available to the public, and provides financial compensation to people who were adversely affected by Health Canada-approved vaccines.

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The Liberals earmarked $75 million for the first five years of the program. To date, a private firm called OXARO has received $56.2 million from Ottawa to run the program and pay out valid claims that originate outside of Quebec.

As of December, the firm has paid $11.2 million in compensation.

Quebec has had its own vaccine injury compensation program since 1985, and received $7.75 million when the federal program launched.

The Liberal government set aside another $36 million for OXARO and Quebec to cover the next two years of the program as part of the federal budget tabled in the House of Commons last week.

The Public Health Agency of Canada says it contracted the work to OXARO to ensure the impartiality of the claims process.

"OXARO operates independently and at arm's length from PHAC," a spokesperson for the department said in a statement.

"This means that PHAC has no involvement in program delivery, including assessment of claims or appeals of claims."

The cost of the program is dependent on how many people apply for compensation, the spokesperson said.

As of December, OXARO has received 2,233 claims and approved 138 of them.

The available statistics do not specify which vaccines were involved.

The program was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, but covers injuries and deaths associated with vaccines approved for any illness, as long as they were administered after Dec. 8, 2020.

At the time, the department underscored that a serious adverse reaction to a vaccine is extremely rare — affecting less than one in a million people — but that the government has a duty to help if a reaction does happen.

A little less than a year later, Ottawa made it mandatory to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to travel by plane or train, or to work for the federal public service.

To be eligible for compensation, the patient or their beneficiary must be able to prove they suffered a severe, life-threatening or life-altering injury that resulted in a persistent or significant disability, incapacity, a birth defect or death.

More than 105 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered since Dec. 14, 2020, and 0.01 per cent led to serious adverse effects, Health Canada data show.

Of the 488 deaths reported after people were vaccinated for COVID-19, four were directly linked to the shot, the most recent Health Canada report indicates.

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Quebec saw an uptick in claims to its vaccine injury compensation program during the pandemic, from one claim in 2020 to 98 in both 2021 and 2022.

Only three of those cases had been approved for compensation as of March 2023.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 24, 2024.

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A basket of needles containing COVID-19 vaccines waits to be administered to patients at a COVID-19 clinic in Ottawa on March 30, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

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• Federal Politics

Ottawa injects another $36M into vaccine injury compensation fund

OTTAWA - The federal government has added $36.4 million to a program designed to support people who have been seriously injured or killed by vaccines since the end of 2020.

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The program was announced shortly after COVID-19 shots first became available to the public, and provides financial compensation to people who were adversely effected by Health Canada-approved vaccines.

The Liberals earmarked $75 million for the first five years of the program. To date, a private firm called OXARO has received $56.2 million from Ottawa to run the program and pay out valid claims that originate outside of Quebec.

As of December, the firm has paid $11.2 million in compensation.

Quebec has had its own vaccine injury compensation program since 1985, and received $7.75 million when the federal program launched.

The Liberal government set aside another $36 million for OXARO and Quebec to cover the next two years of the program as part of the federal budget tabled in the House of Commons last week.

The Public Health Agency of Canada says it contracted the work to OXARO to ensure the impartiality of the claims process.

“OXARO operates independently and at arm’s length from PHAC,” a spokesperson for the department said in a statement.

“This means that PHAC has no involvement in program delivery, including assessment of claims or appeals of claims.”

The cost of the program is dependent on how many people apply for compensation, the spokesperson said.

As of December, OXARO has received 2,233 claims and approved 138 of them.

The available statistics do not specify which vaccines were involved.

The program was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, but covers injuries and deaths associated with vaccines approved for any illness, as long as they were administered after Dec. 8, 2020.

At the time, the department underscored that a serious adverse reaction to a vaccine is extremely rare — affecting less than one in a million people — but that the government has a duty to help if a reaction does happen.

A little less than a year later, Ottawa made it mandatory to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to travel by plane or train, or to work for the federal public service.

To be eligible for compensation, the patient or their beneficiary must be able to prove they suffered a severe, life-threatening or life-altering injury that resulted in a persistent or significant disability, incapacity, a birth defect or death.

More than 105 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered since Dec. 14, 2020, and 0.01 per cent led to serious adverse effects, Health Canada data show.

Of the 488 deaths reported after people were vaccinated for COVID-19, four were directly linked to the shot, the most recent Health Canada report indicates.

Quebec saw an uptick in claims to its vaccine injury compensation program during the pandemic, from one claim in 2020 to 98 in both 2021 and 2022.

Only three of those cases had been approved for compensation as of March 2023.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 24, 2024.

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