Dominican Republic Entry Requirements

Dominican Republic Entry Requirements

Passports
Everyone needs a passport. Besides being the preferred method of identification in today’s world, your passport will be needed for proof ID when cashing traveler’s checks, renting a car, making a large credit card purchase, etc. If you don’t have one, get one.

Residents of most countries, including the US, Canada, Mexico and most of Europe, will not need a visa but if in doubt, check with the DR tourism board.

In addition, you will need to show a round trip ticket providing passage out of the DR.

Tourist cards
Upon arrival you will also need to purchase a tourist card at the airport, they cost US$10. To make things go more quickly at the airport try to have the exact amount ready as well as a pen. They don’t accept coins, checks or other currency so a $10 bill per person is the way to go. It is the little things like this that will ease your way after a long day traveling.

In many cases you can purchase the card prior to arrival from one of several sources such as DR embassies, tour operators, and many airlines. This will save time getting through customs. Be sure to keep your tourist card in a safe place as you will need it for departure.

The tourist card allows for stays of up to 15 days. If you are staying longer than that you will need to pay extension fees ranging from $10 to $500 depending on the length of extension.

Tip: If traveling on a tour or package be sure to ask whether the cost already includes the Tourist Card fee. Many do include this and you sure don’t want to pay it twice.

Children
If traveling with children who do not share your name, be sure to have proper documentation. Authorities in the DR are very strict about children being with a legal guardian. You will need to have notarized authority from the other parent if traveling alone with a child giving you authority to have the child with you. Just because a child has a passport doesn’t mean you don’t need the other docs. Get them.

 The proper documents and instructions can be obtained from the DR consulate in your country. DO NOT bypass this important step. Too many families have learned the hard way by being sequestered in an airport holding area and then unceremoniously returned on the next outbound flight. No vacation, no refund, no apologies. Don’t let it happen to you.

Marriage & name changes
Your ID is in one name, passport is in another? That is a problem. If the names on your ID and travel docs don’t match up because you were recently married or otherwise had a name change, you had better bring proof. The burden is on you to convince the customs people.