Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Tourist Card Updates
Most visitors to the Dominican Republic receive a 30-day tourist card upon arrival for a $10 fee, but digital pre-registration via the official E-Ticket system is now mandatory and can be completed online up to 72 hours before travel to streamline entry.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the Dominican Republic, with at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.
Ensure it's not damaged, as immigration officials may deny entry; always carry a photocopy as a backup while traveling.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the US, Canada, EU countries, UK, Australia, and many others can enter visa-free with just the $10 tourist card for stays up to 30 days.
Over 100 nationalities qualify, but confirm your status on the official Dominican tourism website to avoid surprises at the border.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring a visa, such as those from China or India, apply at a Dominican consulate with documents including a valid passport, proof of funds ($100/day recommended), return ticket, and accommodation details; fees range from $50-150.
Processing times vary from 5-15 business days, so apply at least a month in advance for peace of mind.
Border Crossings
Entry is straightforward at major airports like Punta Cana (PUJ) or Santo Domingo (SDQ), where you'll receive your tourist card and undergo a quick customs check; land borders with Haiti require additional scrutiny and may need pre-approval.
COVID-era health declarations are no longer required, but random temperature checks and proof of onward travel are still enforced.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip delays, and adventure activities like zip-lining or scuba diving in places like Samaná.
Opt for policies with at least $50,000 in medical coverage starting from $2-5 per day from trusted international providers.
Extensions Possible
You can extend your 30-day stay up to 120 days total by applying at the General Directorate of Migration in Santo Domingo or provincial offices before your card expires, with fees around $25 per month.
Provide proof of sufficient funds and a valid reason, such as extended vacation or business; overstay fines are $10 per day plus potential deportation risks.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
The Dominican Republic uses the Dominican Peso (DOP), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas. For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Punta Cana or Santo Domingo by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially during peak winter season.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at comedores for authentic dishes like sancocho under $10, avoiding all-inclusive resort markups to save up to 60% on food costs.
Street vendors and local markets in Santo Domingo offer fresh fruits, empanadas, and juices at bargain prices with vibrant flavors.
Public Transport Passes
Use affordable guaguas (minibuses) or motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) for $1-3 per ride, keeping intercity travel under $20 for long distances.
Apps like Uber are available in cities, but local options provide cheaper, more authentic experiences with tips for safety.
Free Attractions
Explore public beaches like Playa Bávaro, hike Pico Duarte trails, or wander Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo, all cost-free and immersing you in Caribbean culture.
Many national parks offer free entry days, and sunset views from lagoons are priceless without guided fees.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted at resorts and malls, but carry DOP or USD cash for markets, taxis, and small vendors to avoid 5-10% fees.
Use ATMs in banks for better rates, and notify your card issuer of travel to prevent blocks.
Combo Packages
Book all-inclusive deals or multi-day excursion passes for $100-200 covering meals, transport, and activities like whale watching in Samaná.
These bundles often save 20-40% compared to individual bookings, ideal for families or groups.
Smart Packing for Dominican Republic
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton or linen clothes for the tropical heat, including swimsuits, cover-ups, and quick-dry items for beach days and island hopping.
Include modest attire for cultural sites like cathedrals in Santo Domingo, and a light rain jacket for sudden showers year-round.
Electronics
Bring a Type A/B adapter for 110V outlets, a waterproof phone case for beach use, portable charger for off-grid adventures, and a GoPro for capturing cenote dives.
Download offline maps via Google Maps and Spanish phrase apps, as Wi-Fi can be spotty in rural areas like the Samaná Peninsula.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a basic first-aid kit with motion sickness meds for boat trips, prescriptions, and high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen to protect against intense UV.
Include DEET insect repellent for mosquito-prone areas, antidiarrheal for street food, and a reusable water bottle for filtered hydration on hikes.
Travel Gear
Pack a waterproof daypack for snorkeling excursions, dry bag for boat rides, reusable reef-safe tote for markets, and small USD bills for tips and vendors.
Bring passport copies, a money belt for city safety, and a sarong for versatile beach or temple use in one lightweight item.
Footwear Strategy
Choose water shoes or flip-flops for rocky beaches and cenotes, sturdy sandals for urban exploration in Punta Cana, and hiking sneakers for trails in Jarabacoa.
Avoid high heels due to uneven cobblestones in colonial towns; pack versatile, closed-toe options for adventure activities like ATV tours.
Personal Care
Include travel-sized biodegradable sunscreen, aloe vera for sunburn relief, hat and sunglasses for equatorial sun, and a compact umbrella or poncho for tropical downpours.
Opt for eco-friendly toiletries to protect coral reefs, and pack wet wipes for dusty roads or post-beach cleanup during multi-destination itineraries.
When to Visit Dominican Republic
Winter (December-February)
Peak dry season with sunny days averaging 25-30°C, perfect for whale watching in Samaná Bay and relaxing on Punta Cana beaches with minimal rain.
Expect higher crowds and prices during holidays, but it's ideal for escaping northern winters with vibrant Carnival preparations starting.
Spring (March-May)
Shoulder season offers warm 28-32°C weather with fewer tourists, great for hiking in the Cordillera Central or exploring colonial architecture in Santo Domingo.
Occasional showers keep things lush, and it's a prime time for affordable all-inclusives before summer heat intensifies.
Summer (June-August)
Wet season begins with humid 30-35°C days, suitable for indoor cultural experiences or short beach escapes between afternoon rains.
Lower prices attract budget travelers, and it's festival season with Merengue Week in Santo Domingo offering lively music and dance.
Fall (September-November)
Hurricane season peaks with variable weather around 28-32°C, but off-peak deals make it affordable for surfing in Cabarete or birdwatching in Lago Enriquillo.
Travel insurance is crucial; rewards include uncrowded beaches and the start of dry season with fewer storms by late November.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Dominican Peso (DOP). US Dollars widely accepted in tourist zones; exchange at banks for best rates. ATMs common but carry cash for rural areas.
- Language: Spanish is official. English spoken in resorts and tourist spots; basic phrases help in local markets and countryside.
- Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC-4 year-round
- Electricity: 110V, 60Hz. Type A/B plugs (US-style two/three-pin)
- Emergency Number: 911 for police, medical, or fire assistance nationwide
- Tipping: 10% customary in restaurants (often added as 10% ITBIS tax); $1-2 for porters, taxi drivers round up fares
- Water: Tap water not safe; drink bottled or purified. Avoid ice in rural areas to prevent stomach issues
- Pharmacies: Widely available as "farmacias" with green signs; over-the-counter meds common, but bring prescriptions