travel restrictions dominican republic 2022

Update April 12, 2024

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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.

Travel Advisory Levels

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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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Covid-19: Travel Restrictions in the Dominican Republic

Lighthouse in Santo Domingo

Photo: Leo Arturo Martinez

All information in this article was correct at the time of publishing, February 5 2021 - please double check official sources for updates

With 33 countries closing their borders to US travellers last month, US residents yearning for an overseas holiday will be glad to know international travellers are currently welcome to travel to and from the Dominican Republic.

At the moment, restrictions for foreigners in the Dominican Republic aren’t prohibitively strict, but there are some requirements, restrictions and free services you should be aware of. Here’s what to expect if you’re planning to cross the border, in or out.

If you’re travelling to the Dominican Republic

Every incoming arrival must undergo a mandatory temperature check upon arrival, and anyone with positive results will be isolated in authorized locations. Border control isn’t requiring negative test results of every traveller - officials are testing everyone with symptoms and conducting random testing of 3-15 percent of all new arrivals over the age of five (crew members are exempt).

If you’re coming from or via the UK, you must provide evidence of a negative test result obtained within three days prior to your arrival. If visitors from The U.K don’t bring their PCR results, they might be required to go through a PCR test and be isolated in a government facility.

Until February 2021, all visitors must complete either a Traveler Health Affidavit or a digital “eticket” form, a combination of the usual Customs Declaration and Embarkation/Disembarkation forms with the Traveler’s Health Affidavit. From March 1st 2021, only digital “etickets” will be accepted.

Mirador Park skyline, Santo Domingo

If you’re already in the Dominican Republic

Anyone returning to the United States from The Dominican Republic must provide evidence of a negative PCR or Covid-19 test result obtained within three days prior to re-entry. Luckily, the ministry of tourism is offering PCR tests to all international visitors staying in a hotel. This service is provided to all international travelers coming via comercial flights and staying in a hotel. Confirm with your hotel to make sure the test will be covered.

Your hotel can help you arrange an appointment before you depart back to your country of origin. Your hotel might charge a fee to arrange an appointment for you, but keep in mind tests in the Dominican Republic are currently hard to get, so arranging through your hotel might be the most effective way to ensure you get the test done before your return flight.

For international visitors arriving on commercial flights on or before March 31st and staying at a hotel, the government is providing free emergency travel assistance.

How curfews and changed capacity will affect you

If you plan to stay in a hotel or resort, you won’t feel the curfew currently in place everywhere else. Bars and restaurants are closed at 7 PM and transit is available until 10 PM from Monday to Friday. The curfew is subject to change every 28 days, and you can find up-to-date restrictions guidelines on the Dominican Ministry of Health’s website, Instagram or Twitter accounts.

Due to Covid-19, most hotels, bars and clubs in the Dominican Republic have temporarily shut their doors. As in cities and towns across the globe, hospitality businesses are having to reinvent themselves in order to survive. Most restaurants and bars that are open, are open at half capacity.

Most of the museums are closed, and some outdoor parks as well. You can walk or run through the malecon, enjoy a beer in a park or smoke a cigar on the beach. Social life and nightlife has been affected the most, so if you have your heart set on dancing til dawn in the Dominican club scene, you might want to postpone your trip.

However, if a secluded vacation at a half-empty beach resort appeals to you, the Dominican Republic might be the destination for you. The beaches are as beautiful as ever, and there’s considerably more peace and quiet than usual to be found at beachside resorts.

Written by Diego Angeles.

Published February 2021

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Last update on April 27, 2024, 12:00 pm

Local March 15, 2022 | 3:02 pm

The United States lowers its travel alert for the Dominican Republic to level three

File photo of the Listín Diario.

Santo Domingo, DR The U.S. government reported that it lowered the alert level for travel to the Dominican Republic from level 4 to level 3, citing that the country has “a high level” of coronavirus.

“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a level 3 Travel Health Advisory for the Dominican Republic due to COVID-19, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country,” read part of the statement.

The document also urged U.S. citizens to reconsider the idea of moving to Dominican territory.

However, should they decide to proceed with their travel plans, they recommend consulting the U.S. embassy website, following CDC guidance; being aware of their surroundings; not physically resisting any attempt of robbery, and not showing signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.

At the end of last January, the U.S. State Department issued a level 4 travel alert to the Dominican Republic due to the “incidence of coronavirus and citizen insecurity.”

Regarding the latter, they highlighted that crimes committed in the country are violent, such as armed robbery, homicides, and sexual assaults.

They also highlighted “the wide availability of weapons, the use, and trade of illicit drugs and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of crime on a broader scale.”

Ignore these fools at the State Dept…they have no clue on the reality on the ground…

I agree These another attempts by this administration to prevent mass exodus. The weopens in US is the reason why China will not invade us

They also highlighted “the wide availability of weapons…. really…ever walk into a supermarket in the states…everyone has a gun….these ppl are crazy

And yet the US has a lower murder rate that DR. Derp!

No it doesn’t, America has way more crime, plus there are no random mass shooting every other week in the DR.

Per million population, the DR does have more violent crimes than the US.

guns are the last thing im thinking about when i go out and i live in “cien fuego” a very hot spot, if something a knife. anyway most crimes happen with brass knuckles and knives. fun fact you will be considered tall if you are 5’8+

It’s just a warning…

There is a lot of poverty and poor people being abused by the police.This causes problems leading to violence. Lots of ways to fix things with more knowledgeable leadership of what really goes on. It may help if Ministers responded to letters & phone calls & emails instead of ignoring them .

I travel to lots of parts of the country some in very poor areas and never any problem. Treat everyone with respect. Never go with a mindset that you’re better than than anyone else.

This is a bunch of lies. I’ve visited the Dominican Republic three times in 2021 and once this year and my stay have been,fun, safe, pleasant and extremely appreciated with the level of respect and hospitality they treated me with.

The CDC is a JOKE ! All is well in the island and tourists are well received in Punta Cana

Oh really the crime is bad in DR as compared to Chi town, Cleveland, Detroit, DC, Bmo, or New York puleeeze. More people are murdered in Chi Town in a month then a whole year in DR.

Really? Look who’s talking about weak criminal justice and violence ?

I just got back from the DR yesterday. Never felt safer in any other foreign country. It’s fine. Just don’t be drunk at 2am, walking home. Like in the US.

All over the workd

American who? I never heard nothing like this this happened just when vacation time is closer no tourist keep coming to DR pay by Puerto Rico, Mexico end other places Tha no and want to go because is not safe.

Defies logic… State department has a history of an incredibly naive mistakes…ie US Embassy emergency services only…?? IS. D.R. Getting ready. To Attack The. U. S .A..?? Fear mongering Control.. disregarding US citizens and the Dominican citizens that have come to rely on tourism and expats.. I just Moved Here ; I knew Yrs ago… Safe cheap & Friendly. Long Time of commerce & ” settlers ,’. BOTH Ways.. Nobody Compares D.R to Puerto Rico a US welfare state —huge unemployment high crime. Just Like every major city in the US.. plus a huge homeless problem ( VETs ?? !) Etc.. Propaganda… Godspeed

I’m 40 years old and have lived most of my life in DR. I’ve never been mugged, assaulted nor have I talked to anyone that has been. DR is in fact safer today than it was 20 years ago. COVID-19 has had the fewest cases lately than during the rest of the pandemic. Most restrictions have been lifted, even. I think TripAdvisor is a better guide to travel than these recommendations.

Just got back from there… Felt safer than being here!!!

I was there for a month in December in Cotui De La Mata. I never considered my self being in danger there. I enjoyed my stay with my Dominican family, the hospitality is enormous. Love the people!!!!!! I would travel there one thousand times instead of taking the subway in New York City

Thank you for your comments. It’s is sure good to hear about the reality here. I love the DR I have been coming here for years. Never had a problem friendly people low cost of living plenty of sunshine ? Signed x pat

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Entry Requirements

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. 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR FOREIGNERS ENTERING THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AS TOURISTS

Foreigners entering the Dominican Republic as tourists must comply with the following requirements:

• Passport with a minimum validity of six (6) months.
• Air, maritime or land ticket of entrance and return.
• A permanent address in the Dominican Republic.
• Proof of sufficient economic solvency to cover their expenses during their stay in the Dominican Republic.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES ON THE VALIDITY OF TOURIST PASSPORTS, VALID FROM JUNE 1, 2023 TO MAY 30, 2024.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR THE NATIONALS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, UNITED KINGDOM, CANADA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, BRAZIL, CHILE, ARGENTINA, COLOMBIA AND ECUADOR.

The nationals of the countries that integrate the European Union, England, Canada, United States of America, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Colombia and Ecuador, who enter the Dominican Republic, exclusively for tourist purposes, are authorized to do so with their valid and in force passports, and that the same remain in force during their stay and departure from the Dominican territory. This exceptional measure was implemented by the Dominican authorities as of June 1, 2023 and remains in force until May 30, 2024.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR DIPLOMATIC OFFICIALS, PERMANENT MISSIONS, INTERNATIONAL AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS, ETC.

The following foreigners are exempted from the above, under the condition of reciprocity:

• Diplomatic officers and consular officials accredited in the Dominican Republic, as well as other members of Permanent or Special Diplomatic Missions of Consular Posts and their family members who, by virtue of the rules of International Law, are exempt from the obligations related to obtaining a migratory category of entry.
• Representatives and delegates, as well as the other members, and their relatives, of Permanent Missions or Delegations before the Intergovernmental Organizations with headquarters in the Dominican Republic or in International Conferences held in the Dominican Republic.
• Officials assigned to International and Intergovernmental Organizations with headquarters in the Dominican Republic and their family members, as well as holders of Dominican diplomatic and official visas.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR NATIONALS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WHO DO NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED IN THE LAW AND ITS REGULATIONS.

Without detriment to the provisions of this Resolution and pursuant to the discretionary power that the Law grants to the Director General of Migration, he may authorize the entry into the country of foreigners of U.S. nationality who do not meet the requirements established in the law and its regulations, when there are exceptional reasons of a humanitarian nature, public interest or compliance with commitments made by the Dominican Republic. Each authorization constitutes a case in point and, consequently, does not constitute a binding reference or precedent.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR CITIZENS OF CUBAN NATIONALITY LEGALLY RESIDING IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA COMING FROM THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Citizens of Cuban nationality legally residing in the United States of America, coming from the United States of America, are authorized to enter the Dominican Republic as tourists, even with an expired passport for no more than twenty-four (24) months, as long as they have their “Permanent Resident Card” (also known as “Green Card”), which guarantees their legal capacity to reside permanently in the United States of America. This exceptional measure will be implemented by the Dominican authorities for an indefinite period of time, starting June 1, 2023.

ACCEPTANCE OF BOARDING OF FOREIGN PASSENGERS TO DOMINICAN TERRITORY BY AIRLINES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ESTABLISHED PROVISIONS.

The General Directorate of Migration shall communicate the present Resolution to the airlines authorized to operate in the Dominican territory, so that they take into consideration the provisions previously established for the entry into the national territory of the referred foreigners, taking into account their respective nationalities, the purpose of their stay and the time of permanence in the national territory. Therefore, the airlines may accept the boarding of passengers of the nationalities previously established with destination to the Dominican territory in accordance with the above provisions.

Note : Any other provision established by the Resolution contrary to the provisions herein is hereby repealed.

MEASURES FOR DOMINICAN CITIZENS HOLDING A DOMINICAN PASSPORT ARRIVING FROM OTHER COUNTRIES

The aforementioned measures do not apply to Dominican citizens holding a Dominican passport entering the Dominican Republic from another country.

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.

  E-Ticket

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.

Stay Extension

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.

For more information, please visit  https://www. godominicanrepublic.com/ newsroom/coronavirus/  where you will be able to find all relevant information about the measures that are being implemented in the country’s tourism industry.

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

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

Be sure to always check for up-to-date requirements before traveling.

You are allowed to bring the following items into the Dominican Republic:

• A maximum of 20 packs of cigarettes, 25 cigars, or 200 grams of tobacco.
• Up to three (3) liters in total of wine, beer, rum, whiskey, or liquor.
• You may also bring in gifts of a value of up to US$500 (five hundred United States Dollars) once every three months.
• Medicines for personal use, in quantities that justify the exclusive use of the passenger. In the case of medicines that contain psychotropic substances, you must present the prescription for their use.

Click  HERE  and  HERE   for more information.

Yellow Fever Vaccine

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.

Malburg Virus

SUSPENSION OF ENTRY OF 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.

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Can I travel to the Dominican Republic? The entry requirements explained

Find out what tests you need to take, which forms you need to fill in and whether you need to be vaccinated to go on holiday in the dominican republic.

I n the very centre of the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is the region’s second-largest island nation after Cuba . Like its fellow Spanish-speaking, baseball-loving neighbour, the DR has beach resorts such as Punta Cana, with amenities for all ages, and the convenience of a direct flight. But that’s just a fraction of this wonderfully diverse country, which includes both the highest peaks in the Caribbean, and the oldest European-founded city in the Americas — the capital Santo Domingo. Travel around and you’ll find desert coasts, rich mangroves, ranch country, jungle waterfalls and, yes, palm-fringed white-sand beaches both readily accessible and adventurously remote.

But how easy is it to go to the Dominican Republic right now? Here’s everything you need to know about pre-departure testing, travel restrictions and Covid requirements.

Main photo: Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic (Getty Images)

What are Dominican Republic’s travel restrictions?

Anyone aged five or above who has been in the UK in the 14 days before travelling to the Dominican Republic needs to be either fully vaccinated or show a negative PCR test result. The vaccination card should be at least three weeks older than the date of travel, while the PCR test must be conducted in the 72 hours prior to arrival. Travellers should also complete the country’s E-Ticket . For more about travel to and within the Dominican Republic, check the UK Foreign Office advice .

What are the Covid rules once there?

The Dominican Republic lifted curfews and other emergency measures on October 11, though face-mask requirements and social distancing are still in place. Anyone over the age of 12 is also supposed to show proof of full vaccination or a negative Covid test result (valid for seven days) in order to enter restaurants, shops, bars, public transport and other enclosed spaces. If in doubt, check with your hotel what is required. A majority of the population is fully vaccinated.

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• COVID-19 travel restrictions: the Dominican Republic
• < Travel restrictions

Travel restrictions

By Kiwi.com May 6, 2022

By Kiwi.com | May 6, 2022

This article was published on May 6, 2022, and all the information in the article is correct as of this time. Before you book your trip, we highly recommend that you also check official sources for the most up-to-date travel requirements, as they are subject to constant change.

Can I enter the Dominican Republic?

Presently, the Dominican Republic is open to all countries of the world. Most COVID-19-related restrictions have been lifted. Nevertheless, it is important to learn the information presented below.

Please be aware that all international travelers have to complete an E-Ticket to enter the Dominican Republic.

Can I enter the Dominican Republic if I am vaccinated?

You can enter the Dominican Republic. Moreover, most travelers (except for certain countries) are not required to present a certificate on arrival in the country. The only benefit of possessing the vaccination certificate is an exemption from random testing at the airport. 

Please, scroll to the “Traveling to the Dominican Republic from exceptional countries” section to find out which travelers from what countries must present a certificate.

As of April 2022, the following vaccines are approved in the Dominican Republic:

• Pfizer/BioNTech — Comirnaty
• Oxford/AstraZeneca — Vaxzevria
• Sinopharm (Beijing) — Covilo
• Sinovac — CoronaVac

Travel documents if I am vaccinated 

• A vaccination certificate

Can I enter the Dominican Republic if I am unvaccinated?

You can enter the Dominican Republic if you are unvaccinated. Moreover, it is no longer obligatory to present a PCR test when entering (except for several countries). Possessing the test can exempt you from random testing at the airport. 

Please, scroll to the “Traveling to the Dominican Republic from exceptional countries” section to find out which travelers from what countries must present a test.

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated  

• A PCR negative test taken within 72 hours before arrival

Who cannot enter the Dominican Republic

Presently, all travelers can enter the Dominican Republic without any COVID-19 restrictions. Please, make sure to check your other documents, such as a valid passport. 

Until July 31, 2022, all foreign citizens who enter the Dominican Republic for tourism purposes must have a valid passport during their stay and departure from the country.

Traveling to the Dominican Republic from exceptional countries

As it was mentioned above, travelers from almost all over the world can enter the Dominican Republic without COVID-19 restrictions.

However, travelers from the following countries are still obliged to present a vaccination certificate or PCR test:

• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• South Africa
• United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland , Scotland, and Wales)

Can I leave the Dominican Republic?

Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers can leave the Dominican Republic. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Health advises people to avoid traveling for non-essential reasons.

• A document confirming vaccination status

In addition, please check the necessity of a COVID-19 negative test presence in your destination country. 

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated

• A certificate of recovery from COVID-19 (no more than 180 days old before the day of crossing the border of a particular country) or
• A negative COVID-19 test result (the relevant period and kind of test may vary, please check the requirements of the destination country)

In addition, please note that having a COVID-19 test result is mandatory for some countries, even if you have recovered from the disease. 

COVID-19 situation in the Dominican Republic currently

As of April 2022, the COVID-19 situation in the Dominican Republic is safe. 

FAQs  

Is it safe to travel to the dominican republic right now.

International travel to the Dominican Republic is safe now. Most COVID-19 measures have been lifted or removed. Face masks, presentation of vaccination cards for access to places of public use, or restrictions in public spaces are the responsibility of each individual.

Is Santa Domingo open for travel now?

Santa Domingo is open for travel now. It is possible to visit the capital’s main attractions without restrictions.

Do I have to quarantine if I go to the Dominican Republic?

Currently, travelers are not required to undergo quarantine upon arrival in the Dominican Republic. 

Only passengers that tested positive during the random testing at the airport will be subjected to quarantine requirements.

How do I get a health pass to travel to the Dominican Republic?

The E-Ticket completed before entering the Dominican Republic will be your health pass.

Useful links:

• E-Ticket to enter the Dominican Republic
• Entry requirements to the Dominican Republic

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Dominican Republic Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Dominican Republic.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Areas of active cholera transmission are  localized  to the provinces and district of Barahona (reported 3–6 months ago), Distrito National (last case reported 9–12 months ago), Elías Piña (last case reported 9–12 months ago), La Altagracia (last case reported 9–12 months ago), Monte Cristi (last case reported 9–12 months ago), and Santo Domingo (last case reported 9–12 months ago) in the Dominican Republic. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera. 

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the Dominican Republic.

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

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to the Dominican Republic. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to the Dominican Republic.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of the Dominican Republic take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for the Dominican Republic.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in the Dominican Republic. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in the Dominican Republic, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to the Dominican Republic. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from the following states in Brazil: Espírito Santo, Mina Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these states

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the Dominican Republic, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the Dominican Republic. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the Dominican Republic include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis and leptospirosis, infections that can be spread in fresh water, are found in the Dominican Republic. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the Dominican Republic’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of the Dominican Republic. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the Dominican Republic may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the Dominican Republic, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in the Dominican Republic, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for the Dominican Republic .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Dominican Republic for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Breaking Down The Latest Travel Restrictions For Republica Dominicana: What You Need To Know

• Last updated Oct 08, 2023
• Difficulty Advanced

• Category United States

Are you planning a trip to the beautiful Caribbean island of the Dominican Republic? While this tropical destination is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, it's important to be aware of the current travel restrictions in place. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first visit, understanding these restrictions will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to the enchanting Republica Dominicana.

What You'll Learn

What are the current travel restrictions in place for individuals traveling to the dominican republic, are there any specific measures or requirements that travelers must meet before entering the dominican republic, are there any restrictions on certain types of travelers, such as tourists or business professionals, are there any mandatory quarantine periods or testing requirements for individuals arriving in the dominican republic, how long are these travel restrictions expected to remain in place, and are there any potential changes or updates in the near future.

The current COVID-19 pandemic has brought about various travel restrictions worldwide, and the Dominican Republic is no exception. The country, like many others, has implemented measures to control the spread of the virus and ensure the safety of both residents and visitors. If you are planning to travel to the Dominican Republic, it is essential to be aware of the current travel restrictions in place.

One of the first things to note is that all travelers must complete a Health Declaration Form before arriving in the country. This form requires individuals to provide their contact information and health status, including any potential COVID-19 symptoms or exposure. Failure to complete this form may result in entry denial or additional screening upon arrival.

Additionally, travelers must provide proof of a negative PCR or COVID-19 antigen test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. This test result must be uploaded to the electronic form known as the Traveler’s Health Affidavit. It's important to note that travelers under the age of five are exempt from this requirement.

Upon arrival, all passengers must undergo a temperature check, which is a standard part of the screening process. Travelers who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 may be subject to further evaluation, including a rapid test. In the event of a positive result, individuals may be required to quarantine, either at their accommodation or at a designated facility, depending on the severity of symptoms.

It is important to stay informed about any dynamic changes to travel restrictions. For instance, as of May 3rd, 2021, the Dominican Republic requires all travelers to present proof of travel insurance that includes coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses and extended hotel stays due to the pandemic. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to ensure your policy meets these requirements before traveling.

In addition to the national guidelines, specific regions or establishments may have their own protocols in place. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with these guidelines to avoid any complications during your trip. For instance, some hotels or resorts may have stricter measures in place, such as limiting access to certain areas or requiring guests to wear masks in common areas.

It is worth noting that travel restrictions can change rapidly, depending on the situation. It is advisable to stay connected with official government sources, such as the Ministry of Tourism or the Dominican Republic's official tourism website, for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

In conclusion, if you are planning to travel to the Dominican Republic, it is essential to be aware of the current travel restrictions in place. These restrictions include completing a Health Declaration Form, providing a negative PCR or COVID-19 antigen test result, and undergoing temperature checks upon arrival. Additionally, travelers must have travel insurance that covers COVID-19 related expenses. It is crucial to stay informed about any changes to these restrictions as they can vary over time. By staying updated and following the guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to the Dominican Republic.

Understanding the Travel Restrictions on the Forth Road Bridge

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The Dominican Republic is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. If you are planning a trip to the Dominican Republic, it is important to be aware of any specific measures or requirements that travelers must meet before entering the country. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Passport and visa: To enter the Dominican Republic, all travelers need a valid passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to obtain a tourist visa. It is recommended to check with the nearest Dominican Republic embassy or consulate to verify the visa requirements for your country.
• Tourist card: In addition to a passport, most travelers must also obtain a tourist card to enter the Dominican Republic. This card can be purchased in advance online or upon arrival at the airport. The cost of the tourist card is typically included in the price of your airline ticket.
• COVID-19 measures: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Dominican Republic has implemented certain measures to protect the health and safety of its residents and visitors. This includes the requirement of a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. All travelers must also complete a health declaration form and undergo a temperature screening upon arrival.
• Health insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including those related to COVID-19. This will help ensure that you are adequately protected in case of any unexpected health issues during your trip.
• Customs and declarations: When entering the Dominican Republic, you will need to go through customs and immigration. It is important to declare any items of value that you are bringing into the country, such as electronics or jewelry. Failure to declare these items can lead to penalties or confiscation.
• Currency: The official currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (DOP). It is advisable to have some local currency on hand for small purchases and tips. Credit cards are widely accepted in major tourist areas, but it is always a good idea to carry some cash for emergencies or in case of any issues with card payments.
• Vaccinations: While there are no specific vaccination requirements to enter the Dominican Republic, it is recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella, and influenza. Depending on the duration and nature of your trip, you may also need to consider vaccinations for diseases such as hepatitis A and typhoid.

In conclusion, before traveling to the Dominican Republic, it is important to be aware of the specific measures and requirements in place. This includes having a valid passport, obtaining a tourist card, complying with COVID-19 measures, having adequate health insurance, and being aware of customs and currency regulations. By taking these necessary steps, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the beautiful Dominican Republic.

Exploring the New Alberta Travel Restrictions: What You Need to Know

When it comes to international travel, there can be restrictions on certain types of travelers, depending on the country they are visiting. These restrictions are put in place for various reasons, such as security, public health, and immigration control.

One common type of traveler that may face restrictions is the tourist. Tourist restrictions can vary from country to country, and they can include requirements such as obtaining a visa or providing proof of travel insurance. Some countries also require tourists to have a certain amount of money in their bank account or to show a return ticket to their home country.

Business professionals may also face restrictions when traveling internationally. These restrictions can be related to the type of visa they need to enter a country or the specific activities they are allowed to engage in while on business. For example, some countries may require business professionals to obtain a work visa if they plan to stay for an extended period or if they will be performing activities that are considered work-related, such as attending meetings or negotiating business deals.

In addition to restrictions related to visas, there may be specific regulations for certain professions or industries. For example, some countries may require medical professionals to pass a licensing exam before practicing in the country, while others may have restrictions on the amount of time a foreigner can work in a particular industry.

It is important for travelers to be aware of the restrictions that may apply to them before embarking on their trip. This can involve doing research, consulting with a travel agent or embassy, and ensuring that all necessary documentation is in order.

To avoid any complications during travel, it is advisable for tourists and business professionals alike to plan their trips in advance and to familiarize themselves with the entry requirements of their destination country. This can help to prevent any last-minute surprises or delays at immigration checkpoints.

Here are a few steps that travelers can take to navigate through any potential restrictions:

• Research the entry requirements of the destination country: This can be done through official government websites, travel advisories, or by contacting the embassy or consulate of the country in question. It is important to ensure that you have the correct visa, any necessary permits, and that you meet any specific requirements for your profession or industry.
• Apply for visas and permits in advance: Some countries require travelers to obtain visas or permits before their arrival. It is important to apply for these well in advance to allow for processing time. This is especially relevant for business professionals who may need specific visas for their activities.
• Carry all necessary documentation: It is crucial to have all relevant documentation with you when traveling, including passports, visas, permits, and any other required paperwork. This will help to avoid any difficulties at immigration checkpoints.
• Keep up-to-date with travel advisories: Travel advisories can provide important information about any recent changes or updates to entry requirements or travel restrictions. It is advisable to check for updates regularly, especially if your travel plans are flexible or if you are traveling to a location with ongoing political or security concerns.

By taking these steps and being aware of the potential restrictions that may apply to certain types of travelers, such as tourists or business professionals, individuals can ensure a smoother and hassle-free travel experience. It is always better to be well-prepared and informed before embarking on any international journey.

The Latest Updates on Argentina Travel Restrictions for USA Citizens

As travel restrictions continue to evolve due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential for individuals planning to travel to the Dominican Republic to be aware of any mandatory quarantine periods or testing requirements upon arrival. This article aims to provide an overview of the current regulations in place.

Currently, the Dominican Republic does not require a mandatory quarantine period for individuals arriving in the country. However, it is important to note that this information is subject to change. It is recommended to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by the Dominican government and relevant authorities.

When it comes to testing requirements, the Dominican Republic currently mandates a negative COVID-19 test result for all individuals aged five and older who are traveling by air. The test must be taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in the Dominican Republic. It is crucial to ensure that the test result is from a certified laboratory or medical facility and includes the traveler's name, date of the test, type of test conducted (e.g., PCR or antigen), and the negative test result.

Additionally, some airlines and departure countries may have their requirements for testing or other health-related documentation. It is advised to check with the airline and embassy or consulate of the Dominican Republic in your home country to verify if there are any additional requirements before boarding.

Upon arrival in the Dominican Republic, travelers will undergo a health screening, including temperature checks and visual inspections. Depending on the results of the screening or at the discretion of the authorities, individuals may be subjected to further testing, quarantine, or isolation measures. It is essential to comply with any protocols or instructions given by the local authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

To ensure a smooth travel experience and avoid any unnecessary inconveniences, it is recommended to have all necessary documents readily available. This includes a printed copy of the negative COVID-19 test result, a completed health declaration form (which may be provided by the airline or needs to be completed online), and any other relevant travel documentation.

Furthermore, it is essential to adhere to the general preventive measures recommended globally, such as wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, maintaining social distancing, and avoiding large gatherings. These precautions are crucial not only during travel but throughout the entire trip to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the virus.

Overall, while there is currently no mandatory quarantine period for individuals arriving in the Dominican Republic, a negative COVID-19 test result is required for air travel. It is crucial to stay informed about any changes or updates in the regulations and guidelines provided by the Dominican government and relevant authorities. By following the necessary precautions and complying with the established protocols, travelers can help ensure a safe and healthy experience in the Dominican Republic.

Understanding the Current Travel Restrictions for Military Personnel Traveling to Puerto Rico

Travel restrictions have become a common part of our lives since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. These restrictions vary from country to country and are constantly evolving as the situation changes. Many people are eager to know how long these restrictions will remain in place and if there are any potential changes or updates in the near future.

The duration of the travel restrictions depends on various factors such as the spread of the virus, vaccination rates, and the effectiveness of control measures. Governments and health authorities closely monitor these factors to make informed decisions about travel restrictions. However, it is challenging to predict the exact duration of these restrictions as the pandemic is an evolving situation.

In general, travel restrictions are likely to remain in place until the virus is under control globally. This means achieving high vaccination rates, reducing the number of cases, and minimizing the risk of new variants. As more people get vaccinated and the virus spread is effectively controlled, travel restrictions may gradually be lifted.

However, it is important to note that even if travel restrictions are relaxed, there may still be certain protocols and requirements in place. These can include proof of vaccination, negative COVID-19 tests, or mandatory quarantine upon arrival. These measures are implemented to prevent the importation and spread of the virus from one country to another.

The potential changes and updates in travel restrictions depend on the success of vaccination campaigns and the emergence of new variants. If vaccination efforts prove successful and new variants are effectively managed through enhanced surveillance and control measures, there may be a gradual easing of travel restrictions.

For example, some countries have already started implementing travel corridors or travel bubbles with countries that have similar vaccination rates and control of the virus. These agreements allow for limited, quarantine-free travel between selected nations, providing a glimpse of what the future of travel may look like.

It is important to stay informed about travel restrictions by regularly checking official government websites, consular advisories, and airline updates. These sources provide the most up-to-date information on travel requirements and any changes that may occur. Additionally, it is advisable to consult with travel agents or professionals who can provide guidance and assistance based on their expertise and experience.

In conclusion, the duration of travel restrictions depends on a variety of factors, and it is challenging to predict an exact timeline. However, with successful vaccination campaigns and effective control measures, travel restrictions may gradually be lifted. It is important to stay informed and follow the guidelines and requirements set by authorities to ensure safe and hassle-free travel.

Navigating Incline Village: Understanding the Current Travel Restrictions

Frequently asked questions.

Yes, there are currently travel restrictions in place for entering the Dominican Republic. All travelers, including Dominican citizens and residents, must present a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. In addition, all travelers must complete a Traveler's Health Affidavit and provide contact information for the next 30 days.

No, there is currently no mandatory quarantine requirement for travelers arriving in the Dominican Republic. However, if a traveler presents symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival, they may be subject to a rapid test and potential isolation if the test is positive.

Yes, wearing a mask is mandatory in all public spaces in the Dominican Republic. This includes airports, public transportation, and indoor spaces such as shops and restaurants. Failure to comply with mask-wearing regulations may result in fines or other penalties.

Yes, you are allowed to travel within the Dominican Republic once you have arrived. However, it is important to follow any local restrictions or guidelines that may be in place, such as curfews or specific regulations for tourist areas. It is recommended to stay updated on local government announcements and consult with local authorities or your accommodation provider for any specific travel restrictions or guidelines in the area you plan to visit.

• Paolo Barresi Author

• Cagri Burak Author Reviewer Traveller

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Authentic experiences & recommendations

Traveling to Punta Cana 2022 in times of coronavirus – What to expect during the period of Covid-19 (update)?

 The Dominican Republic is one of the few countries worldwide which has been open for tourism since July 2020 without any interruptions. The Covid restrictions in Punta Cana have been lifted gradually since then making the Dominican Republic one of the easiest places to visit, even in 2022. However, Covid-19 safety protocols in Punta Cana are still in effect for all travelers. Resorts are taking care of the health of their guests, excursions have implemented hygiene protocols and the airports are measuring the temperatures of all arriving passengers. Those are just a few of the regulations to prevent the spread of Coronavirus in the Dominican Republic and to protect travelers during their vacation in Punta Cana. Furthermore, the government is following a long-term tourism recovery plan, which underlines the importance of tourism for the Dominican Republic and proves, that the borders will remain open, even if the omicron variant is going to spread in the Dominican Republic. Some resorts are even offering free Antigen tests when required to return to your home country. But how is the situation of Covid-19 in Punta Cana? What has changed since the pandemic? 

 What can you expect when traveling to Punta Cana in times of Coronavirus? This article will highlight some of the aspects of post-Covid-19 travel to the Dominican Republic with first-hand information from Punta Cana.

Good to know: what happens if you get tested positive in a resort

Travel insurance to cover hotel quarantine in punta cana.

If you are looking for the best tours and activities you can do during the times of Coronavirus, you can check out the best Covid-19 friendly excursions in Punta Cana . For a full list of all Punta Cana excursions and tours, continue reading here .

Completely UPDATED: February 2021 Last Update: April 2021; June 2021 Completely UPDATED: December 2021 Last Update: January 2022; March 2022

What to expect during your flight in times of Coronavirus?

 When flying to the Dominican Republic during Covid-19, you can expect the safety guidelines most of the airlines have implemented. The main change compared to pre-Covid travel is the mandatory use of face-covering masks during the flight, but also catering has been restricted by most airlines. In-flight magazines have been removed and deep-cleaning protocols after every flight have been implemented – all to secure passenger’s safety and to avoid getting infected with Coronavirus during the flight. As regulations and guidelines due to Covid-19 are changing frequently, please check with your preferred airline on their measures regarding Coronavirus. 

 Since Covid-19 hit our world, I have already flown a couple of times in and out of Punta Cana. All the flights were super smooth. Thanks to the new Dominican Republic e-ticket , immigration is also as smooth and fast as never before.

Editor’s Choice: the best experiences 2024

Most unique experience in a small group: Authentic rum tasting * (rating 4.78/5) Best Rated Punta Cana excursion: Isla Saona Premium in small groups * (rating 4.95/5) Most booked through Punta Cana Travel Blog: Small-Group Snorkeling * (rating 4.91/5) Best off-the-beaten-track excursion: Montana Redonda & Costa Esmeralda * (rating 4.79/5) Best excursion for family fun: Jungle Buggies + Zipline Combo * (rating 4.91/5) New and trending for 2024: Evening Buggy Tour with Water Cave and Dancing * Not the right tour for you? Check out the 45 best Punta Cana excursions here at Punta Cana Travel Blog!

 The biggest change when booking a flight to Punta Cana (and to all other destinations in the Dominican Republic and the world) compared to times before Coronavirus is a positive one. While airlines usually sold 100% non-refundable tickets with hefty change fees, most of the tickets nowadays – thanks to Covid-19 – are flexible and changeable as the airlines would like to stimulate bookings. This allows you to react to any new situations, it doesn’t matter if they are Covid-19 related or not. However, please note that most airlines only allow 1 change and if you ask for a refund, they usually give you a travel credit for your next trip instead. Make sure to check the current regulations of the airlines (they change frequently as well) to take advantage of flexible cancellation guidelines when booking your flight to the Dominican Republic in times of Covid-19. It is also important to book your flight for your Punta Cana vacation right on the airline website if you’d like to benefit from the flexible booking conditions.

What to expect in the Dominican Republic upon arrival in times of Coronavirus (airport and transfers)?

 Once you are on your way to paradise (the Dominican Republic), you can relax and sit back as you have managed the biggest challenge in these unprecedented times: getting started! Soon you are going to arrive at Punta Cana International Airport, where you pass a temperature screening as part of the entry requirements. Even though the Dominican Republic lifted all Covid-19 related restrictions in February 2022, temperature are still being performed.

For your 2022 Punta Cana vacation, the entire immigration process for the Dominican Republic can and has to be done online. Just visit the Dominican Republic Immigration Website linked here * and fill out the linked form to receive a so-called e-ticket. The online form is requesting most information you are usually filling out manually when entering a country. In the end, you will receive a QR-Code (= ticket), which you can show to the immigration officer when arriving in the Dominican Republic. Check out this article if you have any problems or questions filling out the Punta Cana e-ticket immigration form .

This e-ticket also contains a few questions about your health status. Therefore, the final document can also be seen as some kind of Covid QR-Code for the Dominican Republic.

Since April 1st, 2021, online registration is mandatory, paper forms will no longer be accepted. It is advisable to do the e-ticket registration before starting your Punta Cana vacation. The best is to do it 2-3 days in advance to receive the QR-Code allowing you to enter the Dominican Republic. After having used this immigration e-ticket form a couple of times, I have to say that the process indeed is much easier and quicker than before. Once arriving in Punta Cana, the immigration process is super quick.

 For your Punta Cana vacation, no negative PCR-test is required to enter the Dominican Republic (except for certain countries if not vaccinated, such as Australia, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Ireland, Kuwait, Monaco, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Spain, Sweden, Syria, Thailand, Tunisia and the United Kingdom), which makes it easy for you to travel to Punta Cana. However, random Covid-19 tests (fast checks, usually with a breathalyzer) might still be performed upon arrival at Punta Cana International Airport and all other ports of entry into the Dominican Republic – mostly only if you are showing any kinds of symptoms. If you present a negative test or if you are fully vaccinated against Covid-19, you are not subject to any airport testing. If you are not tested nor vaccinated and you get selected for a quick Covid-19 test, don’t worry. Usually, you’ll have the result in 15 minutes and it is absolutely free. The random testing will continue in 2022.

BOOK TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR PUNTA CANA WITH COVID-19 COVERAGE

incl. Covid-19 coverage

 Those measures are part of the governmental plan the Dominican Republic has implemented to recover the sector of tourism from the aftermath of Covid-19, which also hit the Caribbean very hard. This has been a full success as the occupation levels at the end of 2021 and in the beginning of 2022 have passed those of 2019. Therefore, most of the Punta Cana Covid restrictions have been lifted.

 See below for further information on the very few coronavirus restrictions still in effect.

 Once you have passed immigration and customs, you can proceed to your prebooked transfer, grab a taxi or start your journey on your own by taking public transport . Please check this comprehensive article on all the transfer options you have at Punta Cana International Airport (or Las Américas International Airport if arriving in Santo Domingo ). Alternatively, you can also rent a car , which is a perfect alternative to explore the Dominican Republic authentically and independently. 

TRAVEL COACHING

Do you need help planning a customized vacation in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic? Is it difficult for you to decide what and where to book? Would you like to take advantage of someone with years of experience in the tourism industry (knowing all the travel hacks 😉 ) and living right in the place where you would like to spend your holiday? That’s what my personal travel coaching is for. I will design your tailor-made itinerary, tell you how to save money on your trip and send you the best insider tips and recommendations. All the information I send you are crafted with love and passion – and are coming with a money-back guarantee. Let me know how I can help you ( check my packages here ) and send me a request here !

 In case you have booked your transfer (get the best prices on your Punta Cana private airport transfer here * or reserve yourself a space in a shared shuttle * if you would like to lower the costs), you will be greeted by your representative. According to the Covid-19 guidelines in Punta Cana, hand sanitizer will be held available to disinfect your hands.

There are no Coronavirus restrictions in Punta Cana regarding which type of transfer you have to use like in other countries. You can choose freely which option you’d like to choose.

 As you can see, you shouldn’t expect many Covid-19 regulations or travel restrictions in Punta Cana, meaning that you can enjoy your holiday in the Dominican Republic to the fullest.

What to expect in the all-inclusive resorts during Coronavirus?

 The all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic were those “institutions” with the most Covid-19 measures and guidelines in effect, which is particularly due to the many different aspects of the holiday an all-inclusive resort is affecting: food, activities, pool, room, service, drinks … there is hardly anything which hasn’t been put under the new coronavirus hygiene protocol in Punta Cana. This protocol was created by the tourism associations, the government and the industry leaders and guarantees the highest level of Coronavirus protection without imposing too many Covid-19 related restrictions. 

 The most important measures to protect the spread of Coronavirus in the hotels of Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic are:

• Social distancing at all times
• Wearing face masks in all public spaces (except restaurants, pools and at the beach)
• Providing sufficient hand sanitizer
• Guaranteeing sanitation methods in restaurants and buffets (or not offering buffets at all)
• Deep-cleaning of rooms
• New protocols for the interaction between guests and employers
• Postponing activities where social distancing can’t be guaranteed
• Implementing a paperless check-in where possible
• Health protocols for guests and employers
• Running hotels and all-inclusive resorts with a limited occupancy
• And many more … 

In the meantime, the government of the Dominican Republic has lifted all Covid-19 related travel regulations, which means you can fully enjoy your Punta Cana vacation. However, some of the hotels are partly continuing their Coronavirus protocol to make sure everyone is safe and sound.

 While these guidelines and Covid-19 restrictions might sound pretty general, I have visited a couple of all-inclusive resorts in the last weeks and months to check how these measures are implemented. While you can read my full reviews of AC by Marriott Punta Cana , Bahía Principe Luxury Esmeralda , Be Live Punta Cana , Catalonia Bayahibe , Catalonia Punta Cana , Catalonia Royal Bavaro , Caribe Deluxe Princess , Dreams Dominicus , Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana , Finest Punta Cana , Grand Bavaro Princess , Grand Sirenis Resort Punta Cana , Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana , Lopesan Costa Bavaro , Princess Family Club , RIU Palace Macao , RIU Palace Punta Cana , RIU República , Royalton CHIC , Secrets Royal Beach , Serenade Punta Cana , Tropical Deluxe Princess and whala Bayahibe here, the following measures were some which called my immediate attention in terms of the new Covid-19 hygiene protocol in Punta Cana.

In all all-inclusive resorts:

• Upon arrival, your body temperature gets screened, your luggage disinfected and you shall sanitize your hands.
• Check-in agents are separated by plexiglass from the guests.
• All employers are wearing face masks to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
• Tables get properly disinfected before and after use.
• According to the Covid-19 hygiene protocol your room gets fully disinfected before your check-in.
• Pool and beach chairs are being moved away from each other to maintain social distancing.
• As an additional Covid-19 measure, dining menus and resort information are available via QR codes only.
• Frequent hand sanitization is encouraged when entering restaurants, bars, the lobby and other common areas.

In some all-inclusive resorts:

• Multi-touch items such as remote control, tablet or bathroom amenities get disinfected and will be placed in a sealed bag afterwards
• At the buffet, you won’t serve yourself, so the food tongs won’t get touched by multiple persons. You rather choose at the buffet what you want to eat and one of the service staff members will put it on your plate. Alternatively, for those resorts where the self-serving method is still in effect, you have to wear disposable gloves to avoid any contamination.
• When ordering a drink, the waiters won’t touch your glass (you either grab it from the tray, they pass it to you with a napkin or they are wearing sanitized gloves).
• Check-in can be done completely paperless in times of Coronavirus.

 While some of these rules for the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana might sound bothersome, they are not. The hotels do their best to prevent any inconveniences for the guests. The vibe is really easy-going and 98% of the time, you don’t feel that you are vacationing during a pandemic. In the meantime, most of the Punta Cana covid restrictions in the resorts have been lifted as well, so that discos are going to reopen, social activities are getting back on the schedule and face mask obligation is seen less strict in some of the hotels. Occupancy levels have also significantly risen to (more than) pre-pandemic level, hence the Punta Cana resorts in 2022 are much more busy and active in comparison to 2020.

Please note that some of these measures are discontinued as of February 2022 when the government of the Dominican Republic announced that all Covid-19 related regulations have been terminated. However, it depends on the discretion of the hotel in Punta Cana how they are organizing their operations. For example, even though social events, parties and swim-up bars are allowed again, it doesn’t mean that all of the Punta Cana resorts are opening them up immediately.

As of February 2022, most all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are open again, probably around 95%. Some of the reopened resorts are Barcelo Bavaro Beach, Be Live Collection Punta Cana Adults Only , Breathless Punta Cana, Catalonia Royal Bavaro , Dreams Ma c ao Beach , Excellence El Carmen, Finest Punta Cana , Grand Sirenis Resort Punta Cana , Hard Rock Punta Cana , Iberostar Grand, Lopesan Costa Bavaro , Majestic Mirage, Melia Caribe Beach, Nickelodeon Punta Cana, RIU Palace Punta Cana , Royalton Punta Cana, Secrets Cap Cana and Secrets Royal Beach .

Some of the resorts still closed (as of December 2021) are Grand Bahía Principe Turquesa, Natura Park Resort or Le Sivory Port Bleue.

 We are receiving a lot of requests about what happens if you test positive in your Punta Cana resort when taking your mandatory Covid-19 test for returning to the United States or other countries.

In general, it shall be noted that in the past, more than 99% of all traveler Covid-19 tests were negative. However, in case you get tested positive, you will be quarantined in the resort you are staying at. The rates for this extended stay depend on your hotel and can vary widely. Please check with the all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana or wherever in the Dominican Republic you have booked. There are three different kinds of options: – the resort offers a free extended stay option for the quarantine of up to 14 nights – the resort offers a discounted rate for the quarantine stay – the resort charges the regular rate for the quarantine stay

 Anyway, you most likely have some extra expenses incl. your flight rebookings, but this shouldn’t refrain you from traveling to Punta Cana during Covid-19. Those costs can be easily covered by travel insurance, for example, Liaison Travel Plus insurance *. They cover hotel expenses as a part of their Covid-19 coverage when testing positive during your Punta Cana vacation. This Covid-19 insurance is available for most nationalities, including the US, Canada, UK and all other European countries.

 You can find more information about the terms and conditions here *. We also give some helpful tips about this topic further down in the insurance section.

 Please note: the quarantine stay in your resort will be in a different part of the hotel, which is exclusively reserved for this reason. The rooms are the same as in the rest of the resort, but you are not allowed to leave the room or take part in any activities. Food and drinks (usually no alcohol) will be delivered to your room.

 Once tested positive, the hotel quarantine in Punta Cana might be up to 14 days. Usually and if free of symptoms, you can end the quarantine earlier with a negative Covid-19 test, which normally has to be a PCR test, paid out of your own expense (or by your insurance, if they cover PCR tests). However, this decision can also be changed on a case-by-case basis.

What to expect during your excursions in Punta Cana during times of Coronavirus?

  Excursions are up and running in Punta Cana , most tour operators have resumed their operations. Unless other countries after the outbreak of Coronavirus, you are also allowed to venture out on your own in the Dominican Republic. Here on Punta Cana Travel Blog, you find a lot of ideas on how to explore the authentic Dominican Republic . Check out this multi-day itinerary from Punta Cana , have a look at the best day-trips from Punta Cana or check out one of Punta Canas’ waterfalls . You can also have a look at the best Covid-19 friendly excursions in Punta Cana and check out the best things to do in Punta Cana .

Have you already booked your excursions in Punta Cana? Find the best insider tips and prices here:

 However, also the excursion operators follow a strict hygiene protocol and have implemented strict Covid-19 measures to prevent the spread of Coronavirus in Punta Cana. Some of those Coronavirus guidelines are:

• Mandatory face coverings during transfers
• The guide has to perform a medical check (of his own) before each tour
• Vehicles have to be deep-cleaned before and after every tour
• Vehicles can only be occupied with limited capacity
• Temperature checks for all excursion guests before the tour starts
• Public toilets have to be available and sanitized every 2 hours
• Lunch can only be served on disposable plates and cutlery

TOP 12 Punta Cana Excursions

Isla Saona : Saona Info | Book it * Private Saona Island Tour: Private Tour Info | Book it * Dune buggy and ATV excursion : Buggy Info | Book it * Punta Cana Ziplining : Zipline Info | Book it * Party boat & booze cruise : Party Boat Info | Book it * Best Nightlife Show: Coco Bongo Info | Book it * Scape Park Cap Cana & Blue Lagoon : Blue Lagoon Info | Book it * Los Haitises National Park : Los Haitises Info | Book it * Santo Domingo : Santo Domingo Info | Book it * Samaná (Salto El Limón & Cayo Levantado) : Samaná Info | Book it * Helicopter & airplane tours : Helicopter Info | Book it * Whale watching (Jan-Mar only) : Whale watching Info | Book it * Looking for more inspiration? Check out the 40+ best Punta Cana tours !

As of February 2022, travel restrictions on excursions in Punta Cana have also been lifted. While it is still at the discretion of the tour operator to ask for face coverings in closed areas or vehicles, tours and activities in Punta Cana can operate under normal conditions.

 This being said, you can expect to see the Dominican Republic in all its beauty.

Since the pandemic started, I have taken part in a couple of those activities, including buggy tours , ziplining , catamaran tours and many more. It’s absolutely easy and there are hardly any travel restrictions for Punta Cana excursions , so you can look forward to some great adventures and unforgettable fun.

How to get travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage for your Punta Cana holiday?

When you have set everything up for your all-inclusive vacation in the Dominican Republic, it is also time to think about travel insurance – because traveling without would be highly insane amidst a pandemic. Travel insurance for foreign countries always is important as it protects you from the high medical costs in clinics and hospitals when having an accident or getting sick. This is important for Punta Cana as well. Even the general price level in Punta Cana is reasonable , health care is quite expensive, especially when consulting English-speaking doctors or using a hospital with an international standard.  During the times of Coronavirus, travel insurance is even more important as you still can catch the virus in the Dominican Republic, despite all Covid-19 regulations and measures according to the hygienic protocol. Luckily, there are travel insurances with Covid-19 coverage which fully protects you even if you get the virus during your holiday.   I am protected with Safety Wing *, an easy and straightforward international insurance covering me in all countries in the world (except Iran, North Korea, Cuba), including the Dominican Republic. Safety Wing also covers any medical treatment of Covid-19 as long as you have not contracted the Coronavirus before your insurance policy started. In other words, if you travel to Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic and get sick during your holiday, Safety Wing covers you ( please read their user-friendly terms & conditions for any exclusions *) – it doesn’t matter if it is Covid-19 related or any other health issue. Even Covid-19 tests for Coronavirus are included if medically necessary.  While Safety Wing initially was a digital nomad company offering long-term health insurance, you can also take out their insurance for short vacations of just a couple of days. Please note that they have a deductible of 250 USD for most medical cases and liability is capped at a certain (reasonable) amount, but this comes with the big advantage that their insurance policies start for as low as 1.20 USD a day (!). Health and travel insurance for a 1-week trip to the Dominican Republic incl. Covid-19 coverage only costs you 12 USD for the entire week and a month is just 40 USD. This even includes travel insurance, so in case of flight disruptions, natural disasters, travel delays or lost checked luggage, you are covered as well – without deductible! Safety Wing covers nationals from all over the world, including US and European citizens.

 SafetyWing is probably not recommendable for every type of traveler, but the low prices and strong coverage are absolutely worth a look, taking into consideration that it is health, travel AND Covid-19 insurance in one package. I can recommend it from my experience, so have a look at the services and prices!

– Most Popular Posts on Punta Cana Travel Blog –

Excursion to Isla Saona 2024 – hidden gems, insider tips, DIY adventures and the best Saona Island tours

Helpful Overview & Experiences: all-inclusive ADULTS-ONLY resorts in Punta Cana

13 Insider tips on how to find the best all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana

Coco Bongo Punta Cana – Ticket Options, our review and if it is worth to visit

 If Safety Wing is nothing for you, you can have a look at Visitors Coverage. Visitors Coverage is a price comparison tool * for international travel and medical insurances, doesn’t matter where you are from or where you are traveling to. More or less half of the insurance offers at Visitors Coverage include Covid-19 coverage when traveling, so make sure to activate this filter when browsing through the results. Prices are super low as well (10 USD for a 1-week trip to Punta Cana) and the deductible is as low as 50 USD, which is important if you don’t want to pay much in case of medical treatment. Visitors Coverage offers different insurance companies and packages, some of them for travel insurance (travel delay, trip cancellation, etc.) and some of them for health insurance (medical treatment, hospitalization, etc.). You can use the tool below to check the best prices and services for your trip.

Visitors Coverage is also a perfect option if you are looking for Covid-19 travel insurance that covers hotel quarantine if you get tested positive in your all-inclusive resort. As explained above in the hotel section of this Covid-19 guide for Punta Cana, you will get quarantined in your resort in case you get tested positive during your pre-return Covid-19 test. The cost of quarantine depends on your resort, as some all-inclusive resorts complimentary extend your stay and others charge the full or a discounted rate.

In any case, in case you get tested positive in Punta Cana and need to adjust your hotel and flight schedule, it is very recommendable to have travel insurance which is covering Covid-19 related travel expenses including hotel quarantine. You can compare different insurance options with Visitors Coverage here *.

One insurance that covers your hotel quarantine in Punta Cana is Liaison Travel Plus *. There are only a few conditions that have to be met: – a positive test result administered by a certified physician (all Covid-19 tests in Punta Cana are done by official laboratories, hence this shouldn’t be a problem) – a document from the physician or local government mandating a hard quarantine in the resort (in case you get tested positive, ask the resort or laboratory for an official quarantine letter, signed by a doctor or the local authority imposing the quarantine) – a document from the doctor recommending where you stay (as the Punta Cana hotel quarantine is a common standard, they shall simply write that they recommend quarantining in your hotel as it is the easiest way of quarantine)

 Considering that only a few all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are offering a free Covid-19 quarantine, such travel insurance covering hotel quarantine and additional flight expenses might be worth every penny.

Another option for non-US-residents is Safe Travels International – Cost Saver * as they are covering up to 150 USD per day and 2000 USD per stay in trip delay coverage, which also includes hotel and flight expenses if you are getting tested positive in Punta Cana and have to quarantine in the Dominican Republic.

Free health insurance provided by the government of the Dominican Republic

Currently, the free health insurance provided by the government of the Dominican Republic until June 2021 is not offered anymore.

How is the beach in Punta Cana during Covid-19?

 While the beach itself isn’t directly affected by any Covid-19 restrictions in the Dominican Republic, it is very interesting to see how the beach has changed in recent months, since Coronavirus hit our world and stopped all travel immediately.

 While most of the beautiful beaches in Punta Cana were highly frequented before Covid-19, with all the all-inclusive resorts open, many people walking along the beach and beach bars frequented with happy travelers, everything has been super quiet for a few months. It was impressive to see how pristine and virgin the beach turned in these few months without visitors. Natural flotsam was piling up at the beach, palm trees were swaying in the wind without any people around for miles and some fishing boats seemed to not have moved for ages. It was a totally different atmosphere.

In the meantime, most of the things are back to normal. Most of the all-inclusive resorts are open, plenty of people are strolling at the beach. Check out this article if you want to see more about the best beaches in Punta Cana .

Hospital situation in Punta Cana in times of Coronavirus

 When traveling in times of Coronavirus, it is also important to check the available hospitals and medical infrastructure in your holiday destination, just in case you – despite all the measures – get infected or have any other accident. Luckily, Punta Cana has a particularly good supply of international hospitals, private clinics and English-speaking doctors, so that you don’t have to worry about medical treatment, as long as you are properly insured. Also, thanks to the low population density of the area, emergency beds and ventilators were (and are) always available even during peak times of Covid-19 in Punta Cana and it is not expected that this is going to change in the future. 

The government of the Dominican Republic has done a great job of offering sufficient hospital capacities and therefore being able to live the coronavirus restrictions in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic. In 2021, the average occupancy of emergency beds and ventilators in the Dominican Republic was around 40% and never reached more than 60-70%. At the beginning of 2022, the hospital occupation is even below 20%. As of March 2022, the hospital occupation in the Dominican Republic even dropped to 5%, meaning the hospitals are actually empty.

 There are several clinics and hospitals in Punta Cana. All of them have English-speaking staff and accept different kinds of insurances. In case you need to see a doctor, it doesn’t matter if it’s Covid-19 related or for another reason, make sure to call before to check if the hospital does offer the treatment you are looking for.

 The biggest clinics and hospitals in Punta Cana are the following:

• International Medical Group Punta Cana (IMG Punta Cana)
• Centro Médico Punta Cana
• International Medical Center TCMS
• Hospiten Bavaro

 The biggest and most modern hospital in Punta Cana is the IMG Punta Cana from the International Medical Group. You can find all kinds of clinics and departments here, with (partly) bi-lingual doctors, the latest technology and the cleanest environment. Without having tried all the hospitals, I would say that the International Medical Group has the best hospital in Punta Cana. 

How to get a Covid test in Punta Cana (PCR test/Antigen)?

 It is also not a problem to get a PCR test in Punta Cana if you would like to get checked for Covid-19. Even when most countries are requesting a negative Covid test to return to your home country, there are sufficient testing capacities, also thanks to the Dominican government and tourism recovery plan. But how to get a Covid-19 test in Punta Cama. it doesn’t matter if an Antigen test or a PCR test?

First of all, it depends where you are staying: do you travel to Punta Cana to stay in an all-inclusive resort or do you want to spend your vacation in an Airbnb (check out this list, there are so many spectacular Airbnb in Punta Cana )?

If you are staying in an all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana , you should check with your travel agent or your concierge if the hotel is offering free (or paid) Covid tests during your stay. Most all-inclusive resorts do offer Covid-testing right at the premises. Some Punta Cana resorts are offering them for a fee, some are even absorbing the costs and are offering them for free. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about getting your Covid test on time before returning to your country. PCR tests usually have to be paid extra.

If you are staying at an Airbnb in Punta Cana or a guesthouse, you don’t have to worry either as there are plenty of testing facilities in Punta Cana. Even you are not entitled to a free test, you simply can book an appointment (or head there without advance notice) and get your Antigen or PCR-test done. For Antigen tests, you even don’t need an appointment in most places.

The most recommendable testing facilities are the following:

No responsibility is taken for the correctness of this information. Punta Cana Travel Blog can’t be held responsible for any changes or incorrect information. All details of the insurances are subject to change without prior notice.

So far, I have used the Covid-19 testing facilities of IMG Punta Cana and Centro Medico Punta Cana and am absolutely satisfied with them. The results are ready in usually 15 to 30 minutes.

In case you don’t get tested before your flight, you simply forget it or if your test result arrives too late, there are also testing facilities at Punta Cana Airport and Santo Domingo Airport . However, this shall only be considered as an emergency solution, it is much less hassle to get tested before. If you have to get tested right at the airport, plan between 1 and 3 additional hours for it. Those testing facilities at the airport are only open during daytime hours.

Situation and regulations regarding Covid-19 in the Dominican Republic

 While all the above is regarding tourism, the safety guidelines during your Punta Cana holiday and any Coronavirus restrictions imposed on certain activities, it is also important to look left and right at what’s happening in the Dominican Republic in terms of Covid-19. 

 While in the beginning Latin America, in general, had a harder time preventing the spread of Covid-19 due to big families, limited housing space and a large informal economy, they recovered better and had fewer problems with the third and fourth waves caused by the delta or the omicron variants. Especially the Dominican Republic could always score with balanced risk management compared to other Latin American countries. Images from dead people on the street, people queuing up with their gas bottles to buy oxygen for their infected loved ones or week-long 24-hour lockdowns, fortunately, have spared the Dominican Republic. The number of new Coronavirus cases has also been on very moderate levels for months now since autumn 2020 (except a spike around December 2020/January 2021 which the country, fortunately, has been able to stop again). This emphasizes that the Dominican Republic is doing particularly well during the Covid-19 pandemic (and as a person living there I can 100% second this).

In February 2022, the government of the Dominican Republic even announced that all Covid-19 related regulations and travel restrictions will be terminated immediately, including the requirement of a vaccination card when visiting supermarkets, banks or public restaurants.

Furthermore, the Dominican Republic is one of the countries with very stable measures to protect the spread of Coronavirus. While other governments are jumping forth and back with their travel restrictions, the Dominican government is keeping its path to fight Covid-19 in Punta Cana and the entire country. There haven’t been any border closures, testing requirements or quarantine mandates since autumn 2020 except for a few selected countries.

Travel resources

Punta Cana Airport Transfers : Info | Book It * Santo Domingo Airport Transfers: Info | Book It * All-Inclusive Resorts: Info | Book It * Apartments & Villas: Info | Book It * Excursions: Info | Book It * Rental Car: Info | Book It * Road-Trips & Self-Drive Tours: Info | Plan It

Since the end of October 2021, the curfew in the Dominican Republic also has been discontinued. There is no state of emergency anymore and life is mostly back to normal, except for mask obligations in public and closed buildings.

This also means that Punta Cana nightlife after covid is back to normal. Night clubs such as Coco Bongo or Imagine * are open. You can also visit the local nightlife in Punta Cana , which is open and running.

While a few attractions still might be closed due to the lack of visitors or the possibility to ensure social distancing, the majority of all tours and activities in Punta Cana is open and running. Check out this article about the best excursions in Punta Cana during Covid-19 to find out more.

From October 2021 until February 2022, it has been mandatory to show proof of vaccination when entering public indoor spaces such as governmental buildings, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, banks or public transport . This explicitly didn’t apply to hotels, all-inclusive resorts (including their restaurant and bars), other accommodations, private transport (such as airport transfers in Punta Cana ) excursions, natural sites and sites of interest. Hence there is and has been no vaccine requirement in Punta Cana and even in the places mentioned above you were usually not being asked about your vaccination card.

Starting from the 19th of February 2022, this Covid-19 measure in the Dominican Republic has been discontinued, hence you don’t need to be vaccinated to go anywhere in Punta Cana or the entire country.

Governmental program in the Dominican Republic in response to Covid-19 

 As tourism is an important industry in the Dominican Republic, the government has declared its recovery after the worldwide Coronavirus lockdown as one of the main targets when restarting the economy. To achieve this, the new ruling party – just governing since July 2020 – has implemented a plan which includes several measures to help both, travelers and suppliers. 

 Further entry restrictions are not in effect, all countries can enter the Dominican Republic, however, visa regulations might apply.

Get your free e-book now – “17 amazing things-to-do for free in Punta Cana”!

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 With all these guidelines and regulations, the Dominican Republic is open for everyone and ready to receive you. Are you ready for your vacation in the Caribbean? If so, check out the articles about the best day-trips in Punta Cana , 26 exciting things to do in Bavaro and beyond and don’t forget to visit some of the highlights of the Dominican Republic, such as Isla Saona , Santo Domingo and Los Haitises . You can also have a look at the best excursions in Punta Cana to do during the times of Coronavirus .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Covid-19 in Punta Cana

Yes, there are Coronavirus cases in Punta Cana. Due to the low population, the numbers of Covid-19 are much lower than in the other parts of the Dominican Republic.

No, the curfew and state-of-emergency was lifted in October 2021. All further Covid-19 related travel restrictions have been lifted in February 2022. 

The Dominican Republic has fully re-opened its borders starting from the 1st of July 2020 and was one of the first countries to do so worldwide without any entry restrictions (no PCR test or quarantine required). Also for 2022 there are no entry requirements in terms of bringing a PCR test or being tested negatively on Coronavirus (except a few countries listed above in the text). A health check, temperature screening and random Covid-19 testing are in effect. Besides this, the usual visa requirements apply (no visa required for American, Canadian, UK, EU citizens any many more).

You can freely travel around in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic. There are no travel restrictions in effect.

You should take out travel insurance when traveling to Punta Cana. You can also check affordable SafetyWing * with Covid-19 travel insurance and up to 250.000 USD coverage.

As of March 2022, around 95% of the hotels in Punta Cana are reopened. For a complete list, please check the current availability here *.

All all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana follow strict hygienic protocols to maximize your health and safety and to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. While this has a large impact, there can never be a 100% guarantee that there are no Covid-19 cases in your hotel. Check the sections above for further information on the hygienic protocols.

Some of the measures and guidelines to protect the spread of Covid-19 include: – Upon arrival, your body temperature gets screened, your luggage disinfected and you shall sanitize your hands. – Check-in can be done completely paperless in times of Coronavirus. – Check-in agents are separated by plexiglass from the guests. – All employers are wearing face masks to prevent the spread of Covid-19. – When ordering a drink, the waiters won’t touch your glass (you either grab it from the tray or they pass it to you with a napkin). – At the buffet, you won’t serve yourself, so the food tongs won’t get touched by multiple persons. You rather choose at the buffet what you want to eat and one of the service staff members will put it on your plate. – Tables get properly disinfected before and after using. – According to the Covid-19 hygiene protocol your room gets fully disinfected before you check-in. – Multi-touch items such as remote control, tablet or bathroom amenities get disinfected and will be placed in a sealed bag afterwards. – Pool and beach chairs are being moved away from each other to maintain social distancing. – As an additional Covid-19 measure, dining menus and resort information are available via QR codes. – Frequent hand sanitization is encouraged when entering restaurants, bars, the lobby and other common areas.

No, no quarantine is needed when entering the Dominican Republic as of January 2022, except when arriving with symptoms and/or when tested positive.

No, no PCR test is required to enter the Dominican Republic as of March 2022 (except from certain countries listed in the text above). Random tests via breathalyzer might be performed at the airport.

If you need a negative Covid-19 test to return to your home country, there are sufficient testing capacities available in Punta Cana and the entire Dominican Republic. If you are staying in an all-inclusive resort, you can get an Antigen test or a PCR test right at the hotel premises for an additional surcharge, sometimes even for free. If you are staying in an Airbnb or a guesthouse, there are several laboratories available for Antigen tests, Covid-19 quick tests and PCR tests.

If you need to get tested in Punta Cana, you can expect the following costs: – Antigen test in a laboratory: approx. 2000 DOP (35 USD) – PCR test in a laboratory: 4300-5000 DOP (80 USD) – Express PCR test in a laboratory: approx. 5800 DOP (100 USD)

No, everyone can enter the Dominican Republic without quarantine, it doesn’t matter if vaccinated or not.

No, there is no vaccine requirement in the Dominican Republic as of February 2022 when all Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted.

As of the begin of January 2022, omicron accounts for approx. 45% of all cases in the Dominican Republic, mostly in Santo Domingo and Santiago. Still, the hospital occupancy stays very low. As of March 2022, the hospital occupancy is at 5%.

A QR-code is mandatory to enter the Dominican Republic and can be obtained by filling out the e-ticket. You can find all information about this e-ticket for immigration here . When filling out the e-ticket, you are getting asked a few questions about your health status as well to prevent the spread of Covid in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic. Afterwards, you receive the QR code. The e-ticket is for free.

SHARING IS CARING! IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS – I WOULD APPRECIATE IT A LOT.

Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean Soul. Since 2011 I have been living in the Caribbean, among them 5 years in the Dominican Republic. Punta Cana is my home-base here in the country and I’d love to tell you more about how to experience Punta Cana off-the-beaten-track and give you all the advice you want to know for your vacation in Punta Cana.

ALSO WORTH READING:

Royalton Chic Punta Cana – a comprehensive review of this adults-only all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana

Kayaking in Punta Cana – the best kayaking spots, insider tips and Punta Cana kayak excursions

AC Hotel by Marriott Punta Cana – a comprehensive review of this newly-built Punta Cana hotel

The best of Punta Cana’s beaches [2024; incl. map + insider tips & hidden gems]

55 thoughts on “Traveling to Punta Cana 2022 in times of coronavirus – What to expect during the period of Covid-19 (update)?”

I booked an all inclusive vacation for middle of February 2021 in Punta Cana .

Do you know if they still offer evening entertainments and if not what people do in the evening? Thank you

yes, evening shows are still on the program of the all-inclusive resorts. If the occupancy is very low, they might not have one every night, but as there is still time to go until February and numbers are picking up slowly but steady, there shall be an entertainment show every night.

Enjoy Punta Cana! Chris

We are coming in Feb and need a Covid test to return to NY.. Can we get a Covid test for our return trip right at the Resort?

Hi Jody, yes, Amadita Laboratorio and Laboratorio Referencia are offering resort visits for Covid-19 PCR tests. I’ll propose to call, but if you don’t speak Spanish, you can also write an email ahead of time and/or use their websites. You can also ask in your resort, but it will most likely be more expensive as they don’t have own testing facilities. Most likely they just send the tests to one of the labs mentioned above. Have a safe trip to Punta Cana Chris

Traveling in February. Want to go out of resort for evening dinner. But have read that there is a curfew? Is this correct? What is the guidelines? This is what I found. I have transportation leaving Riu to go to Jellyfish restaurant at 7. So looking at this I should not go?

Is a curfew in place? Yes Beginning January 27, the government of the Dominican Republic has issued a revised curfew nationwide. Failure to follow the curfew, including for U.S. citizens, may result in arrest and/or fines. Monday through Friday: Curfew from 7pm to 5am, with a grace period for transit until 10pm each day. Saturday and Sunday: Curfew from 5pm to 5am, with a grace period for transit until 8pm each day.

you are right, there is a curfew in place and all businesses have to close at 7pm (5pm weekends), but you can be on the road until 10pm (8pm weekends). Therefore, if you’d like to go to Jellyfish Beach, I highly recommend going there for lunch.

The curfew doesn’t affect the resorts in Punta Cana, so restaurants and bars there will be open (might be on a rotating schedule).

Let me know if you have any further questions. Enjoy your vacation in Punta Cana! Chris

Scheduled to travel Feb 27, 2021 and realized passports will only be valid for 5 months past travel dates (exp July 21, 2021). Will this be a problem?

Hi Michele,

thanks for your comment. I am happy that you are planning to travel to Punta Cana. Officially, passports need to be valid 6 months after arrival, so yes there might be problems. If you want to be on the safe side and there is a chance to get a new (express?) passport in this short amount of time, better choose this option. If this is not an option, you probably only have the chance to either cancel or try your luck. What I would do to increase your chances: – call your airline to ask about the passport validity they require to let you board when flying to the Dominican Republic – fill out the immigration e-ticket for entering the Dominican Republic. If you get the QR-Code at the end, you are already one step further from gaining entry into the Dominican Republic. However, the final decision will be taken by the immigration officer. But if your airline lets you board and you have the immigration QR-Code, chances should be higher.

Please note that this is just my personal opinion. Please call your embassy for any legal advice.

Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

What if on a random covid test , you test postive what happens?

If you get tested positive at the airport, it is most likely that you get transferred to the next quarantine establishment, which might be a hospital or any other governmental facility. Each resort also has a quarantine section, so if you don’t show any symptoms you might also be lucky and get quarantined in your resort, but I assume they send you first to a health care facility to quarantine, monitor and test you again there.

Cheers, Chris

Was just wondering what your views are on the resorts facilities by June. Do you think things like Pools, Clubs and Bars will be open again?

Many thanks, Josh

pools and bars in the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are already open. Clubs and discos are closed right now, and I would say that chances are a maximum of 50% that they will re-open.

Hi Chris, I am so happy that you have a site that I can read what is really to expect when I arrive on April 1st, 2021. I was super nervous, but after reading all your positive notes on Punta Cana I am more relived now. Thank you so much. I am looking so much forward in coming soon.

great, thanks for your feedback. I am glad that my experiences can help you. 🙂

Enjoy your trip to Punta Cana and make sure to check back if you have any further questions or when thinking about the things you want to do in Punta Cana.

Do you need to to have theses vaccines to travel to the DR: Hepatitis A Typhoid and Cholera Hepatitis B Rabies

no, no vaccines are required to enter the Dominican Republic. However, it is recommended to have your routine vaccines done. Hepatitis A, B, Typhoid and Rabies are recommended travel vaccines, especially when you have higher exposure (your exposure usually is very low if you are staying in an all-inclusive resort). Cholera is not an issue in the Dominican Republic. Please also check the recommendations from your local center for disease control.

For professional advice, please consult a doctor specialized in travel vaccines.

I will be traveling with my husband and 2 kids to Punta Cana the end of April. I am a little nervous with the virus stuff regarding getting back home to US. My concern is should 1 of of test positive do we have to stay for 14 days or till we a negative result? I am so looking forward to a vacation but I don’t want to be stuck there.

Thanks Maria

thanks for your comment.

If getting quarantined when receiving a positive test result is a scenario you would like to avoid at all costs during your Punta Cana vacation, it might be better not to travel to the Dominican Republic. Just keep in mind a few things: – some resorts offer a free quarantine on the resort grounds (obvious in a different building and with no access to the public resort facilities) – there is medical insurance from the Dominican Republic government which is included in all travel packages – if 1 person gets tested positive, it is likely that other family members have the virus as well – usually the quarantine should last until all are tested negative

Please let me know if you have any further questions.

We are thinking of a vacation in late September but we have heard that the beaches are closed in September and October is this true? Also wondering what the temperature is like at that time of year?

great that your are planning to visit Punta Cana. The beaches in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic are open 365 days a year.

You can have a look at the best beaches here: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/the-top-10-best-beaches-in-punta-cana/

With regard to the weather, you can find the weather situation for each month in Punta Cana here: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/the-weather-in-punta-cana/

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Best regards Chris

Hi there, I’m thinking about staying at an all-inclusive resort for a week at the end of May as a solo female traveler. Do you think this is safe? Kind regards, Vera

thanks for your comment. Yes, Punta Cana is very safe, with regard to Covid-19 and with regard to crime as well. You won’t have any problem traveling as a solo female traveler. If you are looking for a resort, you can check out the following post to find out which might be the most suitable hotel for you: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/accommodation-resorts/how-to-find-the-best-all-inclusive-resort-in-punta-cana/

Thank you Chris!!

This post has a lot of great information! Are resorts offering day passes again? I am traveling in July 2021 but staying in an Airbnb and want to visit a resort for a day. Thanks in advance!

I am glad the information were helpful.

The last time I have enquired for a day pass was in April and I couldn’t get one.

However, each all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana is handling this differently, so I would call the resort you’d like to visit and see if there is a chance.

Hello Chris, thanks for creating this travel blog with great authentic information. I found much lower airfare for Santo Domingo ($1500 lower for 4 passengers, 2 adults & 2 kids) than Punta Cana airport. It is 2 hours transfer from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana at an AI resort for my travel dates round trip, that means the private transfer will pick us up and drop us off to Santo Domingo Airport on both dates (at a cost of $245). However, plane would arrive Santo Domingo at 2 AM (in morning). Question 1: Is it ok and safe to book private transfer online?, Question 2: Is it ok & safe to use private transfer at 2 AM in the morning to travel to Punta Cana AI resort?, Question 3: Is night time Curfew still in effect and is it going to affect the transfer? If so, what other alternatives I have? Thanks.

Hi Humorous,

Yes, flying to Santo Domingo definitely is an option if it is that much cheaper. Just keep in mind that the kids might be not that pleased to do so much night-time traveling, especially when an additional 2-hour transfer is involved.

To answer your questions: Yes, going with a private transfer from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana during nighttime hours is safe if you book with a reliable company (not any kind of private service). It is just not recommended to drive at night on your own, but that’s not the case here. You can check my recently updated post about airport transfers from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana here: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/airport-transfers-in-santo-domingo/

The curfew won’t affect your transfer as airport transfers are allowed 24/7.

You might arrive at 5 to 6am at your resort. Depending on your budget, you shall consider booking your room already for the night before so that you have access to your room immediately when you arrive and can take a nap there – I guess everyone will be super tired after this trip.

Enjoy your trip to Punta Cana and let me know if you have any further questions. Chris

Was planning a trip for August 15th, but we’re worried that the curfew will affect the bars/clubs in the resort. Does the curfew affect the stuff in the resort? Would we have to be in our rooms when the curfew begins?

no, the curfew absolutely doesn’t affect daily life, the restaurants or the bars in Punta Canas’ all-inclusive resorts.

Will be arriving in August…is there still a curfew for night club such as drink point, coco bongo and casino?…if so has anything been communicated when they will be lifted?

Hi Michael,

right now, businesses have to close at 22:00 on weekdays and 21:00 on weekends and I guess this will be the case in August as well. Alcohol consumption is a bit limited at the moment in public bars, but I strongly assume that this will be lifted in the next 1-2 weeks.

Hello I’m am leaving in a week to melia beach and I’m a bit nervous and concerned for health and safety not cause of the covid but the strange deaths that had occurred some time ago what is the difference now and then how has it improved and should I be worried they said it was something about drinks being spiked I am traveling in a big group and my daughter too is the food safe ? How should I drink water? Did they ever catch the criminals that were doing this how did the government put a stop to this or can this still be happening

Hi Adrian, thanks for your comment. There is nothing to worry about, there was no tainted alcohol and no poisoned food in Punta Cana. It was just a fake news campaign against the government of the Dominican Republic … Even the FBI investigated and confirmed that all Americans who died in Punta Cana died because of natural reasons. And if you look at the statistics you can see that this specific year when the fake news campaign was running LESS Americans died in the Dominican Republic than in other years. Obviously, with more approx. 2-3 million American tourists every year it is (unfortunately … ) absolutely natural that people are dying during their vacation because of natural reasons … Let me know if you have any other questions. Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

How does the alcohol restrictions currently effect businesses and resorts? (As of Oct 1st)

Hi Andrew, there have never been any alcohol restrictions in place within the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana. For public bars, afaik they are allowed to sell alcohol until midnight but I am not sure if this is really enforced as most bars are open (and I am hardly out for nightlife to see what’s up after mid-night 😉 ). Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Thank you for this blog! We are scheduled to visit January 2022 Advisory level is now a 3 Is it still safe to travel there? Is omnicron shutting things down? Reports are saying theft so on is rising so I’m getting nervous we should cancel but This is a bucket list trip and my family will be crushed if I cancel or what happens if travel gets shut down? Any updates or advice greatly appreciated please

Hi Kerry, in my opinion, there is no need to worry about your vacation in Punta Cana for 2022. For sure omicron is already circulating in the Dominican Republic (even not officially confirmed yet), but I am also sure the country won’t close borders or shut down travel. The Dominican Republic is open for tourism since summer 2020 and it has always been open without quarantine or testing requirements since autumn 2020. On the other side, hospital occupancy never went over 70% and is on a historic low right now with 14%. Tourism is very important for the Dominican Republic, so the country for sure won’t get shut down. Furthermore, Punta Cana is absolutely safe. I am sure you can fully enjoy your holiday in Punta Cana. Cheers, Chris

Hi Chris. Thank you for posting this helpful info. We are scheduled to travel to punta cana towards the last week of Feb. I am wondering if you can advise on the omicron situation out there and covid in general. Is there many cases to be concerned about? We were thinking about canceling our trip but after your article we are second guessing that and reconsidering yhe cancelation. We love Dominican and really want to do the trip if it’s still safe to do so.

Hi Daniela, just yesterday the Dominican Republic issued an extended Covid-19 statement about omicron in the Dominican Republic. Currently, 41% of all cases can be accounted towards Omicron, however, the majority of them occurs in the capital of Santo Domingo. Even though Covid-19 cases are rising a bit, the Dominican Republic has still less than 1000 cases a day and the hospital occupancy stays at a very low level of 15% nationwide, so there is nothing to worry about. To take it even better in perspective: the entire province of La Altagracia (that’s where Punta Cana is located) had a total of 3 new cases yesterday, so everything is very much under control. 😉 Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hi….my husband and I are looking to return to Bahia resort/Ambar. We were last there October 2021…everything was great. My concern, hoping you can advise…..The extended stay option of 10 days for those that contract covid expires March 31/22. Have you heard if the Dominican government is planning to extendbeyond March 2022? Very much appreciate your input Thank you

Hi Barb, usually the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are offering an extended stay option if you test positive, I am pretty sure Bahía does have this as well. As long as the Covid-19 pandemic continues, it is also likely that those measures get extended. Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hello Chris, I have a question on the Extended Stay Option. If my wife or I test positive during our stay is the stay an out of pocket expense? What exactly does it entail? Regards, Ian

Hi Ian, the Covid-19 extended stay option always depends on the all-inclusive resort you are booked at, not on the Dominican government. Please check with your hotel for further information, as there are different policied depending on the resort. You can also check the two new sections we have just added to the article: – https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/punta-cana-coronavirus-covid-19/#good-to-know-what-happens-if-you-get-tested-positive-in-a-resort – https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/punta-cana-coronavirus-covid-19/#travel-insurance-to-cover-hotel-quarantine-in-punta-cana Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hi there! One question: If a tourist at an all-inclusive tested positive for Covid and had to extend their stay in the DR, how many days must they quarantine in their room? I have heard 5 days but cannot find a government policy/guideline published anywhere. Many thanks!

Hi Geordie, thanks for your comment. There is no official guideline as of how long the quarantine is supposed to be, but it might be up to 14 days. Usually it can be ended with a negative test. We have just added another section in this article with regard to quarantining in the resort: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/punta-cana-coronavirus-covid-19/#good-to-know-what-happens-if-you-get-tested-positive-in-a-resort Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hi , great info. My question is what happens if someone tests positive on a rapid antigen test at the airport. The government website says they would quarantine at a government facility. What would this be like and how long would it last.

Thanks Nikki

Hi Nikki, a governmental facility might be a public hospital or any other place for medical treatments. I am not sure of how many of these facilities there are in the Dominican Republic – probably not that many. The quarantine would be at least a couple of test and probably until you test negative. As there are not a lot of cases which tests positive this way, there aren’t a lot of experiences either. Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hi, I recently traveled to Barbados and had a bad experience. I had a negative PCR test when leaving the US and upon arrival I tested negative as well. The problem was that a passenger on our flight tested positive and we were told that we sat in a “certain” vicinity to that person. Therefore we had to quarantine for 5 days and had to be tested again. Is this something that can happen as well when traveling to the Dominican Republic? Barbados travel requirements were clearly explained and sounded like nothing can happen but they never mentioned that if a passenger on the airline tests positive that other passengers may have to quarantine as well.

Hi Ange, sorry for the negative experience you had in Barbados. Officially, this can happen everywhere in the world, but it is not common in the Dominican Republic as arrival testing for Covid-19 is minimal compared to other countries where arrival testing is mandatory. Hence, even though it can happen when arriving to Punta Cana, I would rate the chances to below 0.1%. Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Chris, great website and information on PC. I am finding it really difficult to see that the hotels are actually following any of the covid19 precautionary measures that are found in the tourism or hotel industry booklet. They say they are operating at reduced capacity but in fact many are also closing some of the venue services so the intended impact of de-densification is only on paper as in reality the restaurants are packed and there is no control for the covid measures. We also went to get a “express test” for the PCR and found while everyone advertises it that it is almost impossible to achieve a 12 or 24 hour turnaround time in PC. It’s also unclear which protocol is being followed, we were told people who test +ive have to quarantine for 5 days for USA or 14 days for Canada – but what why aren’t they following the local DR protocols?

thanks for your comment. There have been several changes to the Covid-19 protocols since 2020. Most of them were published in the local news, but there is not a single source with all the information where I can link to. That’s why the protocol which is linked to in this article is still one of the older ones. Currently, hotels and resorts in Punta Cana are allowed to operate in 100% occupancy. Besides of this, Covid-19 protocols are still in place, hence masks are required for closed areas and capacity should be controlled in restaurants. However, I also know that some resorts are taking the Covid-19 measures and protocols much more seriously than others. Hence your experience regarding Covid-19 in Punta Cana also depends on where you have stayed.

With regard to the Covid-19 tests, so far we never had a problem to get a super quick turnaround with our tests. Have you tried going to Laboratorio Referencia, IMG Hospital or Amadita? They have own laboratories, which means – opposed to others where you have to factor in additional time as they send the test to other laboratories – that they are able to process the Covid-19 PCR tests pretty quickly.

If you get tested positive, you usually get quarantined until you test negative or for a maximum of 7 days as far as I know. I am not too sure about the last information, but I know that the quarantine time was recently shortened in the Dominican Republic from 14 to 7 or 5 days.

great site with a lot of resources. Unfortunately we got infected while in Punta Cana and therefore failed our Covid test for the flight back. We had mild symptoms that went away withing 3 days, but we keep testing positive (which I understand can happen for a much longer period). Any idea where and how I can get a letter from a physician that clears us for travel?

Many thanks!

Hi Kice, thanks for your comment and sorry for the inconveniences caused by getting tested positive. Great that it’s nothing severe and that you only have/had mild symptoms. With regard to your question, you can probably get such a letter from the IMG Hospital or from the laboratory which initially tested you Covid-19 positive. However, I don’t know if this is enough to travel back from Punta Cana to the US. You can also try to make another Covid-19 test (only Antigen, not PCR), explain your situation (especially considering that you are without symptoms and your first positive is at least 7-10 days in the past) and ask if they can help you. Usually the Antigen tests are not super sensitive, hence I am optimistic a negative test shouldn’t be that much of a problem. I hope this helps. Cheers, Chris

Thanks for sharing this information with us , Really helpful post!.

Great if this information was helpful for you. Chris

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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.

• Share full article

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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Inicio » Information of interest » Travel requirements to enter Central America and Dominican Republic

Travel requirements to enter Central America and Dominican Republic

The Central America Tourism Agency (CATA) makes available to international travelers the requirements for entry to the countries of Central America and the Dominican Republic.

The Government of Belize, as of July 12, decided to eliminate all public health measures at points of entry to Belize, including by air, land, and sea. Travelers no longer need to present proof of vaccination to enter Belize’s airport, land borders, or seaports. All foreign tourists entering the country have the option of purchasing Belize travel insurance. It is no longer required but is highly recommended by the Belize Tourist Office. Click here for more information .

If you need to take a COVID-19 test before leaving Belize, these are the approved testing sites .

As of August 13, 2022, Guatemala updated the biosafety guidelines for the prevention of COVID-19 at points of entry into the country, whether by air, land, or sea. Proof of vaccination is no longer required; it is not necessary to present proof for the detection of COVID-19. All travelers are advised to follow basic biosecurity measures such as hand washing and maintaining physical distancing.

If you need to take a COVID-19 test before leaving Guatemala, these are the authorized centers available .

EL SALVADOR

As of November 17, 2021, El Salvador completely eliminated the sanitary requirements to enter the country. In other words, it is not necessary to present a vaccination card or PCR test. However, it urges its visitors to continue to voluntarily comply with biosecurity measures.

However, each visitor must follow the entry requirements established by the countries where the flight makes a stopover, prior to their arrival in El Salvador. It is important that all visitors verify the immigration requirements needed to enter El Salvador before starting their trip to avoid setbacks or unwanted episodes.

If you need to take a COVID-19 test before leaving El Salvador, these are the authorized centers available .

Travelers who have a complete vaccination schedule against COVID-19 must present a vaccination card to the health authority. If the traveler is not vaccinated, they must present a negative test carried out within 72 hours prior to the trip. The test can be RT-PCR, Antigens, or Elisa.

All people must pre-register 72 hours in advance. In the case of Nicaraguan citizens, they must carry out the pre-check seven days in advance. Pre-register here .

Click here for more information .

The Government of Nicaragua announced new provisions for travelers entering the country. As of June 16, 2022, tourists who have all their vaccination schedules no longer must present a Covid-19 test to enter the country by air, land, or sea.

Travelers of all nationalities should only present, at any of the country’s border points, their vaccination cards or certificate of two doses or more, regardless of the year in which they were vaccinated.

Non-nationals must complete an online form that is available on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is recommended to complete it at least seven days before traveling to the country.

Unvaccinated travelers, both children and adults, will require a negative PCR test (nasopharyngeal swab) that must be taken 72 hours before arrival in the country. Those traveling from Asia, Oceania, and Africa will have to take their test 92 hours before arrival. All unvaccinated travelers must present the digital or printed results of the tests upon arrival at the country’s border.

If you need to take a COVID-19 test before leaving Nicaragua, schedule your appointment through the Ministry of Health, here .

Since April 1, Costa Rica eliminated the temporary immigration measures for entering the country. Costa Rica does not request Coronavirus detection tests, nor does it issue confinement health orders when entering the country by air, land, or sea.

In addition, the requirement to complete the epidemiological form known as the Health Pass and the payment of medical insurance for unvaccinated foreigners was eliminated.

All establishments, activities, and events operate at 100% capacity. The mandatory use of a mask, the protocol for washing hands and taking temperature, as well as compliance with health protocols in each tourist activity, are maintained.

If you need to take a COVID-19 test before leaving Costa Rica, these are the authorized centers available .

Travelers will not have to present a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country as long as they can present a card or digital certification of a complete vaccination schedule, equal to or greater than 14 days after their last dose.

Unvaccinated travelers or those with an incomplete vaccination schedule must present a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within 72 hours prior to their arrival in Panama.

If it is not possible to present a test within the established period, the traveler must take a rapid COVID-19 test at the airport, which will be paid by the traveler, prior to passing through migration (Value USD $50).

ALL travelers must present to the airline their complete Affidavit of Health (in physical or digital form) before boarding to Panama. This Central American destination also makes PCR tests available to tourists for both entry and exit of travelers at the Tocumen International Airport.

Click here for more information.

DOMINICAN REPUPLIC

Effective February 16, 2022, all the restrictive measures imposed by COVID-19 were suspended, and it is up to each individual to take their own measures to safeguard their health, to enjoy the island’s tourism offer responsibly, but without restrictions.

All passengers entering or leaving the Dominican Republic on commercial flights must complete the free electronic entry and exit form. E-TICKET

The Dominican Republic makes available to travelers the following list with detailed information on how to perform the COVID-19 tests for all travelers who need to return to their countries of origin.

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Dominican Republic

Warnings and insurance.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

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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.

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