The Dominican Republic is a country within the Caribbean. It is rich in natural beauty, and has been a center for tourism for a number of years with very little to none travel restrictions. Some of the most famous beaches in the world are located in Dominican Republic, like the ones in Catalina Island or Saona Island.
Its people are also known for their hospitality and joyfulness, as well as their rich culture. To visit the Dominican Republic, you must follow certain regulations. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the travel restrictions for this magical country.
COVID-19 Restrictions / Requirements
Effective April 23, 2022:
- No COVID-19 vaccination card, antigen testing or PCR is necessary for entry into the Dominican Republic, regardless of vaccination status or age.
- Random COVID-19 testing of passengers and crew members upon arrival in the country will no longer be performed as standard. However, targeted testing operations may be conducted if necessary.
- Passengers presenting vaccination cards will be exempt from random testing.
Prior to travel to the Dominican Republic, all travelers must complete a Traveler’s Health Declaration to confirm whether they have any symptoms of coronavirus and provide information relevant to their personal details called eTicket.
This is part of an online form containing Health Declarations, Customs Declarations and International Traveler Boarding/Unboarding forms and can be completed through the Dominican Republic E-ticketing Portal in advance of departure. You can find the form available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese and Russian.
Passports
All foreigners entering the Dominican Republic for tourism purposes must have a passport valid for the duration of their stay and to leave the country. This special measure is in effect until December 31, 2022.
Besides, until July 31, 2022, tourists may enter the Dominican Republic with a passport valid for less than 6 months, if it is valid for the entire intended stay.
E-Ticket
The only Travel Restrictions currently in place: All travelers must complete an online application prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic, which includes the COVID Traveller’s Health Affidavit, the Customs Declaration and the International Boarding/Unboarding forms completed through the Dominican Republic E-Ticket Portal prior to travel.
In case you forget to do so prior to departure, in the arrival area of the Punta Cana airport there is free WiFi available. You can complete the online form while waiting in the immigration line.
Visas
US citizens don’t need a visa to enter to the Dominican Republic. As of April 2018, the tourist entry fee (formerly known as a tourist card) is no longer charged on arrival and must be included in the ticket price. Check with your airline or tour operator if you are unsure whether you have paid this fee. More information is available on the website of the Embassy.
Normally you are allowed to stay for 30 days upon arrival. You can extend up to 120 days by paying for the extension upon departure. This can be done online at the Dominican Republic Migration Directorate website or at the airport upon departure.
Travelling with Children
According to the Dominican Republic, visitors under the age of 18 traveling to the Dominican Republic do not need written parental consent if checking in and out from the same person or persons. If guests between the ages of 13 and 18 are traveling alone or in groups under 18, parental consent is not required, provided the group is the same at check-in and check-out.
Otherwise, travelers under the age of 18 must bring a statement drafted by an attorney and signed by the minor’s parent or legal guardian authorizing them to travel. The declaration must be legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Commonwealth of Nations and Development (FCDO) and the Embassy of the Dominican Republic.
Final Words
We hope you enjoyed our blog post! The Dominican Republic is a gorgeous and safe destination for any traveler looking for a vacation, so we wanted to help you make the most of your trip! Keep in mind that the information provided in this blog is not exhaustive and we cannot guarantee that these restrictions will remain the same.