Dreaming of a getaway to Punta Cana, La Romana, or another sunny destination in the Dominican Republic? Let’s talk about what documents you need before you pack your bags. The Dominican Republic passport requirements state that a valid passport with at least one blank page for an entry stamp, a tourist fee, and a paid departure tax are necessary. Make sure you have all bases covered to ensure a relaxing vacation.
Dominican Republic Passport Requirements
Dominican Republic passport requirements state that a valid U.S. passport, with at least one blank page for an entry stamp, is required when visiting the Dominican Republic. You are also required to pay a $10 tourist fee and a $20 departure tax, which are both typically included in the cost of your airfare. Check with your airline to be certain. If arriving by cruise ship, you will need to pay the $10 tourist fee at customs.
How to Get a Passport Book for Travel to the Dominican Republic
Apply for a passport as soon as international travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if applying for a passport within three weeks of travel time and need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport here.
If you already have a valid passport book, make sure it has at least one blank page for an entry stamp when visiting the Dominican Republic. If not, apply for a renewal passport at least three weeks before travel or pay a higher fee for an expedited passport.
Other Dominican Republic Travel Requirements
Visa: No for U.S. citizens visiting less than 30 days
Vaccinations: No, if traveling from the U.S.
So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit the Dominican Republic?
In summary: Yes. Dominican Republic passport requirements state that a valid passport with at least one blank page for an entry stamp is required to enter the country. A $10 tourist fee and a $20 departure tax are also necessary when visiting the Dominican Republic. Both will typically be added to the cost of your airline ticket.
Helpful Resources When Visiting the Dominican Republic
The U.S. Department of State provides detailed Dominican Republic International Travel Information, including travel advisories and passport requirements.
The Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism offers up-to-date information on travel to and within the country, as well as helpful tips on planning the perfect getaway.
Protect Your Passport
We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection.
On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock.
Dress Up Your Passport
More from SmarterTravel:
- Cruise Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?
- Passport Book vs Passport Card: Which Do I Need?
- 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport
Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.
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