GoDominican Republic Visa Requirements

Visa Entry

Dominican visas are divided into diplomatic, official, hospitality, business, visiting relatives, tourism, work, student, residence, etc.

According to Dominican Law 691-07, any citizen of any nationality who can legally enter the European Union, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom for tourism can legally enter the Dominican Republic and stay for no more than 60 days. If an extension is required, it can be processed at multiple immigration offices.

The agreement on mutual exemption of visas for diplomatic, official, public service and ordinary passport holders between China and the Dominican Republic will come into effect on January 8, 2021. Individuals holding Chinese diplomatic, official, or service ordinary passports are eligible for visa free entry into the Dominican Republic, with a maximum stay of 30 days.

If you wish to engage in commercial activities in the Dominican Republic, you need to apply for a business visa at multiple embassies in various countries.

Chinese mainland citizens holding ordinary passports can apply for visas at the Dominican Embassy in China when traveling to the Dominican Republic.

Embassy of the Dominican Republic in China

Telephone: (8610)85326145

Fax: （8610）85326231

WeChat official account: Embajada RD

Email: infochina@mirex.gob.do

Address: 15th Floor, Building 1, Liangmaqiao Diplomatic Apartments, Chaoyang District, Beijing

Postal Code: 100600

Starting from November 29, 2020, it has been implemented to fill out immigration forms online. The website for filling out forms is https://eticket.migracion.gob.do/ After the form is successfully submitted, the system will generate a QR code. Passengers can print this QR code or save it on their mobile phones for airlines and border inspection departments to scan and verify. The online form is available in Spanish and English versions, and passengers can fill it out online at any time after purchasing tickets to (or from) multiple destinations, before entering or checking in for departure flights at multiple airports.

Customs epidemic prevention and control

Customs regulations: Upon entry, a customs declaration form must be filled out. In addition to personal basic information, it is also necessary to declare the amount of live animal and plant products and cash worth over 10000 US dollars carried. Each adult passenger can carry a maximum of 20 boxes of cigarettes, 25 cigars, 200 grams of tobacco, 3 liters of wine, beer, rum, whiskey, or spirits. Each passenger is allowed to carry tax-free items not exceeding $500 and keep the original invoice. It is prohibited to bring animal food and its by-products (such as meat, sausages, milk and its by-products) that may contain pathogens into the country.

For the COVID-19, most of the current entry passengers are randomly and quickly tested. If the result is positive, further standard nucleic acid testing will be performed. If the nucleic acid test result is positive, passengers need to leave multiple addresses and contact information for relevant departments to follow up.

Residency and Naturalization

1. Apply for residency

Dominican residency is divided into temporary residency and long-term residency. Regardless of the type of residence application, one must first apply for a residence visa before applying for residence. To apply for residence, documents such as passport, residence visa, birth certificate, certificate of no criminal record, health certificate, etc. must be provided. For details, please refer to the "Excerpts of Dominican Immigration Laws and Regulations" published on the website of the Embassy in the Dominican Republic（ http://do.chineseembassy.org/chn/xwdt/t1791865.htm ）

2. Apply for naturalization

The Dominican Republic recognizes dual citizenship. According to local laws, anyone born in the Dominican Republic can obtain Dominican citizenship, and anyone who has resided legally in the Dominican Republic for more than 2 years; Residing in the Dominican Republic for more than 6 months and investing locally; Individuals who have resided in the Dominican Republic for more than 6 months and have been married to Dominican citizens for more than 6 months; Children of Dominican citizens; Authorized by the President and possessing arable land in the Dominican Republic; Served in the Dominican military; Authorized by the President, individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the Dominican Republic are eligible for citizenship.

Dominican Republic risk level is blue (low risk)

public security

Dominican Republic has established itself through tourism and continues to increase its efforts in tourism related security construction. The security situation in major tourist areas is relatively good. However, due to various reasons, the social security situation in non tourist areas is generally average. According to the law, individuals are allowed to possess firearms and weapons, and incidents of theft, robbery, and malicious public security incidents occur from time to time.

Safety Reminder: Chinese citizens who travel, do business, or visit multiple places should strengthen their awareness of safety precautions and self-protection, pay attention to personal, transportation, property, and document safety, and try to avoid areas with sparse population, poor public security, poor communication, or security risks. Maintain close contact with family, friends, and colleagues during travel, and promptly report the location and contacts. Avoid going out alone at night. Be sure to take good care of your passport, luggage, and valuables, especially in public places such as airports, shops, and tourist attractions.

In case of emergency or sudden situation, stay calm and call 911 for help in a timely manner. Please contact the Chinese Embassy in the Dominican Republic if needed.

Chinese Embassy in the Dominican Republic:

Phone:+1 8093733825 (switchboard)

Insurance hotline:+1 8494588150 (for consular protection assistance only for Chinese citizens)

website: http://do.china-embassy.gov.cn/

Embassy email: chinaemb_dom@mfa.gov.cn

Address: 10 Freddy Prestol Castillo Street, Picogni District, Santo Domingo, Bristol Building (Calle Freddy Prestol Castillo No.10, Torre Bristol, Ens. Piantini, Santo Domingo).

Postal Code: 10148

natural disaster

The Dominican Republic experiences relatively few major natural disasters, but occasionally experiences small earthquakes. Please go to multiple citizens to timely learn about earthquake protection knowledge, remain calm in the event of an earthquake, hide in a safe corner of the room, and wait for rescue. Do not use elevators during earthquakes.

From July to October each year is the season with frequent hurricanes, with an average of 2 to 3 high-intensity hurricanes passing through each year, causing floods and resulting in loss of life and property. Chinese citizens are advised to pay attention to the weather forecast in a timely manner and avoid engaging in dangerous activities such as going out to sea, swimming, or other activities during inclement weather.

FDA

The overall hygiene condition of food in formal restaurants and shops in the Dominican Republic is good. Tap water cannot be consumed directly, please purchase bottled water.

Urgent Help

Medical emergency, bandit police, fire alarm hotline: 911

Global Consular Protection and Service Emergency Hotline of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (24 hours):+ 86-10-12308；+ 86-10-65612308

Insurance hotline:+1 8494588150 (for consular protection assistance only for Chinese citizens)

air traffic

There are a total of 8 international airports in the Dominican Republic, with the Americas International Airport located in the capital being the most important airport, operating direct flights to and from major cities in the United States, Spain, Colombia, Panama, and other countries.

There are no direct flights between China and the Dominican Republic, and Chinese passengers can transfer to destinations such as the United States, Spain, France, Germany, and Panama.

Major airports in the Dominican Republic

Airport	phone
Santo Domingo Americas International Airport Aeropuerto Internacional de Las Américas	Tel: (+1) 809-947-2225 (+1) 809-947-2297
Pontacana International Airport Aeropuerto Internacional de Punta Cana	Tel:(+1) 809 959 2376
Samana International Airport Aeropuerto Internacional Presidente Juan Bosch	Tel: (+1)809-338-5888
La Romana International Airport Aeropuerto Internacional de La Romana	Tel: (+1) 809-813-9000
Yingang International Airport Aeropuerto Internacional Gregorio Luperón	Tel: + (809)-291-0000
San Diego International Airport Aeropuerto Internacional del Cibao	Tel: (+1) 809-233-8000
Baraona International Airport Aeropuerto Internacional de Barahona María Montes	Tel: (+1) 809-524-4144
Santo Domingo Isabella International Airport Aeropuerto Internacional de La Isabela	Tel: (+1) 809-826-4019

land transport

1. Highways and railways

The roads in the Dominican Republic are in good condition, with the capital city of Santo Domingo as the center, providing access to major cities with lower tolls.

The four main highways are the DR-1 Duarte Highway, which runs north-south and has a total length of 270 kilometers, from the capital via Santiago to the province of Monte Cristo. The DR-2 Southern Expressway has a total length of 255 kilometers, running west from the capital through the provinces of San Cristobal and San Juan, and finally reaching the town of Komendadel on the western border of Haiti. The eastern DR-3 highway has a total length of about 140 kilometers, running east from the capital through the provinces of San Pedro de Marcos and La Romana to reach the seaside resort of Punta Cana. The DR-8 Samana Expressway connects the capital and the northeastern resort of Samana, with a total length of 160 kilometers.

There are many dirt roads on township level highways, and the road conditions are poor.

Railways are only used for transporting sugarcane, mainly distributed in the province of La Romana and other sugarcane producing areas throughout the country, and there is no passenger railway transportation.

2. Car rental and self driving

Car rental counters are available at major airports in the Dominican Republic, making it very convenient to rent a car. Pricing varies depending on the model, brand, and usage days of the rented vehicle. After foreign tourists enter the country, they can sign a car rental contract with their credit card and valid driver's license. Foreign driver's licenses can be temporarily used locally for 90 days. Vehicles passing through the entire area should drive on the right side. Drivers must be at least 18 years old.

The transportation infrastructure in Dominican cities is incomplete, and traffic congestion is severe on important roads during commuting hours. The phenomena of running red lights indiscriminately, changing lanes arbitrarily, and not turning on direction lights are serious, and accidents occur from time to time. Please drive with caution, especially careful of rough driving by taxis and buses.

water communication

The Dominican Republic's foreign trade mainly relies on sea transportation, with 30 shipping companies. There are a total of 15 ports, among which the freight ports mainly include Puerto de San Souci located in the capital city of Santo Domingo, Puerto de Caucedo located 25 kilometers away from the capital city of Santo Domingo, Haina located 12 kilometers away from Santo Domingo, and Puerto Plata in the north. San Jose Port, Silver Port, La Romana Port, and Samana Port are the main passenger terminals.

Urban transportation

1. Bus

There is modern bus transportation between big cities with high safety. The public transportation system in cities is relatively underdeveloped and mostly outdated. Private operated minibuses transport passengers from major cities to nearby cities or towns, and the cost depends on the route. Motorcycles are also used for passenger transportation, so it is not recommended to take them.

2. Taxi

Taxi services are convenient in airports, ports, hotels, and other places. The car body is generally yellow or milky white and is charged based on mileage, with occasional occurrences of overcharging. There are professional taxi companies in major cities that offer telephone reservation services, such as APOLO TAXI in Santo Domingo (phone: 8095370000) and AERO TAXI (phone: 8296809318); Uber Uber services can also be used in Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Silverport, which are relatively safe and convenient.

It is not recommended to take taxis that can be called and parked on the road. These vehicles are mostly scrapped and can accommodate 7-8 people per vehicle. They can carry passengers on the main roads in the city and charge between 35 pesos/person and 45 pesos/person depending on the route and model.

3. Subway

The Dominican Republic is the second country in Central America and the Caribbean to have a subway system. The capital, Santo Domingo, currently has two subway lines, Line 1 running north-south with a total of 16 stations and a total length of 15 kilometers. Line 2 runs east-west, with a total of 14 stations and a total length of 34 kilometers.

Operated from 6:00 am to 10:30 pm from Monday to Sunday. The one-way ticket price is 35 pesos; Round trip ticket costs 55 pesos; One day ticket for 95 pesos (limited to use within 24 hours of the first ride); A recharge card costs 60 pesos each, with a recharge limit of 20 pesos to 7000 pesos. Different recharge amounts can correspond to different discounted ticket prices.

major city

The capital Santo Domingo is the political, economic, and transportation center of the Dominican Republic, located on the west side of the mouth of the Osama River that flows into the Caribbean Sea in the southern part of the country. It covers an area of 104.44 square kilometers and has a population of 2.91 million, making it the second most populous city in the Caribbean region. Santo Domingo is one of the oldest colonial cities on the American continent, founded in 1496 and the cradle of American civilization in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Santiago de Los Caballeros is located in the northern part of the Dominican Republic and is the industrial center and second largest city in the country, with a population of 908000. The main cigar factories in the country are concentrated here. The Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration in the city center is a landmark building.

Punta Cana is located in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic, with an area of 475.3 square kilometers and a population of 60000. It has numerous international five-star resorts along the 24 kilometer coastline and is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the Dominican Republic.

La Romana, located 131 kilometers east of the capital, is a must pass for the capital to travel to the eastern resort. Rich in sugarcane, it is the location of major sugar factories. Nearby are Isla de Saona and Casa de Campo resort areas.

Saman á, located on the Saman Peninsula in the northeast of the Dominican Republic, is a whale watching tourist area. About 3000 humpback whales swim here from the North Atlantic every spring.

Puerto Plata, named after Columbus' sight of the sea reflecting silver coins in the sunlight when he arrived in this area, is the largest commercial port in the north. It is one of the main vacation destinations in the country.

Commodity prices

1. Main products

The Dominican Republic has abundant mineral resources, such as gold and copper. It is still the world's largest producer of organic cocoa and a producer and exporter of handmade cigars. The main crops are rice, red beans, etc. The main exported agricultural products are bananas, coffee, cocoa, and cigars. Cocoa, cigars, rum, and other beverages are popular among tourists.

2. Price situation

The Dominican Republic has sufficient supply of basic consumer goods, with few large shopping malls in the city and more supermarkets in major cities. The prices of food and commonly used consumer goods are relatively stable.

3. Currency and exchange rates

The name of the Dominican currency is "Dominican Peso" (PESO), which is freely convertible. Currently, 1 US dollar is equivalent to 61 pesos (as of January 2025), and the Chinese yuan cannot be directly settled with the Dominican peso.

Chinese tourists can exchange their passports for pesos in US dollars, euros, and other currencies at banks and local currency exchange points based on the exchange rate of the day.

4. Tax burden

The Dominican Republic has a high tax burden, with the government imposing an 18% value-added tax on goods and services, and a 10% service tax on restaurant dining.

5. Payment method

Large supermarkets, shopping malls, and shopping centers all accept Dominican peso cash MASTERCARD, VISA, and other credit card payments. Some high-end restaurants, hotels, tourist areas, and shopping malls also accept US dollar cash payments. There is a risk of credit card theft when using local credit cards for consumption, so please pay attention to safety when using the card.

6. Banking and Financial Services

The main commercial banks include: Banco de Reservas de La Rep ú blica, Banco Popular Dominican, Banco BHD Le ó n, Banco del Progreso, Banco Santa Cruz, Banco Caribe, and others.

The main foreign banks include Scotiabank, Citibank, Banco Promerica, Banesco, and Bancamerica.

ATM machines are available in shopping centers and major streets, supporting major credit card services such as VISA and MASTERCARD. China UnionPay cards are not yet accepted.

Chinese citizens are advised not to bring a large amount of US dollars in cash when coming to the Dominican Republic. They can withdraw cash at bank counters or ATM machines. At the foreign exchange point, you can exchange US dollars for pesos at the current exchange rate with your passport.

Insurance Medical

Foreign residents can join commercial medical insurance. The local medical and nursing standards are average. There are many pharmacies in major cities where common drugs can be purchased at reasonable prices.

The main insurance companies include: Segmentos Universal, Mapfre BHD Segmentos, Segmentos Banreserves, Banca Segmentos, etc.

Main hospitals:

CEDIMAT (Santo Domingo)

Phone: 809-565-9989

Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud (Santo Domingo)

Phone: 809-565-7477

Centro M é dico Bournigal (Silver Harbor)

Phone: 809-586-2342

Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago

Phone: 829-947-2222

Centro Medico Central Romana

Phone: 809-723-1206

Hospiten B á valo (Pontacana)

Phone: 809-686-1414

Special Reminder: There are many mosquitoes and insects in the Dominican Republic, so it is important to regularly use mosquito repellent. Occasionally, there may be outbreaks of Zika and dengue fever, so it is important to take preventive measures.

Customs taboos

1. Statutory holidays

January 1st: New Year's Day

January 6th: Three Kings' Day

January 21st: Our Lady of Altagracia Festival

January 26th: Father of the Nation Day

February 27th: Independence Day

March or April (date not fixed each year): Holy Week

May 1st: Labor Day

June (date uncertain): Corpus Christi

August 16th: National Day

September 24th: Mercedes Saint Mary's Day

October 12th: Race Day

November 6th: Constitution Day

December 25th: Christmas Day

2. Common Etiquette

Dominicans are warm, outgoing, and can greet each other with a handshake. For women, they can offer a face to face gesture (usually only on the right cheek). Usually, greetings are given in elevators and other occasions.

The titles and greetings used when meeting Dominicans can be preceded by surnames such as' Mr. 'or' Ms. '. During face-to-face conversations, privacy such as income, age, and religious beliefs are generally not discussed.

When drinking with Dominicans, it is best not to force them to drink; Dress appropriately according to the local climate and different occasions, and do not appear shirtless in public places.

Religious freedom in the Dominican Republic, with over 95% of residents practicing Catholicism and a minority practicing Protestantism and Judaism, requires full respect for their religious beliefs and customs. Drinking or wearing shorts while visiting churches is considered offensive behavior.

3. Catering

The local traditional cuisine in the Dominican Republic is rich and diverse, with the most famous being red kidney beans, meat with fried banana puree rice stew, and mixed meat broth. Stewed shrimp, garlic flavored banana puree, fried chicken, fried fish, coconut fish, braised crab meat and conch, cassava paired with grilled lamb or stewed lamb, grilled pork chops, grilled pork elbows, fried pork skin, cassava cakes and other specialty foods are also worth trying.

Local specialty delicious desserts include creamy coconut shreds, sweet bean sauce, yogurt desserts, fresh orange candy, milk candy, papaya and pineapple desserts, guava and cashew paste, etc. Tropical fruit juices include passion fruit, guava, pineapple, sweet orange, strawberry, mango, citrus, papaya juice, iced milk, etc. Rich in rum and Juana Mama medicinal wine.

In addition to traditional local cuisine, international cuisine from different countries such as Spain, Argentina, France, and Italy can also be tasted in major cities, and Chinese cuisine is also widely popular. Cantonese cuisine is the main dish in many Chinese restaurants.

Communications Power

1. Power supply voltage

The power interface adopts American standard power plugs with a voltage of 110 volts. The power supply is unstable and power outages often occur. More than 95% of scenic hotels and restaurants are equipped with generators.

2. Communication network

The main operators are Claro, Altice, Telecom, etc. have relatively popular internet access and average internet speed. Star rated hotels generally offer free WiFi services.

China calls Dominican numbers: 001+

Dominican Republic calls Chinese numbers: cannot live stream country numbers, each telecommunications company has its own regulations. If Claro Company calls China: 011+86+area code+number

contact information

1. Fire alarm, bandit police, emergency hotline: 911

2. Telephone number of tourism offices in major cities of the Dominican Republic:

Punta Canaan: 809-552-0142

Boca Chica: 809-523-5106

La Romana: 809-550-6922

La Vega: 809-242-3231

Puerto Plata: 809-586-3676

Saman á: 809-538-2332

Santiago: 809-582-5885