Risk Level
Dominican Republic – Exercise a High Degree of Caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime. This is the primary travel warning for the Dominican Republic, urging visitors to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings throughout their trip.
Safety and Security
Border with Haiti
The land and sea borders between the Dominican Republic and Haiti are currently closed to travelers. It’s crucial to note that the Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo cannot assist with entry into the Dominican Republic from Haiti.
The border region, especially near Dajabón, is experiencing a highly unpredictable security situation. Disturbances and violent incidents are not uncommon. Emergency services in these border areas are often limited or unavailable.
If travel to the Haitian border region is unavoidable:
- Keep your passport readily accessible at all times.
- Avoid all travel after dark in border areas.
- Stay informed about current events by monitoring local news and media.
- Adhere to all instructions given by Dominican authorities and security forces.
General Directorate of Migration – Government of the Dominican Republic
Crime
Crime is a significant concern throughout the Dominican Republic, particularly in major urban centers. This is a key aspect of the Dominican Republic Travel Warning.
It’s important to be aware that police response times, especially outside of popular tourist and resort areas, can be slow.
Petty Crime
Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, is widespread. Tourists are frequently targeted by thieves.
Opportunistic crime is common. Be aware that thieves may attempt to steal visible cash, valuables, or even phones directly from your hands. Crime rates tend to increase during holiday periods.
Petty crime incidents can occur in various locations:
- Resorts and hotels, including within private rooms and even from room safes.
- Inside vehicles, especially rental cars which are easily identifiable.
- Beaches, even in tourist areas.
- Airports, both arrival and departure areas.
- Bus stations, which can be crowded and chaotic.
- Public transportation, due to close proximity to others.
Drive-by robberies are a known tactic. Thieves operating on motorcycles, scooters, or bicycles often target pedestrians to snatch bags and valuables. They may even reach into stopped vehicles, including taxis at traffic lights, to steal belongings.
At airports, checked baggage in departure areas can also be a target for theft.
To minimize your risk of petty crime:
- Choose hotels and resorts with robust security measures.
- Keep all personal belongings, especially passports and travel documents, secure at all times.
- Carry only small amounts of cash and avoid displaying signs of wealth.
- Keep electronic devices like cell phones, tablets, laptops, and cameras out of sight when not in use.
- Keep car doors locked and windows rolled up, and store belongings out of sight.
- Never pack valuables in checked luggage.
Violent Crime
Violent crime, occasionally targeting foreigners, does occur in the Dominican Republic. These incidents are more frequent after nightfall and in larger cities. This is a serious element of the Dominican Republic travel warning.
Types of violent crime reported include:
- Armed robberies, often in the streets.
- Assaults, sometimes related to robberies.
- Burglaries, targeting homes and accommodations.
Criminals have been known to target vehicles for armed robberies, particularly on roads after dark. It’s strongly advised to plan arrivals and departures from the Dominican Republic during daylight hours.
Safety precautions to take during your stay to mitigate violent crime risks:
- Opt for reputable hotels or resorts that have strong security protocols.
- Maintain a high level of awareness of your surroundings at all times.
- Keep car doors locked and windows up, especially when stopped at traffic lights.
- Avoid walking alone in less populated areas or on unpatrolled beaches after dark.
- If confronted or threatened, it is recommended to hand over valuables and not resist an attacker.
Sexual Assault
Reports of sexual assault and rape have occurred, including incidents within major resorts and hotels. Disturbingly, hotel and resort employees have been implicated in some cases. This is a critical aspect of the Dominican Republic travel warning, especially for female travelers.
If you are a victim of sexual assault or any other crime, report it immediately to the nearest Government of Canada office. Additionally, file a formal report with Dominican authorities. It is essential to file a complaint with local authorities before leaving the country for criminal investigations to proceed.
To reduce the risk of sexual assault:
- Avoid secluded or isolated areas, even within resorts and hotel grounds.
- Exercise extreme caution when interacting with strangers or new acquaintances.
- Be very wary of accepting rides or invitations from strangers.
- Avoid using public transportation or walking alone at night.
More information on reporting a crime in the Dominican Republic
Fraud
Credit, Debit, and ATM Card Fraud
Credit and debit card fraud, as well as ATM fraud, are prevalent in the Dominican Republic. Card reader tampering, known as skimming, is a common scam. Businesses may attempt to steal your card information during legitimate purchases using compromised card readers. Exercise caution when using your cards.
Protect yourself from card fraud:
- Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN at ATMs and POS terminals.
- Pay close attention whenever someone else is handling your credit or debit cards.
- Avoid using card readers that appear irregular or unusual in any way.
- Prefer ATMs located in public areas, or inside banks or reputable businesses.
- Regularly check your account statements for any unauthorized transactions.
Unethical Lawyers
Unethical lawyers, known locally as “pirate lawyers,” operate in tourist zones, especially in Punta Cana. They often wait near tourist police stations and offer legal services to detained foreigners, charging exorbitant fees for often ineffective case resolution.
The Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo can provide a list of reputable and vetted lawyers if needed.
Cybercrime
Cybercrime, malware attacks, and online extortion are increasing concerns.
Public Wi-Fi networks can be compromised by criminals to steal personal data or credit card details. Social media and phone conversations may also be monitored.
Romance scams through dating sites and social media platforms are also reported.
Practice cyber safety:
- Be cautious about the information and photos you share on social media.
- Use your own USB adapter for charging devices or carry an external battery pack to avoid public charging stations.
- Use secure, private Wi-Fi networks whenever possible.
- Be wary of individuals who show intense interest in you online, especially quickly.
- Be aware that meeting an online acquaintance in person in the Dominican Republic could be a scam.
- Avoid discussing travel plans or personal information within earshot of strangers.
Useful Links
Spiked Food, Drinks, and Other Items
Never leave food or drinks unattended or allow strangers to handle them. Be extremely cautious about accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of robbery or sexual assault.
Harassment
Individuals, including women and 2SLGBTQI+ persons, have reported experiencing harassment or verbal abuse. Online harassment and abuse, including calls for violence, also occur.
Avoid traveling alone, especially at night, to minimize the risk of harassment.
Useful Links
Demonstrations and Strikes
Demonstrations and strikes occur periodically throughout the Dominican Republic, particularly in Santo Domingo. These events usually do not affect resort areas.
However, even peaceful demonstrations can become violent unexpectedly. They can also cause disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
If demonstrations occur:
- Avoid areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
- Follow instructions from local authorities.
- Monitor local media for updates on ongoing demonstrations and affected areas.
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Adventure Tourism
Outdoor activities like kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and extreme sports carry inherent risks.
The tourism industry in the Dominican Republic is not as strictly regulated as in some countries. Tour operators may not adhere to Canadian safety standards, and staff may have limited training or certifications. Local authorities may not routinely inspect facilities and equipment. Many adventure tourism locations have hazards that are not identified or poorly marked.
If participating in adventure tourism:
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers incidents related to adventure activities.
- Ensure you are physically fit enough for the planned activity.
- Verify you have proper, well-maintained equipment and bring sufficient water.
- Monitor weather conditions and be aware of potential hazards.
- Avoid using equipment if you are unsure of its condition or safety.
Water Activities
Swimming
Coastal waters in the Dominican Republic can be dangerous. Always heed the instructions and warnings of local authorities and posted signs.
Lifeguard and rescue services may not meet Canadian standards. Many beaches have limited or no lifeguards on duty. Drownings occur every year.
Swimming safety guidelines:
- Only swim in designated swimming areas.
- Maintain a safe distance from boats and restricted zones.
- Always pay attention to and respect warning flags indicating dangerous conditions.
- Ask residents and tour operators for information on potential hazards, dangerous marine life, and safe swimming areas.
- Do not dive into unfamiliar waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death.
- Follow all instructions given by local authorities.
Riptides
Tidal changes and strong winds can create dangerous riptides along Dominican Republic beaches.
Water safety abroad
Roads
Road Safety
Road safety standards can vary greatly throughout the Dominican Republic. Accidents are frequent. Consider hiring a licensed professional driver, particularly if you plan to travel extensively by road outside of tourist zones.
Pedestrians do not have the right-of-way, even at traffic lights. Be extremely cautious and alert when crossing streets, especially in Santo Domingo. Local authorities often treat serious car accidents as criminal investigations. If you are involved in an accident, reporting it to the police is mandatory.
If you receive a traffic ticket from the police, you are not required to pay it on the spot. Fines can be paid online through the Attorney General’s Office website.
Useful Links
Road Conditions
Road conditions and overall road safety vary significantly across the country. Major highways connecting cities and tourist areas are generally in acceptable condition, but roads in rural areas are often poorly maintained. Many roads lack lane markings.
Driving hazards include:
- Unmarked speed bumps, which can be sudden and damaging.
- Potholes, which can be numerous and deep.
- Animals and livestock on roads, especially in rural areas.
- Insufficient street lighting, making night driving dangerous.
- Traffic congestion and heavy traffic, particularly on weekends and holidays.
- Vehicles driving in the wrong direction, especially on busy roads.
Driving Habits
Dominican drivers do not always adhere to traffic laws. Speeding is common, and driving can be aggressive and reckless. Drinking and driving is also a significant problem.
Heavy traffic, drunk driving, and accidents are more frequent during peak holiday periods like Christmas and Easter.
If you choose to drive:
- Always drive defensively and expect unpredictable behavior from other drivers.
- Plan your route in advance, especially for rural areas.
- Travel in groups during daylight hours for added safety.
- Carry a cell phone and charger in case of emergency.
- Fill your gas tank before long journeys, especially to remote locations.
- Keep car doors locked and windows closed at all times.
Roadblocks
Military and police roadblocks are common, particularly near the Haitian border. Be prepared to show identification at these checkpoints.
Public Transportation
Buses
Public buses are generally unreliable and may not be safe. It is recommended to use only private intercity buses operated by reputable tour companies. Avoid open-door microbuses known as “gua-guas” or “carros publicos.” These services are often unregulated and poorly maintained.
Ride-Share Services
Ride-sharing services are available in major cities and popular tourist destinations and can be a more convenient and safer option than public buses.
If using ride-sharing apps:
- Verify the driver’s identity and license plate number before entering the vehicle.
- Utilize the in-app security features for added safety.
Taxis
Taxis in the Dominican Republic are not typically metered. Arrange airport pickups through your hotel in advance whenever possible. At airports, only use taxis from official taxi stands. If unsure if a taxi is official, ask for assistance at an airport information desk.
Taxi safety tips for your stay:
- Use reputable taxi companies booked through hotels or ride-sharing services.
- Never share a taxi with strangers.
- Avoid using motorcycle taxis (“motoconchos”) due to safety concerns.
- Negotiate and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Air Travel
We do not conduct safety assessments of foreign domestic airlines against international safety standards.
Information about foreign domestic airlines
Entry and Exit Requirements
Entry and exit requirements are determined by each country. The Government of Canada cannot intervene if you do not meet your destination’s requirements.
The information provided here is from Dominican Republic authorities but can change without notice.
Always verify the latest requirements with Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Passport validity rules depend on the type of passport used.
Check with your airline or transportation company about passport validity rules, as they may be stricter than Dominican entry rules.
Regular Canadian Passport
Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of arrival in the Dominican Republic.
Passport for Official Travel
Different entry rules may apply for official travel.
Passport with “X” Gender Identifier
While Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, entry or transit through other countries cannot be guaranteed as some may not recognize it. Check with the nearest foreign representative of your destination before traveling.
Other Travel Documents
Different rules may apply when using temporary or emergency travel documents. Consult the nearest foreign representative for your destination before travel.
Useful Links
Visas
- Tourist visa: Not required for stays up to 30 days.
- Work visa: Required.
- Student visa: Required.
- Residence visa: Required.
Other Entry Requirements
You may need to prove sufficient funds for your stay upon entry and provide the address where you will be staying.
Customs officials may also request to see a return or onward travel ticket.
Entry requirements – Government of Dominican Republic
E-Ticket
An electronic form, or E-ticket, is mandatory for entry and exit. A new E-ticket is required for each trip to the Dominican Republic. Complete this form before boarding your flight. You can present a digital or printed copy of the E-ticket code to customs officials.
The E-ticket does not replace the Tourist Card.
Electronic ticket for entry and exit – Government of the Dominican Republic
Tourist Card
For air arrivals, the tourist card fee is usually included in your airline ticket. For sea arrivals, obtain the card from the General Directorate of Internal Taxes at your port of entry.
Extension and Overstay
You can apply for a stay extension up to 120 days at the Dominican Directorate General for Migration in Santo Domingo after arrival and before your tourist card expires.
Overstaying your tourist card or extension can result in deportation or refusal of re-entry in the future.
Useful Links
Drug Screening
Drug screening may be conducted upon departure. Authorities may search luggage and ask you to sign a Spanish form confirming the search process. X-rays may also be requested.
Children and Travel
Find information on travelling with children.
Yellow Fever
Check potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
This section provides health risk information and advice for travelers. Following this advice can help reduce your risk of illness. However, not all risks are listed.
Consult a healthcare provider or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice. Even with short notice, an appointment is still beneficial.
Routine Vaccines
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling, regardless of destination.
These may include vaccines for MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.
Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information
Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications
You may be at risk for diseases preventable by vaccines or medications in the Dominican Republic. Discuss appropriate options with a travel health provider based on your travel plans.
The information below indicates if a vaccine is required for entry/exit.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A risk exists in the Dominican Republic. It’s a liver disease contracted through contaminated food or water, food prepared by infected individuals, or close physical contact. Casual contact is not a primary transmission route.
Practice safe food and water precautions and frequent handwashing. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers to areas with hepatitis A risk.
Yellow Fever – Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is transmitted by infected mosquito bites.
Vaccination may be required for entry or recommended for protection.
Risk
- No yellow fever risk in the Dominican Republic itself.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if arriving from certain states in Brazil, including travelers transiting for over 12 hours through airports in those states.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is generally not recommended for travel to the Dominican Republic unless arriving from at-risk regions.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
*Country entry requirements may not fully reflect individual yellow fever risk. Contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of your destination to verify any additional entry requirements.
Measles
Measles is highly contagious and spreads rapidly through direct contact and airborne droplets.
Unprotected individuals are at risk of measles infection when traveling internationally.
Consult a health professional before travel to ensure you are fully protected against measles, regardless of destination.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in all destinations globally. It’s a viral liver disease easily transmitted through blood and body fluid exposure. Travelers potentially exposed to blood or bodily fluids (e.g., sexual contact, medical treatment, shared needles, tattoos, acupuncture, occupational exposure) are at higher risk.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travelers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, using only sterile drug equipment, and ensuring tattoos and piercings are done in regulated and hygienic settings.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a contagious viral disease spread through direct contact and airborne droplets.
Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and any recommended booster doses in Canada before traveling. Vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. Vaccination reduces risk, but infection is still possible. Unvaccinated individuals face increased risk of infection and severe illness when traveling internationally.
Verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements before travel. Consult a health professional before traveling to ensure adequate COVID-19 protection, regardless of destination.
Influenza
Annual vaccination is the best protection against seasonal influenza (flu). Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before traveling.
Flu occurs worldwide.
- Northern Hemisphere flu season: November to April.
- Southern Hemisphere flu season: April to October.
- Tropics: Flu activity year-round.
Flu vaccines may offer partial protection across hemispheres.
Flu spreads via coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces. Practice frequent handwashing and wear a mask if you have fever or respiratory symptoms.
Malaria
Malaria is a serious, potentially fatal disease caused by parasites spread through mosquito bites. Malaria risk exists in certain Dominican Republic areas and seasons.
Antimalarial medication may be recommended based on your itinerary and travel dates. Consult a health professional or travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before travel for options. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:
- Cover skin and use approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
- Use screens or closed doors/windows to keep mosquitoes out of living areas.
- Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquito exclusion is not possible.
- Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop malaria-like symptoms during or up to a year after travel and inform them of your travel history.
Rabies
Rabies is present in the Dominican Republic, commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is fatal and spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from infected animals. Take precautions while traveling: maintain distance from animals (including stray dogs), and supervise children closely.
If bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. Rabies treatment may be limited or unavailable in the Dominican Republic, potentially requiring return to Canada for treatment.
Discuss rabies vaccination with a health professional before travel, especially for high-risk travelers (veterinarians, wildlife workers, children, adventure travelers, spelunkers, and those with close animal contact).
Safe Food and Water Precautions
Unsafe food or water consumption or swimming in contaminated water can cause illness while traveling. Take precautions:
- Boil, cook, peel, or avoid raw food.
- Avoid getting water in eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (streams, lakes, canals), particularly after rain/flooding, as contamination is possible even in clear-looking water.
- Avoid swallowing water while bathing, showering, swimming, or using hot tubs.
Eat and drink safely abroad
Cholera
Risk
Cholera is a risk in parts of the Dominican Republic. Most travelers face very low risk.
Practice safe food and water precautions to protect against cholera.
Higher risk travelers include those:
- Visiting, working, or living in areas with limited safe food, water, and sanitation access.
- Visiting areas experiencing cholera outbreaks.
Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers; discuss this with a health professional.
Travelers’ Diarrhea
Travelers’ diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness, spread by contaminated food or water.
Risk increases in regions with poor hygiene and sanitation. Practice safe food and water precautions.
Rehydration (drinking plenty of fluids) is the primary treatment. Carry oral rehydration salts.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Children, rural area travelers, those visiting friends/relatives, and long-term travelers are at higher risk.
Vaccination is recommended for travelers to regions with typhoid risk, especially those exposed to poor sanitation. Consult a health professional.
Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis is common among travelers to the Dominican Republic, spread through contaminated food and drinks like raw/undercooked poultry and eggs, fruits, and vegetables.
Practice safe food and water precautions, including eating only properly cooked and hot food.
Pregnant women, children under 5, adults over 60, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
Most people recover without medical treatment with proper rehydration.
Seek medical attention for severe symptoms.
Tick and Insect Bite Prevention
Many diseases are spread through bites from infected ticks and insects (mosquitoes, fleas, flies). Learn about local ticks/insects, their activity periods, and diseases they carry before traveling.
Protect yourself from bites:
- Use approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin.
- Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing (nylon or polyester).
- Wear socks and closed-toe shoes.
- Sleep under mosquito netting if outdoors or in non-enclosed accommodations.
- Perform full body tick checks on yourself, children, gear, and pets after outdoor activities.
Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents
Chikungunya
Chikungunya risk exists in the Dominican Republic, varying by season, year, region, and elevation.
The virus spreads through infected mosquito bites, causing fever and joint pain. Joint pain can be severe and prolonged.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
Learn more:
Insect bite and pest prevention
Chikungunya
Dengue
Dengue is a risk for travelers to the Dominican Republic. It’s a viral disease spread by mosquito bites.
- Dengue causes flu-like symptoms; severe dengue can be fatal.
- Risk levels vary seasonally, yearly, regionally, and by elevation.
- Dengue mosquitoes typically bite during daytime, especially sunrise/sunset.
- Protect against mosquito bites. No vaccine or medication prevents dengue in Canada.
Learn more:
Dengue
Insect bite and pest prevention
Zika Virus
Zika virus is a risk in the Dominican Republic.
Primarily mosquito-borne, also sexually transmitted. Zika can cause serious birth defects.
During your trip:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- Use condoms correctly or avoid sex, especially if pregnant.
Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should discuss Zika risks with their health provider and may choose to postpone or avoid travel.
For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Oropouche Virus Disease
Oropouche virus disease is caused by the Oropouche virus, spread by infected small flies (midges/no-see-ums) or possibly mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, joint/muscle pain, chills, and sometimes nausea/vomiting. Aseptic meningitis can occur in some cases.
Most travelers are at low risk. There are concerns about potential transmission from pregnant individuals to unborn babies, leading to stillbirth or developmental issues.
Pregnant individuals or those planning pregnancy should discuss Oropouche virus risks with their health provider and may consider extra caution or avoiding travel to affected areas until more is known.
Protect against midge and mosquito bites. No vaccine or medication prevents Oropouche virus disease.
Insect bite and pest prevention
Animal Precautions
Some infections (rabies, bird flu) can spread from animals to humans. Certain activities increase animal contact risk:
- Rural or forested area travel.
- Camping, hiking, cave visits.
- Visiting live animal markets.
Reduce risk by avoiding contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid undercooked meat.
Supervise children closely around animals.
Person-to-Person Infections
Reduce respiratory infection (flu, COVID-19) risk during travel:
- Stay in accommodation and limit contact if sick.
- Wear a well-fitting mask, especially when sick, in crowded indoor settings.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water (20+ seconds) or use hand sanitizer (60%+ alcohol).
- Cover coughs/sneezes with tissue or elbow.
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures
Lower STI, HIV, and mpox risk:
- Get mpox vaccine if eligible.
- Reduce sexual partners.
- Use protection during sex (condoms, dental dams).
Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial lung infection.
TB risk is low for most travelers.
High-risk travelers in TB-risk regions (prisons, refugee camps, shelters, hospitals, or visiting friends/relatives) should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health professional.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) weakens the immune system, leading to AIDS.
High-risk activities involve contact with blood/body fluids: unprotected sex, unsterilized needles (medications, drugs, tattoos, piercings, acupuncture).
Medical Services and Facilities
Good healthcare is mainly available in major cities. Quality varies significantly nationwide.
Public clinics/hospitals may be overcrowded and lack supplies/equipment. Not all staff speak English or French.
Medical facilities may require upfront payment. Private facilities may also require payment in advance or proof of insurance before admission.
Ambulances are unreliable in most areas, more reliable in major cities/tourist areas like Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, and Puerto Plata.
Private hospitals/clinics are better equipped than public ones. Overcharging and unnecessary hospital stays at private facilities have been reported.
Be cautious of resort in-house doctors, as they may be contracted by private hospitals and use aggressive sales tactics with hidden costs.
If hospitalized:
- Inquire about fees before treatment.
- Inform administrators if you believe you’ve been overcharged.
- Request English/French assistance from guest services.
Obtain travel insurance covering medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Health and safety outside Canada
Medical Tourism
Canadians have experienced serious complications from cosmetic or elective surgeries abroad.
Legal recourse for malpractice in the Dominican Republic is limited for medical tourism.
Before medical travel:
- Research thoroughly.
- Use only reputable healthcare providers.
Receiving medical care outside Canada
Keep in Mind…
Travel decisions and personal safety are your responsibility.
Be prepared; medical services may differ from Canadian standards. Pack a travel health kit, especially outside major cities.
Laws and Culture
Abide by local laws.
Learn about procedures and assistance if arrested or detained abroad.
Dominican law allows detention without charges for up to 48 hours before judicial review.
Judicial processes can be lengthy (years), with accused individuals typically detained, potentially leading to long prison sentences in difficult conditions.
Overview of the criminal law system in the Dominican Republic
Drugs
Severe penalties exist for illegal drug possession, use, or trafficking, including lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.
The Dominican Republic has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs, including cannabis. Even small quantities can lead to severe penalties.
Drug Trafficking
Drug traffickers have used tourists as unwitting drug couriers.
Unsuspecting individuals transporting illegal drugs, including cannabis, can face criminal charges and long jail sentences.
Pack and carry only personal belongings and never leave them unattended.
Drugs, alcohol and travel
Identification
Local authorities may request ID at any time.
- Always carry valid identification or a photocopy.
- Keep a passport photocopy and visa/entry stamp copy in a safe place.
- Keep digital copies of ID and travel documents.
Reporting a Crime
Crime victims, including foreigners, must report incidents to Dominican police. Contact local tourist police and the Canadian Embassy in Santo Domingo. Pursuing prosecution or compensation requires hiring a Dominican lawyer to file a formal complaint and pursue the case. The Embassy can provide a lawyer list.
Reporting a Car Accident
Call police and remain at the accident scene. Drivers in accidents causing serious injury or death will be taken into custody pending investigation.
Register any accident with a government accident reporting center. English-speaking agents can assist with police and insurance processes.
If detained after a road accident, request police to contact the Canadian Embassy in Santo Domingo.
Useful Links
Arrest and Detention
If arrested or detained and wanting consular services, clearly request police or prison officials to contact the Canadian Embassy in Santo Domingo or Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Legal Representation
If arrested or detained, you have the right to a lawyer present during questioning, trials, or hearings. The Canadian Embassy can provide a list of local attorneys.
If you cannot afford a lawyer, the Dominican government can provide a public defender.
A Guide for Canadians Detained Abroad
Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the Dominican Republic.
Canadian-Dominican dual citizens may have limited Canadian consular assistance and different entry/exit requirements.
Dual citizens
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and the Dominican Republic, assisting parents with the return of children wrongfully removed or retained in violation of custody rights.
If your child was wrongfully taken to or is held in the Dominican Republic, and conditions are met, you can apply for their return through Dominican courts.
If in this situation:
- Act quickly.
- Contact your province/territory’s Central Authority for Hague Convention application information.
- Consult lawyers in Canada and the Dominican Republic to explore legal options.
- Report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or Global Affairs Canada’s Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit (Emergency Watch and Response Centre).
For children removed from countries other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine Hague Convention applicability.
Canadian consular officials cannot intervene in private legal matters or another country’s judicial affairs.
Useful Links
Real Estate Investments
Seek legal advice in Canada and the Dominican Republic before property or investment purchases. Disputes can be lengthy and costly.
The Canadian Embassy cannot intervene in local legal disputes.
Timeshares
Timeshare disputes occur. Sales representatives can be persistent and use pressure tactics.
Before purchasing a timeshare:
- Carefully review the contract.
- Consult a Dominican attorney.
- Provide credit card information only if certain about purchase.
- Keep copies of all correspondence.
Marriage
Marriages legally performed in the Dominican Republic are recognized in Canada.
Marriage overseas factsheet
Driving
Canadian driver’s licenses are valid for driving up to 30 days. An International Driving Permit is required.
International Driving Permit
Money
The Dominican currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP).
Canadian currency can be exchanged at some airports and local exchange offices.
Natural Disasters and Climate
Climate Change
Climate change impacts the Dominican Republic, increasing extreme weather events that may affect travel plans. Monitor local media for updates.
Hurricane Season
Hurricanes typically occur from mid-May to November end. Even minor tropical storms can rapidly become major hurricanes.
These severe storms pose safety risks and can disrupt essential services.
If traveling to coastal areas during hurricane season:
- Be prepared to alter travel plans on short notice, including trip cancellation or shortening.
- Stay updated on regional weather forecasts.
- Carry emergency contact information for airlines/tour operators.
- Follow local authorities’ advice and instructions.
Useful Links
Flooding and Landslides
Heavy rains cause flooding throughout the country, potentially making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure.
- Exercise caution, especially near rivers.
- Stay informed about regional weather forecasts.
- Follow local authority instructions, including evacuation orders.
Emergency operations centre – Dominican Republic government (Spanish only)
Earthquakes and Tsunamis
The Dominican Republic is in an active seismic zone with frequent tremors.
Tsunamis can occur within minutes of nearby earthquakes, with risk persisting for hours after tremors. If staying on the coast, learn local tsunami evacuation plans.
