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.

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 Belize.
– 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.

QUICK FACTS
– Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for the period of stay in the Dominican Republic.
– Blank Passport Pages: 1 page required for entry stamp
– Tourist Visa Required: Not required for visits shorter than 30 days
– Vaccinations: None required if arriving from the United States.
– Currency Restrictions for Entry: None
– Currency Restrictions for Exit: $10,000 and over or its equivalent must be declared.