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Do You Need a Passport for the Dominican Republic?

By the Transekur team · Originally published August 2021 · Updated August 2026

Do You Need a Passport for the Dominican Republic?

The short answer

Yes — US citizens need a valid passport to enter the Dominican Republic. Most tourists do not need a visa for stays of 30 days or less, but everyone must complete the online eTicket before travelling. Requirements do change, so confirm the current rules with the Dominican immigration authority and your own government before you fly.

Passport

A valid passport is required. Before you travel, check that the details on it are correct and that the expiry date leaves you comfortable margin — some travelers get caught out by a passport that expires soon after their return date.

Visa

Most tourists are eligible for visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days. That generally includes citizens of countries who can legally enter the United States, Canada, the European Union or the United Kingdom, along with a number of other nationalities.

If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, or your nationality is not covered, arrange a visa through your nearest Dominican Republic embassy before departure. Visa applications usually require a passport valid for at least six months, and appointments can take time to schedule.

The eTicket

The Dominican Republic replaced the old paper immigration and customs forms with an online eTicket, completed at eticket.migracion.gob.do. Fill it in before you travel; you will be asked for the resulting QR code on arrival and again on departure.

One form covers a family travelling together — just make sure you enter the correct number of passengers on the first page.

Tourist card

Visitors no longer buy a separate tourist card. It is included in the airline fare.

What immigration may ask for

Have these ready:

  • A valid passport
  • Your completed eTicket QR code
  • A return or onward flight ticket
  • Hotel reservation or travel voucher

Overstaying

The country charges a fine on departure for overstaying your permitted period, and the amount rises with the length of the overstay. If you are unsure whether your plans fit inside the visa-free window, check with the embassy before you travel rather than at the airport.

Once you land

Arrivals at Punta Cana and Santo Domingo can be busy, particularly in high season. If you would rather not queue, VIP Fast Track escorts you through priority lanes at PUJ and SDQ, and can be added to any transfer or bought on its own at dominicanairportfasttrack.do.

For the ride to your hotel, our airport transfers run from every major airport in the country, with your driver meeting you inside the terminal.

Entry rules are set by the Dominican government and can change. Always confirm the current requirements before booking flights.

Questions

Do US citizens need a visa for the Dominican Republic?
Most tourists do not, for stays of 30 days or less. A valid passport and a completed eTicket are still required, and longer stays need a visa arranged through a Dominican embassy.
What is the Dominican Republic eTicket?
An online immigration and customs form that replaced the old paper versions. Complete it before travelling at eticket.migracion.gob.do; one form covers a family, and you present the QR code on arrival and departure.
Do I still need to buy a tourist card?
No. The tourist card is now included in the price of your airline ticket.

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