Discovering the Dominican Republic: A Traveler's Safety Guide

The Dominican Republic, a Caribbean jewel famed for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, is a popular destination for travelers worldwide. However, like any country, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. This guide, crafted for the savvy traveler, provides essential safety information to help you navigate your Dominican Republic adventure with confidence.

Staying Safe and Secure in the Dominican Republic

Understanding Risk Levels in the Dominican Republic

It’s advised to exercise a high degree of caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime. This doesn’t mean your trip will be unsafe, but rather highlights the need for increased vigilance and awareness.

Border Security with Haiti

Important Travel Restriction: Land and sea borders between the Dominican Republic and Haiti are currently closed to travelers. It is not possible to enter the Dominican Republic from Haiti at this time, and the Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo cannot provide assistance with this.

The border region, especially around Dajabón, presents a highly unpredictable security situation. Disturbances and incidents, some involving violence, are not uncommon. Emergency services may be limited or unavailable in these areas.

If travel to the Haitian border region is unavoidable:

Passport Accessibility: Keep your passport readily available and accessible at all times.
Avoid Night Travel: Refrain from traveling in the border region after dark.
Local Media Monitoring: Stay informed about the current situation by monitoring local news outlets.
Authority Compliance: Follow all instructions given by local authorities and security forces.

General Directorate of Migration – Government of the Dominican Republic

Navigating Crime in the Dominican Republic

Crime, including violent acts, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic, particularly in major urban centers. Police response times, especially outside of tourist resorts and popular areas, can be slow.

Petty Theft: A Common Occurrence

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, is frequent, with tourists often being targeted. Opportunistic theft is prevalent, with thieves attempting to seize visible cash, valuables, or even mobile phones directly from your hand. Crime rates tend to increase during holiday periods.

Locations where petty crime is more likely:

Resorts and Hotels: Incidents can occur even within resorts and hotels, including inside guest rooms and room safes.
Vehicles: Cars, especially rental vehicles, are often targeted.
Beaches: Public beaches are common locations for theft.
Airports: Both arrival and departure areas of airports can be risky.
Bus and Transportation Hubs: Bus stations and public transportation are high-risk areas.

Drive-by robberies are a known tactic, with thieves on motorcycles, scooters, or bicycles snatching bags and valuables from pedestrians. 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 targeted.

Preventive Measures Against Petty Crime:

Secure Accommodation: Choose hotels or resorts with strong security measures in place.
Secure Belongings: Keep personal items, including passports and travel documents, secure at all times.
Minimize Cash and Affluence: Carry only small amounts of cash and avoid displaying signs of wealth.
Conceal Electronics: Keep electronic devices like cellphones, tablets, laptops, and cameras out of sight when not in use.
Vehicle Security: Keep car doors locked, windows closed, and belongings hidden from view.
Checked Luggage Precautions: Do not pack valuables in checked luggage.

Violent Crime Risks

Violent crime does occur, and while foreigners are not always the target, incidents involving tourists have been reported. These incidents are more frequent after nightfall and in larger cities.

Types of violent crime reported:

Armed robberies
Assaults
Burglaries

Roadside robberies targeting vehicles are a risk, especially after dark. It’s advisable to plan arrivals and departures from the Dominican Republic during daylight hours.

Safety Guidelines to Mitigate Violent Crime Risks:

Reputable Accommodation: Stay in well-regarded hotels or resorts with robust security.
Situational Awareness: Be constantly aware of your surroundings.
Vehicle Security: Keep car doors locked and windows up, especially at traffic stops.
Avoid Unsafe Areas: Avoid walking alone in unpopulated areas or on unpatrolled beaches after dark.
Non-Resistance: If threatened, surrender valuables and do not resist an attack.

Addressing Sexual Assault Concerns

Sexual assault and rape incidents have unfortunately occurred, including at major resorts and hotels. Employees of these establishments have been implicated in some cases.

If you are a victim of sexual assault or any crime:

Report Immediately: Report the incident immediately to the nearest Government of Canada office.
File Local Report: File a formal report with Dominican authorities. It’s crucial to understand that criminal investigations will not proceed unless a formal complaint is filed with local authorities before you leave the country.

Safety Tips to Reduce Risk of Sexual Assault:

Avoid Secluded Areas: Even within resorts and hotel grounds, avoid isolated locations.
Caution with Strangers: Exercise caution when interacting with strangers or new acquaintances.
Be Wary of Invitations: Be suspicious of strangers offering rides or other invitations.
Avoid Nighttime Public Transport: Refrain from using public transportation or walking alone at night.

More information on reporting a crime in the Dominican Republic

Fraud and Scams to Watch Out For

Credit, Debit, and ATM Card Fraud

Credit and debit card fraud, as well as ATM scams, are widespread. Card reader tampering (skimming) is a common technique. Businesses may attempt to steal your card information through compromised card readers during legitimate purchases.

Protecting Yourself from Card Fraud:

PIN Security: Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals.
Card Handling Awareness: Pay close attention when others are handling your cards.
Inspect Card Readers: Avoid using card readers that appear irregular or unusual.
Secure ATMs: Use ATMs located in public areas or inside banks or businesses.
Statement Monitoring: Regularly check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Unethical Lawyers: “Pirate Lawyers”

Unethical lawyers, known as “pirate lawyers,” operate in tourist zones, especially in Punta Cana. They often linger near tourist police stations and offer legal services to detained foreigners, charging exorbitant fees to resolve cases.

Legal Assistance: The Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo can provide a list of reputable lawyers if needed.

Cybercrime and Online Scams

Cybercrime, malware attacks, and online extortion are increasing concerns. Public Wi-Fi networks can be compromised to steal personal data or credit card information. Social media and phone conversations may also be monitored by criminals.

Romance scams through dating sites and social media platforms have been reported.

Cybersecurity Precautions:

Social Media Caution: Be careful about the information and photos you post on social media.
Personal Power Sources: Use your own USB adapter or carry an extra battery pack instead of public charging stations.
Secure Wi-Fi: Use secure, private Wi-Fi networks whenever possible.
Online Relationship Vigilance: Be wary of individuals who show intense interest in you online, especially quickly.
Meeting Online Acquaintances: Be aware of the potential for scams if you travel to the Dominican Republic to meet someone you met online.
Privacy in Public: Avoid discussing travel plans or personal information within earshot of strangers.

Useful Links for Safety Information

Food and Drink Spiking

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be cautious of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances as they could be spiked with drugs, increasing the risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Harassment: Addressing Verbal and Online Abuse

Individuals, including women and 2SLGBTQI+ persons, have experienced harassment or verbal abuse. Online abuse and harassment, including threats of violence, also occur.

Safety Advice: Avoid traveling alone, particularly at night.

Useful Links for Support

Demonstrations and Strikes: Potential for Disruption

Demonstrations and strikes occur periodically throughout the Dominican Republic, particularly in Santo Domingo. While resort areas are less frequently affected, disruptions can still occur.

Even peaceful demonstrations can become violent unexpectedly and may cause traffic and public transportation disruptions.

Safety Measures During Demonstrations:

Avoid Demonstration Areas: Stay away from areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
Follow Local Authority Instructions: Comply with instructions from local authorities.
Monitor Local Media: Keep informed about ongoing demonstrations through local news.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure Tourism Safety

Outdoor activities like kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and extreme sports can be inherently dangerous. The tourism industry in the Dominican Republic is not always well-regulated. Tour operators may not adhere to Canadian safety standards, and staff may lack adequate training or certifications. Local authorities may not routinely inspect facilities and equipment, and hazards may be poorly marked or unidentified.

If participating in adventure tourism:

Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that specifically covers incidents related to adventure activities.
Physical Condition: Ensure you are physically fit enough for the planned activities.
Proper Equipment: Verify you have appropriate equipment and sufficient water.
Weather Monitoring: Monitor weather conditions and potential hazards.
Equipment Safety Check: Avoid using equipment if you are unsure of its condition or safety.

Water Activity Safety

Swimming Safety in Coastal Waters

Coastal waters in the Dominican Republic can be hazardous. Always heed the instructions and warnings provided by local authorities. Lifeguard and rescue services may not meet Canadian standards, and many beaches have limited or no lifeguard presence. Drowning incidents occur every year.

Safe Swimming Practices:

Designated Areas: Swim only in areas designated for swimming.
Safe Distance from Boats: Maintain a safe distance from boats and restricted zones.
Warning Flags: Always respect warning flags indicating dangerous conditions.
Local Advice: Consult residents and tour operators for information on potential hazards, dangerous marine life, and safe swimming locations.
No Diving in Unfamiliar Waters: Avoid diving in unfamiliar waters due to hidden rocks or shallow areas that can cause serious injury or death.
Authority Instructions: Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Riptide Awareness

Tidal changes and strong winds can create dangerous riptides.

Water safety abroad

Road Safety and Transportation

Road Safety Concerns

Road safety standards in the Dominican Republic can vary significantly. Accidents are frequent. Hiring a licensed professional driver is recommended if you plan to travel extensively by road.

Pedestrians do not have right-of-way, even at traffic lights. Be extremely cautious when crossing streets, especially in Santo Domingo. Local authorities treat serious car accidents as criminal investigations. If you are involved in an accident, reporting it to the police is mandatory.

Traffic tickets issued by police do not need to be paid on the spot. Fines can be paid on the website of the Office of the Attorney General.

Useful Links for Road Safety

Road Conditions: Variable Quality

Road conditions vary greatly. Major highways connecting cities and tourist areas are generally in good condition, but rural roads are often poorly maintained. Many roads lack lane markings.

Driving Hazards:

Unmarked speed bumps
Potholes
Animals and livestock on roads
Insufficient lighting
Traffic congestion, particularly on weekends and holidays
Vehicles traveling in the wrong direction

Driving Habits: Aggressive and Reckless

Dominican drivers do not always respect traffic laws. Speeding, aggressive driving, and reckless behavior are common. Drinking and driving is also prevalent.

Traffic, drunk driving, and accidents are more frequent during holiday periods like Christmas and Easter.

Defensive Driving Tips:

Drive defensively: Anticipate unpredictable behavior from other drivers.
Plan Routes: Plan your trip in advance, especially for rural areas.
Daylight Travel: Travel in groups and during daylight hours.
Communication: Carry a cell phone and charger.
Fuel Up: Fill your gas tank before traveling, particularly to remote areas.
Vehicle Security: Keep car doors locked and windows closed at all times.

Roadblocks: Commonplace

Military and police roadblocks are common, especially near the Haitian border. Be prepared to show identification at these checkpoints.

Public Transportation: Limited Reliability

Buses: Use Private Services

Public buses are unreliable. Opt for private intercity buses operated by reputable tour companies. Avoid open-door microbuses known as “gua-guas” or “carros publicos” as they are often unregulated and poorly maintained.

Ride-Share Services: Available in Cities

Ride-share services are available in major cities and popular tourist destinations.

Ride-Share Safety Tips:

Driver Verification: Confirm the driver’s identity and license plate before entering the vehicle.
App Security Features: Utilize the security features within ride-share apps.

Taxis: Negotiate Fares

Taxis are not metered. Pre-arrange airport pickups with your hotel. At airports, use only official taxi stands. If unsure about a taxi’s legitimacy, seek assistance at an airport information desk.

Taxi Safety Guidelines:

Reputable Companies: Use reputable taxi companies booked through hotels or ride-sharing services.
Avoid Sharing: Never share a taxi with strangers.
Motorcycle Taxis: Avoid using or renting motorcycle taxis (“motoconchos”).
Fare Negotiation: Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Air Travel Safety

Assessments of foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international safety standards are not provided.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and Exit Requirements for the Dominican Republic

Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country. The Government of Canada cannot intervene if you do not meet these requirements. Regulations can change quickly, so verify information with Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport Validity

Passport requirements depend on the type of passport used. Check with your transportation company as their rules on passport validity may be stricter than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of arrival in the Dominican Republic.

Passports for Official Travel

Different entry rules may apply for official travel. Official travel

Passports with “X” Gender Identifier

While Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, entry or transit through other countries cannot be guaranteed. Restrictions may exist in countries that do not recognize the “X” identifier. Check with the nearest foreign representative of your destination before traveling.

Useful Links for Entry/Exit Information

Visas: Requirements for Different Purposes

Tourist Visa: Not required for stays up to 30 days.
Work Visa: Required.
Student Visa: Required.
Residence Visa: Required.

Other Entry Requirements

Proof of sufficient funds for your stay may be required upon entry. You will also need to provide the address where you will be staying. Customs officials may request to see a return or onward travel ticket.

Entry requirements – Government of Dominican Republic

E-Ticket: Mandatory Electronic Form

An electronic form (E-ticket) must be completed for both entry and exit. A new E-ticket is needed for each trip to the Dominican Republic. This form must be completed before boarding your flight. A digital or printed copy of the E-ticket code must be presented to customs officials at the airport. The E-ticket does not replace the Tourist Card.

Electronic ticket for entry and exit – Government of the Dominican Republic

Tourist Card: Included in Airfare

If entering by air, the tourist card cost is usually included in your airline ticket. If entering by sea, the card can be obtained at your point of entry from the General Directorate of Internal Taxes.

Extension and Overstay of Stay

A stay extension of up to 120 days can be applied for after arrival at the Dominican Directorate General for Migration in Santo Domingo, before your tourist card expires. Overstaying your tourist card or extension can lead to deportation or refusal of re-entry.

Useful Links for Visa and Entry Information

Drug Screening Upon Departure

Drug screening may be conducted when leaving the country. Authorities may search luggage and ask you to sign a Spanish form confirming the search was conducted according to procedures. In some cases, an X-ray may be requested.

Traveling with Children

Find more information on travelling with children.

Yellow Fever Entry Requirements

Check for potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health Considerations for Your Trip

Relevant Travel Health Notices

This section provides information and advice on health risks during travel. Consult a healthcare provider or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice, even if your departure is soon.

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), 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 preventable diseases. Discuss necessary vaccines and medications with a travel health provider based on your itinerary.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A risk exists in the Dominican Republic, a liver disease spread through contaminated food/water or close contact with an infected person. Practice safe food and water precautions and frequent handwashing. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne disease.

Risk: No yellow fever risk in the Dominican Republic.

*Country Entry Requirement:** Proof of vaccination is required only if arriving from specific states in Brazil, including travelers transiting for over 12 hours through airports in those states.

Recommendation: Vaccination is not generally recommended for the Dominican Republic.

About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
*Country entry requirements may not reflect your personal risk. Contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of your destination to verify any additional entry requirements.

Measles

Measles is highly contagious. Ensure you are fully protected against measles before international travel. Consult a health professional.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination, transmitted through blood and body fluids. Higher risk for travelers potentially exposed to blood or bodily fluids (sexual contact, medical treatment, needles, tattoos, acupuncture, occupational exposure). Vaccination is recommended for all travelers. Prevent hepatitis B by practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment.

COVID-19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is infectious. Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and recommended doses before traveling. Vaccines are effective against severe illness. Verify destination’s COVID-19 entry/exit requirements. Discuss adequate protection against COVID-19 with a health professional before travel.

Influenza (Flu)

Influenza protection is best achieved through annual vaccination, ideally 2 weeks before travel. Get the flu shot. Flu occurs worldwide, with seasons varying by hemisphere, and year-round activity in the tropics. The flu vaccine may offer partial protection across hemispheres. Flu spreads through coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces. Practice hand hygiene and wear a mask if symptomatic.

Malaria

Malaria is a serious mosquito-borne disease. Malaria risk exists in certain areas and seasons in the Dominican Republic. Antimalarial medication may be recommended. Consult a health professional or travel health clinic 6 weeks before travel. Protect yourself from mosquito bites: cover skin, use insect repellent, use mosquito nets, and wear permethrin-treated clothing. Seek immediate medical attention if malaria-like symptoms develop during or up to a year after travel.

Rabies

Rabies is present in dogs and wildlife like bats. It’s deadly and spread through bites/scratches. Take precautions: avoid animals, supervise children closely. If bitten/scratched, wash the wound and seek medical help immediately. Rabies treatment may be limited in the Dominican Republic, requiring return to Canada for treatment. Discuss rabies vaccination with a health professional before travel, especially for high-risk travelers.

Safe Food and Water Practices

Unsafe food/water or contaminated water for swimming can cause illness.

Precautions:

“Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” – eat safely prepared food only.
Avoid water in eyes, mouth, nose when swimming in freshwater (streams, lakes, canals), especially after rain.
Don’t swallow water while bathing, showering, swimming, or using hot tubs.

Eat and drink safely abroad

Cholera

Cholera risk exists in parts of the Dominican Republic, but is low for most travelers. Practice safe food and water precautions. Higher risk for those in areas with poor sanitation or during outbreaks. Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers.

Travelers’ Diarrhea

Travelers’ diarrhea is common, from contaminated food/water. Higher risk in areas with poor hygiene. Practice safe food and water precautions. Rehydration is key treatment. Carry oral rehydration salts.

Typhoid

Typhoid is bacterial, from contaminated food/water. Higher risk for children, rural travelers, those visiting friends/relatives, or long-term travelers. Vaccination is recommended, especially for those exposed to poor sanitation.

Salmonellosis

Salmonellosis is common in travelers, spread through contaminated food/beverages (undercooked poultry/eggs, fruits/vegetables). Practice safe food and water precautions. High-risk groups (pregnant women, young children, elderly, immunocompromised) should be extra careful. Rehydration is usually sufficient, but severe cases need medical attention.

Tick and Insect Bite Prevention

Diseases are spread by ticks and insects (mosquitoes, fleas, flies). Know local types, activity times, and diseases.

Protection:

Use approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin.
Wear light, loose, tightly woven clothing (nylon, polyester).
Wear socks and closed-toe shoes.
Use mosquito netting if outdoors or in unenclosed spaces.
Do tick checks after outdoor activities.

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Chikungunya

Chikungunya risk exists, varying by season, year, region, and elevation. Spread by infected mosquito bites. Causes fever and joint pain, sometimes severe and long-lasting. Protect against mosquito bites.

Learn more:
Insect bite and pest prevention
Chikungunya

Dengue

Dengue is a traveler’s risk, spread by mosquito bites. Can cause flu-like symptoms and sometimes severe, fatal dengue. Risk varies seasonally, yearly, regionally, and by elevation. Dengue mosquitoes bite during the day, especially sunrise/sunset. Protect against bites. No vaccine or preventative medication available in Canada.

Learn more:
Dengue
Insect bite and pest prevention

Zika Virus

Zika virus is a risk, primarily mosquito-borne, also sexually transmitted. Can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
Use condoms or avoid sex, especially if pregnant.

Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should discuss risks with their healthcare provider and may choose to postpone travel.

Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Oropouche Virus Disease

Oropouche virus disease is spread by midge bites and possibly mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, sometimes meningitis. Low risk for most travelers. Risk to pregnant women as it may cause birth defects. Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should discuss risks with their healthcare provider and may consider avoiding travel to affected areas. Protect from midge and mosquito bites. No vaccine or medication available.

Insect bite and pest prevention

Animal Precautions

Animal-to-human infections (rabies, bird flu) are possible. High-risk activities include rural/forested travel, camping, hiking, caves, and visiting live animal markets. Avoid contact with stray animals, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid undercooked meat. Supervise children closely around animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Reduce respiratory infection risk (flu, COVID-19): stay home if sick, wear a mask (if sick or in crowds), wash hands, cover coughs/sneezes.

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

Reduce STI, HIV, and mpox risk: mpox vaccine if eligible, fewer partners, use condoms/dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis risk is low for most travelers. High-risk travelers (those visiting prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, hospitals, or visiting friends/relatives) should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health professional.

HIV

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a risk through contact with blood/body fluids, including unprotected sex and unsterilized needles.

Medical Services and Facilities

Good healthcare is limited to major cities. Quality varies greatly nationwide. Public clinics/hospitals may be overwhelmed and lack supplies/equipment. Not all staff speak English/French. Payment upfront may be required at public and private facilities, and private facilities may request proof of insurance before admission. Ambulances are unreliable in most areas, more reliable in major cities and tourist areas like Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, and Puerto Plata. Private hospitals/clinics are better equipped but overcharging and unnecessary stays have been reported. Be cautious of resort doctors who may use aggressive sales tactics.

If hospitalized: inquire about fees beforehand, notify administrators if overcharged, and request English/French assistance from guest services. Obtain travel insurance with medical evacuation and hospital stay coverage.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medical Tourism Risks

Serious complications have occurred for Canadians undergoing cosmetic or elective surgeries abroad. Legal recourse for malpractice is limited in the Dominican Republic. Research thoroughly and use reputable providers if considering medical tourism.

Receiving medical care outside Canada

Keep in Mind: Personal Responsibility

Travel decisions and personal safety are your responsibility. Be prepared, as medical services may differ from Canadian standards. Pack a travel health kit, especially when traveling outside major cities.

Laws and Culture in the Dominican Republic

You are subject to local laws. Learn about assistance if arrested or detained abroad. Detainees can be held without charges for up to 48 hours. Judicial processes may take years, with accused individuals typically detained, potentially leading to lengthy prison sentences in difficult conditions.

Overview of the criminal law system in the Dominican Republic

Drug Laws and Penalties

Penalties for drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, including lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines. The Dominican Republic has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs, including cannabis. Even small quantities can result in severe penalties.

Drug Trafficking Risks

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 Requirements

Local authorities may request ID at any time. Always carry valid identification or a photocopy. Keep passport and visa/entry stamp photocopies in a safe place and digital copies of identification and travel documents.

Reporting a Crime

Victims, including foreigners, must report crimes to Dominican police. Contact tourist police and the Canadian embassy in Santo Domingo. To pursue prosecution or compensation, hire a Dominican lawyer to file a formal complaint and pursue the case. The Embassy can provide a list of attorneys.

Reporting a Car Accident

Call police and remain at the scene. Drivers in accidents causing serious injury or death will be taken into custody during investigation. Register accidents at a government reporting center. English-speaking agents can assist with police and insurance processes. If detained due to an accident, request police to contact the Canadian Embassy in Santo Domingo.

Useful Links for Legal Assistance

Arrest and Detention Assistance

If arrested or detained and needing consular services, request police or prison officials to contact the Canadian Embassy in Santo Domingo or Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

Legal Representation

You have the right to a lawyer during questioning, trial, or hearings. The Canadian Embassy can provide a list of local attorneys. Public defenders are available if you cannot afford a lawyer.

A Guide for Canadians Detained Abroad

Dual Citizenship Considerations

Dual citizenship is recognized. 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, aiding parents in child return if wrongfully removed or retained in violation of custody rights.

If your child is wrongfully taken to or held in the Dominican Republic:

Act quickly.
Contact your provincial/territorial Central Authority for Hague Convention application information.
Consult lawyers in Canada and the Dominican Republic.
Report to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or Global Affairs Canada’s Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit.

Canadian consular officials cannot intervene in private legal or another country’s judicial matters.

Useful Links for Child Abduction Information

Real Estate Investment Advice

Seek legal advice in Canada and the Dominican Republic before property purchases or investments to avoid disputes. The Canadian Embassy cannot intervene in local legal disputes.

Timeshare Purchase Precautions

Timeshare disputes occur. Sales representatives may be persistent and use pressure tactics. Review contracts carefully, consult a Dominican attorney before purchase, provide credit card details only if certain, and keep all correspondence copies.

Marriage in the Dominican Republic

Marriages legally performed in the Dominican Republic are recognized in Canada.

Marriage overseas factsheet

Driving with Canadian License

You can drive with a Canadian license for up to 30 days with an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Currency and Exchange

The Dominican currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP). Canadian currency can be exchanged at some airports and local exchange offices.

Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change affects the Dominican Republic, increasing extreme weather events that may disrupt travel plans. Monitor local media for updates.

Hurricane Season Preparedness

Hurricanes typically occur from mid-May to end-November. Small storms can rapidly become major hurricanes, posing safety risks and disrupting essential services.

If traveling to coastal areas during hurricane season:

Be prepared to alter travel plans, including trip cancellation.
Stay updated on regional weather forecasts.
Carry airline/tour operator emergency contact information.
Follow local authority advice and instructions.

Useful Links for Weather Information

Flooding and Landslides

Flooding occurs due to heavy rains, making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure. Exercise caution near rivers, stay informed on weather forecasts, and follow evacuation orders.

Emergency operations centre – Dominican Republic government (Spanish only)

Earthquakes and Tsunamis

The Dominican Republic is in a seismic zone with frequent tremors. Tsunamis can occur minutes after a nearby earthquake, with risk lasting for hours. If on the coast, familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation plans.