Dominican Republic

Crime rates are high in the Dominican Republic.

Petty Crime

Pickpockets and bag-snatchers are common in major cities. Travellers are often the target in busy areas such as airports and bus terminals.

Travellers have also reported thefts at resorts, on beaches, in hotel rooms, hotel room safes, as well as from cars, particularly rentals.

Thieves on motorbikes, scooters or bicycles often rob pedestrians of their bags and other valuables. They may even reach into vehicles, including taxis, stopped at red lights to steal personal belongings.

Credit card and ATM fraud are common, particularly in Santo Domingo and resort areas.

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• don't wear expensive watches or jewellery
• be wary of strangers who offer services without being asked or make unusual requests
• keep car doors locked, windows up and your belongings out of sight
• be alert after dark
• avoid being on the streets alone
• pay attention in crowded areas
• use ATM’s in daylight hours
• withdraw or change money in secure areas like hotels, banks, or shopping centres
• avoid withdrawing or carrying large amounts of money

Violent crime

Violent crime happens in tourist areas. Victims have been injured when resisting.

Women are particularly at risk of aggressive sexual behaviour and sexual assault.

To reduce your risk of violent crime:

• don't use public transport
• avoid walking or jogging alone, especially after dark
• travel with others wherever possible, especially if you're a woman

If you're a victim of violent crime, especially sexual assault, seek immediate medical help. The risk of HIV/AIDS infection is high.

More information:

• Advice for Women Travellers

Drink spiking

Be careful at bars and entertainment venues. People have reported being robbed and assaulted after their drinks were spiked. 

Methanol poisoning

Dominican Republic – Haiti border

Roadblocks set up by the military and police are common in the border area. The roadblocks may appear to be unofficial. However, the soldiers wear army uniforms and carry weapons.

There have been armed robberies on roads near the border with Haiti. Some of these have been committed by criminals posing as police officers.

Road-based crime

Travellers have been robbed in taxis and private cars to and from Las Americas International Airport. Armed robbers force the vehicle to stop on the side of the road.

To stay safe on the roads:

• use ride share services where possible instead of taxis
• use official taxis and don't hail taxis from the street
• travel to and from the airport during daylight
• don't accept rides from strangers or people you've just met, including hotel employees
• use a tour company with a good reputation, especially if you're travelling to remote areas

Cyber security 

Demonstrations and protests

Political demonstrations happen across the country but are most common in and around the cities of:

• Santiago
• Salcedo
• Bonao
• Santo Domingo

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent, causing injuries and deaths. Demonstrations may occur anywhere across the country and often affect public transport, traffic, and essential services.

To protect yourself from periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, protests, and public gatherings
• check the media for reports of unrest
• follow advice from local authorities.

If you see a protest, leave as soon as it’s safe.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

More information:

• Terrorism

Many beaches have strong and dangerous rips.

Check the conditions with your hotel or authorities before entering the water.

Lifeguards aren't present at some hotels, resorts, and public beaches.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

Diving

Tour operators and diving centres may not adhere strictly to international standards. When engaging in adventure sports such as diving. Choose a reputable company with proper insurance coverage.

Dominican Republic experiences natural disasters and severe weather, such as:

• hurricanes
• landslides and mudslides
• flooding
• earthquakes
• tsunamis

Severe weather can disrupt essential services and infrastructure, such as water and electricity.

To protect yourself if a natural disaster is approaching:

• know how to evacuate from your hotel or cruise ship
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• contact your tour operator or airline
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow advice from local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Hurricanes and severe weather

The hurricane and rainy season is from June to November. The direction and strength of hurricanes can change at any time.

If you're travelling during the rainy season, contact your:

• tour operator to check if services are affected
• airline for flight updates

Tropical storms and hurricanes can happen in other months. Hurricanes can change direction and strength suddenly.

The wet season is from May to November. Heavy rainfalls can cause landslides and mudslides. These can have a devastating effect on infrastructure and essential services.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or cancelled
• flights out may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as electricity and water

Contact your airline or travel agency for information.

To protect yourself if a hurricane is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• locate your local shelter
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• monitor alerts and advice from authorities, such as the US National Hurricane Center
• keep in touch with your friends and family

If you're travelling to the Dominican Republic during hurricane season or after a natural disaster, monitor weather reports.

Check the National Hurricane and Tropical Prediction Center for weather forecasts.

More information:

• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency

Earthquakes and tsunamis

The Dominican Republic is in an active earthquake zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis may happen. Minor earthquakes can cause considerable damage.

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Move to higher ground or as far inland as you can. Once there, monitor local media.

More information:

• Caribbean Tsunami Information Center

Insect-borne diseases

Illnesses spread by insects are common, especially during the hot months from May to November. 

Disease risks include: 

• dengue
• chikungunya
• zika virus

Zika virus is widespread. If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Malaria is less common but has been reported in the western area bordering Haiti, at some beach resorts and adventure sports areas.

To protect yourself against disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medication to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Rabies

There's a high risk of rabies in the Dominican Republic. Avoid direct contact with all animals, especially:

• dogs
• cats
• mongooses (small cat-like animals)

Get urgent medical attention if you're bitten or scratched.

More information:

• Potentially hazardous foods

HIV/AIDS

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high. Take precautions if you take part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Other health risks

Cholera is present. It causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It can be fatal if left untreated.

Maintain good food hygiene to minimise your risk of getting cholera.

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• hepatitis
• tuberculosis
• filariasis
• leptospirosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Get urgent medical attention if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

Medical facilities in major cities are reasonable. In other areas, the standard of facilities is lower, with little English spoken. Blood supplies are often limited. Doctors may only speak Spanish.

Medical care can be expensive. Before receiving treatment, you may be asked to either:

• show proof of medical insurance
• pay upfront
• provide a guarantee of payment

If you are seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with appropriate facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. This includes long prison sentences in local jails.

Authorities may arrest you for illegal drugs if you're either:

• carrying even a very small amount of drugs, or
• with someone who's using them

If you're found driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, authorities will arrest and possibly detain you.

Border officials may screen you for drugs, including on departure.

More information:

• Carrying and using drugs

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Avoid public displays of affection.

Same-sex relationships are legal in Dominican Republic , but the country is conservative.

Same-sex marriages aren't recognised in Dominican Republic.

It's not illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The Dominican Republic recognises dual nationality. If you are an Australian citizen and also a Dominican citizen, the consular services we can provide to you may be limited. 

Always travel on your Australian passport.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Tourist cards

You must buy a tourist card on arrival. It's valid for 30 days. For longer visits, you must pay an extra fee at the airport on departure.

Rules affecting travellers can change at short notice.

Border measures

To enter, you must complete the electronic entry and exit form. Information on your health and planned stay will be shared with local authorities.

On 5 March 2024, the Dominican Republic Government closed all its borders with Haiti. The borders with Haiti remain closed to travellers.

The Australian Embassy in Mexico cannot help you enter the Dominican Republic from Haiti.  

We advise you do not travel to Haiti (see Haiti Travel Advice). Monitor the media and local authorities for information about safety or security risks if travelling near the border.

Travel via the United States or Canada

If you're travelling through the US, ensure you meet all current US entry or transit requirements, including if you're transiting through Hawaii. 

If you're travelling through Canada, ensure you meet all entry and transit requirements. 

More information:

• Travel advice for the US

• List of US Embassies and Consulates

• Travel advice for Canada

Travel with children

Strict exit requirements apply to children aged under 18 years who travel:

• alone
• with a parent
• with another adult

Ask about the regulations before you travel. Contact the Consulate of the Dominican Republic.

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Departure tax

There is a departure tax. It might be included in the price of your airline ticket. Confirm with your travel agent or airline.

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

The local currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP).

You can't exchange Australian dollars in the Dominican Republic. However, you can exchange US dollars at banks or official exchange offices.

Take US dollars with you.

Tour operators

Transport and adventure tour operators may not meet Australian safety standards for:

• scuba diving equipment
• providing life jackets, seat belts and other safety equipment

Rescue services may not be as effective as those in Australia.

If taking part in adventure activities:

• check your travel insurance covers you for the activity
• check the operator's safety equipment before you book
• use reputable operators
• use life jackets and seat belts, even if others don't

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Driving permit

For trips of less than 3 months, you can drive with:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• an Australian driver's licence

You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Road travel

You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in the Dominican Republic than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• aggressive driving
• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• drivers not following traffic laws
• few signs and poor lighting on rural roads
• sharing roads with pedestrians, bicycles and farm animals

Heavy rains cause mudslides and collapse roads. Roads may be closed at short notice, especially during the hurricane and wet seasons.

If you plan to travel by road:

• check your travel insurance covers it
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• lock doors and keep car windows up, even when moving
• avoid travel at night

If you’re involved in an accident, wait at the scene until police arrive and authorise you to leave.

Motorcycles

Your travel insurance may not cover you for accidents on a motorbike or quad bike. Check your insurance covers it.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Travellers have been robbed and assaulted when using unofficial taxis. 

Don’t use route taxis, also known as ‘carros publicos’. They pose a higher risk of passengers being robbed. 

Use airport taxis or pre-book with a reputable company.

Airport taxi drivers wear clearly identifiable photo ID badges.

Taxi drivers often don't provide change, so be prepared to pay with small notes.

To safely use taxis:

• arrange your airport pickup with your hotel before you arrive
• note your taxi driver's name and licence number
• agree on the fare before you set off
• never share a taxi with a stranger
• don't let your driver pick up other passengers

Air travel

Check the Dominican Republic's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Sea travel

Many international cruise liners visit Dominican Republic.

The Caribbean coastlines are transport routes for illegal drugs. Consider this security risk before deciding to travel by sea.

More information:

• Going on a cruise

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Emergency services

Call 911.

Police

Tourist police (POLITUR) can help tourists and they patrol key tourist areas.

Call POLITUR on 911.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy in the Dominican Republic.

The Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo provides consular assistance for Australians. It can issue Australian provisional travel documents.

More information:

• Special travel documents (Australian Passport Office)

You can also get consular assistance from the Australian Embassy in Mexico City.

Canadian Embassy, Santo Domingo

Av. Winston Churchill 1099
Torre Citigroup en Acropolis Center 18th floor
Ensanche Piantini, Santo Domingo

Phone: (+1 809) 262 3100
Email: sdmgo@international.gc.ca
Website: canadainternational.gc.ca/dominican_republic-republique_dominicaine

Australian Embassy, Mexico City

Ruben Dario #55
Corner of Campos Eliseos, Polanco
Colonia Bosques de Chapultepec
11580 Mexico DF Mexico

Phone: +52 55 1101 2200
Email: consularpassports.mexico@dfat.gov.au
Website: mexico.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: @AusEmbMex
X: @AusEmbMex

See the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia