Entry Procedures

The Dominican Republic is in the Caribbean and is not part of the EU or Schengen Area. Many nationalities, including Japan, can enter visa-free for short tourism stays of up to 30 days, which can usually be extended. Everyone must complete the online E-Ticket (electronic entry/exit form) before travel at migracion.gob.do. Rules can change, so check official sources and your embassy before you travel.

Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay in the Dominican Republic, and many airlines and immigration officers expect at least six months of validity from your date of entry. Make sure your passport is in good condition and has a blank page for stamps. Check your specific requirements before you travel.

On arrival you should carry your passport and the QR code confirmation of your completed E-Ticket. Immigration may ask for a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation such as a hotel booking, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Having these ready helps entry go smoothly.

If you enter or leave the Dominican Republic carrying the equivalent of USD 10,000 or more in cash or negotiable instruments, you must declare it to customs. This applies to all currencies combined. Failure to declare can lead to fines or seizure, so complete a cash declaration when required.

Travellers may bring personal effects and a limited duty-free allowance of items such as tobacco, alcohol and gifts. Amounts above the allowance may be taxable, and higher-value goods should be declared. If you exceed the limits, complete a customs declaration and pay any duties due.

You can bring prescription medicine for personal use, ideally in its original packaging with the label. Carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor's letter, especially for strong painkillers or controlled substances. Bring enough for your trip, as your specific brand may not be available locally.

No vaccinations are officially required to enter the Dominican Republic for most travellers, though a yellow fever certificate may be requested if you arrive from a country with a risk of transmission. Routine vaccines should be up to date, and mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue exist, so use insect repellent. Check the latest health advice before you travel.

Most visitors arrive at Las Americas (SDQ) in Santo Domingo or Punta Cana (PUJ). At immigration, present your passport and E-Ticket QR code; officers may ask about your stay and accommodation. A tourist entry fee that used to be a separate Tourist Card is now generally included in the airfare. Keep your documents handy for a quick, smooth entry.

The Dominican Republic uses 110-120V power with Type A/B plugs, so bring an adapter if needed. Traffic drives on the right, the international dialling code is +1 (809/829/849), and the emergency number is 911. Complete your E-Ticket before both arrival and departure, and keep small cash for tips and local shops.