Passport Update: Dominican Republic

STARTING April 30, Canadians will be required to present a passport, valid for the length of their stay, to visit the Dominican Republic. Until then, Canadians entering by direct air travel only have to be in possession of valid official photo identification (such as a driver's licence) and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate). Canadian tourists must also be in possession of a return airline ticket.

However, Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies. Canadians entering the Dominican Republic for tourist purposes must purchase a tourist card, at a cost of US$10, which is valid for 30 days. Those wishing to stay longer must pay a surcharge at the airport upon departure or request an extension by visiting the Department of Immigration in Santo Domingo. Those wishing to work in the Dominican Republic must apply for a business visa. More information can be obtained by contacting the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Ottawa.

A departure tax of US$20 is charged for stays of up to two weeks. The departure tax for stays longer than two weeks varies depending on length of stay and nationality. The tax applies to all international flights and may be included in the price of the airline ticket. Travellers should confirm this information with their travel agents.