Most foreign visitors need to apply for a tourist visa in advance to enter the Dominican Republic. Alternatively, travelers with a valid U.S., Canadian, UK, or Schengen visa can enter by purchasing a Tourist Card (E-Ticket). An online Electronic Immigration and Customs Declaration Form must be completed before arrival. The majority of international flights arrive at three airports: Punta Cana (PUJ), Santo Domingo (SDQ), and Puerto Plata (POP). Flights from many countries usually require a connection through the U.S. or Europe, so check the transit visa requirements of the connecting country.
| Category | Daily Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $56–$85 | Local guesthouses, street food, and public buses |
| Comfortable | $125–$210 | Four-star hotels or non-all-inclusive resorts, private transfers, and day tours |
| All-Inclusive Resort | $210–$425 | Five-star all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, including meals and some drinks |
The official currency is the Dominican Peso (RD$). U.S. dollars are accepted in tourist areas, but the exchange rate for change is often unfavorable. It’s advisable to withdraw pesos from ATMs in city areas after arrival, and carry small bills of 100 and 200 pesos for daily use. Restaurant bills typically include a 10% service charge; you may leave an additional 5% if you’re satisfied. Prices in supermarkets and chain stores are fixed, but polite bargaining is acceptable in traditional markets. Tap water is not safe to drink; bottled water is recommended at all times.
Wi-Fi is commonly available in airports and resorts. For longer journeys between cities, consider buying a local SIM card with data. Departure taxes at airports such as Santo Domingo may or may not be included in your ticket — check with your airline in advance to avoid having to pay in cash at the airport counter. Check-in queues for return flights can be long, so arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure during peak seasons.