Dominican Republic : Formalities and administrative procedures

Dominican Republic : Organize your stay

Money Dominican Republic

The currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso (DOP, commonly $, not to be confused with the dollar, US$). Banknotes come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000 and 2,000 pesos, and coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10 and 25 pesos. There are no centimes. In August 2025, the exchange rate was 1 € = $70; 1 US$ = $60.

Budget & Tips Dominican Republic

Beware: the Dominican Republic is not such a cheap country, contrary to the expectations of visitors who are often surprised by the prices compared to the all-inclusive bargain prices. Products and services for tourists, from hotels to restaurants to stores, are priced almost on a par with French prices in all tourist areas. In the case of restaurants, for example, only the country comedores do not include the de rigueur taxes (which reach 28%) and therefore offer more reasonable prices. Many products and materials are imported, and even local products are subject to constant inflation, which penalizes consumption. In recent years, the cost of living in the Dominican Republic has risen significantly. You can stay in an economy room with basic comforts for 1,500 pesos, but in tourist areas with decent facilities, you'll need to reckon with a minimum of 2,400 pesos.

Hotels. In low season (May, June, October, November), hotel rates are around 25% lower, and it's possible to negotiate prices. Similarly, for longer stays (a week or more), hoteliers offer discounted rates.

A simpledish of the day in a comedores or puestos de comida costs around 300 pesos, while an average tourist restaurant will cost between 500 and 1000 pesos, and much more in a trendy restaurant. Good restaurants in the capital or in seaside resorts charge prices similar to those of French restaurants.

Public transport remains fairly inexpensive, costing an average of 450 pesos for a 3 to 4-hour trip in a fast, comfortable, air-conditioned bus. The popular guaguas are about half as expensive, but the journey takes twice as long in much more precarious conditions of comfort.

Entrance fees to museums are very affordable, while excursions and attractions for tourists are very expensive: a day's excursion (including meals, transport and activities) costs an average of US$80. It's often cheaper to contact the organizers directly than to go through the hotel representative, who usually charges a commission.

As for gasoline , its price fluctuates according to oil prices. In August 2025, the average price per liter was US$1.20.

Passport and visas Dominican Republic

No visa is required for French, Belgian, Swiss or Canadian nationals. Since January 2012, a passport valid for more than 6 months after the date of entry has been required to visit the Dominican Republic. The entry stamp affixed to the passport entitles the holder to a maximum stay of three months in the country. You'll also need to allow for an entry tax of US$10 or €10, the price of a tourist card, which is compulsory (sometimes included in the plane ticket if you've opted for an all-inclusive stay). On leaving the country, a tax of US$20 must be paid for stays of more than 30 days.

As of April 1, 2021, the electronic form for entry to and exit from the Dominican Republic is mandatory. You can now register your information online at https://eticket.migracion.gob.do/. The E-ticket is only mandatory for people arriving or departing from the Dominican Republic by air. To save time during the entry procedure, we recommend that you complete the form as early as possible. When you check in at your departure airport, the airline can ensure that the form has been duly completed. Most airports in the Dominican Republic have a free Wi-Fi network for E-Ticket access.

Driver's license Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic, all car rental companies will accept your French driving license with no problem.

Health Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is not a country that presents any major health risks. Water is the traveller's main enemy. We recommend that you avoid drinking tap water. In local comedores and bars, it's best to avoid ice cubes. Markets and small restaurants are not subject to strict health controls, so you'll need to be vigilant when it comes to foodstuffs and small dishes. Prefer hot dishes and cooked meats/fish to raw vegetables.

Mandatory vaccination Dominican Republic

No vaccinations are compulsory, but some are recommended: DT-poliomyelitis, typhoid fever, viral hepatitis A and B, rabies. Malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya or Zika are real risks: anti-mosquito measures (DEET/picaridine repellent, covering clothing, mosquito nets or air conditioning) are therefore strongly recommended. Finally, if you're tempted by a jaunt to Haiti, the island has been hit by several epidemics in recent years, so remember to protect yourself.

Security Dominican Republic

Delinquency. It's a well-known fact that tourist areas attract sharks - in this case, tigers. The usual precautions are obviously recommended (going out with a small amount of money, not wearing provocative jewelry, large cameras or smartphones, not getting into cabs on the sly, especially at night, not changing money on the street...), but the Dominican Republic is a generally safe country. However, in the south-west, mainly in the Barahona region, it is strongly advised not to drive after dark.

For the latest information on safety in the Dominican Republic, consult the "Conseils aux voyageurs" section of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/voyageurs) under the heading "République dominicaine". Be aware, however, that the site provides an exhaustive list of potential dangers, which sometimes gives a rather alarmist picture of the country's actual situation. However, you'll find that there's a real sense of security in the Dominican Republic!

Time difference Dominican Republic

The time difference between France and the Dominican Republic is 6 hours in summer and 5 hours in winter: when it's midday in Paris, it's 6 or 7 a.m. in Santo Domingo.

Spoken languages Dominican Republic

The official language is Spanish. There are, however, remnants of French Creole in the border area with Haiti, and English in the former immigration areas of the emancipated American slaves, San Pedro de Macoris and Samaná. Almost all Dominicans in contact with tourists speak English, German or Italian to a greater or lesser extent. Haitian employees are appreciated in the tourism industry for their knowledge of the French language.

Communication Dominican Republic

Internet. Numerous cybercafés and Internet points have sprung up all over the country, and without exception in towns and tourist centers. The wi-fi network is developing very well, and is generally available free of charge in many hotels and some bars and restaurants. The network works relatively well.

Cell phones. Cell phones are commonplace. Cell phone addicts can even rent one for the duration of their stay. You can also buy a local SIM card with prepaid credit (line + internet data) and insert it in your own phone. Being able to access the internet from your mobile can be very useful, especially as internet coverage is pretty good in the Dominican Republic. You will be asked to show proof of identity. Calls cost around 100 pesos per 100 minutes.

Altice, one of the major operators in the Dominican Republic, offers a tourist package including 15 GB of data, unlimited calls and SMS, plus a $300 credit, for a total price of $550 (US$10) for 15 days.

Most of the major international operators have agreements with local networks, so find out about roaming rates before you leave to avoid unpleasant surprises on your return if you use your French phone.

If you wish to keep your French package, don't forget to activate the international option (desimlocage) with your operator before you leave.

Who pays what? The rule is the same for all operators. When you use your French telephone abroad, you pay for the call, whether you make it or receive it. In the case of an incoming call, your correspondent pays the price of a local call. All calls made to or from abroad are not included in the package, including calls to voicemail.

Electricity and measurements Dominican Republic

Electricity: American standard 110 volts, 60 hertz, flat-plug sockets. Caution! Although less and less frequent, unexpected power cuts are still commonplace in the Dominican Republic. Most hotels and good-quality restaurants are equipped with inverters, which take over immediately in the event of a power cut.

Weights and measures: the coexistence of the American, indigenous and metric systems is an original feature of the Dominican Republic.

We drive in kilometers, refuel in US gallons (3.78 l), measure fabric in yardas (0.914 m), land in tareas (624 m²), and weigh in ounces and pounds.

Luggage Dominican Republic

What should you pack? Light cotton clothing, mosquito repellent (even if you can buy it locally) and sunscreen, if possible organic, to protect the coral reefs and seabed, which are already being put to the test. Open-toed shoes, tennis shoes and a pair of dress shoes for dancing. Elegant attire: Dominicans love to dress up to go out, especially when they're playing at the casino. Sunday best" attire is also appropriate when you're invited to a guest house, a wedding party or a girl's 15th birthday - it would be an offense to show up in Bermuda shorts and a floral shirt... You'll find everything you need to make up for any oversights in local boutiques.

Dominican Republic : Daily life

Hello? Dominican Republic

How to phone. From France to the Dominican Republic: 001 + 809 or 829 + the 7-digit local number (mobile or landline). From Dominican Republic to France: 00 33 + your correspondent's number without the 0. From Dominican Republic to Dominican Republic, long-distance: 1 + 809 + the 7 digits of the local number. From Dominican Republic to Dominican Republic on a cell phone: 809 or 829 + the 7 digits of the number. From Dominican Republic to Dominican Republic, local: 809 + 7-digit local number. To call abroad from the Dominican Republic, avoid hotels, where calls are overcharged, in favor of private telephone centers - generally open until 10 p.m. - which compete fiercely and are present in all towns.

During your stay, as is often the case when traveling, the ideal solution is to buy a local SIM card including Internet data, which will ensure low-cost communications within the country. Handy for confirming a restaurant or hotel, calling a cab, making appointments, booking a hotel or doing any kind of research.

Cell phones. Cell phones are commonplace. Addicts can even rent one for the duration of their stay. It's also possible to buy a SIM card with prepaid credit (line + internet data) and insert it into your own phone. To do this, you'll be asked for proof of identity. Calls cost around 100 pesos per 100 minutes. Most of the major international operators have agreements with local networks, so find out about roaming rates before you leave to avoid unpleasant surprises on your return if you use your French phone.

If you want to keep your French package, don't forget to activate the international option (desimlocage) with your operator before you leave. The rule is the same with all operators: when you use your French phone abroad, you pay for the call, whether you make it or receive it. In the case of an incoming call, your correspondent pays only the price of a local call. All calls made to or from abroad are not included in the package, including calls to voicemail.

Prepaid phone booths and cards. Phone cards of various denominations can be purchased in all colmados (local grocery stores). Internet telephony (Skype and, above all, WhatsApp) is developing in specialized centers in tourist areas. It's also possible to buy a local smart card and top it up via vending machines, which is very practical and avoids surprises on the usual telephone bill. The main companies are Claro, Altice and Viva, with Claro offering the best network coverage throughout the country.

Accessibility Dominican Republic

There's still a lot of work to be done, if only with regard to roads and sidewalks in some places. Apart from the modern districts of Santo Domingo and some of the all-inclusives, the infrastructure is not really adapted for access by people with reduced mobility. Road conditions and uneven sidewalks don't help much, and most excursions involve travel in standard vehicles. However, many tours are possible if planned in advance. What's more, it's relatively easy to get local help when you need it. Helping others is a natural part of life in the Dominican Republic! If you have a physical or mental disability, or are going on vacation with someone in this situation, there are a number of specialized organizations and associations.

Health Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is not a country that presents any major health risks. Water is the traveller's main enemy. We recommend that you avoid drinking tap water. In local comedores and bars, it's best to avoid ice cubes. Markets and small restaurants are not subject to strict health controls, so you'll need to be vigilant when it comes to foodstuffs and small dishes. Prefer hot dishes to raw vegetables.

Some fish, particularly groupers, contain ciguatera, a poison that can have serious consequences. The risk of poisoning exists during the summer months, when algae, part of the fish's food chain, becomes toxic. So be vigilant, and be sure of the chef who cooks it.

No vaccinations are compulsory, but some are recommended: polio vaccine, typhoid fever, viral hepatitis A and B, rabies. Beware of mosquitoes, which can carry dengue fever, malaria, Nile fever and leptospirosis. Remember to protect yourself. And if you're tempted by a trip to Haiti, beware: the island has been hit by several epidemics in recent years.

Emergency numbers Dominican Republic

Easy: the 911 emergency number also works in the Dominican Republic. As for the hospital clinics, the fees of the quality establishments are often very high and payable immediately. Cuban clinics, as in Las Terrenas, have agreements with the French social security system on condition that you show your card. Check with your doctor before your departure and with your health insurance company.

Securty Dominican Republic

Crime. It's a well-known fact that tourist areas attract thieves - in this case, tigers. The usual precautions are of course recommended (go out with a small amount of money, don't wear provocative jewelry, large cameras or smartphones, don't get into a cab, especially at night, don't change money on the street...), but the Dominican Republic is a generally safe country. However, in the south-west, mainly in the Barahona region, it is strongly advised not to drive after dark.

Police. The Dominican Republic has a special tourist police force to deal with minor problems and disputes with shopkeepers and others. Like all local administrative staff, the police are very poorly paid. The government doesn't pay them more. So one of their activities is to watch out for motorists or motorcyclists, and stop them for no reason. Our advice: slow down, greet them with a smiling " hola ", and continue on your way. They won't follow you, but they'll wave back. But keep a couple of 100 peso bills handy, just in case...

Seatbelts are now compulsory; if you don't wear one, you'll be ticketed, whether you're a passenger or a driver. The same applies to the wearing of helmets, which remains totally random despite a high number of accidents, particularly involving motorcycle cabs or Motoconchos.

Single woman on a trip. The Dominican's interest in women is all the more marked in the absence of a spouse, with whistles in support. Sometimes, you'll have to insist and/or be totally indifferent to get some peace and quiet. The usual precautions apply as elsewhere.

Travelling with children. There are no contraindications to traveling with children in the Dominican Republic. As elsewhere, however, in case of hot weather and strong sun, remember to protect their fragile skin. And take the usual precautions regarding food and drink. All-inclusive resorts generally offer a wide range of facilities for younger guests, but it's worth asking around, as some clubs are more family-oriented than others. If you're planning an individual holiday, make sure that the activities and excursions you're interested in are open to them.

LGBTQ Dominican Republic

There are few taboos in the Dominican Republic, and the urban population regards LGBTQ tourists in the same way as everyone else. On the other hand, in rural areas and for very religious communities, they may not always be seen in the best light, even if, in general, no remarks or discrimination will be made. LGBTQIA+ establishments are not legion, but there are a few, mainly in Santo Domingo and in areas with a high concentration of tourists.

Embassies and consulates Dominican Republic

The French Embassy in the Dominican Republic is located in Santo Domingo (Edificio Corporativo 2015, Calle Filomena Gomez de Cova - +1 809 695 4300 - https://do.ambafrance.org/). It is open Monday to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Other numbers: +1 809 223 6721 for emergencies only, and +1 809 976 2444 to make an appointment for a visa application (please allow four weeks for processing).

The Swiss Embassy is also located in the capital (71, Avenida Jimenez Moya - +1 809 533 3781- www.eda.admin.ch/santodomingo) and is open Monday to Friday, 9am to noon.

As is the Canadian Embassy (1099, Avenida Winston Churchill, Ensanche Piantini - +1 809 262 3100 - www.international.gc.ca), open Monday to Thursday, 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 4pm, and Friday, 9am to 12pm.

Mail Dominican Republic

The post is very slow from Europe to the Dominican Republic (about a month for a normal shipment), and depending on the village, you might as well be warned that your parcels will never arrive, unless you use the services of a large private company (UPS, DHL, etc.). Mail works best in the Dominican Republic-Europe direction, although letters will take several weeks to reach their destination (when they do). A postcard to Europe costs 50 pesos in postage.

Local media Dominican Republic

National press. Founded in 1889, the center-right Listín Diario is the country's oldest and largest newspaper. It has the largest circulation and a pro-government bias. El Caribe, created by Trujillo, Hoy, Diaro Libre, El Expresso, La Informacion and Ultima Hora are Spanish-language dailies. El Nacional and La Noticia are evening dailies.

French-language press. A number of French-language press titles can be found in tourist resort newsagents, notably in Sosua, Cabarete and Las Terrenas. Also worth mentioning is BO Magazine (for Best-Of), a free, high-quality magazine which, since 2017, has listed good tips and recommended addresses on the Samana peninsula. Take a look at the French-language website (www.bomagazine.do/fr), which unfortunately hasn't been updated for several months. The Facebook page (www.facebook.com/Bobestofmagazine/) seems to be more active and is full of interesting photos and videos.

Television. Seven terrestrial channels, six of them private, and two cable TV channels. Most hotels are cabled and offer international packages. If you don't have enough, don't worry, there's RAI, TV5 and many American and South American channels. Color Vision is the most-watched TV channel for its unforgettable series and star-studded variety shows (www.colorvision. com.do). Radio Televisión Dominicana is the state channel. Teleantillas is Color Vision's competitor (www.tele-antillas.tv). Circulo Independencia broadcasts films 24 hours a day. Telesistema Dominicano specializes in sports and news.

Radio. 180 AM and FM radio stations offer programming to suit all tastes. A website lists all Dominican radio frequencies, genres and sites (www.teoveras.com. do). Radio France Internationale is received in the capital on frequency 90.9.

Internet. Go Samana (www.gosamana.com) is a mine of information on Samaná, both ecological and touristic, to discover the peninsula while protecting it. Site in English or Spanish.

Listin Diario (www.listin.com.do) is the most widely read Dominican daily newspaper. The Ministry of Culture website (www.cultura.gob.do) is entirely in Spanish. Various information, official statistics, cultural program... The site of the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources (www.ambiente.gob.do), entirely in Spanish, is a valuable source of information. All the capital's theatrical programming (www.teatro.com.do) in some twenty venues, including the must-see Casa de Teatro.