Practical Information Before Traveling to the Dominican Republic
Visas & Administrative Formalities
Citizens of France, Belgium, and Switzerland do not need a visa for a tourist stay not exceeding 90 days.
E-ticket Required
All travelers must complete an electronic entry and exit form (E-ticket) before departure: https://eticket.migracion.gob.do/
Once the form is completed, a QR code is generated.
It must be presented:
- upon arrival in the Dominican Republic
- and again upon return (a new application must be submitted)
Passport
Passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry into the country.
Transits through the United States – ESTA
For any transit through or entry into the United States, travelers from France, Belgium, or Switzerland must obtain ESTA authorization before departure.
Application must be submitted no later than 72 hours before departure
Official website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/
Cost: approximately 40 USD
Valid for 2 years (or until the passport expires)
Health & Vaccinations
Required Vaccinations
No vaccinations are required to enter the Dominican Republic from Europe, Switzerland, or Canada. Feel free to check France Diplomatie for the latest health information.
Yellow Fever
Vaccination is required only if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is present (certain areas of Latin America). It is often recommended for travelers visiting Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, due to varying health regulations between countries.
Recommended Vaccines
- DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, polio)
- Hepatitis A and B
- Pertussis
- Measles (especially for children)
Malaria & dengue
Malaria is rare, especially near the Haitian border or after hurricanes
Dengue is present: the use of effective mosquito repellents is essential
Language & Communication
The official language isSpanish, althoughEnglish is understood in tourist areas. You’ll also meet many Haitians who speak either very good French or a form of French that’s closer to Creole.
WhatsApp is ubiquitous in communication: used by local service providers, drivers, guides… and by our team.
At TERRA Dominicana, we’re available 24/7 during your trip via WhatsApp to provide personalized and responsive assistance.
Time difference
–6 hours behind France in winter
–5 hours behind France in summer (when France is on daylight saving time)
Electricity & Equipment
Electricity: 110 volts—American-style outlets (two flat prongs) —so be sure to bring an adapter.
Note: Power outages are common in some regions; this is normal and usually short-lived. It may be a good idea to travel with a portable charger for your phones.
What to Pack?
Our must-haves for your trip to the Dominican Republic:
- Water shoes (pebble beaches, rivers, waterfalls)
- Snorkeling gear (mask/snorkel)
- Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible)
- Effective mosquito repellent
- Camera or phone with a good battery
- Small headlamp (useful in rural areas)
Internet & eSIM
Not necessary in most cases, as we provide a Wi-Fi hotspot in your rental car. Additionally, an internet connection is available at most accommodations. An eSIM is optional but not essential
Money & Payments
The official currency is the Dominican peso (DOP). Cash is still widely used, especially outside major cities. U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted. However, you’ll also find hotels and restaurants that accept credit cards.
Our tips:
- Notify your bank before you leave
- Travel with USD, then withdraw or exchange money once you arrive (yes, you can exchange your euros at a bank)
- Always carry some cash with you; some areas don’t have banks or ATMs
Driving & Licenses
A French driver’s license is accepted for renting a car. Our rental companies also require a credit card. An international driver’s permit is recommended but not required.
