Planning your Dominican Republic getaway in 2025? Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 in the Dominican Republic, entry rules, health precautions, and safety updates before you head to Punta Cana or beyond.
Covid in Dominican Republic: 2025 Health Rules
The good news: there are no COVID-19 restrictions for entry. Travelers don’t need to show negative tests, vaccination cards, or proof of recovery. Random health checks may still occur at airports, but they are rare.
That said, it’s smart to stay prepared. The CDC recommends travelers keep vaccinations up to date, including COVID-19, flu, hepatitis A, and typhoid (especially if visiting rural areas). Understanding COVID-19 in the Dominican Republic involves taking food and water safety seriously. Stick to bottled water and reputable restaurants to avoid travelers’ diarrhea, which remains common.
Unlike in 2021–2022, there are no curfews, no mask mandates, and no capacity limits. The Dominican Republic is fully open for tourism.
Entry Requirements for Dominican Republic Travel
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for the entire length of your stay. Special flexibility applies for visitors from the U.S., Canada, EU, UK, and select Latin American countries, where passports can remain valid through November 30, 2025.
- Round-Trip Ticket: Airlines require proof of return or onward travel before boarding flights to the DR.
- Tourist Card: Already included in airfare if you arrive by plane. Travelers arriving by land or sea may still need to purchase it on arrival.
- E-Ticket Form: All travelers (Dominican and foreign) must complete the free online e-Ticket form before arrival and departure. This replaces paper customs, health, and immigration forms. It’s quick, available in multiple languages, and generates a QR code.
Tip: Fill out your e-Ticket in advance to save time at the airport.
COVID-19 in the Dominican Republic: Safety Advice for Tourists
The Dominican Republic is a vibrant, welcoming country, but like many Caribbean destinations, it does come with safety considerations, especially when it comes to COVID-19 in the Dominican Republic.
- The U.S. State Department rates the DR at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, citing risks of robbery and assault, even in some tourist areas.
- Authorities advise sticking to resort zones, avoiding isolated areas at night, and not showing valuables in public.
- Official taxis, resort transfers, and pre-booked transportation are much safer than hailing cars on the street.
- Tap water is not safe to drink—always choose bottled or filtered water.
Despite these cautions, the Dominican Republic remains one of the most popular and safest destinations for family and resort travel in the Caribbean.
Tourism & Travel in 2025: Life After Covid
Tourism is back to full capacity across the country. Resorts, tours, and excursions are operating normally. Beaches, national parks, and attractions like Saona Island, Bavaro Beach, and 27 Charcos are fully open.
You’ll also find that many hotels and tour operators have kept the enhanced cleaning and safety protocols first introduced during the pandemic, giving travelers added peace of mind while navigating COVID-19 in the Dominican Republic.
Final Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Complete your e-Ticket before check-in.
- Carry your passport and return ticket when you arrive.
- Stick with bottled water and safe dining choices.
- Pre-book airport transfers and excursions for a stress-free trip.
The Dominican Republic continues to be one of the top Caribbean destinations in 2025. With updated entry rules and a strong focus on tourism safety, COVID-19 measures in the Dominican Republic ensure it’s the perfect year to enjoy this tropical paradise.
