Do Canadians Need a Visa for the Dominican Republic? (2025–2026 Guide)
If you’re a Canadian planning a sunny getaway to Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Samaná, or Puerto Plata, you’re probably asking the most important question first: Do Canadians need a visa for the Dominican Republic?
In most vacation scenarios, the answer is no—but there are still a few must-do entry steps (like the free E-Ticket), plus rules that matter if you’re staying longer or arriving by cruise.
Quick answer
No—most Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist travel to the Dominican Republic. However, you will typically need:
- A valid Canadian passport
- A round-trip or onward ticket
- The Dominican Republic E-Ticket (entry/exit form)
Tip: Requirements can change, and airlines may apply strict boarding checks. Always confirm your documents before departure.
What Canadians need to enter the Dominican Republic (tourism checklist)
1) A valid passport
The Dominican Republic often lists a general “six-month validity” rule for passports, but there is also a special exception that applies to Canadian tourists (explained below).
2) A round-trip (or onward) ticket
Airlines may require proof you are leaving the Dominican Republic (a return flight or onward ticket) before allowing you to board.
3) A place to stay (address)
Be ready to provide the address where you’ll be staying (hotel, resort, Airbnb/villa, or family address).
4) Proof of funds (sometimes requested)
Border officials may ask you to show you have enough funds for your stay. This isn’t always requested, but it can happen.
5) The E-Ticket (required for commercial flights)
All foreign and Dominican passengers entering or departing the Dominican Republic on commercial flights must complete the free E-Ticket online and present the confirmation/QR code to the airline and authorities.
You can usually show it on your phone (screenshot works), or print it if you prefer.
Travel tip: Complete your E-Ticket as soon as you have flight details. It can be filled out well in advance—just make sure it’s done before you reach the airline counter.
Tourist card: do Canadians need it?
Yes, the tourist card still exists—but most travelers don’t purchase it separately.
- Entering by air: the tourist card cost is typically included in your airline ticket.
- Entering by sea: different procedures may apply at the port of entry.
Also, the E-Ticket does not replace the tourist card—it’s a separate requirement.
How long can Canadians stay in the Dominican Republic without a visa?
For typical tourism, Canadians are generally treated as visa-exempt visitors, but trip length matters.
If you’re planning more than a standard vacation (long winter stays, extended visits, etc.), you may need to handle it through an extension process or the appropriate permission for your situation.
Planning a longer stay? It’s best to confirm rules for your exact length of stay and travel purpose before you fly.
Passport validity rule for Canadians (2025–2026 update)
Here’s the nuance that often confuses travelers:
The Dominican Republic commonly states a general six-month passport validity guideline. However, Dominican immigration has extended a special measure for key tourism markets, including Canada.
- Valid from Dec 1, 2025 to Dec 31, 2026: Canadian tourists may enter as long as their passport remains valid during their stay and departure—waiving the usual six-month minimum requirement.
Even with this exception, it’s still smart not to travel with a passport that’s about to expire—unexpected delays happen, and airlines can be strict.
Arriving by cruise vs. arriving by flight
- Commercial flights: the E-Ticket is required.
- Cruise/private vessels: different paperwork may apply, and E-Ticket requirements can differ for non-commercial arrivals.
Common questions (Canadian travelers)
Do I need to print the E-Ticket?
You can usually present it digitally (phone screenshot) or printed—either is fine.
If my passport expires soon, can I still travel?
There is a Dominican immigration exception (through Dec 31, 2026) for Canadian tourists allowing entry if the passport is valid through the duration of stay/departure. Still, verify airline rules and avoid cutting it close if possible.
What if I want to stay longer?
If you plan a longer stay than a typical vacation, look into the correct extension process or permission type for your situation.
Final takeaway
Canadians usually do not need a visa for Dominican Republic vacations—but you do need to complete the free E-Ticket, travel with a valid passport (and understand the 2025–2026 validity exception), and have proof of onward/return travel.
If you’re staying longer than a standard trip, plan ahead so you’re covered properly.
