Dominican Republic Introduces Travel Assistance Plan & Updates Safety Measures

On August 25th, the President of the Dominican Republic announced new and updated safety measures being taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and promote safe tourism as part of the “Responsible Tourism Recovery,” a travel assistance plan.

Some of these measures include the following:

• Beginning the end of September, all tourists visiting a hotel will be temporarily granted a travel assistance plan that will include emergency coverage, telemedicine services, accommodations for a prolonged stay, and flight change costs in the event that they test positive for COVID-19. This will be provided at no cost to the visitor until December 2020 and will be covered 100% by the Dominican State.
• At the end of September, the requirement to present a negative COVID-19 test performed prior to the visit will be removed. Instead, random rapid tests will be carried out upon arrival, such as the breath test.
• The use of masks and social distancing will be essential during the stay in the country.

The government also introduced additional protocols for suppliers, contractors, and employees at hotels that minimize and mitigate the risk of the virus. The protocols outlined in the “Responsible Tourism Recovery” plan are in the process of being certified by Safe Travels of the World Council of Travel and Tourism (WTTC) and Buró Veritas, both world leaders in certifications within the sector.

We will continue to share updates with you as we receive them.