Best Travel Insurance for Dominican Republic in 2025
- The best travel insurance for Dominican Republic
- Is it currently safe to travel to Dominican Republic?
- Is travel insurance required for a visa for the Dominican Republic?
- Why take out travel insurance for the Dominican Republic?
- Travel Insurance Coverage for Dominican Republic
- The cost of travel insurance for Dominican Republic
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Dominican Republic
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Dominican Republic?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Dominican Republic: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for the Dominican Republic covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens, but it is highly recommended for medical coverage.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is costly; a hospital night can easily exceed $1,000 for foreign visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for the Dominican Republic typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes trip cancellation coverage, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season (June-November).
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for the Dominican Republic.
The best travel insurance for Dominican Republic
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.0M | Best for full coverage in Dominican Republic. - high medical limit - includes repatriation - clear, modern guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.0M | Ideal for short trips with strong support and simple terms. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $0.5M | Practical choice for tourists seeking core protection. - solid medical cover - emergency assistance - accessible pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.7M | Balanced solution for stays in Dominican Republic with broad support. - repatriation coverage - hospital costs included - wide scope |
| Globe Partner | $0.3M | Basic but reliable for short-term, essential cover. - medical care - repatriation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | $0.5M | Meets basic travel needs at a moderate cost. - essential medical cover - quick reimbursement - suitable for brief trips |
- high medical limit
- includes repatriation
- clear, modern guarantees
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
- solid medical cover
- emergency assistance
- accessible pricing
- repatriation coverage
- hospital costs included
- wide scope
- medical care
- repatriation
- civil liability
- essential medical cover
- quick reimbursement
- suitable for brief trips
Is it currently safe to travel to Dominican Republic?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State assigns the Dominican Republic a Level 2 advisory, encouraging travelers from the United States to exercise increased caution due to crime and security concerns.
- Security risks: violent crime, including robbery and sexual assault, affects both locals and tourists throughout the country. Travelers in tourist areas such as Punta Cana or Santo Domingo should avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when meeting new acquaintances.
- Health risks: dengue, malaria, and tuberculosis are present, especially in rural provinces. Tap water is not safe for consumption in many areas, and up-to-date vaccinations are advised.
- Legal constraints: visits of up to 30 days require a tourist card, while longer stays need a visa. An electronic entry/exit ticket (eTicket) must be completed for each border crossing.
- Cultural norms: behavior such as traveling in a group, using bottled water for drinking and teeth brushing, and not leaving food or drinks unattended in public places is recommended for safety.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Dominican Republic.
Is travel insurance required for a visa for the Dominican Republic?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers to obtain a visa or to enter the Dominican Republic.
However, travel insurance is highly recommended because medical services for foreigners are usually provided in private clinics, which can require immediate payment and can be expensive if advanced care, hospitalization, or evacuation is needed.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Dominican Republic. This is due to crime risks, tropical disease exposure, and the high costs of emergency care or repatriation.
Why take out travel insurance for the Dominican Republic?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Dominican Republic.
In Dominican Republic, travelers often use private clinics such as Centro Médico Punta Cana or Hospiten Santo Domingo, where advanced care is expensive and immediate payment is required. Public hospitals are not always recommended due to resource limitations, and medical costs for non-residents can be substantial, especially for emergencies or complex treatments.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization, medications, ambulance transport, and repatriation to the US in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Dominican Republic.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Centro Médico Punta Cana | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 65,000 DOP (about $1,100 USD) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 42,000 DOP (about $710 USD) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 585,000 DOP (about $10,000 USD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 137,000 DOP (about $2,350 USD) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel Insurance Coverage for Dominican Republic
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Dominican Republic.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🩺 Medical expenses | Covers medical emergencies, doctor visits, surgery, and medication in private clinics, where upfront payment is required. For Dominican Republic, a recommended reimbursement limit is at least $100,000 due to high private healthcare costs. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for transport to the nearest capable facility or evacuation to the US, which can be necessary in critical situations. A minimum recommendation is $150,000 because air ambulance can be expensive. |
| 🏥 Hospitalization | Includes hospital stays, necessary tests, and specialist care, mainly in Santa Domingo or Punta Cana. Adequate limit is $50,000 per person. |
| 👨⚕️ Repatriation of remains | Covers the cost of returning remains to the US in case of death. A recommended benefit is at least $25,000. |
| 💼 Personal liability | Protects you if you unintentionally injure others or damage property. A suggested limit is $50,000. |
| 👜 Baggage and personal effects | Insurance against the loss, theft, or damage of luggage or valuables. Opt for a limit of $2,000 or higher, important in tourist areas. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Refunds prepaid expenses if you cancel or cut short your trip due to emergency, illness, or family problem. Limit this to the total value of your non-refundable bookings. |
| 🦠 Infectious disease coverage | Ensures coverage for treatment if you contract malaria, dengue, or hepatitis during your stay. Include with your medical expense coverage, no separate minimum needed. |
For Dominican Republic, a recommended reimbursement limit is at least $100,000 due to high private healthcare costs.
A minimum recommendation is $150,000 because air ambulance can be expensive.
Adequate limit is $50,000 per person.
A recommended benefit is at least $25,000.
A suggested limit is $50,000.
Opt for a limit of $2,000 or higher, important in tourist areas.
Limit this to the total value of your non-refundable bookings.
Include with your medical expense coverage, no separate minimum needed.
Travel insurance through local providers or included with some bank cards often has limited protection, low payout caps, and many exclusions. It is safer to rely on a trusted insurer with wider, more comprehensive coverage. Compare offers on HelloSafe and buy instantly online to receive certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Dominican Republic
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $23 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $36 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $53 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $110 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance policy is influenced by several key elements. These include your age, the length of your trip, your destination, the level of coverage you select, and any add-ons like a 'cancel for any reason' option. Keep these variables in mind to find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Dominican Republic
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Dominican Republic while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧑💼 Traveler's age | Age affects the premium, especially for travelers over 60. Some insurers keep prices fixed even for older adults. | The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, so compare age-based pricing. |
| 🗓 Trip duration | Insurance rates increase with trip length, which is essential to manage for vacations or longer stays in Dominican Republic. | For short trips, avoid annual plans and select per-trip coverage limited to your exact travel dates. |
| 🧳 Level of coverage | Medical expenses and baggage coverage are essential due to local risks and health system limitations. | Choose sufficient coverage, but avoid unnecessary add-ons that increase costs without added benefit. |
| 🎒 Activities included | Many visitors enjoy water sports or excursions that might not be included in standard plans. | Only add sports coverage if you will participate in high-risk activities, as it increases the price. |
| 📍 Location coverage | Regional or worldwide plans can differ in cost. Dominican Republic plans may be cheaper than broader options. | Select a plan specific to Dominican Republic or the Caribbean instead of worldwide coverage if possible. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travelers | Families and groups may access group discounts, reducing the individual price for all travelers. | Ask for family or group plans if traveling together, as insurers often provide group rate reductions. |
| 💰 Deductible amount | Higher deductibles can significantly lower premiums, but require more out-of-pocket expenses if you claim. | Choose a higher deductible to reduce your premium, but make sure you can afford the extra upfront payment. |
Important
Review every contract's exclusions, especially limitations in local healthcare and exclusions for risky activities. Ensure that your policy covers emergency evacuation and medical care, as private hospitals may require upfront payment.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Dominican Republic?
It’s natural to wonder if your existing coverage, such as private health insurance or credit card benefits, can protect you during a trip to Dominican Republic. Unfortunately, these options are often limited or insufficient for international travel. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Dominican Republic? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | No, never | No coverage for overseas hospital care or evacuation. | Travel insurance covers up to $100,000 in medical and evacuation expenses abroad. |
| Private health insurance | Yes, partly | Emergency treatment abroad may be reimbursed after return, often limited to $5,000–$10,000; no evacuation. | Travel insurance offers up to $100,000–$500,000 for hospital care and emergency assistance. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | Limited medical ($2,500–$10,000) and rarely baggage or trip cancellation. Excludes risky activities. | Travel insurance covers up to $100,000 including baggage, theft, and trip interruption. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Premier) | Yes, partly | Medical maximum of $25,000–$50,000, limited coverage for trip delay or lost baggage. | Travel insurance can include $100,000–$500,000 medical, strong evacuation and 24/7 support. |
Example
In Punta Cana, Mark contracted severe Dengue fever, leading to a $25,000 hospital bill for intensive care. His American Express Gold card offered no medical coverage, and his US health plan only reimbursed $2,000 for out-of-network care. He was unexpectedly responsible for the remaining $23,000 without specific travel insurance.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to purchase a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Dominican Republic?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days in Dominican Republic. However, you must have a passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date. A tourist card, which allows a 30-day stay, is usually included in your airline ticket price.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Dominican Republic?
Start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the right coverage. Carefully review each plan for specific benefits and exclusions related to Dominican Republic. Once you choose your policy, buy it online and you will receive your insurance certificate by email for travel documentation.
Are medical costs high in Dominican Republic for travelers?
Medical care in tourist areas is adequate, but private care can be expensive and may require payment up front. Hospitalization or medical evacuation can cost from $5,000 to over $50,000, so a travel insurance policy with high medical and evacuation limits provides critical financial protection during your stay.
Does travel insurance cover theft or loss of belongings in Dominican Republic?
Many travel insurance policies include coverage for theft, loss, or damage to your personal belongings and baggage. Be sure to check the maximum reimbursement amounts, which can range from $500 to $2,500 per item, and review any exclusions for unattended property or valuable electronics.
Is emergency assistance available with travel insurance in Dominican Republic?
Most reputable travel insurance policies provide a 24/7 emergency assistance hotline. This support can help with medical referrals, arranging hospital admission, emergency evacuation, or assistance with lost documents. Always keep your insurer’s contact information and policy number accessible while traveling.
Does travel insurance cover illnesses like dengue or malaria in Dominican Republic?
Standard travel insurance usually covers emergency medical treatment for illnesses such as dengue or malaria contracted during your trip, as long as they are not preexisting conditions. Ensure your plan covers hospitalization and medical evacuation, particularly if you plan to visit rural or remote areas where specialist care may not be available.
Do I need a visa to travel to Dominican Republic?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days in Dominican Republic. However, you must have a passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date. A tourist card, which allows a 30-day stay, is usually included in your airline ticket price.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Dominican Republic?
Start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the right coverage. Carefully review each plan for specific benefits and exclusions related to Dominican Republic. Once you choose your policy, buy it online and you will receive your insurance certificate by email for travel documentation.
Are medical costs high in Dominican Republic for travelers?
Medical care in tourist areas is adequate, but private care can be expensive and may require payment up front. Hospitalization or medical evacuation can cost from $5,000 to over $50,000, so a travel insurance policy with high medical and evacuation limits provides critical financial protection during your stay.
Does travel insurance cover theft or loss of belongings in Dominican Republic?
Many travel insurance policies include coverage for theft, loss, or damage to your personal belongings and baggage. Be sure to check the maximum reimbursement amounts, which can range from $500 to $2,500 per item, and review any exclusions for unattended property or valuable electronics.
Is emergency assistance available with travel insurance in Dominican Republic?
Most reputable travel insurance policies provide a 24/7 emergency assistance hotline. This support can help with medical referrals, arranging hospital admission, emergency evacuation, or assistance with lost documents. Always keep your insurer’s contact information and policy number accessible while traveling.
Does travel insurance cover illnesses like dengue or malaria in Dominican Republic?
Standard travel insurance usually covers emergency medical treatment for illnesses such as dengue or malaria contracted during your trip, as long as they are not preexisting conditions. Ensure your plan covers hospitalization and medical evacuation, particularly if you plan to visit rural or remote areas where specialist care may not be available.
