Dominican Republic
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
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Drug-related offenses, including those involving marijuana, carry severe penalties in the Dominican Republic.
Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and big fines.
§ US State DeptMedications
Confirm your medication is legal and listed by the Ministry of Public Health, carry it in original labeled packaging, and bring a copy of your prescription.
Medications not legal or listed locally may be confiscated or lead to legal trouble.
§ US State DeptWeapons
Traveling to the Dominican Republic with a firearm - or even a stray bullet or spent shell casing in your luggage - can get you arrested; U.S. citizens have been arrested in the Caribbean over shell casings in suitcases, and the U.S. Embassy cannot get you out of jail.
Steep fines, confiscation (including vehicles), prison, or a lifetime entry ban.
§ U.S. Department of StateCustoms & Cash
You must declare US$10,000 or more (or equivalent) both when entering and when leaving the Dominican Republic.
Undeclared currency can be seized and carry penalties.
§ US State DeptDriving
Seat belts and motorcycle helmets are required, and in car-vs-motorcycle collisions the car driver is usually found at fault regardless of circumstances.
Violators may be fined; after serious accidents drivers are often detained.
§ US State Dept