Dominica Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (included on parent's passport is not acceptable). If a child is traveling with only one parent or with someone other than their parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) or legal guardian(s). This letter should include: names and contact information of parents/guardians, child's details, travel dates, destination, and purpose of travel. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. Birth certificates may also be requested to prove relationship. Children are subject to the same entry requirements as adults, including visa requirements if applicable.

Dominica has strict regulations for importing pets. Requirements include: (1) Import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, Veterinary and Fisheries Division - apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel; (2) Valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry); (3) Health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of travel; (4) Certificate of origin; (5) Pets must be microchipped for identification; (6) Quarantine may be required depending on country of origin - typically 30 days but can vary; (7) Pets from rabies-free countries may have reduced quarantine requirements. Dogs and cats are most commonly permitted; other animals require special approval. All costs for quarantine, veterinary inspections, and permits are the owner's responsibility. Some breeds may be restricted.

The initial entry permit is typically 21 days. To extend your stay: (1) Visit the Immigration Department in Roseau before your current authorization expires; (2) Bring your passport, return ticket (may need to show new return date), proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds; (3) Extensions are typically granted in 1-month increments up to a maximum of 6 months total stay; (4) Fee applies for each extension (approximately XCD $50-100 depending on duration); (5) Processing can take several hours to a full day - arrive early; (6) Overstaying without authorization can result in fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans. For stays longer than 6 months, you may need to apply for a different visa category such as work permit, student visa, or residency. Contact the Immigration Department for specific requirements. Digital nomads and remote workers should inquire about extended stay options.

Business visitors entering for meetings, conferences, or short-term business activities can generally use the same visa-free entry or visa requirements as tourists. However, you should: (1) Clearly state 'business' as your purpose of visit on arrival card; (2) Carry invitation letter from Dominican company or organization; (3) Bring business registration documents and proof of employment; (4) Note that business visitors cannot engage in gainful employment or provide services for payment without a work permit. For extended business stays or actual work, a work permit is required from the Ministry of Labour, which requires employer sponsorship.

Students planning to study in Dominica (primarily at Ross University School of Medicine or other institutions) require a student visa/permit. Requirements include: (1) Letter of acceptance from educational institution; (2) Proof of financial means to support studies; (3) Valid passport; (4) Police clearance certificate; (5) Medical examination results; (6) Student visa application through Immigration Department. The educational institution typically assists with the application process. Researchers require special authorization and should work with their host institution or the Ministry of Education to obtain appropriate permits.

Cruise ship passengers on shore excursions typically receive a special shore pass rather than a standard entry stamp. Requirements: (1) Valid passport or approved travel document; (2) Cruise ship ID card; (3) Shore pass issued by ship (presented at port immigration); (4) Must return to ship before departure - overstaying can result in serious complications; (5) Shore pass is valid only for the duration of the ship's port call; (6) Same customs regulations apply - declare items as required. If you plan to stay in Dominica after the cruise departs, you must arrange this in advance with immigration authorities and meet standard entry requirements including onward travel proof.