Santo Domingo.- Efforts to position the Dominican Republic as a premier destination for travelers continue, yet the nation still grapples with the absence of facilities for issuing arrival visas and electronic visas, setting it apart from other tourism powerhouses it competes with.

This deficiency contributes to the country’s low score in facilitating tourist visas, as highlighted by the UN Tourism Index. While 29% of countries grant visa-free access, the majority, constituting 71%, mandate traditional visa requirements for entry.

In 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Mirex) processed 107,066 visas through its consular offices globally, predominantly comprising Multiple Business (84,236), Simple Tourism (10,282), and Multiple Tourism (5,666) visas. However, despite the availability of electronic visa (e-Visa) processes for certain categories, applicants are still obliged to conclude the process in person, as reported by Diario Libre.

The e-Visa represents a crucial inclusion in the draft of Law 875-78 on Visas, currently under Mirex review. This category aims to align the Dominican Republic with international standards and streamline visa acquisition processes. According to Mirex’s 2023 reports, the adoption of e-Visas would bring the country on par with other nations.

Senator Franklin Romero, representing Duarte province, emphasizes the significance of digital advancements in visa issuance, particularly in bolstering initiatives like his proposal to promote digital nomad tourism. Romero identifies the current bureaucratic hurdles of in-person visa processing and advocates for electronic alternatives to enhance efficiency.

While awaiting deliberation in the Senate Tourism Commission, Romero underscores the necessity of e-Visas, especially for digital nomads who may require work visas with tailored privileges. The potential adoption of electronic visa systems stands to enhance the country’s tourism competitiveness and attractiveness to a global audience.