As of April 2005, the Dominican Republic requires travelers under the age of 18 at the time of departure to present written authorization from the parent(s). The written authorization must state that the parent(s) have given consent for the child to leave the country. The authorization must be written in Spanish and notarized at a Dominican Consulate in the United States.

If the child is traveling with at least one parent the written authorization is not necessary. Additionally, the Dominican immigration authorities have recently begun restricting the ability of children to depart the country with only a birth certificate, especially when the children are American citizens with Dominican heritage.

The embassy strongly urges that children who normally reside in the United States obtain a passport in the U.S. If the child's last name differs from the last name of the accompanying parent(s), proof of parentage is required. Parent's name change must be documented (i.e. marriage certificate).

If the minor is 14-17 on the day of departure, they must hold either a valid passport or a valid, official photo ID along with their birth certificate. Anyone under 18 on the day of departure will be denied boarding if not accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.

Please contact the Dominican Republic Tourist Board, Dominican Republic Embassy or Consulate for the most current requirements.