Dominican Republic at a glance
| Entry | 30 days · Longer stays pay on exit |
|---|---|
| Residency | Pensionado · USD 1,500/mo |
| VA presence | None · Beware fake "VA clinics" |
| Time zone | UTC-4 · Currency: peso |
| Cost of living | Roughly USD 1,300–2,200 a month. |
| Money · language · time | Dominican peso (DOP) · Spanish · UTC-4 |
Entering the Dominican Republic
30 days on entry. Longer stays are paid as an overstay fee when you leave. The e-Ticket form is required.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- Pensionado (Law 171-07): at least USD 1,500/month from a government or private pension, plus USD 250 per dependent.
- Rentista: USD 2,000/month.
VA care and benefits in the Dominican Republic
There are no VA facilities in Latin America. Care for service-connected conditions is reimbursed through the Foreign Medical Program. Be wary of any clinic that claims to be a "VA clinic". A Social Security Federal Benefits Unit is in Santo Domingo.
Vets in the Dominican Republic are already in the group
Ask about visas, hospitals and FMP claims from people who've done it there.
Healthcare
Private hospitals in Santo Domingo (CEDIMAT), Santiago (HOMS) and Punta Cana. Uneven in rural areas. Private insurance is advised.
Where veterans live
- Puerto Plata / Sosúa: Established expat community on the north coast.
- Santo Domingo: Capital, U.S. Embassy.
- Punta Cana: Resort area.
- Las Terrenas: Beach town on the Samaná peninsula.
Cost of living and property
Roughly USD 1,300–2,200 a month. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle, and health insurance is extra.
No restrictions on foreign ownership, but title fraud is common. Use a title search and a reputable lawyer.
Watch out for
Clinics falsely presenting themselves as VA-affiliated, and property title fraud.
Veteran organizations
None confirmed. See all veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
What does the Dominican Republic require for retirement residency?
A pension of at least USD 1,500 a month under Law 171-07, plus USD 250 per dependent.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.
