DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – The U.S. State Department has reissued a travel advisory for the Dominican Republic, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to concerns over crime.

Key Facts

• Advisory Level – The advisory was updated on June 12, 2025, and remains at a Level 2 on the State Department’s four-tier scale.
• Primary Concern – The main reason cited for the advisory is violent crime, including robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, which affects both tourists and locals.
• Not a Ban – A Level 2 advisory encourages heightened awareness and is not a travel ban (Level 4), which would advise U.S. citizens not to travel to the country.

The updated guidance comes as the summer travel season gets underway for a destination that attracted over two million U.S. visitors in 2023. While some media outlets have caused confusion by using the term “ban,” the official classification clarifies that the U.S. government is not prohibiting travel to the popular Caribbean nation.

What Does a Level 2 Advisory Actually Mean?

The State Department uses a four-level system to communicate travel risks to American citizens. A Level 2 advisory, or “Exercise Increased Caution,” indicates that travelers should be aware of heightened risks to their safety and security. It is a step above “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions” but falls short of the more serious “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” and “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

For comparison, other popular tourist destinations such as Italy, Germany, France, and Jamaica also currently hold a Level 2 advisory. The advisory for the Dominican Republic specifically points to persistent violent crime as a primary concern. The official notice states, “Violent crime is a concern in the Dominican Republic despite more police presence in areas often visited by tourists.” It also notes that criminals are “rarely caught and prosecuted.”

What Are the Specific Risks and Recommendations for Travelers?

The advisory highlights crimes such as armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault. It warns travelers to avoid displaying signs of wealth, like expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash, and to be cautious when using smartphones openly on the street.

The State Department provides several key safety tips for those who decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

• Pay close attention to your surroundings.
• If confronted by a robber, hand over personal belongings without resistance.
• Avoid leaving food or drinks unattended.
• Travel with a partner or in a group when possible.
• Be wary of meeting individuals from online platforms in secluded locations.

Travelers are also encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service allows the U.S. Embassy to provide security updates and locate citizens in an emergency. While tourist areas generally have a dedicated tourist police force (POLITUR) and private security at resorts, the advisory underscores the need for personal vigilance.

How Does This Affect Travel Plans?

The reissuance of the Level 2 advisory is a routine update and does not fundamentally change the U.S. government’s stance on travel to the Dominican Republic. Travel is not discouraged, but the advisory serves as an official reminder for Americans to remain aware of their environment.

The advisory notes that while tourist destinations are generally more policed, crime is a threat throughout the country affecting all residents. With millions of Americans expected to travel internationally this summer, understanding the nuances of these advisories is a key part of trip planning.