Dominica

  • Last Updated Date: May 16, 2013 12:40 ET
  • Still Valid Date: May 25, 2013 07:50 ET
  • Latest Updates: An editorial change was made.

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Advisories

DOMINICA - Exercise a high degree of caution

There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Dominica. However, you should exercise a high degree of caution due to limited medical resources, generally poor road conditions, unreliable public transportation and moderate crime rates.



Security

The decision to travel is your responsibility. You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad. The purpose of this Travel Advice is to provide up-to-date information to enable you to make well-informed decisions.

Crime

Robberies and violent assaults have occurred near tourist facilities. Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Avoid unpatrolled beaches and unpopulated areas, especially after dark. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe.

Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear jewellery.

Petty crime increases during annual celebrations such as the Carnival in February and the Creole Music Festival in October.

Road travel

Traffic drives on the left. Roadside assistance is not widely available. Roads are narrow and steep with few guardrails. A lack of traffic signs, lane markings and warnings poses hazards. Roads outside the capital are unlit. Night driving should be undertaken with care. Road maps are essential. Car rentals are available. Purchase sufficient car insurance.

Air travel

Consult our Transportation Safety page in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

General safety information

You should use a guide for mountain expeditions.

Entry/Exit Requirements

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained from the Consulate General of the Commonwealth of Dominica. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is your responsibility to check with the Consulate General of the Commonwealth of Dominica, 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400H, New York, NY 10017, tel.: 212-599-8478, fax: 212-661-0979, email: domun@onecommonwealth.org for up-to-date information.

Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.

Passport

Canadians must present a passport to visit Dominica, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country. You must also have proof of an onward or return ticket.

All Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from Dominica by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more information, please see the Canada Border Services Agency’s website.

Visa

Tourist visa: Not required
Business visa: Not required
Student visa: Required

Airport tax

An airport tax is charged upon departure.

Children and travel

Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. Please consult our Children page for more information.

Yellow fever

Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before allowing entry. Consult the World Health Organization’s country list to obtain information on this country’s requirements.

Health

For the latest Travel Health Notices and information on vaccinations, outbreaks and diseases, consult the website of the Public Health Agency of Canada.

The Agency strongly recommends that you consult with a travel medicine clinic or health care provider preferably six weeks before departure.

The Agency publishes travel health advice for Dominica.

Laws & Culture

You are subject to local laws. Consult our Arrest and Detention FAQ for more information.

Illegal drugs

Possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana, may lead to large fines or imprisonment.

Laws

It is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in army or camouflage clothing or to carry items made of camouflage material.

Customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning the import or export of items such as business equipment, food and beverages, paints, varnishes and chemicals.

You may obtain a temporary driver's license from the police in Dominica.

Money

The currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD). U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

Disasters & Climate

The hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. The National Hurricane Center provides additional information on weather conditions. Stay informed of regional weather forecasts, and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.

The water level in Dominica's Boiling Lake has fluctuated in the recent past, and toxic fumes could be spewed out, making it dangerous for visitors to approach.

Dominica is located in an active seismic zone.

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Help Abroad

There is no resident Canadian government office in Dominica. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Bridgetown - High Commission of Canada
Address Bishop's Court Hill, St. Michael, P.O. Box 404, Bridgetown, Barbados BB11113 Telephone (246) 629-3550 Fax (246) 437-7436 Emailbdgtn-cs@international.gc.caInternetbarbados.gc.caServicesPassport Services Available

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados, and follow the instructions. You may also place a collect call to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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