Notice on governmental limitations on repatriation of remains.

Alert – U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo (April 7, 2020)

Location: Dominican Republic

Event: Notice on governmental limitations on repatriation of remains.

U.S. citizens and their families should note that due to the risks of COVID-19 as quarantinable, communicable disease, the Dominican government is currently only permitting cremated remains of COVID-19 victims to be repatriated to the United States. CDC guidance provides additional information.

U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return home or be prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. All U.S. citizens must follow the curfew and restrictions on public gatherings put in place by the Government of the Dominican Republic.

The following information has been updated on the Embassy Santo Domingo COVID-19 website:

The Dominican Republic has 1,956 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 98 confirmed deaths.

Actions to Take:

Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information and what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19.
Dial *462 to reach the COVID-19 hotline in the Dominican Republic for specific instructions if you have been exposed or are experiencing severe symptoms. Note: English-speaking operators are limited.
Check with the airlines directly regarding booking flights or changes to your travel plans. Flights are available to the United States through JetBlue and Delta.
Have a plan to depart from the Dominican Republic that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19for information on conditions in the Dominican Republic.
Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.govfor the latest travel information and other global impacts.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program(STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.