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AIG Travel Guard Insurance Review: What to Know

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Table of Contents

Coronavirus considerations

Travel insurance plans offered by aig travel guard, how to buy a travel guard policy, additional travel insurance options and add-ons, what’s not covered by a travel guard plan, who should get a travel guard insurance policy, travel guard, recapped.

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

As one of the world’s largest insurance companies and with a 100-year history, it makes sense that AIG would offer travel insurance. AIG’s travel insurance program, called Travel Guard, provides a number of coverage options to offer peace of mind on your trips.

Travel insurance helps you get some money back if anything goes wrong on your trip. If you’re thinking about buying coverage for an upcoming trip, first look into the coverage you may get from your travel credit cards . Many basic protections are offered on cards that you may already have.

If you’re looking for additional coverage, AIG travel insurance is a solid choice. Consumers Advocate rated AIG’s plans at 4.4 stars out of 5 stars.

» Learn more: The majority of Americans plan to travel in 2022

Importantly, if you catch COVID-19 before or during your trip, you will be covered under Travel Guard’s trip cancellation benefit. If you become sick with COVID-19 during the trip, the medical expenses and trip interruption benefits will kick in. However, Travel Guard considers COVID-19 a foreseen event and as a result, certain other coronavirus-related losses may not be covered. Given the constantly evolving travel environment, review the Travel Guard’s coronavirus coverage policies so that you’re award of what is and isn’t covered.

Here’s what you need to know about AIG's Travel Guard insurance plans.

AIG travel insurance’s Travel Guard plans cover you if you need to cancel (or interrupt) your trip due to illness, injury or death of a family member. Inclement weather that causes a trip delay or cancellation is covered by all Travel Guard policies as well.

Travel Guard offers three main AIG travel insurance plans, plus a host of add-on options. Here are the most essential benefits:

Travel Guard Essential - The most basic level of coverage

Covers 100% of the cost of your trip if it gets canceled or interrupted due to illness.

Includes a $100 per day reimbursement for any delays in your trip (max $500 total).

Covers up to $15,000 in medical expenses ($500 dental), plus a $150,000 maximum for emergency medical evacuation.

Covers up to $750 in compensation for stolen luggage and a maximum of $200 if your bags get delayed by more than 24 hours.

Travel Guard Preferred - This midlevel plan gives many of the same basic coverages as the Essential, but at higher levels.

Trip cancellation pays out at 100%. If your trip gets interrupted, you’ll get 150% of the cost of the trip.

Trips delayed by more than five hours will get you up to $800 ($200/day).

You’ll be covered up to $50,000 for medical expenses ($500 dental) and up to $500,000 for emergency evacuation.

This plan offers $1,000 for lost or stolen bags and $300 for baggage delays longer than 12 hours.

Travel Guard Deluxe - The biggest benefits can be found in this highest level plan.

Like the Preferred, you’ll get 100% coverage for trip cancellation and 150% of the cost of your insured trip in the event of a trip interruption.

Up to $1,000 ($200/day) for a trip delay of five hours or more.

Up to $100,000 for medical expenses ($500 dental), $1,000,000 for emergency evacuation and $100,000 in coverage for a flight accident.

Coverage for lost or stolen bags jumps up to $2,500 and $500 for baggage delay of more than 12 hours.

A long list of "Travel Inconvenience Benefits" are also included (such as runway delays, closed attractions, diversions, etc.)

This plan also offers roadside assistance coverage for the duration of your trip, which isn't included in the other two plans.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

Travel Guard’s website is simple to navigate and provides instant quotes that clearly spell out what's covered. You’ll need to enter basic information about the trip you want coverage for, including:

Destination.

How you’re getting there (airplane, cruise or other).

Travel dates.

Your home state.

Date of birth.

How much you paid for the trip.

The date when you paid for the trip.

Once you answer the questions, you’ll instantly get price quotes for different options of insurance for your trip. Each column clearly shows what’s covered for all options in a long list, so you can quickly compare.

This example shows options based on a two-week $5,000 trip to Spain for someone who is 40 years old. In this case, the mid-tier plan costs about 6% of the total trip cost.

It’s also important to know that plan offerings change based on what state you live in; not all states are covered.

If you purchase a Travel Guard plan and need to file a claim, you can do it on their website or by calling (866) 478-8222. You can also track the status of the payment of your claim on the site.

If you’re planning multiple trips that you would like covered, look at Travel Guard’s Annual Travel Insurance Plan. This 12-month option covers multiple trips and could save you money over insuring each trip separately.

Another option is the "Pack and Go" plan, which is a good choice if you’re going on a last-minute getaway and don’t need trip cancellation protection.

There are also options to add rental vehicle damage coverage, Cancel For Any Reason coverage, and medical and security bundles to the plans. You’ll be able to select these add-ons when you’re purchasing a policy.

» Learn more: Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) travel insurance explained

While the Essential, Preferred and Deluxe plans all offer varying degrees of coverage for your trip, there are some things that won’t be covered by any of the plans. Here are a few highlights of things that aren't included; you’ll find full lists on each policy:

Coverage for trips paid for with frequent flyer miles or loyalty rewards programs: Travel Guard will only protect the trips you pay for with cash. If you’re redeeming your points for that bucket list trip, unfortunately, you won’t qualify for coverage. However, the cost of redepositing miles back into your account is covered.

Baggage loss for eyeglasses, contact lenses, hearing aids or false teeth: These items should be kept with you in your carry-on as a general rule, since a Travel Guard policy won’t cover them.

Known events: If you knowingly book a trip with some inherent risks, it won’t be covered. For example, once the National Weather Service issues a warning for a hurricane, it becomes a known event. Once COVID-19 became a pandemic, it was categorized as a foreseeable event and was no longer covered. You can cancel the policy you purchase up to 15 days prior to your trip to receive a refund for the premium paid.

» Learn more: Does travel insurance cover award flights?

Many trips may be sufficiently covered by your credit card benefits, but you should do research to see which cards provide the best options (and remember to use that card to book the trip).

However, if you’re planning major international travel or embarking on a big cruise trip, Travel Guard's Preferred and Deluxe plans may offer better coverage than your credit card. Overall, Travel Guard plans offer a variety of coverage options with an easy-to-navigate website that could be a good fit for your next trip.

If you’re not finding what you’re looking for with a Travel Guard plan, check out an insurance comparison site like Squaremouth, where you will have a lot of different plan options to choose from.

» Learn more: Is travel insurance worth it?

Travel Guard offers several trip insurance plans with varying degrees of coverage. Some plans also allow you to purchase optional upgrades such as CFAR and auto rental coverage. Plan availability differs by state, so make sure you input your trip details to see what plans are available to you.

If you have a premium travel credit card, you may already have some elements of travel insurance coverage included for free. Before you decide to purchase a comprehensive policy, check what coverage you may already have from your credit card.

Travel Guard’s insurance plans offer trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical coverage and evacuation, baggage delay, baggage loss, and more. Some policies may also allow you to add on benefits like Cancel For Any Reason and car rental damage coverage.

If you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason (e.g., unforeseen sickness or injury of you or your family member, required work, victim of a crime, inclement weather, financial default of travel supplier, etc.) you will be covered. To see the whole list of covered reasons, refer to the terms and conditions of your policy.

To get a refund, you will need to file a claim by either calling (866) 478-8222 or submitting it online at its claims page . You may be required to provide verifying documentation to substantiate your claims so keep any receipts that you intend to submit. You can also check the status of your claim at any time on Travel Guard’s website .

The Cancel For Any Reason optional upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans. Travel Guard’s CFAR add-on allows you to cancel a trip for any reason whatsoever and get 50%-75% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days prior to the scheduled departure date.

To get a refund, you will need to file a claim by either calling (866) 478-8222 or submitting it online

at its claims page

. You may be required to provide verifying documentation to substantiate your claims so keep any receipts that you intend to submit. You can also check the status of your claim at any time

on Travel Guard’s website

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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COVID-19 Updates

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, AIG remains focused on protecting the health and safety of our colleagues and those around us, as well as continuing to serve clients, policyholders, business partners and other stakeholders.

AIG is open for business. The company has activated its  Business Continuity Plans  (PDF) and colleagues across our General Insurance and Life & Retirement businesses remain available to help meet the needs of clients and other business partners with both in-force and new business. Our call centers also remain accessible to provide support and information.

Helping individuals, businesses and communities prepare for times of uncertainty is at the heart of what we do. We are closely monitoring this evolving situation and will continue to provide updates.

For Travel Insurance Policyholders

AIG is committed to providing our valued customers with service and support to enhance their travel experiences.  Amidst the spread of COVID-19, we are also committed to providing our customers and other stakeholders with as much information as possible to make informed decisions given this evolving situation.  We are in contact with the Centers for Disease Control, the World Health Organization and other medical professionals as we continue to closely monitor developments. In addition to consulting with governmental agencies in the United States and around the world, AIG is monitoring guidance issued by state insurance regulators, who have primary jurisdiction over AIG’s travel insurance policies issued in the United States. AIG has developed resources that can be found on the Travel Guard® website, including frequently asked questions about travel insurance and COVID-19.  If you are a Travel Guard travel insurance policy holder, please read these  FAQs .  You can modify your policy, request a premium refund or voucher, or file a claim through our   online resource center .  And you can access information regarding  travel health and Coronavirus  generally. We remain committed to supporting our customers, partners, employees and other stakeholders during this uncertain and challenging time and we will continue to provide updates on this situation.

For Life and Health Policyholders

To Our Customers: We want you to know that we’ve been thinking about our customers like you who may be affected by the global pandemic and economic challenges we all face right now. To ease any worry you may have about your life or health* insurance coverage during these trying times we are extending grace periods so you have additional time to pay your premiums.

Specifically, we implemented a temporary grace period extension of 90 days for policies with premium payments due, or for policies in the grace period, between March 11, 2020 and July 1, 2020. This means if you are unable to make a premium payment on time between March 11 and July 1, 2020, you will have an additional 90 days beyond the standard lapse date in order to become current on premium payments. All premiums due must be received before the end of the extended grace period to continue your coverage. This 90-day grace period extension option will not be offered after July 1, 2020. Some states/jurisdictions have different requirements regarding accommodations available after July 1, 2020. We want you to know we will honor these requirements. See below for state-specific variations. While this temporary extension of the grace period is in place, your coverage will not lapse or terminate because of lack of premium payment. However, missing payments can impact your policy in different ways, so please speak to your financial professional about your options. Additionally, during this 90-day period it is possible that you could receive a lapse notice for your policy. We are working on system changes to prevent this, but like most businesses, these unprecedented times are giving us new challenges we could not have imagined a few short weeks ago. While we encourage you to continue to make payments on your insurance policy, if you're unable to pay your total past-due premium before the end of the extended grace period, please contact us to discuss your premium due and payment options. Thank you for your business and your loyalty, and please accept our best wishes for you and your family. * Applicable to health coverage with American General Life Insurance Company and the United States Life Insurance Company in the City of New York. State-Specific Variations: Accommodations available after July 1, 2020 Unless otherwise noted with *, these accommodations will be available for the duration of each state’s state of emergency or executive order related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For Property Casualty Policyholders

Premium Billing Assistance The AIG insurance companies that underwrite your insurance policy are committed to providing you with as much information as possible to assist you during the rapidly evolving situation related to COVID-19. First and foremost, it is our sincere hope that you, your colleagues and your families are safe and healthy. We have taken precautions to protect our workforce while activating Business Continuity Plans designed to allow us to continue to serve you and other customers, policyholders and stakeholders without significant disruption. AIG understands that policyholders may be experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic and may have questions concerning the payment of premium.  If you are experiencing demonstrable financial hardship due to COVID-19, you may be eligible for extended payment terms or other relief.  Please reach out to your agent or broker to discuss payment plan options, extensions to current policies that are being non-renewed, and other ways to prevent a policy cancellation for nonpayment of premium.  You can also contact us directly at (888) 978-5371 if you are a personal lines policyholder or (866) 457-9482 if you are a commercial lines policyholder. For  New Jersey Policyholders . For certain  New York Policyholders  and their  Producers .

For Major Medical Policyholders

For insureds covered by a Major Medical, Excess Major Medical or Catastrophic Major Medical policy ("Major Medical Policy(ies)") underwritten by American General Life Insurance Company or The United States Life Insurance Company in the City of New York: A State of Emergency has been declared with respect to the COVID-19 health crisis. In response to the Covid-19 State of Emergency, AIG is taking certain steps with regard to its Major Medical Policies which include its Excess Major Medical, its Catastrophic Major Medical policies and its Major Medical Policies issued by American General Life Insurance Company and The United States Life Insurance Company in the City of New York. In an effort to remove any potential barriers to care related to COVID-19, AIG will waive deductible and coinsurance for services to diagnose or rule out COVID-19, including diagnostic testing, office visits, telemedicine, urgent care visits,  emergency room visits and certain COVID-19 preventative measures, including vaccines and antibody testing when they become available.  Additionally, once COVID-19 is diagnosed, deductible and coinsurance cost-sharing will be waived for the treatment of COVID-19 and associated respiratory illnesses. Frequently Asked Questions Q: Will AIG cover the cost of COVID-19 testing for insureds? A:  Yes. If you are insured under an inforce Major Medical Policy, AIG will waive the deductible and coinsurance related to COVID-19 testing during this COVID-19 State of Emergency. This includes diagnostic testing, office visits, telemedicine, urgent care visits and emergency room visits. Q: Will AIG cover the cost of COVID-19 treatment for insureds? A:  Yes. AIG will waive the deductible and coinsurance related to the treatment of COVID-19 and associated respiratory illnesses during this COVID-19 State of Emergency. Q: What coverage is this applicable to? A:  This is only applicable to AIG’s Major Medical Policies which include its Excess Major Medical, its Catastrophic Major Medical policies and its Major Medical Policies issued by American General Life Insurance Company and The United States Life Insurance Company in the City of New York. Q: When is this COVID-19 coverage effective? A:  This coverage decision became effective 3/1/2020 and will last for the duration of this COVID-19 State of Emergency. Q: When will this COVID-19 coverage end? A:  This expanded coverage will be in place until the current declared national COVID-19 State of Emergency is lifted, or later if your state remains in a state of emergency beyond the national COVID-19 State of Emergency. Q: Are these policy provisions being waived for any other conditions? A:  No. Charges for services rendered for all other medical conditions will be processed in accordance with all of the provisions of your Major Medical Policy. Please refer to your policy or certificate. Q: Are any other policy provisions being waived related to COVID-19? A:  No other policy provisions are waived related to COVID-19. However, AIG has implemented a temporary grace period extension of 90 days for policies with premium payments due, or for policies in the grace period, between March 11, 2020 and July 1, 2020. This means if you are unable to make a premium payment on time between March 11 and July 1, 2020, you will have an additional 90 days beyond the standard lapse date in order to become current on premium payments. This extended grace period is available to you as a Major Medical Policyholder.

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Resources and Information for Florida Residents

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation advises that you may obtain information regarding the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 from:

• Florida Department of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Retirement Planning During Market Volatility

We understand that people may be anxious about their retirement savings during the current market volatility. Regardless of where you are in your life or career, there are things you can do to help keep your emotions in check and make sure you’re making smart retirement planning decisions when the markets are volatile. AIG Retirement Services CEO Rob Scheinerman shares his thoughts on how to make informed financial planning decisions during these uncertain times.  Click here to read his LinkedIn article .

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Travel Guard ® Direct

√  20% Off (Single Trip Plan). Promo Code: AIGST20OFF

√  Luggage & travel data (Annual Multi-Trip Plan). Promo Code: AIGTGD

√  Promo till 12 June 2024

Make a claim

• Renew Annual Travel
• Make Changes to Your Travel Policy
• Request for Proof of Cover Letter

Current Promotion

May Travel Sales Promotion

Use promo code: aigst20off for single trip plans, use promo code:  aigtgd for annual multi-trip plans .

Promotion is valid till 12 June 2024 .  T&Cs apply.

AIG Travel Assistance Services

Get 24/7 travel assistance exclusively to AIG policyholders. We operate globally across 8 service centres, with a team that is proficient in over 40 languages , providing comprehensive support for travel or medical emergencies abroad. 

Top 3 reasons to buy Travel Guard® Direct

QUICK QUOTE

To get a quick quote, select the destination you are travelling to:.

SINGLE TRIP COVERAGE

The maximum length of each insured trip is 182 days.

ANNUAL COVERAGE

The Insured Policyholder(s) will be covered for an unlimited number of trips made during the Policy Period. The maximum length of each insured trip is 90 days

Policy Type

The policy type shows which people are insured under the policy. You can choose from either Individual or Family cover.

If you choose Individual cover this policy insures you only.

If you choose Family cover this policy insures you and/or your spouse and/or your children.

• Under a Per Trip policy, the family must depart from and return to Singapore on the same itinerary together as a family for cover to apply.
• Under an Annual Multi-Trip policy, cover will apply to you or your spouse whilst travelling separately of each other; however your children must be accompanied by you and/or your spouse for the entire trip for cover to apply.

Group/ Couple

Select this option if you have individuals travelling together on the same dates and to the same destination.

For Group/ Couple up to a maximum of 10 individual policies on the same transaction.

Region 2 Destinations

Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Vietnam

Argentina, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, China (excluding Tibet), Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong SAR - China, India, Kuwait, Macau SAR - China, Maldives, Mexico, Mongolia, Nicaragua, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Taiwan - China, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, Venezuela

Region 3 Destinations

Region 1, Region 2, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Nepal, Tibet - China and the rest of the world.

(Exclude Cuba, Iran, Syria, North Korea or the Crimea region)

Modal Message

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travelCoverageType

We do not provide Annual Multi Trip for Group

travelPolicyType

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Please select region of travel

Please provide start date

Please provide end date

Please select if you are going on a cruise

Please select if only 1 adult is travelling

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less than or equal to

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greater than or equal to

Please enter age of at least 2 travellers

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Key Benefits

Before you buy, travel alerts, testimonials.

      COVID-19 Benefits & FAQ

This policy is protected under the Policy Owners’ Protection Scheme which is administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). Coverage for your policy is automatic and no further action is required from you. For more information on the types of benefits that are covered under the scheme as well as the limits of coverage, where applicable, please contact AIG Asia Pacific Insurance Pte. Ltd. or visit the AIG, GIA or SDIC websites ( www.AIG.sg  or  www.gia.org.sg  or  www.sdic.org.sg ).

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• Policy Wording (issued on/after 24 September 2022)
• Policy Wording (issued on/before 23 September 2022)

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Executive Order on Promoting COVID- ⁠ 19 Safety in Domestic and International   Travel

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows: 

Section 1.  Policy.  Science-based public health measures are critical to preventing the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by travelers within the United States and those who enter the country from abroad.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Surgeon General, and the National Institutes of Health have concluded that mask-wearing, physical distancing, appropriate ventilation, and timely testing can mitigate the risk of travelers spreading COVID-19.  Accordingly, to save lives and allow all Americans, including the millions of people employed in the transportation industry, to travel and work safely, it is the policy of my Administration to implement these public health measures consistent with CDC guidelines on public modes of transportation and at ports of entry to the United States.   

Sec. 2.  Immediate Action to Require Mask-Wearing on Certain Domestic Modes of Transportation.

(a)  Mask Requirement.   The Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)), the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard), and the heads of any other executive departments and agencies (agencies) that have relevant regulatory authority (heads of agencies) shall immediately take action, to the extent appropriate and consistent with applicable law, to require masks to be worn in compliance with CDC guidelines in or on: 

(i)    airports; 

(ii)   commercial aircraft; 

(iii)  trains; 

(iv)   public maritime vessels, including ferries; 

(v)    intercity bus services; and

(vi)   all forms of public transportation as defined in section 5302 of title 49, United States Code.

(b)  Consultation.   In implementing this section, the heads of agencies shall consult, as appropriate, with interested parties, including State, local, Tribal, and territorial officials; industry and union representatives from the transportation sector; and consumer representatives.

(c)  Exceptions.   The heads of agencies may make categorical or case-by-case exceptions to policies developed under this section, consistent with applicable law, to the extent that doing so is necessary or required by law.  If the heads of agencies do make exceptions, they shall require alternative and appropriate safeguards, and shall document all exceptions in writing.

(d)  Preemption.  To the extent permitted by applicable law, the heads of agencies shall ensure that any action taken to implement this section does not preempt State, local, Tribal, and territorial laws or rules imposing public health measures that are more protective of public health than those required by the heads of agencies. 

(e)  Coordination.  The Coordinator of the COVID-19 Response and Counselor to the President (COVID-19 Response Coordinator) shall coordinate the implementation of this section.  The heads of agencies shall update the COVID-19 Response Coordinator on their progress in implementing this section, including any categorical exceptions established under subsection (c) of this section, within 7 days of the date of this order and regularly thereafter.  The heads of agencies are encouraged to bring to the attention of the COVID-19 Response Coordinator any questions regarding the scope or implementation of this section.

Sec. 3.  Action to Implement Additional Public Health Measures for Domestic Travel. 

(a)  Recommendations.   The Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the FAA) and the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the TSA and the Commandant of the Coast Guard), in consultation with the Director of CDC, shall promptly provide to the COVID-19 Response Coordinator recommendations concerning how their respective agencies may impose additional public health measures for domestic travel.

(b)  Consultation.   In implementing this section, the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall engage with interested parties, including State, local, Tribal, and territorial officials; industry and union representatives from the transportation sector; and consumer representatives.  

Sec. 4.  Support for State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Authorities.  The COVID-19 Response Coordinator, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation and the heads of any other relevant agencies, shall promptly identify and inform agencies of options to incentivize, support, and encourage widespread mask-wearing and physical distancing on public modes of transportation, consistent with CDC guidelines and applicable law.

Sec. 5.  International Travel. 

(a)  Policy.   It is the policy of my Administration that, to the extent feasible, travelers seeking to enter the United States from a foreign country shall be: 

(i)   required to produce proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test prior to entry; and 

(ii)  required to comply with other applicable CDC guidelines concerning international travel, including recommended periods of self-quarantine or self-isolation after entry into the United States.

(b)  Air Travel.  

(i)    The Secretary of HHS, including through the Director of CDC, and in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the FAA) and the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the TSA), shall, within 14 days of the date of this order, assess the CDC order of January 12, 2021, regarding the requirement of a negative COVID-19 test result for airline passengers traveling into the United States, in light of subsection (a) of this section.  Based on such assessment, the Secretary of HHS and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take any further appropriate regulatory action, to the extent feasible and consistent with CDC guidelines and applicable law.  Such assessment and regulatory action shall include consideration of: 

(A)  the timing and types of COVID-19 tests that should satisfy the negative test requirement, including consideration of additional testing immediately prior to departure; (B)  the proof of test results that travelers should be required to provide; (C)  the feasibility of implementing alternative and sufficiently protective public health measures, such as testing, self-quarantine, and self-isolation on arrival, for travelers entering the United States from countries where COVID-19 tests are inaccessible, particularly where such inaccessibility of tests would affect the ability of United States citizens and lawful permanent residents to return to the United States; and (D)  measures to prevent fraud.

(ii)   The Secretary of HHS, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the FAA) and the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the TSA), shall promptly provide to the President, through the COVID-19 Response Coordinator, a plan for how the Secretary and other Federal Government actors could implement the policy stated in subsection (a) of this section with respect to CDC-recommended periods of self-quarantine or self-isolation after a flight to the United States from a foreign country, as he deems appropriate and consistent with applicable law.  The plan shall identify agencies’ tools and mechanisms to assist travelers in complying with such policy.

(iii)  The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of HHS (including through the Director of CDC), the Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the FAA), and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall seek to consult with foreign governments, the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Air Transport Association, and any other relevant stakeholders to establish guidelines for public health measures associated with safe international travel, including on aircraft and at ports of entry.  Any such guidelines should address quarantine, testing, COVID-19 vaccination, follow-up testing and symptom-monitoring, air filtration requirements, environmental decontamination standards, and contact tracing.  

(c)  Land Travel.  The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of HHS, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Director of CDC, shall immediately commence diplomatic outreach to the governments of Canada and Mexico regarding public health protocols for land ports of entry.  Based on this diplomatic engagement, within 14 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of HHS (including through the Director of CDC), the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the President a plan to implement appropriate public health measures at land ports of entry.  The plan should implement CDC guidelines, consistent with applicable law, and take into account the operational considerations relevant to the different populations who enter the United States by land.

(d)  Sea Travel.  The Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Commandant of the Coast Guard and in consultation with the Secretary of HHS and the Director of CDC, shall, within 14 days of the date of this order, submit to the President a plan to implement appropriate public health measures at sea ports.  The plan should implement CDC guidelines, consistent with applicable law, and take into account operational considerations.  

(e)  International Certificates of Vaccination or Prophylaxis.  Consistent with applicable law, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of HHS, and the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the TSA), in coordination with any relevant international organizations, shall assess the feasibility of linking COVID-19 vaccination to International Certificates of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) and producing electronic versions of ICVPs.  

(f)  Coordination.  The COVID-19 Response Coordinator, in consultation with the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, shall coordinate the implementation of this section.  The Secretary of State, the Secretary of HHS, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall update the COVID-19 Response Coordinator on their progress in implementing this section within 7 days of the date of this order and regularly thereafter.  The heads of all agencies are encouraged to bring to the attention of the COVID-19 Response Coordinator any questions regarding the scope or implementation of this section.

Sec. 6.  General Provisions.   (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE, January 21, 2021.

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last updated March 13, 2024 6:00 PM EST

Coronavirus: Latest DoD Guidance

The Defense Department continually provides information and resources on a variety of coronavirus-related subjects for members of the DOD community and the general public. For vaccine guidance information, please see the section at the bottom of this page.

I want information on

Civilian personnel guidance.

March 17, 2022

see April 6, 2022 release "Consolidated Department of Defense Coronavirus Disease 2019 Force Health Protection Guidance"

Oct. 4, 2021

May 7, 2021

Nov. 30, 2020

Oct. 27, 2020

Sept. 14, 2020

May 6, 2020

March 30, 2020

March 8, 2020

Defense Industrial Base

April 4, 2022

Updated: see April 4, 2022 Infographic

Feb. 23, 2021

Jan. 14, 2021

March 20, 2020

Elective Surgery

May 21, 2020

May 20, 2020

Supersedes March 24 memo

May 19, 2020

March 24, 2020

Superseded by May 19 memo

Force Health Protection Guidance

Rescinds FHP Revision 5 , dated March 24, 2023

July 26, 2023

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance – Revision 4 , dated Jan. 30, 2023

Rescinded, see July 26, 2023 USD(P&R) Memo “Force Health Protection Guidance-Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Other Infectious Respiratory Diseases”

March 24, 2023

Accompanying press release, Jan. 31, 2023

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 3 , dated Aug. 29, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance Revision 5, dated March 24, 2023

Jan. 30, 2023

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 2 , dated Aug. 8, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 4 , dated Jan. 30, 2023

Aug. 29, 2022

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance-Revision 1 , dated June 29, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance-Revision 3 , dated Aug. 29, 2022

Aug. 8, 2022

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 1 , dated June 29, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 3 , dated Aug. 29, 2022

Accompanying press release, July 7, 2022

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance , dated April 4, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 2 , dated Aug. 8, 2022

June 29, 2022

Consolidates, incorporates, and rescinds multiple policies and guidances

Accompanying press release, April 6, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 1 , dated June 29, 2022

Consolidates, incorporates, and rescinds multiple previously issued policies and guidances

Updated: see “Consolidated DoD Coronavirus Disease 2019 Force Health Protection Guidance - Revision 1”, June 29, 2022

April 6, 2022

Department of Defense Guidance for Personnel Traveling During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Supplements (Supplement 18) Revision 1

Supplements Secretary of Defense Memorandum

Rescinds and replaces (Supplement 20)

Rescinds and replaces (Supplement 16) Revision 1

Jan. 11, 2022

Department of Defense Guidance for Protecting All Personnel in DOD Workplaces During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Rescinds and replaces (Supplement 18)

Supplemented by (Supplement 20) Revision 1

Jan. 7, 2022

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Labratory Testing Services

Rescinds and replaces (Supplement 15) Revision 2

Dec. 30, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Attestation, Screening Testing, and Vaccination Verification

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 23, Revision 2

Supplemented by 18-1 (Jan. 7, 2022 release)

Dec. 20, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Attestation, Screening Testing, and Vaccination Verification (Updated)

(corrected copy of Oct. 29 memo )

Rescinded and replaced; see Force Health Protection Guidance Supplement 23, Revision 3

Nov. 15, 2021

(for corrected copy of Oct. 29 memo, see Nov. 15 release )

Rescinded and replaced; see Force Health Protection Supplement 15, Revision 3

Nov. 1, 2021

Rescinded and replaced: see Force Health Protection Guidance Supplement 23, Revision 2

Oct. 18, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Attestation and Screening Testing for Unvaccinated Personnel

DD Form 3150 (Certification of Vaccination)

Rescinded: see Force Health Protection Guidance Supplement 23, Revision 1

Sept. 7, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Surveillance and Screening Testing

Rescinds Supplement 11

July 21, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Laboratory Testing Services

Rescinds Supplement 15, Revision 1

complemented by Supplement 22

July 2, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for the Use of Masks, Personal Protective Equipment, and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds Supplement 17

Supplements Secretary of Defense Feb. 4, 2021 Memorandum, “Use of Masks and Other Public Health Measures”

Supplements Deputy Secretary of Defense May 13, 2021 Memorandum, “Updated Mask Guidelines for Vaccinated Persons”

Rescinded; see March 1, 2022, USD(P&R) memo “Updated Guidance for Mask and Screening Testing for all Department of Defense Installations and Other Facilities”

June 22, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Deployment and Redeployment of Individuals and Units During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 16

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 20, Revision 1 (Jan. 11, 2022 release)

May 4, 2021

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 14

April 12, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Movement and Medical Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients, Symptomatic Persons Under Investigation, or Persons Potentially Exposed to the Coronavirus Disease 2019

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 5

March 25, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Protecting All Personnel in Department of Defense Workplaces During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds Supplement 8

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 18, Revision 1 (Jan. 7, 2022 release)

March 17, 2021

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 7

Rescinded, see Supplement 17, Revision 1

Department of Defense Guidance for Deployment and Redeployment of Individuals and Units during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds Supplement 9

Rescinded; see Supplement 16 - Revision 1

March 16, 2021

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 15

March 15, 2021

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 15, Revision-1

Jan. 11, 2021

Supplements requirements in Supplement 8

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 12

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 1

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 20

Dec. 29, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Clinical Laboratory Diagnostic Testing Services

Rescinds Supplement 10

Rescinded; see Supplement 15

Aug. 24, 2020

Rescinds Supplement 4

Rescinded; see Supplement 14

Aug. 6, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Surveillance and Screening with Testing

Rescinded; see Supplement 22

June 11, 2020

Rescinds Supplement 6

Rescinded; see Supplement 13

Department of Defense Guidance for Deployment and Redeployment of Individuals and Units During the Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinded; see Supplement 16

May 26, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Protecting Personnel in Workplaces During the Response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Requirements supplemented in Supplement 14

Rescinded; see Supplement 18

April 13, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Use of Cloth Face Coverings, Personal Protective Equipment, and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds Supplement 3

Rescinded and replaced, see Supplement 17

April 8, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Laboratory Testing Diagnostic Services

Rescinded; see Supplement 10

April 7, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Movement and Medical Treatment of COVID-19 Patients, Symptomatic Persons Under Investigation, or Potentially Exposed COVID-19 Persons

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 21

Department of Defense Guidance for Personnel Traveling During the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak

Rescinded; see Supplement 12

March 11, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for the Use of Personal Protective Equipment and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Outbreak

Rescinded; see Supplement 7

March 10, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Military Installation Commanders' Risk-Based Measured Responses to the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak

Rescinded; see April 29, 2021 memo "Guidance for Commanders on Risk-based Responses and Implementation of the Health Protection Condition Framework"

Feb. 25, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Personnel Returning from China During the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak

Feb. 7, 2020

Jan. 30, 2020

General Guidance

April 18, 2023

March 1, 2022

Dec 30, 2021

Rescinds May 13, 2021 memo

(additional information: release )

Rescinded; see release March 1, 2022 USD(P&R) memo “Updated Guidance for Mask and Screening Testing for all Department of Defense Installations and Other Facilities”

July 28, 2021

June 10, 2021

June 7, 2021

Supplemented, see June 21, 2021 Force Health Protection Guidance Supplement 17, Revision 1 memo

May 13, 2021

Rescinds April 5, 2020 memo

Updated, see May 13, 2021 memo

Feb. 4, 2021

Dec. 3, 2020

Nov. 19, 2020

July 20, 2020

Rescinded; see Feb. 4, 2021 release and memo

April 5, 2020

Jan. 31, 2020

Health Protection Condition Levels

Rescinds Force Health Protection Supplement 2

Rescinds Secretary of Defense April 1, 2020 memo "Guidance for Commanders on the Implementation of the Risk-Based Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic"

Rescinds Secretary of Defense May 19, 2020 memo "Guidance for Commanders on Risk-Based Changing of Health Protection Condition Levels During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic"

April 29, 2021

Supplements Secretary's April 1 memo "Guidance for Commanders on the Implementation of the Risk-Based Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic"

Rescinded, see April 29, 2021 memo "Guidance for Commanders' Risk-Based Responses and Implementation of the Health Protection Condition Framework"

Military Personnel Guidance

Accompanying press release, Feb. 24, 2023

Feb. 24, 2023

Rescinds Secretary Austin’s Aug. 24, 2021 memo Mandatory Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination of Department of Defense Service Members

Rescinds Secretary Austin’s Nov. 30, 2021 memo Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination for Members of the National Guard and the Ready Reserve

Jan. 10, 2023

Rescinded, see Jan. 10, 2023 release: DOD Rescinds COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate

Nov. 30, 2021

Accompanying press release: Aug. 25, 2021

Aug. 24, 2021

July 1, 2020

June 30, 2020

Cancelled; see March 16, 2021 release (Travel Restrictions)

June 29, 2020

April 23, 2020

April 16, 2020

April 9, 2020

March 26, 2020

March 23, 2020

Moving During COVID-19 (PCS)

Pentagon personnel guidance.

Mar. 3, 2023

(CDC COVID data tracker, Arlington County, VA)

June 17, 2022

Sept. 14, 2022

May 4, 2022

Mar. 2, 2022

Jan. 6, 2022

Dec. 28, 2021

Dec. 27, 2021

Oct. 29, 2021

July 30, 2021

July 7, 2021

Rescinds CMO May 26, 2020 memo, “Pentagon Reservation Plan for Reslience and Aligning with National Guidelines for Opening Up American Again”

June 21, 2021

Nov. 24, 2020

Updates June 25 release

Nov. 20, 2020

Updates June 11 release

June 25, 2020

Updates June 10 memo

Updated; see June 25 release

Updated; see June 25 memo

June 10, 2020

Rescinded, see June 21, 2021 DAM memo

March 14, 2020

March 13, 2020

Secretary of Defense Guidance

Jan 2, 2022

March 4, 2021

May 27, 2020

Supplemented by HPCON memo May 19

Rescinded, see April 29, 2021 memo "Guidance for Commanders’ Risk-Based Responses and Implementation of the Health Protection Condition Framework"

April 1, 2020

March 27, 2020

Test Kits: Military Beneficiaries

Feb 24, 2022

Travel Restrictions

March 30, 2022

March 23, 2022

March 16, 2022

March 9, 2022

March 3, 2022

Feb. 23, 2022

Feb. 16, 2022

Feb. 9, 2022

Feb. 2, 2022

Jan. 26, 2022

Jan. 19, 2022

Jan. 12, 2022

Jan. 5, 2022

Dec. 29, 2021

Dec. 22, 2021

Dec. 15, 2021

Dec. 8, 2021

Dec. 1, 2021

Nov. 24, 2021

Nov. 18, 2021

Nov. 10, 2021

Nov. 3, 2021

Oct. 25, 2021

Oct. 20, 2021

Oct. 13, 2021

Oct. 6, 2021

Sept. 29, 2021

Sept. 22, 2021

Sept. 15, 2021

Sept. 8, 2021

Sept. 1, 2021

August 25, 2021

August 18, 2021

August 11, 2021

August 4, 2021

July 14, 2021

June 30, 2021

June 23, 2021

June 9, 2021

June 2, 2021

May 26, 2021

May 19, 2021

May 12, 2021

May 5, 2021

April 28, 2021

April 21, 2021

April 14, 2021

April 7, 2021

March 31, 2021

March 24, 2021

Supplemented see Force Health Protection (Supplement 20), Revision 1

March 10, 2021

March 3, 2021

Feb. 24, 2021

Feb. 17, 2021

Feb. 10, 2021

Jan. 27, 2021

Jan. 22, 2021

Jan. 6, 2021

Dec. 30, 2020

Dec. 23, 2020

Dec. 16, 2020

Dec. 9, 2020

Dec. 2, 2020

Nov. 25, 2020

Nov. 18, 2020

Nov. 12, 2020

Nov. 4, 2020

Nov. 1, 2020

Oct. 30, 2020

Oct. 21, 2020

Oct. 14, 2020

Oct. 7, 2020

Cancelled; see March 16, 2021 release

Oct. 5, 2020

Oct. 1, 2020

Sept. 23, 2020

Sept. 16, 2020

Sept. 9, 2020

Sept. 2, 2020

Aug. 26, 2020

Aug. 19, 2020

Aug. 12, 2020

Aug. 5, 2020

July 29, 2020

July 23, 2020

July 15, 2020

July 8, 2020

(This format replaces the weekly "Travel Restrictions: Green Locations" releases)

July 2, 2020

June 19, 2020

June 12, 2020

June 8, 2020

May 22, 2020

April 20, 2020

Cancelled; see May 22 memo

Cancelled; see April 20 memo

Vaccine Guidance

Nov. 9, 2021

Rescinds and replaced; see Supplement 23, Revision 3

Rescinded and replaced: see Force Health Protection 23, Supplement 2

Rescinded: see Force Health Protection 23, Supplement 1

August 9, 2021

July 29, 2021

May 20, 2021

Feb. 18, 2021

Updates Dec. 9, 2020 schema

Jan. 19, 2021

Jan. 13, 2021

Dec. 31, 2020

Dec. 11, 2020

Rescinded Jan. 19, 2021

Dec. 7, 2020

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COVID-19 international travel advisories

Visitors to the U.S. do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check Department of State travel advisories for the country you will visit.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

You do not need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or take a COVID-19 test to enter the U.S. This applies to U.S. citizens and non-citizens.

U.S. citizens traveling to a country outside the U.S.

Find country-specific travel advisories, including COVID-19 restrictions, from the Department of State.

See the CDC's COVID-19 guidance for safer international travel to learn:

• If you can travel if you recently had COVID-19
• What you can do to help prevent COVID-19 

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Dominican Republic

Travel Advisory June 6, 2023

Dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Country Summary:  Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Dominican Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passports must be valid for the period of stay in the Dominican Republic.

1 page required for entry stamp

Not required for visits shorter than 30 days

None required if arriving from the United States

$10,000 and over or its equivalent must be declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy santo domingo.

Av. República de Colombia #57 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Telephone: +(809) 567-7775 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:   [email protected] Hours: Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays 

Consular Agencies

U.S. Consular Agent - Puerto Plata Plaza el Doral, carretera Luperón KM 3 1/2 Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Telephone:  +(809) 586-4204, +(809) 586-8023 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  (809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:  [email protected] Hours:  Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

U.S. Consular Agent - Bavaro/Punta Cana Palma Real Shopping Center Business Center 2nd Floor Bavaro, La Altagracia, Dominican Republic Telephone:  (809) 552-8990 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:  [email protected] Hours:  Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visas are not required for visits shorter than 30 days. Visit the  Embassy of the Dominican Republic  website for current visa information.

All visitors to the Dominican Republic are charged a $10 tourist card fee that is incorporated into airline charges. Cruise passengers must obtain a tourist card if they are disembarking for longer than 24 hours. Once used, the card allows for stays up to 30 days but can be extended at the General Directorate of Migration in Santo Domingo.

Contact the  Migration Department  in Santo Domingo for visa extension requests. Failure to request an extension will result in a fine at the airport upon departure. The fines range from approximately $55 USD for one month to as high as $1,555 USD for overstays of 10 years or more.

All passengers are required to fill out an  E-Ticket  or paper form when entering or exiting the Dominican Republic. If using E-Ticket, a new form is required for each entry and exit and the code generated upon form completion can be presented at the airport on a digital device.

Visitors must have a ticket entering and leaving the country, the financial means to pay for their stay, and an address in the Dominican Republic where they will be staying.

Exit Requirements for Children:  Minors (children under 18) who are citizens (including dual citizens) or legal residents of the Dominican Republic, if not accompanied by both parents or legal guardian(s), are required to present official proof of parental consent to travel. Please see the Dominican  Migration Department's  website for detailed instructions on the required documents.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:  Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic has restrictions on granting residency to people with HIV/AIDS. Please verify information with the Dominican Republic’s  Migration Department  before you travel.

Yellow Fever Vaccine:  Proof of vaccination against yellow fever is required for travelers entering the Dominican Republic from Brazil. Similar requirements may apply to those traveling from other  countries with yellow fever risk .

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction ,  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime:  Crime is a threat throughout the Dominican Republic. Tourist destinations are generally more policed than metropolitan areas.

• If robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
• Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
• Be wary of strangers.
• Travel with a partner or group if possible.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Dating App Robberies:  Several U.S. citizen travelers in the Dominican Republic have reported that they were robbed by people they met through popular online dating applications. If meeting with strangers, you should strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations where crimes are most likely to occur.

Demonstrations:  Avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if you are in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local tourist police (POLITUR) at 809-222-2026 or  911  and contact the U.S. Embassy at 809-567-7775. 911 is operational throughout the country apart from some areas located near the Haitian border. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact POLITUR (809-222-2026), the  National Police ( 809-682-2151), and the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Sexual Assault:  Rape and sexual assault has been reported throughout the Dominican Republic, including at major resorts and hotels.

Notes for your safety:

• U.S. citizens have been targeted with date rape drugs.
• Sexual assault victims in the Dominican Republic should not expect the totality of assistance offered in the United States. Rape kits are often not available until the following morning and must be administered by Dominican authorities.
• Victims often have to request medication to avoid transmission of STDs and reduce the chances of pregnancy.
• Prosecution of a rape case moves forward very slowly. Dominican law may require the victim to return to the Dominican Republic at some stages of the judicial process.
• Security outside of the resort area, including beach areas, is unpredictable, especially at night.

Best Practices:

• Contact the police/hotel management if resort staff demonstrate unwanted attention.
• Victims of sexual/other assault should contact the police and the Embassy. Insist that hotel management take immediate action by contacting the police.
• In a resort, avoid secluded places. Always be accompanied by someone you know, even going to the restroom.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages alone or with new acquaintances. Do not leave drinks unattended.  Know your limits and help your friends/travelling companions to remain safe.
• Shout for help immediately if threatened or made uncomfortable.
• Report suspicious activity, including excessive friendliness by hotel employees, to hotel management, the U.S. Embassy, and local police.
• Do not swim alone due to life-threatening undertows.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities may not commonly occur in all parts of the country. Hazardous areas and activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities or major tourist zones. First responders may be unable to access areas outside of major cities or major tourist zones. The ability to provide urgent medical treatment may be limited. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in the Dominican Republic are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage and  general information on legal assistance  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, their possession they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the Dominican Republic.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in the Dominican Republic prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, but the law is not enforced consistently. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Accessible facilities, information, communication/access to services and ease of movement is limited in most parts of the country. Large resorts and Santo Domingo may have some generally accessible infrastructure, but travelers should not expect the level available in the United States.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Disaster Preparedness:  Register with the Embassy on or before your arrival through our  travel registration website . In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, this will keep you informed. Additional information on  natural disasters and disaster preparedness  can be found on our website. Real Estate:  Property rights are irregularly enforced, and investors often encounter problems in receiving clear title to land. Consult a reputable attorney before signing documents or closing on any real estate transactions. Real estate investments by U.S. citizens have been subject to legal and physical takeover attempts. Absentee landlords and absentee owners of undeveloped land are particularly vulnerable. Consider purchasing title insurance. Scams:  Scammers often target elderly people by pretending to be a law enforcement official, an attorney, or a U.S. Embassy official, claiming that a loved one has been arrested overseas. The caller instructs the victim to wire money. Scammers sometimes impersonate family members, such as a scared grandchild. Contact the U.S. Embassy before wiring money to the Dominican Republic. When in doubt, try to contact your loved one directly.

For emergency services in the Dominican Republic, dial 911 or 809-202-2026 .

Ambulance services:

• The training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• Ambulances are not present or reliable in most areas of the country. They are more reliable and available in Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, and Puerto Plata.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Ministry for Public Health  to ensure the medication is legal in the Dominican Republic.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Be aware that some hotels, resorts, etc. have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which have costs associated and may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery. 

If you are considering travel to the Dominican Republic for cosmetic surgery, be mindful of the following:

• Have a medical evaluation from a U.S. doctor to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.
• Before travel, carefully research the doctor (e.g. qualifications, experience performing the surgery, complication rate) and credentials of the recovery facility you plan to use.
• Share all health information (e.g. medical conditions, medications, allergies) with your doctor before your surgery.
• Obtain international travel insurance that covers medical evacuation back to the United States and repatriation of remains. For more information, see:  https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance . 
• See a travel medicine professional in the United States at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to discuss healthy travel and to learn about specific risks related to your surgery and travel. For more information on the risks of medical tourism, see:  https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/medical-tourism .
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in the Dominican Republic. 

Tap Water:  Tap water is unsafe to drink. Bottled water and beverages are considered safe. Please note that many restaurants use tap water for ice.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Chikungunya

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in the  Dominican Republic .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Driving conditions vary across the country. Drive defensively and with extreme caution.

Consider hiring a professional driver instead of driving yourself. You can hire licensed drivers who are familiar with local roads through local car rental agencies. In case of accidents, normally only the driver will be taken into custody. In 2019 six people died per day due to traffic accidents in the Dominican Republic.

Frequent hazards include:

• other drivers not using headlights and/or taillights after dark
• animals in the road
• missing manhole covers and large potholes
• uneven road surfaces
• scooters and motorcycles driving erratically and splitting lanes
• driving on sidewalks or against traffic
• intersections without stop signs
• unregulated and congested traffic patterns
• speeding or the running of stoplights
• heavy urban traffic

Traffic Laws:  Traffic laws are not enforced consistently. After an accident causing serious injury or death, authorities will often take the driver into custody, even if the driver is insured and appears to have not been at fault. Detentions frequently last until a judicial decision has been reached or until a waiver has been signed by the injured party.

Seat belts, and helmets for motorcyclists, are required by law. Violators may be fined. There are no child car seat laws. Police stop drivers using cell phones without a hands-free device.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation includes a metro and public bus system as well as shared bus or van taxis known as “guaguas” (converted vans or microbuses, often without doors). Guaguas run regular routes within urban areas and between towns in the countryside. Public buses and guaguas operating in the capital do not meet U.S. safety standards. Avoid unregulated taxis, which also often lack basic safety features. Use a reputable taxi service, either one recommended by your hotel or a well-known, vetted company. Rideshare services such as Uber are available in many parts of the country. Private bus lines travel between large cities and to popular tourist destinations. 

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism and INTRANT (Instituto Nacional de Transito y Transporte Terrestre) the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Dominican Republic’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s website.   FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of the Dominican Republic. Until those concerns can be addressed, the Coast Guard advises that Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of the Dominican Republic should exercise caution.

Mariners planning travel to the Dominican Republic should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Dominican Republic . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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USDOT Announces “Support Our Troops” Dashboard to Improve Air Travel for Military Service Members and Their Families

Allegiant, Frontier, and Spirit took steps to enhance their travel benefits for service members 

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced a new “Support Our Troops” dashboard to help U.S. military service members and their immediate family members more easily access travel benefits offered by the 10 largest U.S. airlines. The dashboard clearly displays each airlines’ commitments to service members and their immediate family as reflected in their Customer Service Plan at flightrights.gov/military , including benefits such as free carry-on and checked bags and providing refunds without additional fees when their flight plans change due to a military order or directive. 

 “As someone who often flew on military orders as an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve, I know the unique pressures our service members and their families can face when traveling,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg . “Service members and their families make extraordinary commitments and sacrifices for this country, and they deserve support and recognition whenever they fly.” 

Following Secretary Buttigieg’s call-to-action to airlines to improve military travel benefits, Spirit Airlines, Allegiant Air, and Frontier Airlines stepped up their existing commitments in their Customer Service Plan for service members and their families. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and United Airlines declined to make clear and enforceable commitments to U.S. service members and their families. Southwest Airlines has received two green checkmarks on the dashboard because of its existing baggage and change fee policies that apply to all passengers.  In making determinations on which commitments are reflected on the dashboard, DOT’s Office of Aviation Consumer Protection consulted with the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and highlighted those commitments that the Department believes are most meaningful to service members and their families.  

The “Support Our Troops” dashboard highlights benefits that make air travel easier for U.S. service members and their immediate family members when engaging in personal travel. DOT’s dashboard gives a green checkmark to an airline for each benefit that the airline commits to provide:

• Waives cancellation fees and ensures full refunds for service members and accompanying family members who cancel travel plans due to a military order or directive (documentation may be required).  
• Waives change fees for service members and accompanying family members who reschedule flights due to a military order or directive (documentation may be required).  
• At least one free standard carry-on and at least two free standard checked bags for service members and their accompanying spouse and children with appropriate identification such as a valid military ID.  
• The lowest fare for a flight for immediate family members to visit service members recently injured in the line of duty with supporting documentation.

DOT defines “service member” for the purpose of the “Support Our Troops” dashboard as current members of the military who are serving or may be called to serve. This definition was developed with input from DOD. At a minimum, these members include:

• U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marines, U.S. Space Force, U.S. Coast Guard, National Guard, and U.S. Military Reserves with a current valid military ID; 
• Cadets of the Air Force Academy, West Point, Naval Academy, Coast Guard Academy, and Merchant Marine Academy with a current valid military ID; and 
• Commissioned Corps and Ready Reserve Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service and Commissioned Officers Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Officer Corps with current valid military ID.  

Airlines may offer additional benefits to service members and their families. For their benefits to be reflected on the dashboard, however, airlines are required to expressly provide them to all service members as defined by DOT and make these commitments in their Customer Service Plan or make them easily accessible from their Customer Service Plan. To the extent an airline’s military benefits fall short of these requirements, the Department may not be able to hold the airline accountable for failing to honor its commitments. Members of the military are encouraged to check the airline’s website or contact the airline’s customer service agents for more information.

DOT’s Historic Record of Consumer Protection Under the Biden-Harris Administration Under the Biden-Harris Administration, DOT has advanced the largest expansion of airline passenger rights, issued the biggest fines against airlines for failing consumers, and returned more money to passengers in refunds and reimbursements than ever before in the Department’s history.

• Last month, DOT announced two final rules that require airlines to provide automatic cash refunds to passengers when owed and protect consumers from costly surprise airline fees . These rules will significantly expand consumer protections in air travel, provide passengers an easier pathway to refunds when owed, and save consumers more than half a billion dollars every year in hidden and surprise junk fees. Provisions of the final rule on airline refund were fortified through the FAA reauthorization bill that President Biden signed into law on May 16, 2024.  
• In 2022, under Secretary Buttigieg’s guidance, DOT created an Airline Customer Service Dashboard known as FlightRights.gov to help airline passengers understand what they are entitled to receive certain services and amenities when a significant delay or cancellation was within the airlines’ control and create enforceable standards. Now all 10 major U.S. airlines guarantee free rebooking and meals, and nine guarantee hotel accommodations when an airline issue causes a significant delay or cancellation. These are new commitments the airlines added to their Customer Service Plans that DOT can legally ensure they adhere to and are displayed on flightrights.gov .  
• Since President Biden took office, DOT has helped return almost $4 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to airline passengers – including more than $600 million refunds and reimbursements to passengers affected by the Southwest Airlines holiday meltdown in 2022.  
• DOT has issued over $164 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations. Between 1996 and 2020, DOT collectively issued less than $71 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations.  
•  DOT recently launched a new partnership with a bipartisan group of state attorneys general to fast-track the review of consumer complaints, hold airlines accountable, and protect the rights of the traveling public.  
•  In 2023, the flight cancellation rate in the U.S. was a record low at under 1.2% – the lowest rate of flight cancellations in over 10 years despite a record amount of air travel.  
•  DOT is undertaking its first ever industry-wide review of airline privacy practices and its first review of airline loyalty programs. 

In addition to finalizing the rules to require automatic refunds and protect consumers from surprise fees, DOT is also pursuing rulemakings that would:  

• Propose to ban family seating junk fees and guarantee that parents can sit with their children for no extra charge when they fly. Before President Biden and Secretary Buttigieg pressed airlines last year, no airline committed to guaranteeing fee-free family seating. Now, four airlines guarantee fee-free family seating, as the Department is working on its family seating junk fee ban proposal.  
• Propose to make passenger compensation and amenities mandatory so that travelers are taken care of when airlines cause flight delays or cancellations.  
• Expand the rights for passengers who use wheelchairs and ensure that they can travel safely and with dignity.

DOT’s aviation consumer protection website makes it easy for travelers to understand their rights. Consumers may file an airline complaint with the Department here .

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Updated: Ukraine strikes ferry crossing, oil depots in Russia's Krasnodar Krai, General Staff says

Ukrainian forces struck a ferry crossing and an oil depot at Port Kavkaz in Russia's Krasnodar Krai with missiles overnight on May 31, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported.

Port Kavkaz lies at the Kerch Strait , which divides Russia from occupied Crimea. Only one day earlier, the Ukrainian military reported a strike against the ferry crossing at the Kerch port on the Crimean side of the strait with ATACMS missiles.

Telegram channels and Russian authorities reported a fire at the oil depot earlier in the day. The General Staff said that the depot was damaged by several Ukrainian-made Neptune missiles but did not elaborate on the extent of the damage.

The military added that explosions at targeted areas were confirmed, but "the accuracy with which they were hit is being investigated."

Russian authorities claim that there are multiple casualties among the employees of the oil depot as a result of the strike. The Kyiv Independent could not verify all the claims.

Another oil depot in Krasnodar Krai was hit in a drone attack, according to the General Staff.

The recent attacks were the result of a "several-days-long operation aimed at destroying the logistics crucial for Russian forces in Crimea," sources in the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) told the Kyiv Independent.

"According to preliminary information, a comprehensive strike targeted substations and power supply grid, as well as oil product supplies in Russia's Krasnodar Krai," a source noted.

The operation was carried out jointly by the SBU and other units of Ukrainian defense forces, the source said.

First, the military launched a missile attack on two ferries traveling to Port Kavkaz, which were used by Russia for military logistics. SBU drones subsequently carried out an attack against substations that supply energy to occupied Crimea and against ports in the Kerch Strait, according to the sources.

The same night, the SBU and the Navy reportedly attacked the oil depot at the Kavkaz Port, which stored oil products destined for Crimea, according to the source.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian ferry crossing, 4 patrol boats struck in Crimea, military says

We’ve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent .

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• General Election 2024

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Election news

• PM not taking questions as D-Day row rumbles on
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• Electoral Dysfunction:  What could be in the party manifestos?
• Live reporting by Josephine Franks

Expert analysis

• Rob Powell: It beggars belief someone didn't sound the alarm about PM leaving D-Day events early
• Tamara Cohen: Labour can't believe their luck

Election essentials

• Battle For No 10: PM and Starmer taking part in Sky News special
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• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

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At the garden, Mr Sunak spoke with volunteers Margaret Lambert and Hilary Bellwood and watered plants with Jane MacBean, Conservative candidate for Bishop Auckland.

Sir Keir Starmer has promised to overhaul the business rates system, saying there's "not a level playing field between businesses that are online and those that are ... bricks and mortar".

The Labour leader was joined by Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden at 3 Locks Brewery in Camden, London, to launch the party's plan for small businesses.

"We want small businesses to thrive because they are the backbone of our economy and they need that stability in our economy, and they need to know that their energy bills are actually going to be lower and stable," he said. 

Labour launched its plans for Great British Energy policy a week ago - a new, publicly owned company that would generate homegrown green energy across the country. 

Meaden voiced her support for the plans: "Businesses don't like being out of control of costs and energy is one of those costs that simply fluctuates beyond your control," she said.

Sir Keir pulled the first pint of the day at 10.55am and was heard saying "if all else fails", he will be back at the brewery on 5 July.

John Swinney says Rishi Sunak "completely destroyed" his credibility as prime minister by leaving D-Day commemorations early. 

Speaking to journalists on the campaign trail in Livingston, the Scottish First Minister said: "I think Rishi Sunak's credibility is completely destroyed by his departure from D-Day early and the insult he delivered to the veterans who had travelled to Normandy for that solemn occasion.

"It also, frankly, was a desertion of the international responsibilities of the prime minister.

"The prime minister and especially the Conservative election campaign is now utterly in tatters."

Mr Sunak was forced to apologise for leaving France before an international ceremony attended by world leaders, saying it had been a mistake - but he said it was important not to "politicise" the decision. 

The Tory battle bus has rolled into County Durham, with Rishi Sunak heading to two locations in the North East today - but don't expect him to be answering questions. 

The PM is not doing any interviews with national or broadcast media today and a possible huddle - when he takes questions from reporters off-camera - has been cancelled. 

He may, however, do some interviews with regional media. 

While the PM may not be speaking for himself today, much has been said this morning about his decision to bow out of D-Day commemorations early. 

Shadow business secretary Jonathan Reynolds called it "inexplicable" while Sir Ed Davey said it made him "pretty cross" and Transport Secretary Mark Harper labelled it a "mistake" - but said it wouldn't cost the Tories the election. 

The Lib Dem leader says he's "pretty cross" about Rishi Sunak's decision to leave D-Day commemorations early and has called on him to make a donation to a veterans' charity to make amends. 

Sir Ed Davey urged the Conservatives to give some of the cash donated to the party by Frank Hester, a businessman who was embroiled in a racism row, to charity.

"I think the Conservative Party should give £5m of that donation to a veterans' charity. I think if they did that, then people might be able to draw the line.

"But it's such a letdown for our whole country and our history, particularly for our brave veterans."

The Liberal Democrats have pledged to create three new national parks in England.

This manifesto commitment would bring the number of national parks in England up to 13, with the party saying it would spend £50m a year maintaining them. 

The Chilterns in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire are possible locations for the new parks, along with the Mendips, Cotswolds and Quantocks.

Other proposed areas include the Surrey Hills, Northumberland coast and Dorset. 

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey accused the Tories of having "broken too many promises to protect our countryside".

"It is hard to overstate the difference things like National Parks can make to entire communities," he said.

Reform UK and the Conservatives are neck-and-neck in a new poll of Welsh voters with each party taking an 18% share of those surveyed. 

But both trail Labour, which is far ahead on 45%, according to the survey by Redfield & Wilton. 

The poll of 960 Welsh voters put Plaid Cymru on 11%, Liberal Democrats on 5% and Greens on 4%. 

Only 39% of those who voted for the Conservatives in Wales in 2019 will vote Conservative again, the poll showed - with 32% of past Conservative voters saying they would defect to Reform UK.

It comes after the latest YouGov poll of UK voters for Sky News showed Reform had pulled to within two points of the Conservatives.

Sky News has been tracking locations visited by party leaders in the first two weeks of the general election campaign to decipher what their choices tell us about the parties' election strategies.

Of the 650 seats,  54 have now been visited during the campaign by Rishi Sunak, Sir Keir Starmer or Ed Davey.

The South East seems to be garnering the most attention with 12 visits overall - highlighting the importance of the region for all of the English parties.

Read more from Sky News elections analyst Dr Hannah Bunting and data journalist Joely Santa Cruz here:

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