DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

The Ministry of Foreign Relations announced on 12 May 2026 the signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States to enhance bilateral security and migration management. The agreement, framed within the “Shield of the Americas” initiative, establishes a temporary mechanism for the transit of select third-country nationals through Dominican territory. Notably, the agreement excludes Haitian nationals and unaccompanied minors.

Under the terms of the MoU, the Dominican Republic will permit the “temporary and exceptional” entry of a limited number of third-party nationals. The government clarified that this applies only to individuals in transit with no criminal records.

The process will be conducted on a case-by-case basis, with the US government providing funding to ensure adequate conditions during the stay and assistance in facilitating...