The Ministry for Foreign Relations has unified the rates charged for documents issued by Dominican consulates. There have been complaints on innumerable occasions from Dominicans living overseas about the high charges levied by some consuls. Consular posts have traditionally been political favors and consuls have been allowed to pocket the larger share of payments received. The Ministry of Foreign Relations says anyone who is charged amounts above the established rates should notify the Embassy in their country or the Ministry in Santo Domingo.
As of last week, consulates are authorized to charge US$131.50 for new passports with a duration of two years, and US$20.00 extra for each additional two years up to six years. To renew passports for two years will cost US$51.50 and for four, US$71.50. In the D.R. these services cost from RD$80 to RD$300.
The government will also regulate the issuing of visas to foreigners, and tourist cards will cost US$10 There are some countries where up to US$30 was being charged. Multiple entry visas for business, students and their dependents will cost US$15 and residences US$25. The payment can be made in the currency of the country where the consulate is located
The minister of foreign relations, Eduardo de la Torre, said that as of January, 1997, consuls would have to live off their salaries as measures are being taken to restrict illegal charges and their access to part of the fees officially charged by the consulates. As a result of the previous situation, those appointed consuls abroad have been known to become millionaires overnight.