STEP Message – Dominican Republic Marijuana Laws: A Quick Guide for U.S. Travelers – U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic

[#item_full_content] STEP Message – Dominican Republic Marijuana Laws: A Quick Guide for U.S. Travelers STEP Message – Dominican Republic Marijuana Laws: A Quick Guide for U.S. Travelers   Location: Dominican Republic Reminder: Attempting to bring cannabis into or out of the Dominican Republic is a serious offense and can lead to detention and prosecution. Travelers should avoid carrying any marijuana products and remain aware that local laws are enforced strictly, regardless of laws in parts of the United States. In the Dominican Republic, marijuana is strictly illegal for both recreational and medical use. The country enforces a zero-tolerance drug policy under Dominican Law 50-88, which criminalizes possession, use, cultivation, and distribution of cannabis in any amount. For U.S. tourists and residents, it’s important to understand that even small quantities can lead to arrest. Possession of under 20 grams can result in jail time and fines, while possession of larger amounts may be treated as drug trafficking, carrying much harsher penalties. The Dominican Republic does not have the equivalent of a medical marijuana program, and U.S. medical cannabis cards are not recognized. Authorities also do not distinguish between marijuana and many cannabis-derived products, including some cannabidiol (CBD) items. For more information visit the U.S. Department of State’s country information page for the Dominican Republic.   Emergency Assistance:   U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Av. República de Colombia 57, Santo Domingo Emergencies: 809-567-7775 Non-emergency inquiries: SDOAmericans@state.gov Website: https://do.usembassy.gov/ State Department – Consular Affairs: 1-888-407-4747 toll-free from the United States and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. Dominican Republic Country Information Page Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Embassy updates. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.  Read More