Dominica, the "Nature Island of the Caribbean," is unlike anywhere else in the region. While other Caribbean islands focus on beaches and resorts, Dominica offers pristine rainforests, volcanic hot springs, the world's second-largest boiling lake, and the rare opportunity to swim with sperm whales in their natural habitat. Before you can experience this eco-adventurer's paradise, there's one simple step to complete: the Dominica ED Card (Embarkation/Disembarkation Card). This digital immigration form streamlines your arrival so you can spend less time in lines and more time exploring waterfalls. With DoVisa, completing your ED Card is quick, secure, and hassle-free.
What is the Dominica ED Card?
The Dominica ED Card (Embarkation/Disembarkation Card) is an online immigration form that collects your travel information before you arrive on the island. It replaced the old paper arrival cards that visitors used to fill out on the plane, making the process faster and more efficient for everyone.
When you complete your ED Card online, you receive a confirmation with a QR code. Immigration officers at Douglas-Charles Airport or Roseau's cruise port scan this code to retrieve your pre-submitted information, significantly speeding up processing. Rather than filling out forms while jet-lagged after a long flight, you complete everything from the comfort of home with all your documents at hand.
The ED Card system is part of Dominica's commitment to responsible tourism—streamlining visitor arrivals while maintaining the security and environmental standards that protect this pristine island nation.
ED Card Quick Facts
Required for: All international arrivals (air and sea)
When to complete: Before departure to Dominica
Cost: Free of charge
Processing: Instant confirmation
Validity: Single entry
Format: Digital with QR code
Languages: English (primary)
Who Needs to Complete the ED Card?
The Dominica ED Card is required for all international visitors regardless of nationality or visa status. Even if your country has visa-free access to Dominica, you still need to complete the ED Card. Here's who needs to apply:
- All nationalities: Every international visitor must complete the ED Card, regardless of citizenship
- Visa-free travelers: Citizens of USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and 100+ other countries can visit visa-free but still need the ED Card
- Visa holders: If you required a visa to enter Dominica, you need both the visa AND the ED Card
- Cruise passengers: Arriving by cruise ship? You still need the ED Card before disembarking
- All ages: Children and infants need their own ED Card registration (parents can complete on their behalf)
- Transit passengers: If you're transiting through Dominica, you may still need the ED Card depending on whether you clear immigration
- Returning residents: Even Dominican citizens returning home complete the ED Card for customs purposes
Visa-Free for Many Nationalities
Citizens of the USA, UK, EU countries, Canada, Australia, and many others can visit Dominica visa-free for up to 6 months. The ED Card is required regardless of visa status—it's simply the digital arrival form, not an entry permit.
Requirements for the Dominica ED Card
Gathering your information before starting the ED Card application ensures a smooth, error-free submission. Here's everything you'll need:
- Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay
- Passport details: Number, issue date, expiry date, and issuing country
- Personal information: Full name exactly as in passport, date of birth, nationality
- Contact details: Email address and phone number
- Flight or cruise information: Airline/cruise line name, flight/vessel number, departure point
- Accommodation in Dominica: Hotel name, eco-lodge, or host address where you'll be staying
- Purpose of visit: Tourism, business, visiting family, etc.
- Emergency contact: Name and phone number of someone back home
- Return travel details: Date and method of departure from Dominica
- Customs declaration: Information about items you're bringing (currency over $10,000 EC, restricted goods)
- Device with internet: Computer, tablet, or smartphone to complete the online form
Don't Confuse Dominica with Dominican Republic!
Dominica is a small, mountainous island focused on eco-tourism. The Dominican Republic is a completely different country on the island of Hispaniola. Make sure you're applying for the correct destination!
How to Complete Your ED Card
Completing the Dominica ED Card is straightforward. Follow these steps for a successful submission:
- Access the ED Card portal: Visit the official Dominica government portal or use DoVisa's guided application for an easier experience with built-in error checking
- Start a new application: Select 'New ED Card' and choose whether you're arriving by air or sea
- Enter passport details: Input your full name exactly as shown in your passport, passport number, nationality, and issue/expiry dates
- Provide travel information: Enter your flight or cruise details including airline/cruise line, flight number, and departure city
- Add accommodation details: Provide the complete name and address of where you'll be staying in Dominica
- Complete health and customs declarations: Answer questions about your health status and items you're bringing to Dominica
- Include all travelers: If traveling with family or a group, each person needs their own ED Card (or you can add dependents)
- Review all information: Double-check every field before submission—errors may require starting over
- Submit your ED Card: Once satisfied, submit your application
- Save your confirmation: You'll receive an instant confirmation with a QR code. Screenshot this to your phone AND print a backup copy
Complete 2-3 Days Before Travel
While the ED Card processes instantly, we recommend completing it a few days before your trip. This gives you time to catch any errors and ensures you're not rushing at the last minute.
Complete Your Dominica ED Card with DoVisa
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid These ED Card Errors
Even small mistakes can cause delays at immigration. Here's what to watch out for:
- Wrong country: Make sure you're applying for Dominica, NOT the Dominican Republic—they're different countries!
- Name mismatches: Enter your name exactly as it appears in your passport, including middle names and any special characters
- Passport number errors: Double-check every character. Mixing up O and 0, or I and 1 is common
- Incomplete accommodation: Provide the full name and address of your hotel or eco-lodge, not just 'hotel in Roseau'
- Email typos: Enter your email carefully—this is where your confirmation is sent
- Forgetting to save confirmation: Screenshot your QR code and print a backup. Phone batteries die!
- Applying for the wrong arrival method: Make sure you select air or sea correctly
- Not including children: Each traveler, including infants, needs their own ED Card entry
DoVisa Catches Errors
Our guided application validates your information as you type, catching common mistakes before they cause problems. We verify passport formats and flag incomplete fields before submission.
Travel Tips for Dominica
Dominica is truly unique—an unspoiled, adventure-focused island that rewards those who embrace its natural wonders. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your trip:
- Best time to visit: December through April (dry season) offers the most reliable weather. June through November is hurricane season—travel insurance is essential
- Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US Dollars are widely accepted. ATMs available in Roseau and at the airport. Credit cards accepted at hotels and larger restaurants
- Language: English is the official language—no translation needed! You may also hear French Creole (Kwéyòl)
- Getting around: Rent a 4x4 vehicle for independence on the mountainous roads. Taxis are available. No Uber or ride-sharing services
- Must-see attractions: Boiling Lake hike (challenging but unforgettable), Trafalgar Falls, Champagne Reef diving, whale watching tours, Titou Gorge
- Whale watching: Dominica is one of the best places on Earth to see sperm whales year-round. Book a certified tour operator from Roseau
- Pack for adventure: Waterproof hiking boots are essential. Quick-dry clothing, rain jacket, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent
- Fitness level: Many attractions involve hiking. The Boiling Lake trail is 6+ hours and strenuous. Know your limits
- Diving paradise: Champagne Reef offers unique diving with volcanic bubbles rising from the seafloor. World-class wall dives too
Insider Tip
Don't miss the natural hot springs at Wotten Waven after a long hike—they're the perfect way to soothe tired muscles. The Tia's Hot Spa offers multiple pools at different temperatures surrounded by rainforest.
Why Apply with DoVisa?
Simple guided form completion
Real-time error validation
Instant confirmation with QR code
24/7 expert customer support
Mobile-friendly application
Secure document storage
Manage multiple travelers in one account
Country confusion prevention (Dominica vs DR)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dominica ED Card mandatory?
Is Dominica the same as the Dominican Republic?
Do I need a visa to visit Dominica?
When is the best time to visit Dominica?
Can I really swim with whales in Dominica?
How difficult is the Boiling Lake hike?
What should I pack for Dominica?
Is Dominica safe?
How do I get to Dominica?
What if my ED Card application is rejected?
Ready for Dominica?
Dominica offers something rare in the Caribbean: an authentic, unspoiled paradise where nature comes first. From hiking to volcanic boiling lakes and swimming with giant sperm whales to soaking in natural hot springs beneath the rainforest canopy—this is adventure travel at its finest.
Complete your ED Card with DoVisa in just a few minutes, and you'll be ready to discover why Dominica truly deserves its title as the "Nature Island of the Caribbean." Our guided process ensures accuracy, and our support team is available 24/7 if you need assistance.
Dominica
Capital: Roseau
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) / USD accepted
Language: English
Timezone: UTC-4 (Atlantic Time)
Processing: Instant
Quick Facts
- Best time: December - April (dry season)
- 365 rivers on the island
- Power: 230V, Type D/G plugs
- Country code: +1-767
- Population: 72,000
- Known as: The Nature Island
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Comments(12)
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Dominica is the hidden gem of the Caribbean! No mass tourism, just incredible nature. The Boiling Lake hike is challenging but SO worth it. ED Card took 2 minutes.
Swimming with sperm whales off Dominica was the most incredible wildlife experience of my life. They're HUGE and so gentle. Book with a certified operator!
NOT the Dominican Republic! So many people confuse them. Dominica is small, mountainous, and focused on nature. Exactly what I wanted - no cruise ship crowds!
The hot springs at Wotten Waven are amazing after a long hike. Champagne Reef diving is unique - bubbles coming up from volcanic activity! ED Card was easy to complete.
Just spent 10 days in Dominica. Boiling Lake, Trafalgar Falls, Titou Gorge, whale watching... every day was an adventure. This island is special.
Tip: Rent a 4x4 vehicle. The roads are narrow and hilly but having your own transport lets you explore at your pace. ED Card form was quick with DoVisa.
The Emerald Pool is touristy but still beautiful. For a more authentic experience, hike to Victoria Falls. Fewer people, more magical!
First time I've been to the Caribbean without sitting on a beach. Hiked every day, saw whales, dove champagne reef. This is adventure travel!
The people of Dominica are so welcoming. Small island, everyone is friendly. Roseau is quiet but charming. ED Card completed in minutes online.
Pack good hiking boots - I cannot stress this enough! The trails are wet, muddy, and have river crossings. My sneakers did not survive Boiling Lake.
Loved seeing the filming locations from Pirates of the Caribbean! The Indian River boat ride at sunset was magical. Very different from other Caribbean islands.
Pro tip: If you get seasick, take medication BEFORE the whale watching boat. The Atlantic can be rough. But the whales are absolutely worth it!