Ask the Consul
What is a PIN number?
The best way to access visa services at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo is by calling the Visa Information Center. Persons living in the Dominican Republic must purchase a Personal Identification Number (PIN) at any Banco Popular location. There are two PIN options: a 5 minute PIN at a cost of the Dominican Peso equivalent of USD$5.25 and a 15 minute PIN at a cost of the Dominican Peso equivalent of USD$16.00. Both become active 24 hours after purchase. Applicants living in the same household who wish to schedule multiple appointments may do so at the same time by using just one 15 minute PIN. Group appointments cannot be scheduled using a PIN number.
A 5 minute PIN is primarily used by applicants for immigrant visas who want general information, such as an update on their case status or to request copies of their appointment package. A 5 minute PIN may also be used to reschedule an appointment for a non-immigrant visa which was previously scheduled.
A 15 minute PIN is generally for non-immigrant visa applicants and can be used to schedule visa interviews or to request general information such as basic visa requirements or dates of the next available appointment. A 15 minute PIN can also be used to reschedule a non-immigrant visa appointment already scheduled if at least 3 minutes remain on the number. If the time left on your PIN runs out, you must purchase a new PIN and call the Center again if you need additional information. It is important to note that up to 5 people can schedule appointments using one PIN as long as they are members of the same household.