While Puerto Rico usually goes by the same rules as the United States, the island has implemented its own COVID-19 entry requirements.
Puerto Rico’s tourism industry was was growing fast prior to the pandemic with over 2.2 million visitors in 2019 which was up over 28% from 2018.
Here is everything travelers need to know before booking their trip to Puerto Rico including health protocols and COVID-19 entry requirements.
Countries Permitted To Visit Puerto Rico
The following countries are NOT permitted to enter Puerto Rico.
- All European Union Countries
- China
- Brazil
- UK
- Ireland
- Iran
Travel Declaration Form
All travelers must fill out the Travel Declaration Form before traveling to Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico Has Reopened For Tourism A Second Time
Puerto Rico has once again reopened for tourism as of September 12th after a surge in COVID-19 cases caused a second shutdown.
The reopening will allow for the Puerto Rico’s beaches, theaters, casinos and gyms to once again open.
COVID-19 Testing Entry Requirements
All travelers from approved countries must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test no older than 72 hours (From when test was performed until arriving in Puerto Rico).
Failure to present proof of a negative test will result in a mandatory 14 day self quarantine.
Quarantine Entry Requirements
All travelers who fail to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Puerto Rico will face a mandatory self quarantine for 14 days.
COVID-19 Travel Insurance Entry Requirements
All incoming travelers should have travel insurance the covers COVID-19 for the duration of their trip to Puerto Rico.
COVID-19 Health Requirements While in Puerto Rico
All visitors must follow COVID-19 health requirements while in Puerto Rico including:
- Wearing a face mask in all public areas is mandatory in Puerto Rico
- Curfew from 10:00 pm until 5:00 am
- No alcohol sales after 7:00 pm
- Tourist attractions and non essential businesses are closed
- Full lock down on Sundays with only the most essential service operating
We will update this list as restrictions are lifted so be sure to bookmark this page.
COVID-19 Vaccine Entry Requirements
A vaccine for COVID-19 is not yet available to the public. Puerto Rico has not announced if a proof of vaccine record (POVR) will be required for entry in the future.
Visa Entry Requirements For Puerto Rico During COVID-19
All travelers arriving in Puerto Rico must follow regular United States visa requirements.
Use this government tool to find out if you need a visa before traveling to Puerto Rico.
Travelers that require a visa must apply at the U.S. embassy/consulate in their home country.
Puerto Rico COVID-19 Entry Requirements:
- Complete online Travel Declaration Form
- Check if you need a visa for entry to Puerto Rico.
- Get proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test before arriving in Puerto Rico
- Follow quarantine requirements (if required)
- Follow all health protocols while in Puerto Rico
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Sources:Discover Puerto Rico
Disclaimer: Puerto Rico entry requirements can change without notice and are being updated constantly. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse travelling against government advisories.
evelyn barbosa
Tuesday 8th of June 2021
If I have my moderma vaccination, do I still need the pcr test as entry requirement? my child is under 12 yrs old, does she need the pcr test also?
Jerry Gadbois
Wednesday 31st of March 2021
Does Puerto Rico accept RT–PCR? RT–PCR is a variation of PCR, or polymerase chain reaction. The two techniques use the same process except that RT–PCR has an added step of reverse transcription of RNA to DNA, or RT, to allow for amplification. This means PCR is used for pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, that already contain DNA for amplification, while RT–PCR is used for those containing RNA that needs to be transcribed to DNA for amplification. Both techniques can be performed in ‘real time’, which means results are visible almost immediately, while when used ‘conventionally’, results are only visible at the end of the reaction.
Kashlee Kucheran
Thursday 1st of April 2021
The information I can have just says PCR, so I would assume they will accept any type of PCR test. You should double-check before go you
Vina Cao
Thursday 3rd of December 2020
How can they ensure that we've quarantined for 14 days when we go back to the airport?
Kashlee Kucheran
Thursday 3rd of December 2020
I would hope they would have checks in place for this. Likely a list they put you on.
Claudia Savinon
Tuesday 27th of October 2020
Hi - Will the RTPCR also be valid for entrance to Puerto Rico?
Jerry Gadbois
Wednesday 31st of March 2021
@Claudia Savinon, Hello - did you ever hear back from anyone if the RT-PCR is valid?
Rick
Tuesday 22nd of September 2020
Hello. Are the islands of Vieques and Culebra open now for tourist visits?