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A summer of travel looks to be among us, with countries around the world easing their entry restrictions and dropping their entrance requirements in order to encourage travelers to visit. Not only is that the case for international travel, but domestic travel too.
Puerto Rico is one of the most recent states to change its requirements for incoming travelers, as they announced this week that vaccinated travelers will no longer need to take a test for Covid-19 prior to arriving in the country. Here’s more on that change, and a reminder of the entrance requirements for unvaccinated travelers.
No Test For Vaccinated – Information For Travelers
On May 21st, Puerto Rico announced that travelers from the US who are fully vaccinated will no longer need to take a Covid-19 test prior to visiting the territory. Set to come into effect from May 24th, it’s a move that may convince American travelers to take a domestic break rather than an international one, with travelers bound to be enticed by the island’s beach and natural beauty.
Rather than take a test, vaccinated travelers entering Puerto Rico on domestic flights may now present their vaccinations cards instead. Vaccinated travelers coming in on international flights must still show a negative test result in order to enter. As Puerto Rico is a US territory, travelers do not need to take a test prior to returning to the mainland. Entry to Puerto Rico from some countries, such as the UK, Brazil and Schengen Area nations, is limited at present.
It wasn’t the only Covid-19 related change that Puerto Rico made last week. The territory also made changes to the capacity limits in several business types, such as restaurants and casinos, raising the limit from 30% to 50%, whilst also removing the mask requirement in parks and beaches for fully vaccinated travelers. Bars are set to remain closed, but supermarkets are open.
Speaking after the changes, CEO of Discover Puerto Rico Brad Dean said:
“Puerto Rico has prioritized health and safety from the onset of the pandemic, becoming the first U.S. destination to implement an Island-wide curfew, among other measures developed to safeguard residents and visitors. As restrictions loosen, we look forward to welcoming travelers seeking to responsibly explore our Island, immerse themselves in unforgettable culture, unique natural wonders and delicious cuisine, while taking advantage of the ease of travel that comes with Puerto Rico being a U.S. territory, including no need for a passport for U.S. citizens.”
With the vaccine rollout in the US gathering speed, it seems that vaccinated travelers are destined to receive more than just health benefits as a result of receiving the jab, with more travel incentives being added on an almost daily basis. Puerto Rico’s decision to allow the almost 40% of Americans who are vaccinated to visit without needing to test could be a shrewd move that inspires a much-needed tourism reboot in the state.
Unvaccinated Entry Requirements – What Travelers Need To Know
Travel to Puerto Rico is still on the table for unvaccinated travelers, but more steps must be taken in order to gain entry. Travelers must fill out a Travel Declaration Form, before uploading their negative PCR molecular Covid-19 test results to the online portal. This will produce a QR code, which will be required in order to leave the airport. Those who arrive without the result of a test taken within the last 72 hours could face a $300 fine.
Read More:
Countries open for vaccinated travelers
Travel Insurance That Covers COVID-19
Best Outdoor Festivals In The U.S. To Attend This Summer
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.