Puerto Rico Travel Protocols and COVID-19 Updates
Updated March 10, 2022
Travel to Puerto Rico just became a lot smoother. As of March 10, all pandemic-era protocols for domestic travelers have been lifted, providing even more incentive to visit the Caribbean island territory.
Travelers visiting from the mainland U.S. are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test, or complete a travel declaration form before their journey.
“Traveling to Puerto Rico is becoming easier as the island continues to lead vaccination efforts and contagion rates continue to decrease,” said Brad Dean, CEO of Discover Puerto Rico, the island’s direct marketing organization.
Puerto Rico will also eliminate its mask mandate and simply advise masks be worn in high-risk settings. Additionally, proof of vaccination or a negative test is no longer required to enter hotels, restaurants, sporting venues and other businesses. Individual establishments remain free to implement their own vaccination requirements and mask mandates.
With one of the highest vaccination rates in the U.S., at over 85%, and plenty of opportunities to get outdoors, Puerto Rico has been one of the safest travel destinations during the pandemic.
Governor Pedro Pierluisi’s new executive order follows a loosening of restrictions announced in January this year. The previous order eliminated pre-arrival COVID-19 testing requirements for vaccinated travelers and allowed unvaccinated travelers to skip quarantine with evidence of a certified negative test taken within the previous two days.
Note that one restriction still remains for international travelers. Regardless of vaccination status, all visitors to the mainland U.S. and its territories must still show proof of a negative COVID-19 test — PCR or antigen — taken within one day of departure.
Common Questions:
As a domestic traveler, do I still need to take a COVID-19 test?
No, all restrictions for domestic travel have now been eliminated.
As an international traveler, what protocols do I need to follow to enter Puerto Rico?
The only remaining requirement for international travelers is to take a COVID-19 test — PCR or antigen — within one day of their departure, regardless of vaccination status.
Do I still need to wear a mask indoors?
There is no longer a mask mandate in place. Visitors can use their own discretion according to the venue and their vaccination status.
Are there any limitations in place for indoor venues?
Capacity limits have been removed for both private and public establishments (indoors and outdoors) including restaurants, bars, theaters and event venues. Only events that involve more than 1,000 attendees will need to follow vaccination and mask protocols outlined by the health department.
Do I still need to complete the travel declaration form?
No, neither domestic or international travelers are required to complete the travel declaration form prior to travel.
