Forbes – Tourism is ramping up in Puerto Rico, with several changes to its Covid-19 travel guidelines going into effect this week. For starters, all local curfews in effect since March 2020 have been lifted as of Monday, May 24, 2021, and thanks to a recent Executive Order, as of Tuesday, May 25, 2021, fully vaccinated domestic travelers can upload their Covid-19 vaccination card instead of showing proof of negative Covid-19 PCR molecular test results before entering.
Also starting May 25, 2021: those who aren’t vaccinated or are arriving from other countries will be allowed to provide negative results from either a Covid-19 PCR molecular test or a rapid antigen test.
“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,” said Brad Dean, Discover Puerto Rico’s CEO. “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.”
If you’re planning a visit to Puerto Rico, here’s what you need to know to ensure a safe and healthy trip—for you and the people who live there.
What You’ll Need To Enter Puerto Rico
If you’re fully vaccinated—as in, it’s been at least two weeks since your final dose—you’ll have to fill out a travel health declaration and upload your Covid-19 vaccination card to the Puerto Rico Health Department’s online portal. After doing so, you’ll receive a QR code, which allows you to leave the airport.
Those who are not vaccinated have a whole other set of rules to follow as of May 25, 2021. You’ll still need to fill out the travel health declaration and upload negative Covid-19 PCR test results from a test taken within 72 hours of your flight. Anyone still waiting for test results to come in or who has not been tested prior to their trip can opt to upload test results later but will automatically be fined $300 unless results are uploaded to the travel portal within 48 hours of arrival—and yes, you will have to self-quarantine at your own expense until they come in and cover the cost of any on-Island testing.
Other Things To Be Aware Of
While some travel restrictions have been lifted—those who are fully vaccinated will no longer need to wear a mask in parks and on beaches, for instance—others are still in effect. Bars and nightclubs are still closed while supermarkets, gas stations and pharmacies are open. If you’re going on a tour or visiting a local attraction or spa, reservations may be necessary due to capacity limits—social activities, restaurants, casinos, malls and theaters are currently limited to 50% capacity and you may need to provide negative PCR or antigen test results or proof of vaccination before you can enter. Note that as of this writing, you’ll need to provide results from a negative Covid-19 PCR test to enter Vieques.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently lists Puerto Rico at “Level 4: Very High Level of Covid-19,” and advises travelers to be fully vaccinated before visiting, follow local recommendations, practice social distancing and wear a mask—over your nose and mouth—while visiting.
Travelers are expected to watch for symptoms following their trip, and to get tested and self-isolate if any develop once they’re home. The CDC also recommends travelers who are not vaccinated get tested 1–3 days before their trip and 3–5 days after their trip, and asks that they stay home for seven days—or up to 10 days if they won’t be getting tested.
Will You Need To Get Tested Before Flying Home?
While as of January 26, 2021, the U.S. does require anyone traveling internationally to be tested for Covid-19 within three days prior to your return flight, domestic visitors don’t need to worry about this requirement—or about having a U.S. passport to visit—since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory.
