Visa requirements for Puerto Rico
Updated 2025
Traveling to Puerto Rico in 2025 is straightforward, especially for U.S. citizens and residents. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico follows U.S. federal immigration laws, making entry requirements similar to those for the mainland United States.
Who Can Enter Puerto Rico Without a Visa
U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents:
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can travel to Puerto Rico without a visa or passport. A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, is sufficient for entry. However, starting May 2025, travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification when flying domestically, including to Puerto Rico.
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Countries:
Nationals of countries participating in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program can enter Puerto Rico for tourism or business purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Travelers must obtain an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to departure.
The VWP countries include:
Andorra, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Palau, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Types of visas and how to apply for them
Puerto Rico does not currently offer Visa On Arrival or E-Visas options
Tourist Visa & Extended Stays:
Visitors wishing to stay in Puerto Rico for more than 90 days must apply for the appropriate visa category before arrival. This includes student visas (F-1), work visas (H-1B), or other long-term stay visas. Extensions or changes of status must be processed through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Where Can I Obtain a Visa?
Travelers requiring a visa must apply through a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The application process involves completing the DS-160 form, scheduling an interview, and providing necessary documentation, including a valid passport, photograph, and proof of ties to the home country.
Requirements to Obtain a Puerto Rico Visa
For travelers requiring a visa, the following are generally needed:
- A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the intended stay.
- Completed DS-160 visa application form.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Proof of financial means to cover the stay.
- Evidence of ties to the home country (e.g., employment, property, family).
- Payment of the visa application fee.
Additional documents may be required depending on the visa category.
Things to do in Puerto Rico
La Fortaleza / Palacio de Santa Catalina
Learn about La Fortaleza in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Discover its history as the oldest governor’s mansion in continuous use in the...
Puerta de San Juan
Learn about Puerta de San Juan, the historic city gate in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Explore its history, role in the city’s defenses...
Paseo de la Princesa
Explore Paseo de la Princesa in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Learn about its history, layout, sculptures, and the views that make this...