Do I need a vaccine to travel to Puerto Rico?

Last update: July 2025

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Rico and wondering whether you need any vaccines, here’s the quick answer: no special vaccinations are required to enter Puerto Rico, especially if you are traveling from the United States.

That said, depending on where you're coming from and the kind of activities you have planned, there are a few health recommendations that might be useful to know in advance.

What vaccines do you need to travel to Puerto Rico?

If you are a US citizen, Puerto Rico is considered domestic travel. That means:

• No passport

• No visa

• No required vaccines for entry

As with any destination, it’s recommended to be up to date on routine immunizations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap), and the seasonal flu vaccine. These help protect you in general, regardless of your destination.

If you're an international traveler, the requirements are similar:

• Puerto Rico does not enforce separate vaccination rules from the U.S. mainland

• There is no general vaccine requirement for entry

• A yellow fever vaccination is only required if you are arriving from a country where the disease is endemic

Unless your trip begins in or includes travel through a yellow fever risk zone, vaccine documentation is not typically necessary.

What vaccines are recommended (but not required) for visiting Puerto Rico?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides general guidance for travelers heading to Puerto Rico. While no vaccines are mandatory for entry, a few are recommended depending on your activities and length of stay.

Is the COVID-19 vaccine still required for travel to Puerto Rico?

No, there are no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for travelers entering Puerto Rico in 2025.

This applies to both US residents and international visitors. However, some local health facilities and pharmacies may continue to request face coverings, especially in healthcare settings. It is a good idea to carry a mask, just in case.

For the most up-to-date guidance, consult the CDC Travel Health page or the official Puerto Rico tourism website.

How can travelers stay healthy and safe during a trip to Puerto Rico?

Here are a few simple tips to help protect your health while enjoying your time on the island:

🦟 Use insect repellent: Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and Zika can be present in tropical environments.

☀️ Stay hydrated and wear sun protection: The climate is hot and humid, especially in summer, so it’s important to protect yourself from heat and sunburn.

💧 Drink bottled or filtered water: Tap water is generally safe, but if you have a sensitive digestive system, sticking to bottled or filtered water may be a better choice.

📄 Carry a digital or physical copy of your vaccination records: Especially useful if you’re traveling with children or have underlying medical conditions that might require documentation.

“Bring a light rain jacket if you’re heading to Puerto Rico during the wet season,” suggests Michael S, an iVisa travel contributor. “Showers can be quick but intense, especially in the mountains, and having something packable will keep you dry without weighing down your day bag.”

Puerto Rico FAQs

1. Do US citizens need a passport to visit Puerto Rico?

No, US citizens do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico. It is a U.S. territory, so travel is considered domestic. A valid government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s license, is all that’s required.

2. Do I need a visa to travel to Puerto Rico if I'm not a US citizen?

Yes, if you need a visa to enter the US, you’ll need one to visit Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for Puerto Rico are the same as for the US mainland. Travelers should check their visa eligibility before booking.

3. Is tap water safe to drink in Puerto Rico?

Yes, tap water in Puerto Rico is generally safe to drink. The island follows US federal water safety standards, though some travelers with sensitive stomachs may prefer bottled or filtered water.

4. When is hurricane season in Puerto Rico?

Hurricane season in Puerto Rico runs from June through November. The peak months are August and September, so travelers visiting during this period should monitor weather forecasts and consider travel insurance.

5. What's the best time of year to visit Puerto Rico?

The best time to visit Puerto Rico is from mid-December to April. This period offers the most pleasant weather with less rain and lower humidity, making it ideal for beachgoers and outdoor explorers.