Puerto Rico

Översikt

Puerto Rico is deemed a relatively lower-risk destination. Although organised criminal groups operate in the country, foreign nationals are unlikely to be targeted by such activity. Petty crime, targeting both nationals and foreigners, is an increasing concern. There is a latent risk of civil unrest, although protests are generally peaceful. There is a risk of environmental disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to which vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Puerto Rico. Travellers should be up to date with routinely recommended vaccinations such as polio and measles/mumps/rubella (MMR).

Hepatitis A is also recommended for all travellers while Hepatitis B is recommended for those who may have intimate contact with local residents. Typhoid is recommended for those planning extended stays in rural areas.

Travellers’ diarrhoea is the most common health problem. There are relatively frequent reports of cases of dengue fever. September to November is the highest risk period. It is transmitted via mosquitoes and there is no vaccines at present, thus preventive measures need to be used, such as protective clothing and spray containing DEET.

Schistosomiasis is endemic, existing in bodies of fresh water. Swimming and wading should therefore be avoided.

There are excellent medical facilities available in Puerto Rico. It is strongly advisable to acquire comprehensive travel health insurance before traveling. Most pharmacies in major cities are well stocked. Hospitals offering 24-hour emergency rooms.

Pass

Visitors to Puerto Rico must be travelling on a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country. US citizens do not need a passport (can use alternative approved identification).

Visum

Entry requirements for Puerto Rico are the same as those for the US.  Citizens from the UK, Australia, Canada, Brunei, Iceland, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore and the EU (excluding nationals of Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Malta, Poland and Romania) do not need visas for stays of up to 90 days.

It should be noted that holders of UK passports with endorsement British Subject, British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Protected Person and British Overseas Citizen are required to obtain visas for entry. Applicants for US visas are usually required to attend an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.

For additional information visit TLCS at http://www.tlcsvisas.com/tlcs/