FAQ about Passport Requirements in Puerto Rico
This article aims to answer the most frequently asked questions about passport regulations when traveling to or residing in Puerto Rico.
- By Angela from Piloto151
- December 19, 2023
- 5 min read
Puerto Rico, a beautiful island territory of the U.S., is home to a vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. As U.S. citizens, Puerto Ricans enjoy certain privileges, including the ability to travel freely within the U.S. This article aims to provide clarity on the passport regulations for residents of Puerto Rico.
FAQ About Passports in Puerto Rico
1. Do U.S. Citizens and Residents Need a Passport to Visit Puerto Rico?
U.S. citizens do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico. As a U.S. territory, travel to and from Puerto Rico is regarded as domestic, allowing U.S. citizens to use alternative forms of identification, such as a driver’s license or a state ID, for seamless travel to Puerto Rico. Note that Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens, granting them the freedom to travel to and from the mainland U.S. without the requirement of a passport.
2. Do Entry Rules Vary between Territories and Travelers?
Entry rules can vary between territories and countries. In the case of Puerto Rico, since it is a U.S. territory, U.S. citizens can enter without a passport. However, entry rules may differ for other territories or foreign countries, and it’s essential to check specific entry requirements for each destination.
3. What About International Travel and Passport Requirements?
Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, Puerto Ricans can travel to and from the mainland United States. However, international travel requires a valid U.S. passport.
4. Do U.S. Citizens Need a Passport to Puerto Rico Before Moving to the Island?
No, U.S. citizens do not need a passport to move to Puerto Rico. Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, there are no international travel requirements for U.S. citizens relocating to Puerto Rico.
5. Is there a Puerto Rican Passport?
No, there is no “Puerto Rico passport.” Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens, therefore they use U.S. passports for international travel, just like residents of the 50 states.
6. Can U.S. Citizens Renew Their Passports in Puerto Rico?
Yes, U.S. citizens can renew their passports in Puerto Rico. Passport renewal can typically be done through mail, passport agency or center, or in person at U.S. Department of State acceptance facilities. Where you apply depends on how fast you need your passport, and what passport form you are submitting.
Click here for the Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page to find the nearest facility where you can submit your U.S. passport application. Acceptance facilities include various locations such as post offices and other local government offices authorized to receive passport applications on behalf of the U.S. Department of State. There are 45 acceptance facilities in Puerto Rico, per the search page.
7. How do I get a U.S. Passport in Puerto Rico?
Residents of Puerto Rico can apply for a passport at designated acceptance facilities (see question 6 above). The application process typically involves submitting proof of citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, passport photos, and the required fees. It’s advisable to check with official sources, such as the U.S. Department of State website, for the latest application requirements and fees.
8. What documents do I need to get a U.S. passport in Puerto Rico?
To get a U.S. passport, you generally need:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
- A government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license)
- Passport photos (you can take those at your local Walgreens or post office)
- Pay the required fees (see below for fees)
- If you’re applying for a passport book or passport card for the first time, fill out form DS-11.
- If you are renewing your passport, fill out form DS-82.
📌 Requirements may vary, and it’s advisable to check the U.S. Department of State website for the most current information.
9. What are the Costs for a U.S. Passport?
The following are the passport fees as of December 2023.
- Fees If You’re Applying for the First Time (Adult 16 years and older)
You will need to pay both an application fee and an acceptance fee. Pay the acceptance fee to the facility which takes your application, and the application fee to the U.S. Department of State. The Apply in Person page has more information on how to submit your application.
| Document | Application Fee | Execution (Acceptance) Fee* |
|---|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 | $35 |
| Passport Card | $30 | $35 |
| Passport Book & Card | $160 | $35 |
- Fees if you are renewing your passport (Adult 16 years and older)
| Document | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| Passport Book | $130 |
| Passport Card | $30 |
| Passport Book & Card | $160 |
📌 Payments to the U.S. Department of State should be made via personal check, certified check, or money order. Payments to the Secretary of the Puerto Rico Treasury Department (for the execution/acceptance fee) should be made via money order or certified check.
📌 For the most current fee information, check the official website of the U.S. Department of State or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Safe Travels!
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