We advise Irish citizens in Puerto Rico to take normal precautions.
There is currently an outbreak of Zika Virus (a dengue-like mosquito-borne disease) in Central and South America and the Caribbean. Irish Citizens are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).
The Atlantic hurricane season generally runs from June to November each year and can also affect the eastern and southern USA with heavy rain, flooding and extremely high winds.
Citizens with plans to be in the affected region during this period should consider the need to travel based on information relating to extreme weather projections.
Because there is no Irish Embassy or Consulate in the Puerto Rico, we are limited in the help we can offer you in an emergency situation. However, if there is an emergency, or if you need help and advice, you can contact our Consular Assistance Unit at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Dublin on +353 1 408 2000.
EU Directive on Consular Protection
Under the EU Consular Protection Directive, Irish nationals may seek assistance from the Embassy or Consulate of any other EU member state in a country where there is no Irish Embassy or permanent representation.
Our tips for safe travels
The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from July to October. You should pay close attention to local and international weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Always monitor local and international weather updates for the region by accessing, for example, the Weather Channel, or the US National Hurricane Centre website.
If you are unsure of the entry requirements for this country, including visa and other immigration information, ask your travel agent or contact the country’s nearest Embassy or Consulate.
You can also check with them how long your passport must be valid for.
If you are in need of emergency assistance, please contact the Embassy at + 1-202-462-3939 and leave a message on the answering machine.
The answering machine is monitored regularly and the Duty Officer will contact you as soon as possible.
Alternatively, you may contact the Duty Officer at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin at + 353-1-408 2000.
Embassy of Ireland
2234 Massachusetts Ave NW
Washington DC 20008
USA
Tel: +1 202 462 3939
Fax: +1 202 232 5993
Monday to Friday 09:00-13:00 and 14:00-16:00
