Security Status
- Normal precautions
- High degree of caution
- Avoid non-essential travel
- Do not travel
- Overview
- Safety and Security
- Local Laws and Customs
- Health
- Additional information
- Embassy Contact
Overview
Overview
Overview
Security Status
Normal Precautions
General Travel Advice
Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States. Irish citizens require an ESTA or visa to enter the US.
In advance of travel, an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) application can be made to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
A valid passport is required for travel to the US. Passport cards cannot be used. Ireland has an agreement with the US that allows you to enter on a current passport up to the actual date of expiration – so your Irish passport needs to be valid only for the duration of your stay in the US.
Visitors to Puerto Rico are advised to follow the guidance of national and local authorities and stay fully informed of what's going on by monitoring local news and social media.
Citizens can also follow the Embassy on social media to ensure access to relevant updates and alerts.
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.
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.
Emergency Assistance
The best help is often close at hand so if you have problems, try talking to your local contacts, tour operator representative or hotel management.
You can contact the emergency services in Puerto Rico by dialling 911. Specific emergency numbers are:
- Police: 911
- Fire brigade: 911
- Ambulance: 911
Our tips for Safe Travels:
- Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers all your planned activities.
- Register your details with us so that we can contact you quickly if there’s an unforeseen crisis like a natural disaster or a family emergency.
- Follow us on twitter @dfatravelwise for the latest travel updates.
- Read our ‘Know Before You Go’ guide.
Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States. If you need assistance, you can contact the Irish Embassy in Washington DC.
Safety and Security
Safety and Security
Safety and security
Hurricane season
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.
Local Laws and Customs
Local Laws and Customs
Health
Health
Health
Zika Virus
There have been outbreaks of Zika Virus (a dengue-like mosquito-borne disease) in Central and South America and the Caribbean. Irish Citizens especially those with a weakened immune system or women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).
Vaccinations
Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for this country.
Additional information
Additional information
Entry requirements
Visa/Passport
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.
Embassy contact
Embassy Contact
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
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