On July 1, Puerto Rico released a new Executive Order, which announced the further loosening of measures against COVID-19.
As of Monday, July 5 the measures outlined in the new Executive Order went into effect on the island. The new measures include: masks are no longer required for those who are full vaccinated in both private and public, indoor and outdoor spaces. However, local businesses still have the ability to set rules and limitations that exceed local government requirements.
All attractions, activities and events can now be held at full capacity and only those who are not fully vaccinated (including children ages 2-11) or are immunocompromised, will be required to wear masks, unless inside of a health center or airport, where masks are still required for everyone. Masks are also still required on all forms of public transportation, including all ferries to and from Vieques and Culebra.
Travelers should keep in mind that mask usage is a federal law on airplanes and in airports. Those entering any of the Island’s three open airports, whether on commercial or private aircraft, are required to fill out a Travel Declaration Form on the Puerto Rico Health Department’s online portal, which produces a QR code required to proceed. Both international/not vaccinated travelers must also upload a negative PCR molecular or antigen COVID-19 test result to the portal. Fully vaccinated travelers entering on domestic flights are permitted to upload their vaccination cards instead of a negative test. Given federal mandates, the requirement will remain in place for travelers on international flights. All passengers will also be required to present their ID to ensure alignment with the information entered within the Travel Declaration Form.
Visitors who would like to get a COVID-19 vaccine, and are arriving at the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) can receive a Johnson and Johnson vaccine in Terminal B. The same is offered on the islands of Vieques and Culebra via the Maritime Transportation Authority ferry terminal in Ceiba.
What’s Open?
According to the new Executive Order, all businesses including restaurants, theaters, malls, casinos, supermarkets, pharmacies and gas stations are operating at full capacity. Bars and discos are also open at full capacity, along with game rooms. Outdoor bars and “chinchorros” still require the physical distance of 6 ft. between those who are not from the same family unit.
Travelers can enjoy the public beaches and natural reserves on the island, which are now fully open and following social distancing guidelines. In addition, fully vaccinated people are not required to wear masks at beaches and parks. Museums and hotel pool facilities are also open and operating at full capacity. Marinas are also open and following social distancing guidelines. Hair salons, barbershops and individual spas are open by appointment only. However, some businesses such as lodging options and spas may require proof of a negative test result or vaccination upon arrival.
For those traveling through Old San Juan, the city is open with limited access to residents and tourists staying in the area from midnight to 5 a.m.
For more information, visit discoverpuertorico.com/info/travel-guidelines.
Don’t miss, “Puerto Rico’s Lessons in Crisis and Recovery.” And, for more updates on Caribbean travel, click here.
