Puerto Rico to mandate testing and/or vaccination for accommodations

In breaking news late Thursday, Aug. 5, Puerto Rico's governor announced that visitors will need to present either a PCR test result or proof of vaccination at all lodging options, including hotels, resorts, and Airbnbs. This announcement was first made on Twitter, followed by a press conference with Gov. Pedro Pierluisi.

If you're planning a trip to Puerto Rico, be prepared to show either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.

Puerto Rico Gov. Pierluisi stated that due to a surge in new coronavirus cases, starting Aug. 16, all guests and staff at hotels and Airbnbs will need to provide proof of full vaccination or undergo weekly COVID-19 testing. According to the Associated Press, Pierluisi emphasized, "We cannot let our guard down. Vaccines are available for everyone. Vaccination is the key to our solution."

Additionally, all government contractors and health care workers will be required to be vaccinated or face weekly testing requirements.

The governor stated that those who violate the new regulations could face fines or imprisonment: "Individuals who do not comply with the order could be sentenced to up to 6 months in jail or fined up to $5,000, or face both penalties at the court's discretion."

As reported by AP:

"The order will take effect on Aug. 16; individuals who refuse vaccination will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test weekly."

Puerto Rico is experiencing a significant rise in cases, primarily due to the highly transmissible delta variant. Cases have increased sharply over the past month.

In May, I visited Puerto Rico to test out its new policy allowing fully vaccinated individuals to enter without a negative test. Unfortunately, I missed it by a few days, but the governor notes that the new hotel rules align with existing entry requirements: "For unvaccinated guests, if your stay exceeds one week, weekly testing is mandatory."

We anticipate that the same rules will apply to lodging. If you can demonstrate that you are fully vaccinated, you won’t need to present a negative test; just your CDC card or another form of proof will suffice. This is akin to the requirements in Hawaii, where hotels and vacation rentals ask for proof of vaccination, negative test results, or Hawaii Safe Travels forms upon check-in.

For those who are not vaccinated, a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before arriving in Puerto Rico will still be required. The test must be from an approved lab, although it seems Puerto Rico will accept most PCR tests. A searchable map to locate testing facilities in the U.S. is available at TravelsafePR.com.

Tourism officials in Puerto Rico informed TPG that "children aged 2-12 who cannot be vaccinated must adhere to the weekly negative COVID test rule, just like unvaccinated adults."

Brad Dean, CEO of Discover Puerto Rico, mentioned:

"This adjustment should have little impact on those visiting the Island, considering that negative tests or proof of vaccination are already entry requirements. Moreover, the new Executive Order should provide travelers with greater reassurance, knowing that all hotel staff will be vaccinated as well. Discover Puerto Rico warmly invites responsible travelers to explore the Island and safely enjoy our varied offerings and naturally socially distanced activities. From kayaking in Mosquito Bay (the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay) to hiking in El Yunque and enjoying a classic beach day at one of our 300 beaches, Puerto Rico offers the advantage of no passport requirements for U.S. travelers, no roaming fees, access to an American medical system, and easy access to familiar stores and pharmacies. We encourage all travelers to follow the guidelines set by the Puerto Rico Department of Health to ensure the safety of fellow visitors and local residents, thereby fostering confidence among travelers and stakeholders alike."