Exiting Puerto Rico
1. The use of Masks is optional
TSA has eliminated the use of mandatory masks at airports around the U.S, making the use of masks in SJU optional. However, the CDC continues to recommend its use to keep everyone protected. Make sure to continue to travel with maks in your luggage; some international airlines may require them. Please visit: https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/statements/2022/04/18/statement-regarding-face-mask-use-public-transportation?fbclid=IwAR1mcBQH9z6y-DV5oV6XfIIBjfCzMRusCJ63UofPdrt3UK2VQJHRY47SwTM
2. Verify the requirements for entering and departing from your destination
At least one or two weeks before traveling, check with the official website of the country or city you will visit to see their restrictions. If you travel to the United States, check the CDC to find out about the restrictions and status in the states and territories. Similarly, you can use the CDC page to check the status of infections in the country you visit. If you have questions or concerns, the authorities are here to guide you on the protocols.
3. Arrive early for your flight
Because anything can happen on your flights, we recommend arriving at least 2 hrs and a half before your domestic flights (U.S) and 3hrs and a half before your international flights. Be sure to communicate with your airline for more information and the flight status system to keep updated.
4. If you are traveling domestically (United States), inspect your luggage in the USDA stations
All who travel from Puerto Rico to the U. S will have to have their luggage checked by USDA officers. They are located at the entrance of every terminal. For more information, please go to: http://aeropuertosju.com/pasajeros/usda/.
5. If traveling with food, make sure to register and ensure it
We know you want to surprise your loved ones with their favorite food and treats they miss so much! We recommend freezing and ensuring all your food is inside the registered luggage that will go in the cargo. Registering will help to avoid delays from the TSA. Don’t forget to plan and see what you can or can’t bring aboard, https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all, as well as the USDA-approved food list: http://aeropuertosju.com/en/passengers/enusda/.
6. Travel with the proper documents
To speed up the TSA process, keep the following documents in hand: boarding passes(either printed or electronically), valid identifications for domestic flights (such as driver’s licenses), and international (such as mandatory passports). All your family members should have this documentation if they are 18 years or older. Learn all the valid identification requirements for your flight here: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification. Minors of 18 years of age traveling with an adult will not be required to have an identification. If a minor travels alone, you must consult the airline for their requirements.
7. Speed up the boarding process
The key to protecting yourself is to follow the rules and comply with the regulations of the places you visit. To prevent additional delays in the boarding, you should check-in online if the airline allows you to.
8. Prepare for the TSA inspection line
To travel safely and fast, you should remember to empty your pockets, take your jacket or sweater off, shoes, and use a separate bin for any electronic devices (laptops, tablets, etc.). Follow all the instructions from the security officer. For more information about the TSA protocols and what to do on special occasions, please read their guidelines at: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening.
Entering Puerto Rico
1. The need for a Traveler's Declaration has been eliminated
The requirements to fill out the Traveler’s Declaration Form for all passengers have been eliminated, as amended by Executive Order 2022-019.
2. The need for a presenting vaccination card or Vacu ID has been eliminated
The requirements of showing your proof of vaccination and/or Vacu ID have been amended by Executive Order 2022-019. Passengers who are not citizens will need proof of vaccination: check out the new measures under the CDC.
3. The use of masks is now optional
Masks are now optional at SJU. However, the CDC continues to recommend the use of masks to make sure we keep on being protected. Always travel with masks in your luggage; some international airlines require them.
4. The need to show a negative COVID-19 test has been eliminated
The negative test requirements for COVID-19 are no longer required for all international and domestic passengers. Non-citizen passengers must present a vaccination card. Check out the new measures under the CDC.
5. If returning from an international flight, fill out a customs declaration form
You will need to complete the customs declaration form before leaving the airport. Check out the guide on what you can or can’t bring with you: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/know-before-you-visit.
6. Up your arrival, check the means of transportation offered
We want to remind you that we count on various means of transportation, some of which are located on the first level. You can find Car Rental, Taxi, Rapidshare (Uber), and prepaid transportation. Follow the signs and Consult the rates at: http://aeropuertosju.com/en/transportation/.
Don’t forget to bring protective items!
As part of your essentials, please consider packing masks, disinfectants, and other protective items that might be required or recommended in some destinations.
Stay Connected
1. Complete the Traveler Declaration Form
The Puerto Rico Department of Health requires that those who visit the island complete the Traveler Declaration Form before traveling. Completing it in advance with the correct information will facilitate the airport departure process. The document is available at: https://1link.travelsafe.pr.gov/. For more information about the Department of Health's travel protocols, please call 939-592-5115 or write to infoviajeros@salud.pr.gov.
2. Bring proof of a negative COVID-19
Regardless of the policies or requirements of your destination, we recommend that you get tested for COVID-19 under these requirements:
If you arrive to Puerto Rico from a domestic flight (U.S):
- Vaccinated: Bring a negative COVID-19 test done 48hrs before travel.
- Non-Vaccinated: Bring a negative COVID-19 test done 48hrs before traveling and a 7-day quarantine after your arrival.
If you arrive to Puerto Rico from an international flight:
Whether vaccinated or not, every passenger must present a negative COVID-19 test done one day before traveling. *IF you are NOT a U.S citizen, permanent legal resident, or traveling to the U.S with an immigrant visa, you must present proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test done one day before traveling. For more information visit: * https://bit.ly/30LmQoq.
3. Be patient & cooperative
The key to protecting all of our health and safety is to follow the rules, be patient and cooperate with the regulations of the destinations we visit. For a smooth boarding process, please arrive approximately 2 hours before your flight departure. Remember that currently, pandemic prevention protocols can mean an additional delay in this process. To speed up this process, if the airline allows you to check-in electronically, please do so.
4. Follow the Entry & Exit Requirements
At least 1-2 weeks before traveling, check with the official website of the country or city you are going to visit to see what their restrictions and protocols are. If you’re traveling to the United States, utilize the CDC tool to find out about the restrictions found in the states and territories. Likewise, visit the CDC webpage to check the status of infections in the country you are going to visit. If you have any doubts, the authorities are your best source to guide you on the protocols.
5. Wear a mask & bring your protective items
As part of your travel essentials, it is important that you make sure you have several masks, disinfectants, and other personal protective items that may be in short supply in the destination you are going to. You should wear a mask at all times to protect yourself and others.
6. Do not litter & keep your distance
To reduce and prevent the spread of the virus, it is important to maintain a physical space of 6 feet of distance between peoples. Likewise, please respect the spaces in which you travel by dispensing your garbage where it belongs. As long as everyone properly complies with the rules, we guarantee a safe environment in which you can enjoy your travel experience.
