Puerto Rico Country Report

Puerto Rico, an island nation that is simultaneously a US commonwealth, is an oddity within the Caribbean. Along with the neighboring US Virgin Islands, it is the only US territory in the region and arguably the US’ best known colonial-era possession, though terms used to describe the island’s status vary and can stir controversy. The island was once underpinned by both significant tourism and manufacturing sectors, but the latter has sputtered as special federal tax benefits for manufacturers have since been phased out. As such, the island now finds itself in a financial crisis that has resulted in a US federal oversight board taking country of Puerto Rican finances.

The biggest threat for those visiting Puerto Rico is opportunistic crime, with chances of experiencing violent crime significantly greater than on the US mainland but still somewhat low relative to Latin American averages. The island’s location squarely within the hurricane belt also makes tropical activity an annual concern.

Crime is high compared to US mainland averages but remains low-to-moderate by Latin American standards. Unrest, particularly in the form of labor strikes and political demonstrations, occurs frequently in Puerto Rico and can prove disruptive, though not physically dangerous. There is a residual risk of transnational terrorism due to the island’s relationship with the US and also a low risk of domestic terrorism because of internal disagreements over said relationship. There is no notable conflict threat to Puerto Rico, nor is one expected to develop.

International carriers are considered safe for travel to Puerto Rico.

Because of the island’s relatively smaller size, its road network is comprehensive, though road conditions may vary.

Basic services such as water, electricity, and fuel availability are generally reliable in Puerto Rico, with certain exceptions (e.g. following major hurricanes).

Puerto Rico is not known to be a sponsor of cyberattacks, nor is it known to particularly suffer from them.

Puerto Rico has a tropical climate year-round, with temperatures often soaring in the summer months. Due to its location within the Caribbean hurricane belt, the island regularly sees tropical storm activity each year during hurricane season from June through November, with activity peaking by September. It lies within a somewhat active seismic zone and has the potential to experience mild-to-moderate earthquakes. Because of the island’s considerable level of development and industry, pollution is a risk. However, US federal standards mitigate this threat.

Puerto Rico has had serious outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses in the past, notably Zika. There are no other major disease concerns. Healthcare facilities are equipped to handle nearly any medical need. However, travel to a major city may be required. All major medications can be obtained in some form on Puerto Rico, particularly in the major cities.

Puerto Rico’s political system has traditionally been stable though does have the potential to change should the status question finally be addressed. Rule of law in Puerto Rico is considered strong. and sanctions are not an issue. Corruption in Puerto Rico is considered to be low-to-moderate by regional standards though higher than US averages.