What Are the Visa Requirements for Moving to Puerto Rico?

Relocating to Puerto Rico can be an exciting new chapter in your life, but understanding how to become a resident of Puerto Rico is a crucial step to ensure a smooth transition. Puerto Rico, a picturesque Caribbean island and an unincorporated territory of the United States, offers a unique blend of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities. For those who wish to establish residency in Puerto Rico, especially non-U.S. citizens, understanding Puerto Rico residency requirements and the necessary immigration processes is essential.

Although there isn’t a government of Puerto Rico embassy, applicants should work with the U.S. embassy relevant to their current location. Understanding the rules for becoming a bona fide resident of Puerto Rico is key to enjoying the many tax advantages offered by this U.S. territory. In this guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of establishing residency in Puerto Rico, visa requirements, and how to navigate Puerto Rico’s Act 60 tax incentives, which have made it a haven for luxury home investors.

Key Takeaways

Can Americans move to Puerto Rico? Yes, because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory. U.S. citizens are free to live and work within Puerto Rico without needing a visa.
Non-U.S. citizens must adhere to the same immigration rules as if moving to the mainland United States, requiring appropriate visas.
Common pathways to obtaining a Green Card include family sponsorship and employment-based immigration.
The Puerto Rico visa application online process involves multiple steps, significant documentation, and potential challenges such as lengthy timelines and financial costs.

Do I Need a Visa to Go to Puerto Rico?

If you’re asking, “Do you need a visa for Puerto Rico?”, the answer depends on your nationality—U.S. citizens don’t need one, while non-U.S. citizens must follow the same visa rules as entering the mainland United States.

Visa vs Nationality

The need for a visa to travel to Puerto Rico depends on your nationality

U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents: No visa is required. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, and travel to and from Puerto Rico is considered domestic. U.S. citizens only need a government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Countries: No visa is required. If you are a citizen of one of the 41 countries in the VWP, you can visit Puerto Rico for up to 90 days without a visa, but you must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
Non-VWP Countries: A visa is required. If you are not from a VWP country, you must apply for a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visa before traveling to Puerto Rico. The visa process is the same as applying for entry to the mainland U.S.

Citizenship

U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents

For non-U.S. citizens, moving to Puerto Rico involves understanding the same visa and residency test requirements as for the mainland United States. Visa types such as the H-1B, L-1, or F-1 are common, but if you’re planning to settle long-term, you’ll need to pursue a Green Card and meet Puerto Rico residency requirements.

If you’re wondering can Americans move to Puerto Rico? the answer is yes—U.S. citizens can relocate without a passport or special visa because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory. To become a bona fide resident, you must spend at least 183 days on the island and establish your tax home there. This includes avoiding ties such as a primary home or substantial income sources outside Puerto Rico. Meeting these requirements offers substantial benefits, including exemptions from U.S. federal tax on certain Puerto Rico–sourced income.

Non-U.S. Citizens

If you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, what visa do you need for Puerto Rico? do you need a work visa to work in Puerto Rico? Your ability to move to Puerto Rico generally depends on your current visa or immigration status in the United States. For instance, Puerto Rico visa requirements for Indian citizens are the same as those for entering the mainland United States. Can I go to Puerto Rico with a work permit? Yes, various visa categories such as Puerto Rico work visas (H-1B, L-1, etc.), student visas (F-1, J-1, etc.), or a visa through family sponsorship allow you to do so.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Citizens from 41 countries can visit Puerto Rico without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. Although visa-exempt, VWP travelers must have:

An approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
A valid e-passport with at least six months validity beyond their intended stay.

These travelers can enter Puerto Rico for tourism, business, or transit purposes without applying for a visa.

Applying for ESTA

The ESTA is a digital system managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that determines if travelers from VWP countries are eligible to visit Puerto Rico visa-free.

Key Facts About ESTA:

Application is done online through the CBP website.
Fee: $21 USD (non-refundable).
Processing time: Up to 72 hours.
Validity: Two years, allowing multiple entries.
Each stay cannot exceed 90 days per visit.

Ensure you apply at least 72 hours before departure to avoid delays.

Visa Requirements for Non-VWP Countries

(For those who are not eligible for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and plan to visit or relocate to Puerto Rico)

If your country is not part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you must apply for a non-immigrant visa (typically a B-1 for business or B-2 for tourism) before traveling to Puerto Rico. Because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, the immigration rules are the same as for entering the mainland United States.

What to Know Before Applying

Here are some newer and important updates to the U.S. visa system you should keep in mind:

Interview Country Requirement (as of September 6, 2025): You must apply for the visa and attend the consular interview in your country of citizenship or legal residence. Using a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country (a "third-country" interview) is no longer allowed except in rare cases (e.g. if your country has no U.S. mission).
Wait Times Vary Widely: The wait time for interview appointments and visa processing depends heavily on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate you are applying through. During busy periods, this can take several weeks to many months. Use the State Department’s visa wait time tool to estimate.
DS-160 Form Matching Rules: As of May 2025, DS-160 forms must be filed at least 2 business days before your scheduled interview, and the DS-160 confirmation number must match exactly what was used to schedule the appointment. If not, your interview may be canceled or rescheduled.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step	What You Do	Details / Best Practices
1. Complete Form DS-160	Fill out the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160). Make sure all personal information is accurate. Save or print the confirmation page.
2. Pay Visa Application Fee	Check the embassy/consulate website for exact fee amounts in your currency, and how payment is handled (online, bank, or in person).
3. Schedule Visa Interview	Book at your country’s U.S. embassy or consulate. Be sure your DS-160 confirmation number is the one used when scheduling. Expect throughputs to be busy—book well in advance.
4. Gather Required Documentation	You’ll typically need: • Valid passport that covers the period of your stay (often valid six months beyond your return date) • DS-160 confirmation page • Receipt of visa fee payment • Evidence of financial means (bank statements, assets) • Travel itinerary (flights, hotel, property visits, etc.) • Proof of ties to your home country (job, family, property, etc.) • Any real estate or relocation plans if relevant (especially for luxury property purchases)
5. Attend the Visa Interview	Be ready to explain the purpose of your trip (tourism, business, property search, etc.), show your planning, and demonstrate strong incentives to return home. Honesty and clarity help.
6. Processing and Passport Return	After the interview, processing might take several days to a few weeks, depending on if there is additional administrative review. Be sure to check with the consulate about passport pick-up or return via courier.

What Documents Are Expected

Passport valid for travel and covering your stay duration
DS-160 confirmation page
Visa fee payment receipt
Travel and accommodation plan (flight tickets, lodging, schedule, etc.)
Bank statements, proof of enough funds to cover your entire stay
Explanation of ties to your home country: this might include a job, business, dependents, real estate, or ongoing financial or social obligations
If applicable: documents related to real estate interest in Puerto Rico (e.g. property listings, purchase offers) or relocation plan

Common Questions & Tips

How early should I apply? As soon as you plan a trip or property visit, ideally 3-4 months in advance, especially if relocating for luxury real estate investment. Delays in visas or interviews can derail timelines.
What about applying through a different country? Not an option under the new rules unless you fall under a rare exception (no U.S. consulate in your country or diplomatic status).
Do I automatically get a work permit? No. A B-1/B-2 visa does not allow you to work in Puerto Rico. If you plan to work, you’ll need the appropriate visa (H-1B, L-1, etc.).
Does purchasing luxury property or investment grant any special visa? Not directly. Buying property doesn’t change immigration status. But many who do invest for relocation also explore long-term residence or other visas. Always combine property plans with immigration/legal consultation.

Why This Matters for Christie's International Real Estate Puerto Rico

At Christie's, we help clients not just find luxury homes, but navigate the full move: visa paperwork, relocation, investment, and tax implications. Understanding these visa rules ensures your real estate purchase aligns with your immigration goals. We can help guide you through consulting immigration attorneys, gathering documentation, planning your visit or move, and coordinating your investment in Puerto Rico with your broader relocation strategy.

Can Asylum Seekers Travel to Puerto Rico?

Understanding the rules before booking your trip can prevent serious immigration problems.

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory and technically part of the domestic travel network. Yet for people with pending or approved asylum status, the rules are more complicated than booking an ordinary U.S. domestic flight. Immigration checks still occur at airports and seaports, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can treat certain travel as abandoning an asylum claim.

Travel Rules by Asylum or Refugee Status

Your status determines whether you can visit Puerto Rico without advance permission.

Immigration Status	Travel to Puerto Rico	Key Requirements
Pending Asylum Application	❌ No	Must apply for Advance Parole (Form I-131) before leaving your state of residence.
Approved Asylee	✅ Yes	Carry government-issued ID and avoid travel to your country of origin.
Refugee with Valid U.S. Papers	✅ Yes	Carry refugee travel documents or I-94 showing admission as a refugee.

USCIS stresses that leaving your state for Puerto Rico without Advance Parole can be treated as abandoning a pending asylum case. If you must travel, always secure written approval first.

Puerto Rico Visa and Entry Requirements for Philippine Citizens

Philippine passport holders need a U.S. visa even when Puerto Rico is the destination.

Puerto Rico follows U.S. federal immigration law. Travelers from the Philippines must first secure the correct U.S. visa:

B1/B2 Visitor Visa – for tourism, family visits, or short business trips.
F-1 Student Visa – for academic programs.
H-1B or other employment visas – for work assignments.

Application steps include completing the DS-160 form, paying the visa fee, booking a U.S. Embassy interview in Manila, and preparing proof of funds and home-country ties. Processing can take several weeks, so early application is vital.

For official instructions and any new policy updates, visit the Puerto Rico Department of State website.

ID and Security Checks Under the Real ID Act

Domestic flights to Puerto Rico will soon require stricter ID.

Starting May 7, 2025, every airline passenger flying within the United States—including to Puerto Rico—must present a Real ID–compliant license or passport. Without one, even U.S. citizens can be denied boarding.

Travel Planning Tips for Asylum Seekers and International Visitors

Protect your immigration status and avoid costly setbacks.

Get legal advice first. Consult an immigration attorney before booking travel.
Keep all documents handy. Bring your USCIS approval, visa, or refugee paperwork.
Check airline and TSA guidance. Rules can shift quickly; review them before departure.
Know real estate opportunities. If your visit involves viewing properties, Christie's International Real Estate Puerto Rico can help you explore luxury homes and investment options legally and safely.

Key Takeaway: Puerto Rico is a dream destination and a thriving luxury real estate market, but U.S. immigration law still applies. Pending asylum seekers must secure Advance Parole, Philippine citizens need a U.S. visa, and everyone will need Real ID–compliant identification after May 7, 2025.

Visa Requirements to Become a Resident in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico offers a rare combination of U.S. legal stability and Caribbean lifestyle. But moving here as a permanent resident of the United States requires understanding federal immigration law and the island’s own tax residency standards, especially if you plan to purchase luxury real estate under programs like Act 60.

The guidance below explains the type of visa, the Green Card process, and how to meet Puerto Rico’s bona fide residence test—along with official links for every step.

Understanding the Type of Visa You Need

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so there is no separate Puerto Rican immigrant visa. Anyone who wants to live and work here indefinitely must qualify for a U.S. immigrant visa leading to a Green Card (Lawful Permanent Resident status).
Two main visa pathways remain the most common in 2025:

1. Family-Sponsored Immigration

Ideal if you have close relatives who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Immediate Relatives: Spouses, unmarried children under 21, or parents of U.S. citizens (the petitioner must be at least 21).
Family Preference: Adult or married children and siblings of U.S. citizens, and spouses and unmarried children of Green Card holders.

Requirements:
A qualifying relative files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and proves adequate financial support. After approval, you proceed to the immigrant visa or adjustment of status stage.

2. Employment-Based Immigration

Suited to professionals, investors, or those with extraordinary abilities.

EB-1: Individuals with extraordinary ability, professors, researchers, and multinational executives.
EB-2 & EB-3: Advanced-degree professionals, skilled workers, and other specialized occupations.
EB-5 Investor Visa: Requires investing at least $1.05 million (or $800 k in a targeted employment area) in a U.S. enterprise that creates ten or more full-time jobs.

Requirements:

Employers generally file Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker). EB-5 investors submit proof of investment and job creation.
For the latest list of immigrant visa categories, visit the U.S. Department of State.

Green Card: The Foundation of Permanent U.S. Residence

A Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) grants the right to live and work anywhere in the United States, including Puerto Rico. Holders enjoy many of the same protections as U.S. citizens, such as lawful employment and property ownership, and may later apply for citizenship.

Key Rights and Responsibilities:
See USCIS Green Card guidance for details on taxes, residency obligations, and travel permissions.

The Green Card Application Process in 2025

Step	What Happens	Key Forms & Notes
Immigrant Petition	Filed by a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or employer sponsor. Certain applicants (e.g., EB-1 extraordinary ability) may self-petition.	Form I-130 or I-140
Visa Availability	Most categories wait for a visa number. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens are exempt.	Check the State Department Visa Bulletin
Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing	Apply for a Green Card inside the U.S. (Form I-485) or through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.	Form I-485 or DS-260
Biometrics & Interview	USCIS schedules fingerprinting and an interview to verify eligibility.	Bring originals of supporting documents
Approval & Green Card Issuance	Receive your Green Card and gain lawful permanent resident status.	Maintain U.S. residence to keep status

Full instructions are on USCIS: How to Apply for a Green Card.

Meeting Puerto Rico’s Bona Fide Residency Test

A U.S. Green Card alone does not qualify you for Puerto Rico’s tax benefits. To access Act 60 (formerly Act 22) incentives—such as reduced or zero tax on certain capital gains—you must become a bona fide resident of Puerto Rico.

Three Core Tests (all must be met):

Physical Presence – Spend at least 183 days per tax year in Puerto Rico.
Tax Home – Your primary place of business or employment must be in Puerto Rico.
Closer Connection – Demonstrate stronger ties to Puerto Rico than to any U.S. state or foreign country (e.g., primary home ownership, voter registration, driver’s license).

Because rules can change, consult a tax professional and monitor updates from the Puerto Rico Department of State.

Other Visas and Temporary Work Options

Short- or medium-term stays before permanent residency. While a Green Card is the goal for long-term relocation, some buyers start with temporary status:

H-1B – Specialty occupation work visa (up to 6 years).
L-1 – Intra-company transfer for executives or managers.
O-1 – For individuals with extraordinary ability in science, art, or business.
F-1 – Student visa with limited work opportunities (OPT).
J-1 – Exchange visitor visa with possible home-country residency requirement.
TN Visa – For certain Canadian and Mexican professionals.

These visas can provide valuable time to evaluate the market and begin property investments while preparing for an immigrant visa.

Investing in Puerto Rico’s Luxury Real Estate

Many international buyers choose Puerto Rico for its blend of U.S. legal protections and Caribbean quality of life. Purchasing through Christie’s International Real Estate Puerto Rico can help demonstrate a “closer connection” to the island when applying for Act 60 benefits. Key steps include:

Property Selection – From Dorado Beach estates to San Juan historic homes.
Legal & Tax Planning – Coordinate immigration, tax, and real estate counsel.
Residency Evidence – Keep thorough records of days spent on-island and community ties.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Move

Plan ahead to save time and protect your immigration status.

Start early: Green Card processing can take 12–24 months depending on the category.
Maintain documentation: Keep property purchase contracts, lease agreements, and local registrations.
Stay updated: U.S. immigration and Puerto Rico tax rules evolve; check USCIS and State Department regularly.
Consult professionals: Immigration lawyers and certified tax advisors are indispensable partners.

Relocating to Puerto Rico combines U.S. permanence with exceptional tax advantages—but only if you secure the correct type of visa, obtain a Green Card, and satisfy the bona fide residency criteria. With careful planning and expert guidance, your move can open doors to both a Caribbean lifestyle and long-term wealth opportunities.

Challenges in Obtaining a Visa

Obtaining an immigrant visa to move to another country, such as the United States or to reside in a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico, involves navigating a complex process that can present several challenges. While the specifics can vary depending on the country and individual circumstances, some common challenges include:

1. Complex and Lengthy Process

The immigration process is often complicated and time-consuming. Applicants need to understand various forms, requirements, and steps. The timeline from application to obtaining a visa can take months or even years, depending on the visa category and country-specific quotas.

Country-specific quotas

For most other U.S. immigrant visa categories, such as family-sponsored or employment-based visas, the quota system is not based on the applicant's country of origin but on the visa category itself. However, a per-country cap can affect the waiting times for these visas. This means no single country can receive more than 7% of the total number of visas available for certain categories each fiscal year. This is particularly relevant for countries with high levels of immigration to the U.S. and can result in longer waiting times for applicants from those countries due to higher demand.

As of the latest updates available up to April 2023, these countries do not face significant backlogs in family and employment-based visa categories due to the per-country cap:

These countries often have relatively lower demand for U.S. immigrant visas, which means their nationals may face shorter waiting times compared to those from countries with heavy demand, such as:

India
China
Mexico, and
The Philippines

2. Documentation and Information Requirements

Gathering the necessary documentation can be challenging. Ensuring that all documents are accurate, translated where necessary, and submitted correctly is crucial and can be a significant hurdle.

Document Type	Description
Valid Passport	Valid for travel to the U.S., with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay.
Visa Application Confirmation	Confirmation page of the completed DS-160 or DS-260 online visa application form (which is the consular visa application form).
Photographs	Recent passport-style photographs that meet U.S. visa requirements.
Visa Fee Receipt	Proof of payment for the visa application fee.
Interview Appointment Letter	Confirmation of your visa interview appointment.
Visa Petition Approval	For certain visa categories, such as employment-based or family-sponsored visas, a copy of the USCIS-approved petition.
Proof of Eligibility for the Visa Category	Documents vary by visa type but could include job offer letters, evidence of relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and qualification certificates.
Financial Documents	Evidence of financial stability includes bank statements, employment letters, sponsor affidavits of support, and tax returns.
Medical Examination Results	Conducted by an authorized physician and evidence of required vaccinations.
Police Clearance Certificate	From your current country of residence and any country where you have lived for more than six months since the age of 16.
Court and Criminal Records	If applicable, any records concerning past arrests, convictions, or criminal charges.
Military Records	If you have served in the military of any country, records of service.
Educational and Work Experience Documents	Diplomas, transcripts, certificates, resumes, and letters from employers relevant to the visa category.
English Translation	Certified translations of documents not originally in English.
Additional Specific Documents	Other documents may be required depending on the visa type and individual circumstances.

3. Legal and Regulatory Understanding

Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change. Staying informed about current requirements, processes, and potential policy shifts is essential. Legal assistance is highly recommended.

4. Financial Costs

The financial burden associated with the visa application process can be significant. The Puerto Rico visa online application process involves multiple steps, significant documentation, and potential challenges such as lengthy timelines and financial costs. Fees include application processing charges, legal fees for immigration advice (if sought), medical examinations, and potentially the cost of moving and resettlement.

5. Adjustment of Status Issues

For those already in the country on a temporary visa, transitioning to an immigrant visa can be complicated by issues such as visa expirations, change of status, and maintaining legal status throughout the process.

6. Health and Character Checks

Health examinations can uncover eligibility issues, while background and security checks can be invasive and time-consuming. Any past legal issues or discrepancies in application information can lead to delays or denials.

Weighing the Decision: Is Moving to Puerto Rico Right for You?

Relocating to Puerto Rico offers a mix of exciting opportunities and unique challenges. Whether you're drawn by its favorable tax incentives, warm climate, or vibrant culture, it's essential to weigh the advantages and drawbacks before making the move. While Puerto Rico provides an appealing lifestyle with lower costs than many U.S. cities, factors like employment opportunities, infrastructure, and healthcare access may impact your decision. Below, we've outlined the key pros and cons to help you evaluate if Puerto Rico is the right fit for you.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Puerto Rico

Category	Pros	Cons
Cost of Living	Lower cost of living than many U.S. cities, especially for housing and services.	Higher costs for imported goods, groceries, and electricity compared to the U.S. mainland.
Tax Benefits	Significant tax incentives under Act 60, including reduced capital gains and corporate taxes.	Must meet bona fide residency requirements to qualify for tax incentives, which can be complex.
Climate & Weather	Year-round warm temperatures and beautiful beaches.	Hurricane season (June–November) brings risks of storms and flooding.
Culture & Community	Rich cultural heritage, strong sense of community, and welcoming locals.	Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers, though many Puerto Ricans speak English.
Healthcare System	Access to both public and private healthcare options, with some hospitals providing high-quality care.	Public healthcare can be inconsistent, and private insurance may be necessary for better care.
Education	Availability of private bilingual schools and U.S. curriculum-based institutions.	Public schools may have limited resources, and quality can vary by region.
Safety & Security	Safe communities, particularly in gated and luxury developments.	Some areas experience higher crime rates, and petty theft can be a concern in certain regions.
Employment Opportunities	Growing industries like tourism, pharmaceuticals, and finance.	Fewer job opportunities than on the U.S. mainland; salaries are often lower.
Digital Nomad & Remote Work	Reliable internet in urban areas, growing coworking spaces, and good lifestyle balance.	Internet access in rural areas can be unreliable, and power outages can disrupt work.
Banking & Financial Services	U.S. banking system applies, FDIC-insured banks available.	Some international banks have limited presence, and not all businesses accept credit cards.
Transportation	Public transportation is available in metro areas like San Juan, and ride-sharing services exist.	Limited public transit in rural areas, and car ownership is almost necessary outside major cities.

Working Remotely in Puerto Rico as a Non-U.S. Citizen

Puerto Rico is emerging as a hotspot for remote workers and digital nomads, drawn by its tropical charm, U.S.-style infrastructure, and tax incentives. But can immigrants go to Puerto Rico to work remotely? The answer depends on your immigration status.

U.S. citizens can freely move to Puerto Rico and work remotely without needing additional documentation.
Non-U.S. citizens must follow U.S. immigration law, even when relocating to Puerto Rico.
There is currently no separate “digital nomad visa” for Puerto Rico. All employment or residency must be authorized through appropriate U.S. visa categories.
Common visa types for remote workers include H-1B, O-1, or potentially maintaining a foreign visa with non-U.S. based employment—but this approach requires legal consultation.

Visa Considerations Matrix for Remote Workers:

Status	Can Work Remotely in Puerto Rico?	Requirements/Notes
U.S. Citizen	Yes	No visa needed
Green Card Holder	Yes	Permanent residents may live and work freely
Non-U.S. Citizen	With visa	Must hold valid U.S. visa (e.g., H-1B, O-1)
Digital Nomad (Foreign Employer)	Possibly	Depends on visa type and client/employer location—seek legal advice
Undocumented Immigrant	No	Travel and work not permitted; risk of detention

Tip: Remote work tied to foreign companies with no U.S. client base might be possible, but legal risks exist. Always consult with an immigration attorney to ensure full compliance before relocating.

Conclusion

The complex and multifaceted visa requirements for moving to Puerto Rico can be daunting, particularly for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of U.S. immigration law. At Christie's International Real Estate Puerto Rico, we understand the challenges and uncertainties of relocating to a new territory. Our expertise extends beyond the luxury real estate market; we provide comprehensive guidance and support to our clients throughout their relocation process.

At Christie’s International Real Estate Puerto Rico, we can help you understand what it takes to become a resident and ensure your transition is seamless. Whether you're moving for lifestyle or tax purposes, let us help you make the most of Puerto Rico's unique benefits.

FAQs

Is it easy to migrate to Puerto Rico?

Migrating to Puerto Rico can be relatively straightforward, especially for U.S. citizens, as Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory. Americans can relocate without visas, as Puerto Rico is considered domestic for tax purposes. For non-U.S. citizens, migrating requires a valid visa and meeting the residency test for those seeking long-term benefits such as bona fide residency.

Spending at least 183 days during the tax year and establishing your tax home in Puerto Rico are crucial steps to qualify for tax advantages, including exemptions on income earned within Puerto Rico.

Do I need a visa to move to Puerto Rico, or is there a special “Puerto Rico visa”?

There’s no separate Puerto Rico visa. Puerto Rico follows U.S. immigration law, so non-U.S. citizens use the same type of visa they would for the mainland (family- or employment-based immigrant visas leading to a Green Card). Short stays use U.S. B-1/B-2 visitor visas or, for eligible nationals, the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) for up to 90 days. U.S. citizens and Green Card holders don’t need a new visa to live in Puerto Rico.

What’s the fastest realistic path to permanent residence if I plan to buy luxury real estate in Puerto Rico?

Property purchase alone doesn’t grant status. The common routes remain family sponsorship (Form I-130) or employment-based immigration (EB-1/EB-2/EB-3 via Form I-140, or EB-5 investment). Your Application Process typically runs: approved petition → visa availability (Visa Bulletin) → adjustment of status (I-485) or consular processing (DS-260) → biometrics/interview → Green Card. Christie’s International Real Estate Puerto Rico can align home-search timelines with your immigration counsel so you’re not rushing documents around closing.

What are the “bona fide resident” rules under Act 60, and do they change my U.S. immigration requirements?

Act 60’s tax incentives are separate from immigration. To claim them you must pass all three bona fide residency tests: (1) 183+ days in Puerto Rico, (2) tax home in Puerto Rico, and (3) a closer connection to Puerto Rico than anywhere else (home, licenses, voter reg, community ties). You still need the proper U.S. immigration status (e.g., Green Card) to live and work here long-term; Act 60 doesn’t replace visas.

Can I work remotely from Puerto Rico if I’m not a U.S. citizen?

Only if your U.S. status authorizes it. There’s no Puerto Rico-specific “digital nomad visa.” Depending on your situation, that could mean H-1B, L-1, O-1, or obtaining a Green Card for unrestricted work. Remote work for a foreign employer can still trigger U.S./PR tax and immigration considerations—speak with an immigration attorney and a tax professional before relocating. Our team can coordinate with both while you explore neighborhoods and inventory.

What should I know about visiting to scout homes—ESTA, Real ID, and interviews?

If you’re from a Visa Waiver Program country, apply for ESTA online before you fly; stays are limited to 90 days and tourism/business only. Travelers from non-VWP countries typically need a B-1/B-2 visa (file DS-160, pay the fee, and attend a consular interview). Starting May 7, 2025, all domestic flights (including to Puerto Rico) require Real ID-compliant ID or a passport.

For serious buyers, we help structure property tours and documentation (itineraries, appointments, proof of funds) that support a clear, business-purpose visit—without over-promising immigration outcomes.