Rico Blue Note
USA Passport Services Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico Guidance And Background
The Associated Free State of Puerto Rico has been a United States possession since 1898. It became a Commonwealth in 1952. It consists of half a dozen islands in the northeastern Caribbean Sea slightly east of Santo Domingo on the island of Hispaniola. Because Commonwealth natives are citizens of the United States of America (USA), they are entitled to passport services Puerto Rico issued by the USA.
Travel Authorization
Most people who travel to the USA or its territories require a visa, obtainable from the American Embassy in their native country. Nationals of certain countries may be eligible under the Visa Waiver Program to submit an application to the electronic system for travel authorization. They must not be in possession of a current visa, be planning to stay for 90 days or less and the purpose of their trip must be for business or pleasure. Applicants may be subject to enhanced security requirements.
History Of Puerto Rico
The islands that now make up the Commonwealth were populated originally by an indigenous race of people known as the Tainos. In 1493, Christopher Columbus took the islands under Spanish rule. This status remained in place for more than 400 years, despite attempts by England, the Netherlands and France to capture the islands for their own. Following the Spanish Civil War, the islands were handed over to the United States by Spain in 1898 as a result of the Treaty of Paris.
US Congress Involvement
The United States Congress regulates currency, interstate commerce, foreign relations, defense and communications. Locals are not permitted to vote in elections for the American President. Local government is under the control of a mayor and a council, who are elected by the populace. San Juan is different, in that it has a city-management rule.
Governors
The governor of the commonwealth is elected by the people and has been since 1948. Luiz Munoz Marin was the first native to be elected to the office. Prior to 1948, the governor was appointed by the American president. Prior to 1898, beginning in 1493, he was appointed by the ruling Spanish King. In 1579, the first native citizen to be appointed to the office was Juan Ponce de Leon II.
Physical Geography
Geographically, the main island has three separate regions. One of those regions, the Cordillera Central, is a central mountain range with a maximum elevation of 4,000 feet. There is also a coastal plain and a northern plateau.
Tourist Season
The peak tourist season runs from April to December. The area enjoys summer temperatures throughout the year. The least crowded time to visit, between the months of May and November, coincides unfortunately with the hurricane season, which is also the best time to avoid planning a vacation here.
The pass port services Puerto Rico are not necessary for US citizens who may travel freely. Non-US citizens who wish to stay longer than 90 days or who wish to work or study need to apply for a U S passport, which itself is not a guarantee of entry. All visitors are required to pass inspection by the United States Agriculture Department to make sure they are not carrying prohibited substances, such as certain fruits. Those found carrying prohibited items are given an immediate fine.
Tony Lakatos über RICO Saxophongurte