U.S. Passport services Puerto Rico - A History Of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States of America (USA). It consists mainly of a small, rectangular island, along with five smaller islands east of Santo Domingo in the Caribbean Sea. Since 1917, commonwealth citizens have been citizens of the United States. For this reason, passport services Puerto Rico issue American passports.

travel Authorization

Generally, travellers to the United States of America or to any of its territories are expected to possess a visa, which they may obtain by application to the American Embassy located in their country of origin. However, according to the Visa Waiver Program, certain nationals may submit an application to the ESTA, the electronic system for Travel Authorization. In order to qualify, they must plan to stay for no longer than ninety days and intend to travel for the purpose of either pleasure or business. They must also meet enhanced security requirements.

History Of Puerto Rico

Prior to the arrival of Christopher Columbus on his second voyage in November 1493, the islands of what is now the commonwealth were originally populated by an indigenous people called the Tainos. Despite invasions by France, England and the Netherlands, the islands remained under Spanish rule for more than 400 years. The islands were ceded by Spain to the United States in 1898 under the Treaty of Paris.

US Congress Involvement

Some aspects of commonwealth life are under the control of the United States Congress. These include defense, foreign relations, communications,interstate commerce and currency. Natives are not allowed to vote in elections for the American President. Their local government is the responsibility of a popularly elected major and council. San Juan has a slightly different system of local government.

Governors

Local citizens have been able to elect their own governor since 1948. Before that, from 1898 until 1946, the governor was appointed by the President of the United States. Between 1493 and 1898, the governor was appointed by the King of Spain. In 1579, Juan Ponce de Leon II, became the first native citizen to serve as Governor. In 1948, Luiz Munoz Marin became the first native citizen to be elected governor by the people.

Physical Geography

Geographically, the big island has three distinct regions. The central mountain range, the Cordillera Central, dominates the landscape. There also exists 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 US passport 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 United States 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.
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