Traveling to U.S. Mainland From Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands

Last Modified: August 08, 2024

APHIS prohibits or restricts the movement of many agricultural products from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands into the U.S. mainland. These include most fresh fruits and vegetables and certain plants, such as flowers.

That’s because these items could harbor a dangerous stowaway—an invasive pest or disease. Just one piece of fruit or a single plant that is carrying an invasive pest or disease could lead to millions of dollars in damage to agriculture and the environment, expensive eradication efforts, lost trade revenue, and higher food prices.

What To Expect at the Airport

You must present all food, plants, and other agricultural items to the USDA inspector at the airport before you leave Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands. If your items are generally allowed, the inspector will examine them to make sure they are free from pests and disease before you begin your trip to the U.S. mainland.

Hear more about the process to check for and inspect agricultural items:

Common Items From Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands NOT ALLOWED into the U.S. Mainland

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Agricultural Items From Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands ALLOWED into the U.S. Mainland

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Need More Information?

Contact your local USDA or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) office for the most up-to-date information.

USDA Offices (for travelers from Puerto Rico)

  • Aguada: 787-986-7240
  • Aguadilla: 787-931–7900
  • Carolina: 787-710-7282
  • Ponce: 787-709-4957
  • San Juan: 787-919-0585

CBP Offices (for travelers from U.S. Virgin Islands)

  • St. Croix: 340-778-1696
  • St. Thomas: 340-774-4554
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