Puerto Rico uses the United States Dollar (USD) as its official currency. Most businesses in urban and tourist areas accept a range of payment methods. Currency exchange services are limited, as USD is the standard.
- Official Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
- Accepted Payment Methods: Cash, major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), and debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay) are increasingly available, especially in larger cities and chain stores.
- Contactless Payments: Contactless credit/debit cards and mobile wallets are accepted at many retailers, restaurants, and hotels.
- ATM Availability: ATMs are widely available in cities, airports, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept international cards with networks such as Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro. Typical withdrawal fees range from USD 2–5 per transaction, plus possible fees from your home bank.
- Currency Exchange: Currency exchange is uncommon due to USD usage. Limited services may be found at major airports and some banks.
- Cash Import/Export Limits: Travelers entering or leaving Puerto Rico (as a U.S. territory) with more than USD 10,000 (or equivalent) in cash or monetary instruments must declare it to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
- Transaction Fees: Foreign card transactions may incur surcharges of 1–3% depending on your card issuer.
- Major Banks: Banco Popular, FirstBank, Oriental Bank, and U.S. branches of international banks operate throughout Puerto Rico.
- Regulations: U.S. federal financial regulations apply. Large cash transactions may require identification and reporting.
- Tips: Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks. Carry some cash for small vendors or rural areas.
