The Associated Free State of Puerto Rico is a small group of islands located in the northeast Caribbean Sea on the eastern side of the island of Hispaniola,which is jointly populated by the nations of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Since 1917, its citizens have also been citizens of the United States of America. As a result, passport services Puerto Rico issue passports of the United States.
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
The indigenous population of the Archipelago is an indigenous aboriginal people known as the Tainos. Their land was taken under Spanish rule by Christopher Columbus in 1493. It remained so for more than 400 years even in the face of attempts at invasion from the English, French and the Dutch. Following the Spanish Civil War, the islands were surrendered to the Americans as a direct result of the Treaty of Paris in 1898.
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
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 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 months from April to December mark the main tourist season. The islands experience summer temperatures all year round. The area is susceptible to hurricanes from May through November, although they are infrequent in June, July and August.
United States citizens do not require you to apply for passport services Puerto Rico in order to travel there. Those who desire to stay for more than ninety days or those who wish to work or study, must first apply for a specific type of visa. Entry is further susceptible to a satisfactory inspection at the airport by the American Agriculture Department who need to ensure travellers are not bringing in prohibited fruits. If they attempt to, they are subjected to an on-the-spot fine.
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