Puerto Rico Transit Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders
Fee Breakdown
Key Requirements
- ✓ Puerto Rico is a US territory and transit through Puerto Rico requires a valid US visa for Pakistani passport holders
- ✓ A C-1 transit visa or a B-1/B-2 visitor visa is required for any transit stop in Puerto Rico
- ✓ Pakistani passport holders cannot transit through any US territory including Puerto Rico without a valid US visa
- ✓ Onward travel documents such as a confirmed ticket to the final destination are required
- ✓ Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond the intended transit
- ✓ Applicants must demonstrate no intent to remain in the US or its territories beyond authorized transit period
Documents Required
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Determine whether you require a C-1 transit visa or a B-1/B-2 visa for your layover in Puerto Rico
Step 2: Complete the DS-160 online application form at ceac.state.gov
Step 3: Pay the MRV fee and schedule an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan
Step 4: Gather all required documents including your onward travel itinerary and destination country visa
Step 5: Attend the interview and clearly state your transit purpose and final destination
Step 6: Submit biometrics as required
Step 7: If approved, receive the transit or visitor visa stamp in your passport
Step 8: Travel through Puerto Rico ensuring you remain within the authorized transit period and activities
⚠️ Important Notes
There is no airside transit facility in Puerto Rico that allows Pakistani passport holders to bypass US immigration. Any stop or connection in Puerto Rico requires a valid US visa. Pakistani travelers are strongly advised to plan routes that do not include transit through US territories if they do not hold a valid US visa, as applying for a transit or visitor visa involves significant time and effort.
Common Rejection Reasons
- ✗ Inability to demonstrate a clear and genuine transit purpose
- ✗ No confirmed onward travel documents or valid visa for the final destination
- ✗ Prior immigration violations in the US or other countries
- ✗ Consular officer concerns about potential overstay beyond the transit period
- ✗ Inconsistencies in the application or during the interview
- ✗ Insufficient financial means to cover the transit period
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Since Puerto Rico is a US territory, Pakistani passport holders require a valid US visa for any transit through Puerto Rico, even if not leaving the airport. There is no transit without visa (TWOV) facility for Pakistani nationals in any US territory.
Yes. The C-1 transit visa is specifically for passengers transiting through the US to a third country. The B-1/B-2 is a broader visitor visa. In practice, many applicants apply for a B-1/B-2 which also covers transit. Your consular officer can advise on which category is more appropriate based on your travel plans.
Ready to Apply?
Apply through the official portal. Always use official government/embassy websites.
Apply for Puerto Rico Transit Visa →