Relocate to Vieques — Living & Investment Guide
IMPORTANT: NOT LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. This page presents general information about life on Vieques, Puerto Rico and Puerto Rico's Act 60 tax incentive program. It is not legal, tax, financial, or investment advice. Always consult qualified legal and tax professionals before making any relocation or financial decisions. IRS enforcement of residency requirements is active and ongoing.
Puerto Rico Act 60 Tax Incentives
Puerto Rico Act 60 offers significant tax incentives to qualifying new residents and businesses. Key benefits (verify current rates with a licensed tax attorney):
- 0% tax on capital gains accrued after establishing Puerto Rico residency
- 0% tax on dividends and interest for qualifying individuals
- 4% corporate tax rate (main Puerto Rico; 2% for Vieques-based businesses)
- 0% tax on cryptocurrency gains accrued after residency establishment
Vieques Advantage: Vieques-based qualifying businesses benefit from enhanced rates — 2% corporate tax (vs. 4% mainland PR), 100% property tax exemption (5 years), and 100% Municipal License exemption.
Residency Requirements
Genuine physical relocation is required — IRS enforcement is active. Key requirements:
- 183 days per year physical presence in Puerto Rico
- Purchase of residential property in Puerto Rico
- $10,000 annual charitable donation to Puerto Rico organizations
- File Puerto Rico tax returns (Form 482) and maintain bona fide residency
Note: A new 4% passive income rate applies to Act 60 Chapter 2 applicants who applied after December 31, 2025. Verify current rules with a licensed professional.
Life on Vieques
Vieques is a small island (21 miles × 4 miles) with approximately 9,000 residents. Two-thirds of the island is a US federal wildlife refuge. No stoplights, no chain stores, no traffic jams. 40+ beaches. Average temperature 82°F year-round. U.S. territory — no passport required for US citizens.
Practical considerations: limited medical infrastructure (trauma requires evacuation to PR mainland), ferry dependency for supplies, slower pace of life. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended for residents and visitors.
Critical Warnings
- IRS enforcement is active — genuine relocation is required, not paper residency
- Do not rely on this page for tax or legal decisions — consult qualified professionals
- Verify all incentive rates and requirements; laws change