Pvr Airport: Covid Testing Availability And Requirements

As of 2024, COVID-19 testing is available at Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) for travellers who need a negative test result to enter their next destination. Testing sites are located outside the airport terminals and are open 24 hours a day. Rapid antigen tests are available for around 450 MXN, with results in 30 minutes, and PCR tests are also offered, with results in 24-48 hours. However, travellers should be aware that some countries require PCR tests to be taken within 48-72 hours of their return flight.

COVID-19 testing tent at the Puerto Vallarta Airport

The COVID-19 testing tent at the Puerto Vallarta Airport offers both rapid antigen and PCR tests. The antigen test costs 450 MXN and provides results in 30 minutes, while the PCR test costs 1450 MXN and provides results in 24-48 hours. The testing tent is open 24 hours a day and no appointment is needed. However, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours earlier than usual for testing, as there may be a queue.

The Puerto Vallarta Airport COVID-19 testing tent was set up to facilitate the new travel rules and requirements established by the United States and Canada. These requirements include providing a negative COVID-19 test result within a certain timeframe before departure. For the United States, a negative test result is required no more than 72 hours before departure, while for Canada, it is required no more than 96 hours before departure.

It is important to note that the antigen test is widely used due to its speed and convenience. However, PCR tests are more accurate and may be required by some countries, such as Canada. The PCR test takes several hours to process and must be done in a real medical lab. On the other hand, antigen tests can be analysed within 15 minutes using portable equipment.

The COVID-19 testing tent at the Puerto Vallarta Airport provides a convenient and efficient service for travellers. It is recommended to check the latest travel restrictions and requirements before departure, as they may change over time. Additionally, travellers who test positive for COVID-19 are required to quarantine for 14 days until they can provide proof of a negative test result.

PCR and Antigen tests

COVID-19 tests can be done at the Puerto Vallarta Airport, also known as PVR Airport. The airport offers both PCR and antigen tests.

PCR Tests

PCR tests are molecular tests that identify a particular sequence of DNA. They are highly accurate and sensitive in detecting the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. PCR tests require skilled laboratory technicians and special equipment to run them. The amplification process can take an hour or more from start to finish. Due to these requirements, PCR tests are usually conducted in large, centralized testing facilities, such as hospital labs. The entire process, from sample collection to reporting, can take anywhere from 12 hours to five days. PCR tests are also more expensive, typically costing $100 or more per test.

Antigen Tests

Antigen tests, also known as rapid tests, detect specific viral antigens in a patient sample. They are easy to use, and even individuals without special training can perform them and interpret the results. These tests are typically inexpensive, costing around $10-$15 per test. Antigen tests produce results quickly, usually within 15 minutes to 24 hours. However, they are less sensitive than PCR tests and may be less accurate, especially in the early stages of infection or when there is a low viral load. In such cases, a follow-up PCR test may be necessary to confirm the results.

Testing requirements for Canada

As of 1 April 2022, fully vaccinated travellers are not required to present a negative pre-arrival COVID-19 test when entering Canada by air, land, or water. However, they may still be randomly selected for post-arrival testing and will need to comply with this to avoid quarantining. Those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated are still subject to more restrictive rules and must take a PCR pre-arrival test. Foreign nationals who are unvaccinated are not eligible to board a flight to Canada. Any unvaccinated traveller who arrives at a Canadian port of entry will be required to quarantine for 14 days and take post-arrival tests. Travellers who have recovered from COVID-19 but still test positive may enter Canada, provided they took the test between 14 and 90 days before their flight.

All travellers, regardless of vaccination status, must submit their mandatory information using the ArriveCAN mobile application or website before arriving in Canada. This includes personal information and flight details. During their quarantine, travellers will also be required to complete a daily self-assessment on the application.

It is important to note that the testing requirements may change, and it is always advisable to check the latest official information before planning travel to Canada.

Testing requirements for the US

COVID-19 testing requirements for those travelling to the US have changed over time and can vary depending on the traveller's country of origin. Here is some information regarding testing requirements for the US:

Testing Requirements for Entry into the US:

As of May 2025, there is no mention of a COVID-19 test requirement for entry into the US. However, it is important to check for updates and stay informed about the latest travel requirements. Previously, a negative COVID-19 test result was required no more than 72 hours before departure to the US.

Testing Requirements for US Citizens and Residents Returning to the US:

US citizens and residents entering or connecting through the US, including those returning from international travel, are required to provide their contact information to the CDC while in the US. This can be done through digital tools offered by airlines, such as Delta FlyReady, which guides travellers through fulfilling destination-specific travel requirements.

COVID-19 Testing at PVR Airport:

Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) in Mexico has offered COVID-19 testing facilities to meet US travel rules. Tests were available at a testing tent outside the airport, with rapid tests costing around 450 MXN and providing results in 30 minutes. PCR tests were also available, with results in 24-48 hours.

It is important to note that testing requirements and availability may change, so travellers should stay updated with the latest information from official sources to ensure they comply with the necessary procedures.

Testing locations and prices

Testing for COVID-19 is available at the Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR). The airport has a testing tent, which is open 24 hours a day. The tent offers both rapid antigen testing and PCR testing. Results for the rapid antigen test are available in 30 minutes, while PCR test results take 24-48 hours. The rapid antigen test costs 450 MXN, while the price of the PCR test is unknown.

In addition to the airport, COVID-19 testing is also available at several locations across Puerto Vallarta, including medical facilities. CDC Labs Bucerias is one such option, offering at-home testing with results available within 24 hours. The antigen test costs 450 MXN, while the PCR test costs 1450 MXN. This special pricing is only available to individuals with international flight tickets. Another testing site is located at the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta.

It is important to note that testing requirements and recommendations may vary depending on your destination and nationality. For example, as of March 1, 2022, antigen testing is accepted by the Canadian government, but the test must be taken within 24 hours of the return flight to Canada. On the other hand, for travel to the United States, testing must be conducted no more than 72 hours prior to departure from Puerto Vallarta.

Frequently asked questions