New Passport Requirement Laws Passed
The U.S. Government passed the Homeland Security Appropriations Bill (H.R. 5441) which included a provision extending the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) implementation deadlines. That means the new Passport rules for all U.S. citizens, and other travelers coming to and leaving from the United States, will be put in place.
By June 1, 2009, a Passport (or other accepted document) will be required for U.S. Citizens who travel by air, sea and land to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central and South America, Canada and Mexico.
With cruise vacation booking windows lengthening, it is more important than ever that you recommend to your clients that they act now!
The new rules are as follows:
AIR
January 8, 2007 – Passport required for all air travel within the Western Hemisphere and abroad.
U.S. Citizens departing and returning to the United States by air after January 8, 2007 will be required to have a valid U.S. Passport. The Passport office is already busy and this will likely contribute to a backlog that could result in lengthy issuance delays as these rules take effect.
SEA and LAND
By June 1, 2009 – Passport or other accepted documents* required for land border crossings and sea travel within the Western Hemisphere. The Departments of State and Homeland Security can accelerate this June 1, 2009 date upon certifying a plan that meets certain standards for the new identification cards to make them easy to use, affordable and ensure privacy.
*Sea and land travelers will also be eligible for the PASScard, a less expensive alternative document.
Although the requirement to possess a valid Passport or PASScard for sea travel and land border crossings has been extended until June 1, 2009, the government can accelerate this date based on meeting certain standards.
Don’t delay – get a Passport today!
Remember, without a Passport or PASScard, you will not be able to travel outside of the United States and you will be limited in the international leisure vacations - particularly cruises. In addition, after the implementation date, U.S. clients who arrive at their Port of Embarkation without a valid U.S. Passport will not be permitted to board the ship. Information on obtaining or renewing a U.S. Passport can be found on the State Department's Web site at http://www.travel.state.gov/passport