The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 required the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State to develop and implement a plan to require all travelers, U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike, to present a passport or other document, or a combination of documents that denote identity and citizenship when entering the United States. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) Phase I – Air was implemented January 2007.
Beginning January 31, 2008, U.S. and Canadian citizens 19 years and older who enter the United States at land and sea ports of entry from within the Western Hemisphere will need to present government issue photo ID as proof of identity, along with proof of citizenship, such as birth certificate or naturalization certificate, or passport.
Who will the travel initiative affect?
All United States citizens, as well as Canadian and Bermudian citizens, entering or reentering the United States by land or sea.
When will the full requirement go into effect?
The full requirements are anticipated to take effect during Summer 2008. At that time, only passport or WHTI-compliant documents will be acceptable for entering the United States.
What are the requirement for the United States and Canadian Children?
Children ages 18 and under may present only a birth certificate. Photo ID is not required.
Will travelers from U.S. Territories (Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) need to present a passport to enter the United States?
No. These territories are consider to be part of the United States. U.S. Citizens returning directly from a U.S. Territory are not considered to have left the country and do not need to present a passport.
What types of documents will be accepted under this initiative for land and sea?
- U.S. citizens can present a valid passport; a passport card; a valid trusted traveler program card (NEXUS, FAST, or SENTRI); a valid Merchant mariner Document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business, if eligible; or a valid U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders.
- U.S. lawful permanent residents can continue to use their alien registration card (Form I-551) or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.
- Canadian citizen would be required to present a valid passport.
- Bermudian citizens would be required to present a valid passport.
- Mexican nationals, including children, are currently required to present a passport with visa or a laser visa border crossing card.
- U.S. Citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. Port) will be able to enter or depart the country with a birth certificate and government issue photo ID. Please be aware that you may still be required to present a passport, depending on the countries that your cruise ship is visiting. Check with your cruise line to ensure you have the appropriate document.
Does this initiative apply when arriving on ferries or private vessels?
Yes. Beginning January 31, 2008, U.S. Citizens 19 years and older who enter the United States at sea ports of entry from within the Western Hemisphere by ferry or pleasure vessel will need to present government-issued photo ID as proof of identity, along with proof of citizenship, such as birth certificate or naturalization certificate, or a passport.
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