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Government/Legislation
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WHTI land/sea rules take effect in June: Get or renew passport now
Beginning in June, citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda will need to show a passport, passport card, or other authorized document to enter or depart the United States via land or sea from within the Western Hemisphere. A passport is also needed to enter the United States by air from any foreign country.
With this upcoming element of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), if entering the United States by land or sea from within the Western Hemisphere, there may be several identification choices for travelers: a passport; a passport card—a type of identification that the U.S. government began issuing in 2008; an enhanced driver’s license—a high-tech version offered by a few states; or a “Trusted Traveler” card such as SENTRI and NEXUS for those traveling back and forth over the border frequently. A full list of acceptable documentation can be found on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Website.
According to the U.S. State Department, passport applications have been taking about four weeks for processing. Adult passports cost $100; children younger than 16, $85; renewals less. Adult passport cards cost $45; children younger than 16, $35.
The U.S. State Department’s travel Website, travel.state.gov, offers complete information on passports and passport cards along with forms and instructions. U.S. post offices also serve as passport acceptance facilities.
Sources: denverpost.com, dhs.gov, travel.state.gov
