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Government/Legislation
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Reminder: passports now required at North American land/sea borders
As previously reported in CWT Traveler, effective June 1, North American travelers crossing U.S. and Canadian borders via land and sea will be required to present a valid passport or other government-approved documentation. The requirements are part of the latest phase of the U.S. government Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI).
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, on the first day of implementation, 95 percent of travelers were compliant. For the time being, travelers who do not abide by the new requirements will receive a warning and be allowed to enter the countries by submitting proper identification such as a birth certificate and photo I.D. Individuals are informed of the new regulations and are given “Noncompliant” sheets. Travelers may face increasing border delays if they continue to travel without proper identification.
Customs experts say nearly half of Canadians have passports, whereas only a third of Americans do. Travelers should keep in mind the following information to prevent future travel delays.
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative:
Applies to: Travelers 19 and older. Children 18 and under will need to present a birth certificate, naturalization certificate or passport.
Where: Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, Caribbean region (includes 17 nations)
Required to present: Passports, enhanced security driver’s licenses, Canadian NEXUS or Free and Secure Trade (FAST) cards, or other approved identification (full details available here ).
How to apply for a passport: Online, by mail or in person
Application timelines: U.S.: 4-6 weeks; Canada: 2-4 weeks
Cost: U.S.: USD $75-$100; Canada: CAD $87-92
Keep in Mind:
It is recommended that travelers plan ahead and apply for passports early to avoid any potential future delays in processing. Urgent or expedited services are generally available at an extra charge.Under certain circumstances, travelers are required to apply for a U.S. passport in person (i.e., applying for a passport for the first time; have a lost, stolen or damaged passport). Exceptions do apply to certain age groups, nationalities, cruise members, and members of the military.
For more information (including a complete list of acceptable documentation, passport agencies in your area, etc.) visit the following Web sites:
United States: Department of Homeland Security Web site or US Department of State Web Site
Canada: Passport Canada Web site
Both Canadian and U.S. Customs and Border Protection will continue outreach campaigns through the summer to inform travelers of the new passport requirements.
Sources: travel.state.gov, dhs.gov, thestar.com , news.yahoo.com, ctv.ca, ppt.gc.ca
