PASSPORT   UPDATE


Beginning June 1, 2009

A passport is the most effective document, and is valid for 10 years.  However, there are alternatives if you're going for a "quick" trip out of the country, and don't wish to obtain a passport.

If you are flying to The Bahamas, you need a PASSPORT.  If you are going by ship,
you may use a passport or get a "Passport Card."  If you don't want to get a passport (for whatever reason)
you may get a Passport Card. 


US PASSPORT CARD.  This is a limited use travel document that  fits in your wallet (much cheaper than a passport), and is valid only for travel by land and sea.  Not for air travel.   Valid for entry into the U.S. from Canada, Bermuda, Caribbean and Mexico.
       Cost:  $45. age 16 and over
                   $35 under age 16
                   $20. if requested with a new or renewed passport book
      Validity:  10 years for adults------5 years for children under age 16.
 

U.S. and Canadian children under the age of 16 will be able to present their original birth certificate or other proof of citizenship such as naturalization papers.

U.S. citizens on cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port and travel to destinations in Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, the Bahamas or Bermuda will be able to re-enter the U.S. with proof of citizenship other than a passport or passport card, such as a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. Passports will be required for cruises that begin in one U.S. port and end in another.

ENHANCED DRIVERS LICENSE (EDL)  Several states and Canadian provinces are issuing an identification document that denotes identity and citizenship.  It is specifically designed for border crossing by land and sea.  Not by air travel. 
Cost:  Approximately $15.00 ($30. more than a regular license).  Not valid for international air travel. 

U.S. citizens on a closed loop cruise (beginning and ending at the same port) will be able to enter and depart the country with a birth certificate and government issued photo ID.  Please be aware that you may still be required to present a passport to enter the countries your cruise ship is visiting.  Check with your cruise to ensure you have the proper documents.