Passport Update September 2007

Passport Information for 2008

In mid-2008, a simple drive to Tijuana will no longer be so simple. New security regulations that make passports mandatory for land and water travel in both directions between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda are scheduled to take effect by July.

Here are some Passport basics:

All air travelers are currently required to have a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document.

This rule has been waived for U.S. citizens through September 30 for travel to the above areas, with photo ID and proof of a pending passport application.

Although the U.S. government relaxed passport rules for the summer, neighboring countries did not. If you don't have a passport, Canada and Mexico require an original or certified copy of a birth certificate along with photo ID.

Mexico will also accept a certificate of naturalization. Check with the embassy or consulate of your proposed destination before you go. Passport processing has been taking as long as 12 weeks.

If you plan to leave the country in 2008, apply for a new passport now or renew your passport if it expires next year (some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the dates of your trip). Requirements are constantly changing; for the most up-to-date information.