March 11, 2009
Common Sense On: Spring Break Travel
With spring break and summer vacation fast approaching, many students and families will be traveling internationally to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean. In order to make these travels as seamless and enjoyable as possible, I would like to take this opportunity to let you know about current re-entry requirements for travelers, as well as a few changes that will be occurring in the near future.
As you may be aware, the State Department is currently implementing the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). As a part of this effort, on June 1 the U.S. government will implement the full requirements of the land and sea phase of the WHTI. Before traveling during spring or summer break, I would like to encourage all students and families to consult the U.S. Department of State website at, www.travel.state.gov, in order to verify the documents required in order to re-enter the United States.
If I or my staff can be of any assistance to you, please feel free to contact any of my offices in Iowa or in Washington, DC.
What is the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, and why is it necessary?
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative is a result of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA), requiring all travelers to present a passport or other document that denotes identity and citizenship when entering the U.S.
The goal of the initiative is to strengthen U.S. border security while facilitating entry for U.S. citizens and legitimate foreign visitors by providing standardized documentation that enables the Department of Homeland Security to quickly and reliably identify a traveler.
What changes will be made to re-entry requirements on June 1?
Currently, all U.S. citizens must present a passport when entering the country by air. While land and sea travelers are currently required to show proof of identity and proof of U.S. citizenship. As of June 1, 2009 all travelers - whether by air, land or sea - will be required to present a passport or passport card.
What is the difference between a passport and a passport card?
A passport card is a small, wallet-size card that is more convenient and less expensive than the traditional passport book. However, this new travel document can only be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. If you wish to travel internationally by air, you must have a passport book.
How do I obtain a passport book or passport card?
If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you must apply in person. Application facilities are common at many post offices or county recorder offices. To find the application facility closest to you, visit travel.state.gov/passport. When applying, you will be asked to provide evidence of U.S. citizenship, identification, as well as two 2x2 inch passport photos.