Sunday, 31 May 2009

• Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative

  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative Takes Effect This Week

  On June 1, 2009, the full requirements of the land and sea phase of The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) go into effect. The rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or other travel document approved by the Department of Homeland Security. 

  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 United States.

  Please Note:  The WHTI-required documents are acceptable for entry or re-entry into the United States.  You may be required to present additional or different travel documents when entering foreign countries, including some countries in the Western Hemisphere.  Before you travel, make sure you know the entry requirements of the country you plan to visit. See Country Specific Information for more information on the country you are traveling to.

  For More Information

  • Press Conference by Ian Kelly, Department Spokesman
    www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/dpb/2009/05/124099.htm

  Federal Regulations

  • Final Rule - Air Phase (PDF)
  • Final Rule - Passport Card (PDF)
  • U.S. Land/Sea Document Requirements (PDF)

  Other Relevant Links

  • Department of Homeland Security
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection
  • Applying for a Passport
  • http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

   

   

  • 2:51 AM
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