Pippy: New Passport Requirement in Effect
Trips to Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Bermuda affected.

Moon – State Sen. John Pippy (R-37) is reminding constituents that passports are now required for travel to Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

Previously, identification such birth certificates were enough for travel involving such locations, the senator noted.

The U.S. State Department announced that as of January 23, all Americans flying to and from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda need to carry a passport or similar document proving their citizenship. Other approved forms of identification include the Air NEXUS card, U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration Card, Form I-551.

Similar rules regarding travel by land and sea will take effect at a later date -- as early as January 1, 2008. The changes, which are part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, are the result of recommendations made by the 9-11 Commission.

The new rule is designed to make entering and leaving the U.S. faster, because it will dramatically reduce the types of documents presented to inspectors.

Flights to U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are considered domestic travel, meaning the new requirement will not apply.

"This is just a reminder for travelers who may have previously visited Canada, Mexico and elsewhere without need of a passport. The new rule is not something you want to learn about when you arrive at the airport," said Pippy. "It's part of the new reality shaped by the 2001 attacks on our country. As with many of the changes, the new rules affect travelers most."

Pippy: New Passport Requirement in Effect Trips to Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Bermuda affected.

Pippy: New Passport Requirement in Effect
Trips to Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Bermuda affected.