When Does One Need a Passport to Enter the United States?

Travel regulations can sometimes be confusing, and documentation is one of the more complex issues in international travel. Knowing when and where to use your passport can be helpful in this regard.

By Air

Everyone who is entering or re-entering the United States by air is required to present a passport book upon arrival.

By Land or Sea

Everyone who enters the United States at a port of entry or at a border crossing is required to present either a passport or a document that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (such as the passport card---see below).

Children

Children under the age of 16 entering the United States by land or by sea are allowed to enter using their birth certificate or a copy of it.

Passport Card

In addition to the passport book usually associated with international travel, beginning June 1, 2009, border officials began accepting the use of State-Department issued passport cards. These are designed for individuals who frequently travel across U.S. land borders. They cannot be used for air travel.

Cost

A passport card costs $45. A new passport book costs $100.

References

• Applying for a Passport
• Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative