The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative is part of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, designed to strengthen border security and standardize documentation among all travelers. The WHTI sets specific requirements for international travel documents, including specific rules for travel by air versus by land or sea. Some requirements differ for minors, while others apply to all travelers.
Air Travel
To return to the United States by air, all travelers must present a full passport. Children, including handheld infants, are not exempt from this requirement. All travelers must also meet the entry requirements of the destination country, which typically include a passport and possibly a visa. Check with the embassy of your chosen country well in advance of your trip.
Travel by Land or Sea
Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the countries of the Caribbean are members of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative region. When traveling between the U.S. and member countries by land or sea, U.S. citizens must present a full passport, a passport card or an enhanced driver license with an RFID chip. Children under age 16, or those under age 19 traveling with a recognized organization, are exempt from this requirement. Instead, they may present an original or a copy of a birth certificate, naturalization certificate or similar document. Note that when children travel with a recognized organization, the group leader must carry additional documentation. See the GetYouHome.gov website for details.
Passport Application Process
Special regulations exist for minors applying for a passport. Those under age 16 must apply in person with both parents. You must present evidence of the parent-child relationship such as a birth certificate or adoption decree. Both parents must provide proof of identity and sign the passport application. If one parent cannot arrive in person, submit a notarized consent form available on the State Department website. If you have sole custody, you must provide a court order, death certificate or other official proof. Minors ages 16 and 17 must apply in person and present written consent from both parents or written consent from one parent along with proof of sole custody.
Special Considerations
Although minors need not present a passport for land or sea travel in the Western Hemisphere, situations sometimes arise that require an emergency flight. Examples include a medical emergency, trouble at home or missing a cruise ship departure. If your child does not have a full passport, he cannot fly. Emergency passport issuance is available but it is pricey and could delay your travel. Consider obtaining full passports for everyone in your family if you intend to travel outside the United States.
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