U.S. Border Crossing Requirements Are Changing - Get Compliant by June 1, 2009!
(the following is from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection web site. For full information about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) visit GetYouHome.gov and for full Border crossing information as well as border crossing wait times visit eXpectdelaYs.com )
Simplify your travel checklist!
On June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens returning home from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda, by land or sea, will be required to present one of the travel documents listed below.
Many of these documents are already available, and obtaining one now will ensure that you are ready on June 1, 2009, when they will be required.
U.S. Passport – This is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies a person’s identity and nationality. It is accepted for travel by air, land and sea.
U.S. Passport Card – This is a new, limited-use travel document that fits in your wallet and costs less than a U.S. Passport. It is only valid for travel by land and sea.
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) – Several states and Canadian provinces/territories are issuing this driver’s license or identification document that denotes identity and citizenship. It is specifically designed for cross-border travel into the U.S. by land or sea.
Trusted Traveler Program Cards – NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST enrollment cards can speed your entry into the U.S. and are issued only to pre-approved, low-risk travelers. The cards are valid for use at land or sea; the NEXUS card can be used in airports with a NEXUS kiosk. (Remember, these documents work ONLY at specific borders -- they will NOT be adequate documentation for U.S. entry at all borders - Gus)
Special Groups – Information for Parents and Children, Native Americans and Boaters.
Knowing what documents are required and having them ready when you return home will help streamline the entry process and ensure your return to the U.S. is as smooth as possible.
Gus says: "Remember, if you treat all border crossings the same, and always bring the same documentation when you are traveling by car or foot as you would if you were traveling by plane, you should have a trouble-free travel experience."
