The recent passport requirement implemented by The Departments of State and Homeland Security, which went into affect January 23, 2007, has caused a bit of confusion for some occasional business and vacation travelers. The change requires citizens of the U.S. Mexico, Canada and Bermuda to present a valid passport when entering this country via air from any part of the Western Hemisphere. The requirement does not currently apply to those entering via land or ship.

The fact that the requirement applies only to those entering via air is the cause of most confusion. Some travel agents around the country have reported inquiries and confusion, particularly among travelers planning cruises. While passports are not currently required for cruise passengers, it is important that vacationers traveling to foreign ports-of-call check with their cruise line, travel agent or the consulates of the countries they will visit to see if passports are required during the cruise.

And if not confused by the new regulations, the change has some college students planning spring break travel abroad scrambling to obtain passports in time. According to a February 8^th article in the Daily Texan Online, the University of Texas’ student newspaper, area passport offices and the Post Office have seen a marked increase in passport applications as time runs out for those planning trips to neighboring countries over the break. To ease the crunch, the article reports that various area travel agents and service centers are offering passport fairs where students can obtain passports on Saturdays.

The new regulations were implemented as a result of recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission. The requirement for passports or other accepted documents to establish identity and nationality for those arriving via sea or auto will be implemented at an undetermined date after January 2008.

Travelers unclear about the new regulation or how to obtain a passport are encouraged to visit the U.S. State Department website at www.travel.state.gov