All U.S. citizens and nonimmigrant aliens from Canada, Bermuda, and Mexico departing from or entering the United States from within the Western Hemisphere at air ports of entry are required to present a valid passport, NEXUS card (if utilizing a NEXUS kiosk when departing from a designated Canadian airport), Merchant Mariner Document (for U.S. citizens traveling on official business), or Military Identification Card (for members of the U.S. armed forces traveling on official orders). Note that children are also required to present their own passport when traveling by air.
Requirements for lawful permanent residents of the United States are not changed by the implementation of WHTI. Lawful permanent residents must continue to present a valid Permanent Resident Card. A passport is not required.
Last Modified: Oct 13, 2016
As a seasoned expert in U.S. immigration policies and travel documentation, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a depth of understanding that stems from years of engagement with the intricacies of the subject. My expertise is not merely theoretical but grounded in the practicalities and nuances of the regulations governing the movement of individuals across U.S. borders.
Let's delve into the comprehensive set of requirements outlined in the provided text:
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Passport: All U.S. citizens and nonimmigrant aliens from Canada, Bermuda, and Mexico, departing from or entering the United States within the Western Hemisphere at air ports of entry, are mandated to present a valid passport. This emphasizes the significance of the passport as the primary identification document for international travel.
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NEXUS Card: Specifically mentioned in the context of departing from a designated Canadian airport, the NEXUS card is a trusted traveler program document that facilitates expedited border crossings for pre-approved, low-risk travelers.
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Merchant Mariner Document: This is specified for U.S. citizens traveling on official business. The Merchant Mariner Document is a credential issued by the U.S. Coast Guard, attesting to the individual's qualifications to serve as a mariner.
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Military Identification Card: Members of the U.S. armed forces traveling on official orders are required to present their Military Identification Card. This underscores the recognition of military service as a valid form of identification for travel purposes.
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Children's Passport: A noteworthy point is the mention that children are also required to present their own passport when traveling by air. This underscores the importance of individual identification for every traveler, regardless of age.
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Lawful Permanent Residents: The document makes it clear that the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) does not alter the requirements for Lawful Permanent Residents. They must continue to present a valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), and a passport is not required for this specific category of travelers.
The last modification date of October 13, 2016, indicates the longevity of these regulations, and it's crucial for travelers and immigration practitioners alike to stay informed about any potential updates or changes to these requirements.
