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News - Changes to US passport regulations
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Passports for Minors
New regulations governing issuance of U.S. passports to minors go into effect on February 1, 2008. The new rule extends the two-parent consent and personal appearance requirements to all minors under the age of 16. This means that 14- and 15- year-olds must also now comply with the same rules that previously applied to minors under the age 14. Most significantly, a minor under age 16 MUST appear with BOTH parents when submitting an application for a passport. The appearance of both parents cannot be waived, (although there is provision, in certain circumstances, for one parent to present a letter of authorization, together with one attending parent). Current information about passport applications for children can be found at http://london.usembassy.gov/cons_new/acs/passports/under14.html.
Entering the United States by Land from Canada or Mexico
Currently, Americans entering or leaving the United States by land from Canada or Mexico may simply declare that they are American citizens and be admitted. Beginning January 31, 2008, the Department of Homeland Security plans to move towards Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) implementation at land and sea ports of entry by ending the routine practice of accepting oral declarations of citizenship alone. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Bermuda, and Mexico will need to present the following to enter or depart the United States by land or sea:
Ages 19 and older: a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
Children ages 18 and younger: proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
Passports and trusted traveler program cards – NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST – will continue to be accepted for cross-border travel.
Now is the best time to apply for your U.S. passport, as demand is traditionally lower at this time of year.
The full requirements of the WHTI will be implemented by summer 2008. Additional information can be found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html or http://www.dhs.gov/xtrvlsec/crossingborders/whtibasics.shtm.
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