What is the WHTI?
We Want You to Know |
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The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative
(WHTI) changes the required documents for travel within the
western hemisphere, especially entry into the United States.
Until the WHTI was first implemented in January 2007, travelers
from the US, Canada, Mexico and much of the Caribbean could
travel between these countries using only a birth certificate
and ID. The WHTI requires people traveling between these neighboring
countries to carry a passport or other secure travel document.
Learn more below... |
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What WHTI Documents Are Required for US Citizens Re-Entering
the US?
 Air
Travel
 Land
Travel
- Passport Book
- Passport Card
- NEXUS, FAST, or SENTRI Card
- State Enhanced Driver’s License (when available)
- Until June 2009, government-issued ID and proof of citizenship
(e.g. birth certificate) are acceptable
- US Citizens under 16 years old require only proof of citizenship
(e.g. birth certificate)
 Sea
Travel
- Passport Book
- Passport Card
- NEXUS Card
- State Enhanced Driver’s License (when available)
- Merchant Mariner Document (for official maritime business)
- US Military ID Card (for travel on official orders)
- Until June 2009, government-issued ID and proof of citizenship
(e.g. birth certificate) are acceptable
- For citizens arriving on cruises from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda
or the Caribbean, government-issued ID and proof of citizenship
(e.g.. birth certificate) are acceptable
- US Citizens under 16 years old require only proof of citizenship
(e.g. birth certificate)
When Does WHTI Take Effect?
The law is being put into effect in two phases. The new rules were
first applied to air travel in January 2007; in June 2009, they
will apply to land and sea travel as well. Until June 2009, requirements
for land and sea travel will remain unchanged, although government
agencies strongly encourage travelers to carry a passport.
What is the Purpose of the WHTI?
The two goals of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative are to
bolster national security and to make the entry process smoother
for legitimate travelers. The initiative is part of the Intelligence
Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. In a joint effort,
the US Department of State and Department of Homeland Security
are directing its implementation.
Who is Affected by the WHTI?
When the initiative is fully implemented in June 2009, all travelers
entering the United States and other participating countries will
have to carry a passport or other WHTI compliant travel document
– including citizens of 17 countries that previously could
enter with statements of citizenship, or by showing separate ID
and proof of citizenship. The full list of countries whose citizens
face changed requirements because of the WHTI includes:
- Anguilla
- Aruba
- Bermuda
- Canada
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Mexico
- Netherlands Antilles
- Saint Lucia
- Turks and Caicos Islands
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- Antigua and Barbuda
- The Bahamas
- British Virgin Islands
- Cayman Islands
- Dominican Republic
- Jamaica (except for business travel)
- Montserrat
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- United States of America
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What About Other Countries?
The WHTI only changes requirements for citizens of Western Hemisphere
countries that previously had more relaxed travel requirements.
Other Caribbean, Central and North American countries not mentioned
specifically by the WHTI – and therefore subject to normal
visa requirements - include:
- Barbados
- Costa Rica
- El Salvador
- Guadeloupe
- Haiti
- Martinique
- Panama
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- Belize
- Cuba
- Greenland
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Nicaragua
- Trinidad and Tobago
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Where can I find more information on WHTI?
The following sites provide additional information on the WHTI and
US passports:
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