Planning an international getaway but don’t have a passport or waiting for it to be renewed? Don’t worry, you might still be able to travel! While a passport is typically required for international travel, there are several destinations where U.S. citizens can travel internationally without a passport.
U.S. Territories: Your Passport-Free Island Getaways
Several U.S. territories offer the experience of international travel without needing a passport. These islands boast unique cultures, stunning landscapes, and, best of all, easy entry for U.S. citizens.
American Samoa
To enter American Samoa without a passport, you’ll need a government-issued photo ID and a certified birth certificate as proof of U.S. citizenship. You’ll also need evidence of onward passage (a ticket to leave American Samoa) or proof of employment on the island.
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Guam
Guam is another fantastic option. However, to travel to Guam without a passport, it’s essential to book flights through Honolulu. Flights through international hubs may require a passport. Once you arrive, you’ll need a government-issued photo ID and an original or certified copy of your birth certificate.
Puerto Rico
Traveling to Puerto Rico is incredibly simple for U.S. citizens. Similar to traveling between states, you only need to show a government-issued photo ID. No passport or birth certificate is required!
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U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, offer a taste of the Caribbean without passport hassles. Officially, you need a valid government-issued ID and your birth certificate. While some travelers report not always being asked for a birth certificate, it’s highly recommended to bring it as proof of citizenship, just in case.
Northern Mariana Islands
Located northeast of Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands offer another passport-free option. Similar to Guam, you’ll need to fly through Honolulu to avoid layovers in countries requiring a passport. Upon arrival, you’ll need a government-issued photo ID and an original or certified copy of your birth certificate.
Closed-Loop Cruises: See the World, No Passport Needed
Another excellent option for passport-free international travel is booking a closed-loop cruise. A “closed-loop cruise” begins and ends at the same U.S. port and travels exclusively within the Western Hemisphere.
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For example, a cruise that departs from Miami, visits destinations like Bermuda or The Bahamas, and then returns to Miami would qualify as a closed-loop cruise. On these cruises, you can typically use a government-issued photo ID and a birth certificate instead of a passport to visit countries like Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Mexico. However, a cruise departing from Miami and ending in San Diego would require a passport because the departure and arrival ports are different.
Important Considerations
While these options allow you to travel internationally without a passport, it’s crucial to remember:
- Real ID Deadline: Starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID will be required at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. While this doesn’t directly impact passport-free international travel to the destinations listed above, it’s a good idea to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID.
- Check Specific Requirements: Always verify the latest entry requirements for your chosen destination on the official tourism website or with the relevant embassy or consulate. Requirements can change, and it’s best to be prepared.
Explore the World, Passport or Not
While a passport opens doors to countless destinations, these options prove that you can still experience international travel without one. Whether you’re drawn to the islands of the Pacific or the Caribbean, or prefer the adventure of a cruise, there’s a passport-free adventure waiting for you. Start planning your trip today!
