The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is a joint effort between the Department of State (DOS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Born from a key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission, WHTI is mandated by the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA). This initiative requires all travelers, including both U.S. citizens and international visitors, to present specific secure documents that verify both identity and citizenship when entering the United States.
Why Secure Travel Documents are Essential
The primary goal of WHTI is to bolster U.S. border security. By mandating secure documentation, the initiative aims to create a more robust system against potential threats while simultaneously streamlining the entry process for U.S. citizens and legitimate international travelers. This dual focus ensures efficiency and convenience for travelers alongside enhanced security measures.
Documents Accepted for Air Travel into the U.S.
When entering the United States by air, U.S. citizens are required to present one of the following valid documents:
- U.S. Passport: The most universally accepted document for international travel.
- Trusted Traveler Program Card: Including NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST cards, designed for expedited entry for pre-approved, low-risk travelers.
- U.S. Military Identification Card: For U.S. military personnel traveling on official orders.
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Document: For those engaged in official maritime business.
It’s important to note that children, regardless of age, are also required to possess their own passports for air travel. Specifically, Native American tribal cards cannot be used for air travel.
For lawful permanent residents of the U.S., WHTI regulations do not change existing requirements. They must continue to present a valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). A passport is not required for lawful permanent residents.
Documents Accepted for Land and Sea Travel into the U.S.
Entering the U.S. via land borders or seaports allows for a broader range of accepted documents for U.S. citizens:
- U.S. Passport: As with air travel, the U.S. passport is accepted.
- Passport Card: A wallet-sized card specifically for land and sea border crossings between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL): State-issued EDLs provide proof of identity and U.S. citizenship and are currently offered by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.
- Trusted Traveler Program Card: NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST cards are also valid for land and sea entry.
- U.S. Military Identification Card: For U.S. military personnel on official orders.
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Document: For maritime business-related travel.
- Form I-872 American Indian Card or Enhanced Tribal Card (when available): Specific to certain Native American tribes and communities.
For children who are U.S. or Canadian citizens under the age of 16 (or under 19 if traveling with a supervised group), only a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship is required. This can be an original, photocopy, or certified copy.
Lawful Permanent Residents of the U.S. still need to present their Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) or other valid proof of permanent residency status when entering via land or sea.
Canadian citizens have several options for land and sea entry: a valid passport, an Enhanced Driver’s License, or a Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST).
Bermudian citizens are required to present a valid passport.
Mexican citizens, including children, must have a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.
U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises starting and ending in the same U.S. port) can enter the U.S. with a birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID. However, it’s crucial to verify with the cruise line about passport requirements for visiting other countries on the itinerary.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) Explained
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) are state-issued identification cards that serve as proof of both identity and U.S. citizenship. Issued through a secure process, EDLs incorporate technology designed to facilitate smoother travel, particularly at land and sea borders with Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Besides functioning as travel documents under WHTI, they also serve the standard purpose of a driver’s license. Currently, only a few states offer EDLs, so check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to see if they are available in your location.
Obtaining a U.S. Passport
For U.S. citizens needing to obtain a passport, the State Department’s travel website is a comprehensive resource. You can also contact the U.S. National Passport Information Center at (877) 4USA-PPT or TDD/TTY: (888) 874-7793 for assistance.
Consequences of Traveling Without Proper WHTI-Compliant Documents
Travelers who arrive at a U.S. border without the necessary WHTI-compliant documents should anticipate potential delays. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will need to take extra time to verify identity and citizenship, which can lead to significant delays and possible complications with entry. Ensuring you have the correct documentation before traveling is crucial for a smoother and more efficient border crossing experience.
