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What Can I Do If I Haven’t Received My Passport and I Leave For a Trip Soon?

Unfortunately, this has been a common question and concern for many people during the past few months.  New regulations have caused a backlog in the passport application process.  Are you a U.S. Citizen traveling to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean by air who HAS APPLIED for a passport but has not received it yet?
  • If so, go to http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/status/status_2567.html and follow the instructions to print out your passport status page. Keep this status page with you during your entire trip for both exit from and re-entry to the United States.  You will also need government issued photo identification.  
  • This regulation is in place till September 30th 2007.
  • Next, find out what the entry requirements are for the country you are visiting. In some cases, you may need to contact the Embassy of the country you are visiting.
  • Be sure to present the documentation required by the country you are visiting along with your printed passport status page to the airline personnel upon departure and re-entry to the U.S.

Why Do I Need a Passport For Travel to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean?

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) was mandated by Congress in the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 to strengthen border security and facilitate entry into the for citizens and legitimate international visitors. WHTI requirements for air travel took effect on January 23, 2007. 

For any questions or assistance about passports please do not hesitate to contact my District Office.  Also, for more information regarding passports and international travel go to the State Department’s website at: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html