December 1, 2006

WHITI…Set…Go!!

On November 24, 2006, the Department of State (“DOS”) and Homeland Security (“DHS”) published the final official Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (“WHITI”) regulation requiring, with limited exceptions, that citizens of the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Bermuda begin presenting valid passports when seeking to enter the U.S. by air from anywhere in the Western Hemisphere.

This final rule becomes effective on January 23, 2007. Documents like a Border Crossing Card (from Mexico) or simple possession of a Birth Certificate will no longer be acceptable in order to travel between the U.S. and its neighboring countries by air. So, if you are traveling to and from any of these countries in 2007, you should ensure that your passport is valid and packed. If you do not have a passport, you need to get one if you plan any travels outside the U.S. by air.

As early as January 1, 2008, DOS and DHS could also finalize their related rule outlining the documentation requirements for land and/or sea travelers between the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda, as they, too, will likely be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other specific documents which establish the bearer’s identity and nationality.

To prepare for this upcoming changes, if you are a U.S. citizen and do not have a valid U.S. passport, you can visit DOS’ travel website at: www.travel.state.gov, or call its Passport Information Center at 877-4USA-PPT. You may also get directions for obtaining a passport from the U.S. Postal Service at www.usps.com/passport.

For further information, please see the Department of Homeland Security's final WHITI Rule, for a copy of the final version. As more information becomes available, GT will keep you up-to-date on additional developments.