New passport requirements for U.S. citizens
New rules requiring passports or new high-tech documents to cross the United States' northern and southern borders are taking effect Monday, June 1, 2009, as some complain the tightening of security and others applaud it as long overdue.
The rules are being implemented nearly eight years after the Sept. 11 attacks and long after the 9/11 Commission recommended the changes. They were delayed by complaints from state officials who worried the restrictions would hinder the flow of people and commerce and affect border towns dependent on international crossings.
In 2001 a driver's license and an oral declaration of citizenship were enough to cross the Canadian and Mexican borders; Monday's changes are the last step in a gradual ratcheting up of the rules. Now thousands of Americans are preparing by applying for passports or obtaining special driver's licenses that can also be used to cross the border.
The new rule, which also affects sea crossings, is the final implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, a security measure crafted from recommendations from the 9/11 Commission.
Citizens traveling by land or sea will have to have a passport, passport car or other travel document that is approved by the Department of Homeland Security to get back into the country.
Travelers used to be able to use identification such as a driver's license or birth certificate. These will now not be accepted if you are coming into the country by car or boat.
Read More Information and requirements at:
view link
The rules are being implemented nearly eight years after the Sept. 11 attacks and long after the 9/11 Commission recommended the changes. They were delayed by complaints from state officials who worried the restrictions would hinder the flow of people and commerce and affect border towns dependent on international crossings.
In 2001 a driver's license and an oral declaration of citizenship were enough to cross the Canadian and Mexican borders; Monday's changes are the last step in a gradual ratcheting up of the rules. Now thousands of Americans are preparing by applying for passports or obtaining special driver's licenses that can also be used to cross the border.
The new rule, which also affects sea crossings, is the final implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, a security measure crafted from recommendations from the 9/11 Commission.
Citizens traveling by land or sea will have to have a passport, passport car or other travel document that is approved by the Department of Homeland Security to get back into the country.
Travelers used to be able to use identification such as a driver's license or birth certificate. These will now not be accepted if you are coming into the country by car or boat.
Read More Information and requirements at:
view link
