passport card cruise ship

• Today's Deals
• Sign Up & Save!

• Top Cruise Destinations
• Alaska Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises
• Bermuda Cruises
• Caribbean Cruises
• Europe Cruises
• Mexico Cruises
• 1.800.764.7419

Never Miss a Cruise Deal

• Thank you for signing up! 
• Click here to learn more about our specials.

Have Fun. Be Safe

• Health Protocols and Requirements for Sailing

Travel Documentation and Online Check-in

• Travel Documents
• Online Check-In

Getting There

• Cruise Terminal Information and Parking
• Airport and Pier Transportation
• Air Information

Before You Board

• Embarkation Day Check-In

Youth and Family

• Youth Programs (Under 2 and 2-11 years old)
• Teen Programs (12-17 years old)
• Carnival's Seuss at Sea
• Age Policies

Things to Know

Onboard experiences.

• Shore - Excursions
• Spa and Fitness
• Outdoor Fun
• Entertainment and Activities
• For Your Convenience
• Onboard Guidelines and Policies
• Past Guest Recognition Programs

Onboard Celebrations

• The Fun Shops
• Special Occasions
• Wedding Cruises and Vow Renewals

Dining and Beverages

• Dining and Snacking Options
• Dining Rooms
• CHEERS! Beverage Program
• Liquor and Beverage Policy

Onboard Communication

• WI FI Service and Carnivals HUB App
• Staying Connected

Money and Gratuities

• Gratuities (Tips)
• Sail & Sign Onboard Account
• Forms of Payment
• Cruise Cash/Bar/Photo
• Financial Access

Shipboard Health and Safety

• Passenger Bill of Rights
• Guest Screening Policy
• Safety and Security
• Safety Briefing - Muster Station Drill
• General Health Information
• Privacy Notice
• What to Pack
• Cruise Ticket Contract
• Carnival Vacation Protection
• Guests with Disabilities
• Choosing Your Cruise
• Tech Support
• Early Saver Promotion
• Minors / Infants / Pregnancy
• Making changes to your booking
• Carnival EasyPay
• Financing Powered by Uplift
• US Department of State Travel Tips
• And more things to know....

Debarkation - After Your Cruise

• Preparing to Go Home
• Post Cruise Inquiries

U.S. Passport Card

The passport card will facilitate entry and expedite document processing at U.S. land and sea ports-of-entry when arriving from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The card may not be used to travel by air outside the United States . It will otherwise carry the rights and privileges of the U.S. passport book. The Department of State is issuing the passport card in response to the needs of border resident communities for a less expensive and more portable alternative to the traditional passport book. The card has the same validity period as a passport book: 10 years for an adult (age 16 and older); five years for minors (under 16 years of age).

• New passport card cost: $55 (age 16 and older) | $40 (minors under 16 years of age)
• Passport card renewal (by mail) cost: $30 

Was this answer helpful?

Answers others found helpful.

• Travel Documentation: U.S. Permanent Residents
• VisaCentral Passport & Visa Service
• Travel Documentation: Non-U.S. Citizens
• Travel Documentation: U.S. Citizens
• Travel Documentation: Canadian Citizens

PLAN A CRUISE

• Search Cruises
• Travel Agent Finder
• Weddings & Occasions

• Carnival Mastercard
• Away We Go Blog

Group Travel

• Group Shore Excursions

Already Booked

• Manage My Cruises
• Shore Excursions
• In-Room Gifts & Shopping
• Spa & Salon Services
• Internet Plans
• Beverage Packages

• Airport Transportation

Customer Service

• Have Fun. Be Safe.
• Early Saver Price Protection Form
• Lowest Price Guarantee Claim Form
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Legal Notices for EU & UK Guests
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

About Carnival

• Passenger Bill Of Rights

• Legal Notices  
• Privacy & Cookies  
• Site Map  

• © Carnival Corporation. All rights reserved.

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

GETTING ONBOARD

Required travel documents.

GETTING ONBOARD WITH

THE RIGHT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

It’s your responsibility to ensure you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries your cruise visits. We’ll require government-issued identification to board. And government authorities may require you to have a visa or meet other requirements.

Select your departure port below to find out exactly what you need. But be aware – government requirements may change.

Don't Get Caught Without The Right Travel Doc

Passports are Best A passport is the best ID document for travel. Make sure yours doesn't expire for 6 months after your cruise ends. Learn more

Caution: Birth Certificates U.S. Citizens can cruise with a U.S. birth certificate on most sailings from the U.S. But your birth certificate needs to meet the requirements. Learn more

Names Must Match If you've had a name change, and the name used across your documents does not match, you will need to take an extra step. Learn more

Cruising With Kids That Aren't Yours When a minor (age 17 and under) travels without their legal guardian, an accompanying adult must present a notarized form signed by the child's guardian. Learn more

Visas May Be Required Some countries require an entry visa or electronic visa based on your nationality. Learn more

Don't Pack Your Docs Please keep all travel documents on your person at the terminal; you’ll need to present them at check-in.

Select where you're sailing from

Popular homeports:, full list of all homeports:, travel document requirements for sailings from u.s. homeports (excluding honoulu, hawaii & seward, alaska).

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the U.S. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

Note: U.S. Cruises that visit Colombia or Panama If your sailing visits Colombia or Panama, see your protocols here .

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements of ONE of the check boxes below.

All documents must be original – no photocopies. Your name must match across documents. What if I had a name change?

• U.S. Passport Book OR U.S. Passport Card
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best.
• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends
• Read more about passport requirements.
• U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
• Original U.S. State Certified Birth Certificate or a certified copy; or an original Consular Birth Abroad Certificate from the U.S. State Department.
• Read more about birth certificate requirements.
• Guests age 15 and under are NOT required to have a photo ID, just the birth certificate.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests must bring their physical Permanent Resident Card and it must be original – no photocopies.
• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID
• Barbados & Martinique require ARC guests to provide a valid passport.
• Any additional requirements are the responsibility of the guest.
• U.S. Naturalization Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
• Original U.S. Naturalization Certificate or a certified copy.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following states: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington State.
• An Enhanced Driver’s License is different from a REAL ID compliant id. An EDL will have a flag on the front.
• U.S. Passport Book
• Visa may be required based on Passport Country of Origin. Learn More

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries.

• Electronic Travel Authorization will be required based on disembarkation port.
• Learn more about visa requirements.

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens

• Canadian Passport Book – Required if traveling to the U.S. by air
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following Provinces: British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec.
• Guests age 14 and under may present a passport as noted above OR one of the documents below:
• Original Naturalization Certificate OR Original Valid Canadian Citizenship Card OR Original Birth Certificate Issued by Canada.
• Read more about birth certificate requirements

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements below.

• Canadian Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Other Nationalities

• Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality. Common visas are noted below.

• The United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.
• Please check requirements for your own nationality .
• Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) is required for Chinese Nationals.
• Sailings with a Canadian Port of Call (ex. Alaska sailings) may require a Canadian Visitor’s Visa.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Australian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Australia. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens

• U.S. Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• All visitors are required to get an Australian ETA to travel to Australia.
• Read more about passport requirements

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality.

• New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
• All visitors are required to get a NZeTA to travel to New Zealand.

Accepted Identification for U.K. Citizens

• Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Australian Citizens

• Australian Passport Book
• Australian Driver's License OR Government-issued, laminated photo ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on Australian ports of call.
• If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.
• Guests age 17 and under may present one of the documents below:
• Medicare Card - Can be used as the only identification for children when all guests share the same last name.
• Original (or Certified) Birth Certificate - If the parent's name differs from the child.

* Sailings that originate and end in ports within Australia that do not include a visit to an overseas port outside of Australia. (Note that Queensland cruises that include Willis Island are considered domestic cruises) . If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.

• Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• For Transpacific sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Canadian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Canada. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

• U.S. Passport Book - If traveling to Canada by air
• U.S. Passport Card - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID) - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship - If traveling to Canada by air, ground/car or by sea
• Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens & Permanent Residents

• Canadian Permanent Resident Card AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests age 14 and under may also present either:
• Canada may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from European homeports (excluding Southampton, England; Haifa, Israel & Istanbul, Turkey)

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Europe. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter European Union countries.

• Traveling to Europe
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• Sailings that have a European Union Port of Call
• For Transatlantic sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Accepted Identification for European Citizens

• Guests are responsible for any requirements a country may have.
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best
• EU Government ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on countries within the Schengen Region .
• EU Government ID must be valid at least 3 months after your cruise ends.
• A Multi-Entry Schengen Visa may be required
• Coming Soon - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• A Schengen Visa may be required
• European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Coming Soon - Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Dubai

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Dubai. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.K. Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Central & South American homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Central and South America. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian citizens cruising to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile require additional documentation.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Singapore

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Singapore. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)
• All visitors are required to get an Singapore Arrival Card to travel to Singapore.

Accepted Identification for Singaporean Citizens

• Singaporean Passport Book
• Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)

Travel document requirements for sailings from Japanese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Japan. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Japanese Citizens

• Japanese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Chinese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from China. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Chinese Citizens

• Chinese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Istanbul, Turkey

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Istanbul, Turkey. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Turkish Visa
• All visitors are required to get a Turkish Visa to travel to Turkey.
• Passport Book AND Turkish Visa

Travel document requirements for sailings from Haifa, Israel

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Haifa, Israel. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Seward, Alaska

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Seward. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Canada may require a Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Southampton, England

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Southampton. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter the U.K. and European Union countries.

• Entering the U.K.
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an U.K. Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the U.K.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Honolulu. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

EXPLORE MORE

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Guide to Cruise Passport Policies for U.S. Travelers

• Laura Soper

Embarking on a cruise is an exhilarating experience, a perfect way to combine international travel, daily entertainment, and opportunities for relaxation—without having to worry about the logistics and challenges of air and land travel.

Cruises offer a unique opportunity for travelers to experience multiple destinations all in a single vacation. However, this also means adhering to the diverse entry and exit regulations of each country visited.

For U.S. citizens, there are specific passport and travel document policies tied to both the cruise line and destination that must be adhered to for a smooth vacation. Our guide aims to explain these requirements, preparing you for potential emergencies and ensuring you’re well-equipped for cruise travel.

We’ll also spotlight the most sought-after cruise lines among American travelers , delving into what sets each one apart, their distinctive offerings, and the travel documents you’ll need for a hassle-free voyage.

In this guide, we will explore all these detailed elements of cruise travel to make sure you understand exactly what you need to know for your upcoming vacation on the seas.

Table of Contents

Do you need a passport for a cruise.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a set answer to this question. Whether you need a passport for a cruise can be both yes and no —it largely depends on the specifics of your cruise .

If you’re embarking on a closed-loop cruise, which starts and ends at the same U.S. port, U.S. citizens might not need a passport. However, for cruises that begin or end in foreign ports, a passport is typically required.

The cruise line you’re traveling with may also have its own documentation requirements, which can include a passport book or passport card regardless of the itinerary.

Furthermore, even if your cruise doesn’t require a passport, the international destinations you visit might. Some countries mandate a passport for entry, regardless of how you arrive—land, air, or sea.

So, while a passport may not always be necessary for a cruise, it’s a good idea to carry one for maximum flexibility.

Always check with your cruise line and the countries on your itinerary to understand the specific requirements.

Let’s get into the details of the different types of cruises and the general travel requirements to help you better understand the travel documents you will need for your voyage.

Understanding the Basics of Cruise Travel Documentation

The need for a passport during cruise travel is primarily determined by the nature of the cruise— specifically, whether it’s a closed-loop or open-loop cruise.

Closed-Loop Cruises

A closed-loop cruise starts and ends at the same U.S. port. For instance, a week-long cruise around the Western Caribbean & Perfect Day , which begins and ends in Miami, Florida, is a closed-loop cruise. It visits several countries like the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti, and Grand Cayman, but returns to the original U.S. port.

Passport books are typically not required for closed-loop cruises, U.S. citizens can usually exit and enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license); however, every cruise line has a strict set of required travel documents that guests must present and carry during their voyage. For specific travel requirements, it is always best to check with the cruise line.

Open-Loop Cruises

On the other hand, open-loop cruises always require a valid U.S. passport for American travelers. Open-loop cruises start in one U.S. port and conclude in a different U.S. port. An example would be a 16-day Panama Canal cruise that sets sail from Seattle and ends its journey in New Orleans.  Open-loop cruises require guests to present and carry a valid passport book with (typically) at least 6 months of validity remaining after the last date of their cruise.

Popular Cruise Lines and Their Passport Policies

Setting sail on a cruise is an exciting getaway, offering an abundance of memorable experiences and opportunities for serene relaxation against stunning ocean views. As you plan your voyage, a top priority must be to acquaint yourself with the necessary travel documents and passport rules of the leading cruise lines .

Each cruise line has specific guidelines to ensure guests can enjoy a smooth, enjoyable journey and make the most of their travel itineraries.

Below, we outline the passport rules for American citizens and required travel documents for the most popular cruise lines.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line , often hailed as “America’s Cruise Line,” is a leading figure in the world of cruising. Established in 1972, it has since evolved into the most favored cruise line globally. The company boasts a fleet of 26 ships, each offering unforgettable vacation experiences.

Carnival Cruise Lines currently offers 13 cruise destinations for guests to choose from. Each cruise is packed with a wide array of entertainment choices , from stage shows and live music to deck parties and casinos , ensuring fun-filled days and nights. 

Travel Requirements

The cruise type determines the travel document requirements for American travelers:

• Open-loop cruises: These cruises start at one U.S. port and finish at a different one. Guests must present and carry a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the end date of their cruise.
• a boarding pass, and
• a government-issued photo ID if they are 16 years or older (such as a driver’s license)

There are some exceptions to these general rules. Some cruises might include stops at foreign ports that require a valid passport book to leave the ship. Also, if a cruise starts or ends in a foreign country, including Canada, or if it starts and ends at different U.S. ports, a valid passport book is always required .

Please note that if the cruise includes a visit to Colombia or Greenland, a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the end of travel is required .

• an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) , 
• a government-issued birth certificate, or
• a valid passport book

Passport Requirements and Validity for American Citizens and Children

Carnival Cruise Line strongly advises having a valid passport book while traveling . A passport book is not only the most reliable form of identification but if guests unexpectedly need to fly to or from the U.S. during their cruise, not having a passport book could cause big problems and delays.

• Do you need a passport in a hurry? Expedite your passport in as little as 24-48 hours !

Visa Requirements

Requirements for travel visas depend on your cruise destinations. All guests are responsible for obtaining appropriate visas to cruise. Check with the embassy or consular offices of the destination countries for more information.

• Need a travel visa ? Find out how to get your travel visa— fast!

It’s always a good idea to check with Carnival Cruise Line or your travel agency for the most up-to-date information. For more information on travel requirements for Carnival Cruise Lines, visit the What travel documents do I need to bring? page for a complete explanation.

Royal Caribbean International

Founded in 1968, Royal Caribbean International is a leading cruise line brand and a subsidiary of the Royal Caribbean Group. Based in Miami, it’s the largest cruise line by revenue and the second-largest by passenger count.

The company boasts a fleet of 28 ships, including the world’s five largest cruise vessels. Royal Caribbean Cruises journeys to over 300 destinations in more than 60 countries across 6 continents . They provide a plethora of onboard activities , top-notch dining options , captivating entertainment , and luxurious accommodations that are tailored to both adults and families .

For American travelers, the following travel documents are required:

• Open-loop cruises: These cruises start and end at different U.S. ports, oftentimes these cruises embark or disembark in a foreign country. For these cruises, guests must present and carry a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months after the day the cruise ends.
• a government-issued birth certificate, and
• a laminated government-issued picture ID (such as a driver’s license)

While U.S. citizens aren’t currently required to have passports on closed-loop cruises, Royal Caribbean International highly recommends travelers carry a valid passport book as it is the most reliable form of identification. Additionally, if an unforeseen situation arises where guests have to take a flight to or from the U.S. during their cruise, not possessing a valid passport book could result in substantial delays and challenges.

• Do you need a passport fast? Expedite your passport in as little as 24-48 hours !

Guests are responsible for figuring out and getting all required travel visas before their cruise starts. Travelers should reach out to the embassy or consular services of each country they’ll visit on their cruise to understand specific visa requirements, details, forms, and fees. 

• Need a travel visa for your cruise? Visit our guide to getting your travel visa expedited .

These requirements may change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check with Royal Caribbean or your travel agency for the most up-to-date information. For more in-depth information regarding required travel documents for getting on board Royal Caribbean International, see the Getting Onboard with The Right Travel Documents page.

Norwegian Cruise Line

For over half a century, Norwegian Cruise Line has been a trailblazer in the global cruise industry. It operates three brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Together, these brands boast a fleet of 28 ships with nearly 60,000 berths, offering travel itineraries to more than 490 destinations across the globe.

Aboard their ships, guests are treated to a diverse array of dining options , both complementary and specialty. Entertainment includes a variety of live music and comedy to Broadway-style shows .

Accommodations cater to all types of travelers. Their Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises , in particular, are renowned for their luxury .

For American travelers taking cruises aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line, the travel requirements vary depending on the type of cruise:

• Open-Loop Cruises: For these cruises, passport books must be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of travel.
• U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable), 
• a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization, and
• a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license)

Children under 16: U.S. or Canadian children under 16 are exempt from the passport requirement for land and sea border crossings. Instead of a passport book, they can use:

• a U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate, 
• a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or 
• a Certificate of Naturalization as proof of citizenship for entry into the U.S. by land or by sea

Even though passports aren’t currently required for U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line strongly recommends traveling with a valid passport book . This is because a passport book is the most reliable form of identification. Also, if travelers need to fly to or from the U.S. unexpectedly during their cruise, they may face significant delays and complications without a valid passport book.

• Visit our expert guides to learn how to get a new passport or passport renewal quickly.

Regarding travel visas , each traveler must check with the embassy or consulate offices for travel visa requirements and get the necessary visas. This applies to all countries they plan to visit on their journey, including any countries they might stop at during connecting flights.

• Visit our guide to expediting travel visas and get your passport in time for your cruise.

Please note that these requirements can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information on the Norwegian Cruise Line’s website before your trip.

Princess Cruises

Established in 1965, Princess Cruises , a prominent name in the cruise industry, began its journey with a single ship heading to Mexico. Today, it boasts a fleet of 15 state-of-the-art ships, offering a variety of onboard amenities and top-notch service, serving millions of passengers annually. 

Princess Cruises provides a global experience, covering over 100 countries across all seven continents , including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It offers a wide range of travel itineraries, from a week to over 3 months , visiting more than 380 ports and including over 100 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in their destinations.

For U.S. citizens traveling aboard Princess Cruises, travel requirements vary depending on the type of cruise:

• Open-Loop Cruises: A valid passport book is required for all international itineraries , including Africa, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Europe, India, Central and South America, Panama Canal (partial and full transit), Caribbean (any sailings that visit Martinique or Guadeloupe), South Pacific & Tahiti, and World Cruises. The passport’s required validity is based on the destination; however, it is strongly advised to carry a passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining after the date of return.
• a Permanent Resident Card (ARC/I-55 card), 
• a temporary ARC/I-55 card, and 
• a valid government-issued photo identification (such as a driver’s license), or
• a passport book with an “ARC” stamp
• U.S. passport card , 
• U.S.-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) , 
• U.S.-issued Identification Card (issued to minors and non-drivers) 

In all cases, traveling with a valid passport book is highly recommended , as unexpected situations may arise requiring you to leave the ship. Passports should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the end of your travel and contain blank pages for endorsements and visas. Princess Cruises also recommends carrying a second government-issued photo ID while in port.

• Expedite a new passport application or a passport renewal in less than a week !

If needed, U.S. citizens can find travel visa requirements in the ‘Notices’ section of their Travel Summary . Visas can be acquired directly from the embassy or consulate of the countries to be visited. The requirements for visas and other documents can differ based on the destination and may change without any advance notice. Guests should double-check the visa requirements with the consulate 14 to 30 days before the cruise starts .

• Expediting travel visas can ensure you get the travel documents you need in time for your cruise.

Travel requirements are subject to change. It is imperative to check for the most current information by visiting Princess Cruises’ FAQs: Travel Document Requirements page before your trip.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line , a branch of The Walt Disney Company, has been providing unique oceanic journeys since 1996. It boasts a fleet of 6 luxury liners, each offering state-of-the-art amenities , exceptional service , and exclusive Disney activities . The fleet, which includes Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, and the latest addition, Disney Treasure, provides a range of onboard experiences from thrilling water slides and themed dining to Broadway-style shows and children’s clubs making it the most popular cruise line for families and Disney fans alike.

The cruise line operates in over 100 countries across all 7 continents , with voyages ranging from 2 to 15 nights . It is acclaimed for its meticulous attention to detail , playful character interactions , and creative dining experiences.

American citizens traveling aboard Disney Cruise Lines must follow the travel requirements outlined by their specific type of cruise:

• Open-Loop Cruises: For all international itineraries, U.S. citizens must have a valid passport book with at least 6 months of validity remaining after the end of the trip.
• a valid U.S. passport book, 
• a U.S. passport card , or
• a Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, FAST).

U.S. citizens aged 15 and younger can travel with:

• a valid U.S. Passport ,
• U.S. Passport Card , 
• a Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, FAST), or
• a state-issued birth certificate, and
• Domestic Cruises: The same rules as closed-loop cruises apply.

In all cases, Disney Cruise Line recommends guests carry a valid passport book during their voyage. A passport is not just a dependable means of identification, but it’s also crucial in case guests need to unexpectedly travel by air to or from the U.S. during their cruise. The absence of a passport could lead to significant issues and delays. Passport books should be valid for at least 3 months or 6 months after the end of the cruise , depending on the destination countries’ requirements. Disney Cruise Lines also suggests travelers carry a second government-issued photo ID while in port.

• Do you need passports soon? You can expedite your passport and passports for children and be ready for travel in a week or less!

As for travel visas , it is the guest’s responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary travel visas before embarking on the cruise.

• Our guide to expediting travel visas can ensure your whole family is ready for their Disney cruise.

It’s important to remember that these requirements may vary, so it’s recommended to verify the most recent information on the Disney Cruise Line’s website or consult with the relevant authorities or travel agent before your journey.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line , founded in 1873, operates 11 ships offering over 500 cruises to 470+ ports in 98 countries . Their cruises range from short trips to 128-day voyages , covering all continents . They’re known for their quality service , excellent food , elegant decor, and diverse entertainment . Their ships feature modern amenities like high-tech shows and extensive art collections . Holland America Line is lauded for catering to multi-generational groups making it an ideal cruise line for families .

The travel requirements for American citizens aboard Holland America Line depend on the type of cruise and the destination countries: 

• Open-Loop Cruises: Valid passport books are mandatory for cruises that start in one U.S. port and end in another. Passport books must have at least 6 months of validity remaining after the end date of the cruise.

For Holland America cruises that stop at islands in the French West Indies, a valid passport book is required, regardless of the departure port.

• proof of citizenship (e.g.,  an original or certified copy of a government-issued birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID)
• a valid passport book, or 
• a passport card  
• a standard government-issued photo ID (such as a valid driver’s license)
• Real ID, 
• permanent resident card, or

U.S. citizens under 16 are exempt from the passport requirement for land and sea border crossings. Instead of a passport, children can use an original or certified copy of a U.S. state-issued birth certificate . However, when minors are traveling with only one adult, Holland America requires all passengers to have a valid passport book .

Regardless of cruise type, Holland America strongly advises all guests to carry a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the end of their travel date . This is because passengers who need to fly to or from the U.S. unexpectedly during their cruise will likely face significant delays and complications related to booking airline tickets and entering the U.S. if they do not have a valid passport.

• Departing soon? Expedite your new passport application or passport renewal today.

Travel visa requirements differ based on the destination. It is the individual guest’s responsibility to confirm travel visa requirements with the destination’s embassy or consulate .

• Our expert guide to expediting travel visas has all the information you need to get your visa in time for your trip.

Please remember that these are general guidelines and specific requirements may change based on the exact cruise itinerary. Always check the most recent information before your trip. For more detailed information, you can visit the Holland America Line’s official website’s Identification Requirements page .

Regardless of your chosen cruise line, the key to a smooth and hassle-free voyage lies in understanding and compliance with the travel document requirements and U.S. passport policies of your chosen cruise line . It’s evident that all cruise lines strongly advise guests to carry a valid passport during their voyage , as passports are the most dependable form of identification. They are also necessary for entry into destination countries and in case you need to fly back to the United States . By being well-prepared and knowledgeable about these specific guidelines, you can ensure a smooth sailing experience on your ocean adventure.

Preparing for Your Cruise: Passport Tips and Best Practices

Taking a cruise abroad is an unforgettable experience and an amazing way to see the world. To help you better prepare for your voyage, here are a few passport tips and best practices to follow when planning your international cruise .

First-Time Passport Applicants

If you’re new to the passport application process, we can help! Our guide on How to Obtain a U.S. Passport offers essential step-by-step instructions on the entire process from filling out the right application form and gathering your supporting documents to choosing the right passport service and finding the best passport application acceptance location that fits your needs. 

Need your new passport in a hurry? We can help with that too! Our instructions on How to Expedite a New Passport Application: A Complete Guide is a comprehensive manual on everything you need to know and do to get your new passport—fast! 

Currently, routine passport processing is about 6 to 8 weeks , expedited processing takes about 2 to 3 weeks and rushed expedited processing is possible within 14 days .

Visit our page, How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport? , for the most up-to-date application processing times.

Don’t miss out on making the most of your cruise’s travel itinerary, get your passport book now and get excited to explore the world!  

U.S. Passport Expiration Requirements for Cruises

When a valid U.S. passport book is required, the validity of the passport book is recommended with either 3 months or 6 months (most common) of validity remaining beyond the last day of the cruise. 

• What does that mean? It means that the expiration date on your passport book must be at least 3 or 6 months past the last day of your cruise. 
• 3-Month Rule – Country Requirements & More
• 6-Month Rule for U.S. Passports

If your passport book does not meet this requirement, you may be denied boarding or entry into certain countries, even if your cruise ship is your primary means of travel. Furthermore, you could be denied entry when returning to the United States if you had to return by air. Therefore, it’s crucial to check your passport’s expiration date well in advance of your cruise departure date.

Travel Requirements for Cruises with Kids

Children are not permitted to travel alone on a cruise. Cruise line policies vary, but generally, children (under 18 years old) must be accompanied by an approved adult (21 years or older) within the same travel group . To verify age requirements and rules for minors, check the age policies of the cruise line you are traveling with.

If you’re an adult traveling with a minor (under 16 years old)—by land, air, or sea—you must be able to prove that you are the parent or legal guardian of the child. Otherwise, you must present and carry a notarized minor travel consent form that has been signed by the minor’s parents or legal guardians . For more information, see our Free Minor Travel Consent Form page. 

According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection , some countries require a notarized consent letter for children traveling without both parents or a legal guardian . It’s important to check the specific requirements of the destination country by contacting its embassy or consulate in the U.S.

In some cases, children aboard international cruises are required to have a valid passport book . If your child needs a U.S. passport, follow our complete guide on how to get a passport for a minor in just 3 steps .

Need a child’s passport sooner? Find out how to expedite your child’s passport . 

Taking a Cruise As A Group Getaway

International cruises are a wonderful getaway for families and groups of friends. Many cruises have such a wide array of activities and experiences—not to mention unforgettable destinations—that there’s always something for everyone in your party to enjoy. 

While traveling abroad with a group can create lasting memories, organizing such trips can be challenging—especially when everyone needs passports. The passport process can be complex and time-consuming. In our experience, the easiest and most convenient solution is to hire a passport expediting service .  

Passport expediters are professionals who specialize in speeding up the passport application process . They help group travelers get their passports quickly and efficiently, making them a valuable resource for those traveling on short notice or those who wish to avoid the complexities of the passport process. A reliable passport courier can manage the logistical challenges and multiple appointments required for obtaining numerous passports on a tight schedule. A credible passport expeditor can make planning a group cruise a lot smoother and less stressful.

The Benefits Of Carrying A Passport On A Cruise

Passport book requirements vary on the type of cruise you take; however carrying a passport while cruising, even when it’s not explicitly required, provides several advantages:

• Simplified Travel: A passport book, being a globally accepted travel document, streamlines the process of getting on and off the cruise ship. It’s a straightforward way to prove your identity and citizenship, making the embarkation and disembarkation procedures smoother and faster.
• Quicker Customs Clearance: When it comes to going through customs, having a passport book can speed up the process. Customs officials are familiar with passport books, and having one can expedite your passage through these checkpoints compared to using other, multiple forms of identification.
• Prepared for Emergencies: Unforeseen situations or emergencies can happen. An urgent situation might necessitate disembarking in a foreign country and flying back home. In such scenarios, having a valid passport book is required. Other forms of identification and even a passport card cannot take the place of a valid US passport book. It’s the most reliable form of identification for international travel and is mandatory for international airline travel.
• Greater Flexibility: Some countries mandate a passport for entry, regardless of whether you’re arriving by air or sea. Possessing a passport book offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore all the international stops on your cruise itinerary without worrying about entry requirements.

While some cruises may not mandate a passport, it’s always smart planning to carry one. A valid passport acts as your ticket to a hassle-free and enjoyable cruising experience.

Passport Policies for Cruises – FAQs

Q: Do infants and children need passports for cruises?

A: The requirements for travel documents for minors, including infants, largely depend on the type of travel and the cruise line’s specific age policies and travel document requirements.  

For closed-loop cruises, guests of all ages do not typically need a passport to travel. However, valid passports are required for open-loop cruises and international cruises that stop at ports outside the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Some cruise lines, like Holland America and Princess Cruises, require any minor traveling with only one adult to carry a valid passport. Please check with your specific cruise line to confirm travel documents and age requirements for infants and children.

If you need to obtain a passport for an infant, see our guide: How To Get A Passport For An Infant: A Complete Guide To Baby Passports .

Q: What are the risks of cruising without a passport?

A: Cruising without a passport, while sometimes possible, carries several risks. 

• Traveling without a passport can limit your options ; you may not be able to explore certain ports that require a passport.
• Some countries mandate a passport for disembarkation , even for cruise ship passengers. 
• If you miss your cruise due to unexpected events like flight delays, a passport may be needed to join the ship at the next port, or else you could miss your entire vacation.
• In emergencies that necessitate a return home by air, a passport is required , and without it, you could be stranded abroad.

Therefore, even if a cruise doesn’t require a passport, it’s advisable to have one to avoid these potential issues.

Q: How does the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative affect cruise travelers?

A: The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) impacts cruise travelers, especially those from the U.S. The WHTI requires all travelers to present a valid passport or other approved document that denotes identity and citizenship when entering the U.S. American citizens can use various approved documents like the U.S. Passport, Passport Card , or Enhanced Driver’s License .

For closed-loop cruises (those starting and ending at the same U.S. port), U.S. citizens can enter the U.S. with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. However, a passport may still be needed to enter the countries visited during the cruise.

The WHTI aims to bolster border security while making entry into the U.S. more efficient for U.S. citizens and legitimate international travelers. It’s always advisable to check the specific requirements of your cruise line and the countries you’ll be visiting.

Q: Can I use a passport card instead of a passport book for my cruise?

A: While a passport card can be used for some cruises and in some travel situations, it has limitations:

• Travel Restrictions: Passport cards are valid only for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. They’re not valid for international air travel or entry into many foreign countries.
• Cruise Type: U.S. citizens can use a passport card for closed-loop cruises (those starting and ending at the same U.S. port). But it’s not usable for cruises from international homeports.
• Emergency Situations: In emergencies requiring a flight home from a foreign port, a passport card isn’t enough. A passport book is mandatory to fly internationally.

Always check your cruise line’s specific travel document requirements for more information on whether a passport card is an acceptable form of identification for your specific cruise.

Q: What is the best way to get a passport for a cruise in 3 weeks?

A: To get a passport in 3 weeks, we highly recommend that you expedite the process . 

Traditional expedited service can take up to 3 weeks —not including mailing times. To skip potential postal service delays, you could make an appointment with a local passport application acceptance center ; however, this option may not get you a passport in 3 weeks. 

Rushed expedited service is a better choice when you have a tight schedule. Rushed service can be completed within 14 days —also not including mailing times. Again, to avoid potential delays with the postal service, you could make an appointment at the nearest Regional Passport Agency .

If neither of these two choices fits your short timeline, we recommend using a trusted professional passport expeditor to get your new passport in as few as 24 to 48 hours . A professional expeditor can easily navigate the passport application process on your behalf and make sure that you get your new passport in time for your trip. 

Q: Do I need a passport for a cruise to Mexico?

A: While a passport book or a passport card is generally required for travel beyond Mexico’s border and for sea travel, there are exceptions. U.S. citizens entering Mexico by sea for short visits to port towns may not need a passport but should have one if traveling beyond these towns.

For closed-loop cruises (starting and ending at the same U.S. port), a passport isn’t required to re-enter the U.S. However, a passport might still be needed depending on the cruise’s other stops and the cruise line’s requirements.

Always check with your specific cruise line for travel document requirements. Find further information on traveling to Mexico by land, air, or sea: Mexico Entry Requirements – Required Travel Documents for Travel to Mexico .

Still have questions? We’re here to help! Contact us for support in preparing for your next voyage!

About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.

Get the Latest Updates

Related posts.

Passport Requirements for 16 and 17-Year-Olds

Learn the U.S. passport rules for 16-17-year-olds. Learn about application steps, expedited options, and parent consent in our complete guide.

Where Can U.S. Citizens Travel Without a Passport?

Explore passport-free destinations for U.S. travelers and learn how obtaining a passport can vastly expand your travel opportunities.

Can You Travel Internationally with an Expired Passport?

Learn the rules and consequences of traveling with an expired passport. Our comprehensive guide shares the steps to take if you find yourself in this situation.

• Work with Us
• Destinations

U.S. Passport Book vs Passport Card – Which One Should You Get?

If you’re wondering, “Which should I get, a U.S. Passport Card or a Passport Book?”, you’re not the only one with that same question. On the surface, a Passport Card might seem like the easy and cheap option.

You’ll learn the differences between a Passport Card and a Passport Book and what you should know before purchase.

There are subtle distinctions that can be confusing when trying to decide between a Passport Card and a Passport Book. Here are suggestions on whether to buy a passport book or card for your next cruise or air travel vacation.

It’s really important to know the limitations of a Passport Card so you d on’t get caught unprepared if an emergency happens or your itinerary undergoes an unexpected detour or delay.

Differences Between a U.S. Passport Card vs. Passport Book

In This Post...

While both the Passport Card and Passport Book are proof of your identity and U.S. citizenship, they have very different rules and regulations. Here’s a general way to note the difference between the two forms of government-issued identification. 

A Passport Card was primarily designed for northern and southern U.S. land and sea border crossings. A Passport Book is what you need for international air travel and to re-enter the United States. But the devil is in the details. 

What is a U.S. Passport Card?

The size of a credit card, a U.S. Passport Card is convenient to carry, costs less than a traditional U.S. Passport Book and does some of the same things that a Passport Book allows you to do. However, a U.S. Passport Card has certain limitations that affect your ability for foreign travel. 

While the Passport Card is cheaper to buy than a Passport Book, the card can only be used for re-entry into the U.S. from four countries. These countries are Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico. 

READ NEXT:  Do You Need a U.S. Passport for the Bahamas?

Think of a Passport Card as a surface-only official identification card. But remember: it’s only good for re-entry by land or sea into the United States from the four countries listed. There’s no way around this requirement.

A Passport Card was created mainly for the convenience of residents in border cities to make it easier for commuters and workers to cross back and forth. If all you ever plan to take are cruises that depart and return to the U.S., if you ride Amtrak between the USA and Canada or simply want to drive across the border, a Passport Card will work for you. 

You cannot use a Passport Card for international air travel. Period.

RELATED:  Do You Need A Passport Card or Passport Book for an Alaska Cruise  

What is a Passport Book

A U.S. Passport Book is exactly as described; a book. The familiar navy-colored Passport Book has many pages to be filled with colorful, unique and interesting country stamps. You will receive a stamp on the pages as you go through customs upon arrival into or departure from a country. There is also room for visa stamps.

It’s the only document that the U.S. government will allow you to use to enter a foreign country other than Bermuda, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, and then re-enter the United States on your return. If you plan a transatlantic cruise from the U.S. to Europe and then fly home, you will need a Passport Book to re-enter the United States. A Passport Card is not enough. 

As stated above, a Passport Card is enough identification for a cruise that departs from and returns to the U.S. However, it’s important to remember that if you’re on a cruise and you should become ill and have to fly home, your surface-travel-only passport card will definitely delay your re-entry  into the US. Have a Book and you could be on a flight home asap.

Deciding on a Passport Card vs. Passport Book for Your Cruise

Even though you can take a cruise from the U.S. and return to the U.S. using only a Passport Card, there could be reasons why you should have a Passport Book instead. 

• Injury or sickness:  If you become ill or injured on your cruise, you could be admitted to a local hospital for care and treatment. If that happens, there’s a good chance the ship will depart without you. If this should happen, you will need a U.S. Passport Book to fly home.
• Cruise ship problems – It’s not a frequent problem but cruise ships can be damages or have mechanical issues that are unable to be repaired during your cruise. If this happens, you may need to fly home from a country which requires a passport to set foot on land. You would also need a U.S Passport Book to fly home.

Taking a Cruise Without a Passport Card or Book

Oddly enough, U.S. citizens may still cruise to certain destinations without either a Book or Card. On closed-loop cruises, those that begin and end in a U.S. port, all you need to take are your ship’s boarding pass, a government photo I.D. if you’re over 16 years and a certified birth certificate or certificate of U.S. naturalization.

Eight closed-loop cruise itineraries from the U.S. do not need a Book or Card. These destinations include Alaska, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Cozumel and Baja-Mexico, Canada/New England and Hawai’i.

The consequences of trying to return home to the U.S. without a passport could be life-threatening. Should something unexpected prevent your ship from returning to the U.S. or you or a travel companion are ill or injured, traveling with only a certified birth certificate will certainly prevent a timely return to the United States.

Cost of a Passport Card vs. Passport Book

The cost of a Card versus a Book is about half as expensive. According to the U.S. government travel website, those 16 years of age and up and applying for the first time, the cost of a Passport Book is $145.00. At nearly half as much, the cost for a Passport Card is $65 for those also 16 years and older. 

Sixteen years and younger, the first-time Book is $115 and the Card is only $50. An expediting fee is also available if you need a Passport Book in a hurry. The government mails all Passport Cards first-class USPS.

If you plan a closed-loop cruise and the $80 difference between a Book and a Card is a hardship, then maybe you shouldn’t go on a cruise. Is it really worth the risk should something happen to you or your ship and you’d have to fly home? You’ll most likely have an exorbitant fee for an expedited U.S. passport sent to wherever you are stranded.

My suggestion is if you plan any international travel just bite the bullet and get a Passport Book. Besides, at the end of the day, it’s always fun to look back through the pages in your Book and see all of the neat, colorful and odd-looking stamps you’ve accrued over the years.

You’ll Also Love

How to Watch Netflix or Amazon Prime When You’re Not in the USA

On the Narrow Road to Mount St. Helens

Top 10 Reasons Why I Love to Cruise Solo

Finally! Affordable Internet on a Cruise. Thanks MSC Cruises!

Complete Guide to Cruise Ship Gratuities for 2024

Top 10 Reasons Why I Like the Lido Buffet for Most Lunches and Dinners

What are you looking for.

Updated on November 22, 2021 by Sherry Laskin

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

Cruise 101: Getting a Passport for Your Cruise

One of the greatest things about cruising is that it offers a chance for international travel, without many of the headaches. There’s no need to change currencies. There’s no need to learn another language (English is spoken in ports). And there is no need to get a passport.

That’s right. Most trips from U.S. ports do not require a passport. (We’ll explain more in a moment.)

But despite not requiring a passport, it is something that you should have. There are simply too many situations that may arise that would be more difficult to deal with if you don’t have one.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to passports and cruising. We’ll answer some of the biggest questions and concerns regarding getting your passport and explain everything in simple detail for first-time cruisers.

Can I Cruise Without a Passport?

First things first. Most people can cruise without needing a passport. If you are sailing a “closed loop” cruise — meaning you depart a U.S. port and return to that port to disembark — then you don’t need a passport.

Under regulations called the “Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative” (WHTI), passengers on these closed-loop cruises only need a birth certificate and government ID to set sail. Here’s the official language from the Customs and Border Patrol website :

“U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port) are able to enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. Please be aware that you may still be required to present a passport to enter the countries your cruise ship is visiting. Check with your cruise line to ensure you have the appropriate documents.”

As we said, this covers most cruises. What it doesn’t cover is if you travel to a country that requires a passport (most Caribbean ports do not) or if you are not sailing on a loop, such as sailing from Miami and departing in Puerto Rico.

Why You Should Get a Passport For Your Cruise

The obvious reasons for having a passport are if you are not sailing on a closed-loop cruise or heading to a port that requires it.

But apart from that, you should view a passport as an insurance policy. The closed-loop rule only works if you depart and arrive back at the same port. If you accidentally miss the ship or are hurt/sick on your trip and can’t continue, then having a passport is a lifesaver.

In these cases, you’ll have to jump through hoops to try to fly back home later without a passport. Having one ensures that even if something unexpected happens, then you have the proper documentation to move about the country and re-enter the United States by land, sea, or air.

It also helps to prove your identity if there is a mishap while on shore. If you are in an accident or have any other interaction with police while in a port of call, they will likely ask for your passport. Having one takes out any questions that can arise regarding your identity and legality of being in the port of call.

Should I Get a Passport Book, Card, or Both for a Cruise?

Getting a passport isn’t that difficult, but it can be a bit of a hassle as there are several steps to take.

To start, you will need to know whether you want a passport book, passport card, or both. The passport book is the regular passport that you’ve seen before. It has pages in the back that are stamped upon arrival in a country. The passport card is like a driver’s license.

While the book is valid for entering most countries by any means of travel (air, sea, or land), the passport card is only valid for only return to the U.S. by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

Given that the passport card is cheaper and covers the Caribbean, many people opt for it. However, we would suggest getting the book instead. This gives you coverage to more countries, as well as covers you if you have to fly home from the U.S. instead of returning by ship. (For example, if you had to fly home mid-cruise for an emergency.)

You can also get both the passport book and card for an extra fee.

Applying for a Passport

Once you decide which type of passport you’d like, you’ll need to gather the appropriate documents.

First, you will need evidence of your U.S. citizenship . This should be an original or certified copy. No photocopies or notarized copies are accepted. This evidence include ONE of the following:

• Fully-valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)
• U.S. birth certificate that meets the following requirements: Issued by the city, county, or state of birth Lists your full name, date of birth, and place of birth Lists your parent(s)’ full names Has the date filed with registrar’s office (must be within one year of birth) Has the registrar’s signature Has the seal of the issuing authority
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Naturalization
• Certificate of Citizenship

Second, you will need to submit a photocopy of your citizenship evidence . (The government will inspect the original document and return it to you, keeping the photocopy.) Just make a simple one-sided, black and white photocopy of your document on standard paper.

Third, you need a photo ID from a government agency . This is most likely a driver’s license or a government-issued ID card. If you have a passport (even if expired), that works as well.

Fourth, you will need a photocopy of the front and back of the ID you plan to show the passport office.

Fifth, you need to fill out Form DS-11 (if this is your first passport) . Take note to fill it out but do not sign until in front of the passport agent.

Finally, you’ll need to take passport photos . You can take photos at tons of places, from grocery stores to drug stores to many mail centers. Simply give the places a call to see if they offer the service. Most charge a nominal fee of $5-7.

Once you have all your documentation, then you’ll need to submit it in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility . These facilities are typically local post offices. You can search for your nearest facility here .

Keep in mind that some facilities are by appointment only. You can see their hours of operation on the search results.

The following video helps explain the process:

https://youtu.be/SDeJqRyL3JY

How Much Does Getting a Passport for a Cruise Cost?

First-time passport books costs $110, plus a $25 acceptance fee, for a total of $135 .

Passport cards cost $30, plus the $25 acceptance fee, for a total of $55 .

If you want both the book and the card, it’s $140, plus the $25 acceptance fee, for a total of $165 .

Passports are valid for 10 years

How Long Does It Take to Receive a Passport? Can I Get It Faster?

Standard processing time for a passport takes 4-6 weeks. If that cuts it too close to your cruise date, there are ways to speed up the process.

First, you can simply pay for expedited processing. This is an extra $60 charge and your passport will process in 2-3 weeks.

Need it even sooner? You can apply for your passport at a passport agency , located in major cities around the country. To apply here, you need to setup an appointment, pay the expedited fee, and have proof of immediate travel. Applying for your passport with this method takes approximately 8 days.

If you need a passport immediately, most medium to large cities will have businesses that expedite the process — some claiming within 2-3 days. Simply search for your city name plus “passport” in Google to find companies in your area that offer expedited service.

Resources: State Department Passport Website

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, answered: how much cash should you take on a cruise, 44 must-have alaskan cruise tips, tricks, and secrets, cruise anxiety these facts may calm your biggest fears, how to get from the fort lauderdale airport (fll) to the miami cruise port, 41 must-have tips for cruising with babies, toddlers, or small kids (from someone that’s done it), complete guide to using your phone on a cruise (carnival, royal caribbean & more), leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

47 Major Crimes Were Alleged on U.S. Cruise Ships in the First Three Months of 2024. Here’s What to Know

The best gift ever for people that love cruises this might be it…, nearly 100 passengers fall ill with stomach virus on princess cruise, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Celebrity Blog

• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• Special Occasions
• What To Expect On A Cruise
• Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific
• Central America
• East Coast & Bermuda
• Mexican Riviera
• South America & Antarctica
• Destinations

Find Out if You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise

Last updated: February 28th, 2022

• Find a Cruise

Figuring out if you need a passport to go on a cruise isn’t quite as straightforward as you might think. The answer largely depends on the destination of your cruise, which port you’re embarking and disembarking from, and which forms of ID you already have.

We always recommend you bring a U.S. passport onboard, regardless of your cruise itinerary. Traveling with a passport will always make your trip easier, especially if you encounter any unforeseen circumstances during your vacation, such as an unexpected stop at an unscheduled international port due to bad weather or a family emergency that would require you  to book a last-minute plane ticket home.

That being said, if you’re a U.S. citizen and want to know if you need a passport to go on your upcoming cruise, we’ve compiled some useful information to help you figure out which specific destinations and cruise itineraries require you to bring a passport and which ones don’t.

Do you need a passport if you fly to an international cruise departure port?

If you’re doing any international air travel to get to your cruise, then you are required to bring a valid U.S. passport book in order to board the plane.

A U.S. passport book is a government-issued document that allows U.S. citizens to travel internationally by air, land, and sea.

A valid U.S. passport book is mandatory even if you’re flying to or from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean from the United States.

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise to the Bahamas?

If you are cruising to the Bahamas from the U.S., the following documents are acceptable: passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are traveling to the Bahamas on a closed-loop cruise, which is a cruise that starts and ends at the same U.S. port, you may travel with a state-issued ID (such as a driver’s license) and an original U.S. birth certificate.

Children under 16 can also travel to the Bahamas on a cruise with an original birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship. Children under 19 can use these same documents only if they are traveling with a school, church group, sports team, or other organization with adult supervision.

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Mexico?

If you are planning a cruise to Mexico , make sure you bring one of the following documents: U.S. passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are cruising to Mexico on a closed-loop cruise, (a journey that starts and ends at the same U.S. port), you can enter without a passport and show a state-issued ID and an original birth certificate instead.

Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

If you are cruising to the Caribbean , you will need to enter with either your U.S. passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are aboard a Caribbean closed-loop cruise, (a cruise that departs and ends at the same U.S. port), you can travel with a state-issued ID (for example: your driver’s license) and an original birth certificate. You must have both of these documents in order to be able to travel without a passport.

The following Caribbean countries require the above documentation: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, Netherlands Antilles, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Turks and Caicos.

Read: Best Beaches in Antigua

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise to Alaska?

Even though Alaska is part of the United States, most cruise itineraries will require you to travel with a U.S. passport.

If you’re on a cruise to Alaska that begins or ends in Canada, you are required to carry a passport book or passport card. (If you are traveling by plane to get to your departure port in Canada, you must travel with a U.S. passport book.)

If you’re traveling on a closed-loop cruise to Alaska that starts and ends in the same U.S. port, you can travel with a passport card or a state-issued ID (such as a driver’s license) and an original birth certificate.

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Hawaii?

Even though Hawaii is a U.S. state, all of our cruise itineraries require you to travel with a U.S. passport book or card.

Our Hawaii cruise itineraries either depart or end in Canada, so U.S. citizens are required to bring a passport book or passport card. (If you are traveling by plane to get to your departure port in Canada or are flying back into the United States, you must travel with a U.S. passport book.)

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Bermuda?

If you are cruising to Bermuda , then you don’t necessarily need a U.S. passport book, but can use any of the following documents instead: U.S. passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST card), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you take a closed-loop cruise to Bermuda, you can leave your passport at home and travel instead with a state-issued ID and an original birth certificate.

Regardless, we always recommend traveling with a U.S. passport book, in case there are any inconveniences during your trip.

What’s a passport card and should you get one?

If you’re traveling by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, you can bring a U.S. passport card instead of a passport book. However, a passport card does not work for air travel into Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean.

There are some advantages to traveling with a passport card rather than a passport book, mainly cost and portability. Currently, a passport card costs only $65 to issue, while issuing a passport book is $145. For adults, both are valid for 10 years before you need to renew them. For children under 16, both are valid for 5 years.

Another benefit of a passport card is its smaller size. A passport book is 5” x 3.5” when closed and contains several pages, while a passport card can easily fit into a wallet, money belt, or pocket. (Just make sure it’s a secure pocket with a zipper so it doesn’t fall out.)

That being said, we always recommend bringing a valid passport book on your cruise. If you don’t make it back to your cruise ship on time after visiting a port, or if a family emergency requires you to fly back home from one of your cruise destinations, a passport card won’t allow you to travel on a plane. In case there are any unforeseen inconveniences, a passport book will always work as a valid travel document via air, land, and sea.

Do kids need a passport for cruises?

If children under the age of 16 are traveling internationally by air, they will need a valid U.S. passport.

If they are traveling to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by sea on a cruise, they can travel with a U.S. passport, passport card, trusted traveler card, or an original birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship. Children under 19 can use these same documents only if they are traveling with a school, church group, or other organization with adult supervision.

In addition, be sure to review other requirements for children, such as a signed and notarized letter from a missing parent if the child isn’t traveling with both parents, or a written letter of consent if the child is traveling as part of a group without an adult that is 21 or older.

When do you need a passport book to cruise?

You will always need a passport book if you are starting and ending your cruise in different ports. Even if your cruise starts and ends in U.S. cities, you will still be required to have a valid U.S. passport book in order to board.

You will also always need a passport book if you are traveling on a cruise that requires you to take an international flight to get to your departure port, such as those cruises departing from Europe, South America, or Asia. You won’t be able to board an international flight without a passport book.

If you are cruising to a destination not located within Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, you need to bring a U.S. passport book; a passport card will not be allowed as a valid travel document.

Even if you are traveling on a closed-loop cruise (one that starts and ends in the same port) to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, it is always recommended that you bring a passport book in case of an emergency or unforeseen situation that might require air travel. 

Do you always need a passport card or passport booklet to cruise?

We always recommend carrying a passport book or a passport card while vacationing on a cruise. That being said, there are certain types of cruises where you’ll be able to board with other types of documentation if you do not have either a passport book or passport card.

U.S. citizens traveling on closed-loop cruises to either Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, or the Caribbean can travel with the following documentation:

• U.S. passport book or card
• Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, FAST)
• Enhanced Driver’s License
• An original copy of your government-issued birth certificate or naturalization certificate and a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license)

Should you bring a passport on closed-loop cruises?

While some cruises don’t require you to travel with a U.S. passport book, we always recommend you bring one on your trip, even on a closed-loop cruise . If you need to fly back to the United States during your cruise, you’ll only be able to board a plane with a passport book.

If you happen to miss the ship’s departure time during an international excursion, it will be much harder to meet your ship in the next port without a passport book on you. (Keep in mind that a shore excursion booked through Celebrity Cruises will always guarantee you’ll make it back to your ship on time.)

Also some ports of call may require a passport to enter even if you don’t need one to board your cruise. It’s always wise to research your itinerary and find out what kind of documentation each country requires of U.S. citizens in order to enter.

What else should you know about cruising with a passport?

Having a passport doesn’t mean your vacation is a go yet. You’ll also want to double check when your passport expires, as many countries require a passport to be valid for six months after the date of your planned departure. If you’re on a cruise, this means making sure your passport is still valid for another six months following the last day of the cruise.

Another thing you’ll want to check is the amount of blank pages in your passport. You should have at least one blank page for each country you’re visiting. If you don’t have enough pages left for stamps, you’ll need to renew your passport before your trip.

One major advantage of traveling on a cruise is that international customs are mostly handled for you. Before boarding, you’ll provide your passport number and other applicable information to the cruise line, which then provides this information to customs authorities in the international ports of call you’ll visit. Once this is arranged, you’ll simply get off the ship and enjoy your destination without having to go through customs each time. However, you should always double check what the passport protocol is for the cruise ports you’re visiting.

It is also your responsibility to obtain any necessary visas you may need during your cruise. Be sure to research the visa requirements for each country you’ll be visiting during your itinerary. You’ll also be in charge of any fees relating to the visa.

Note: For some itineraries, the cruise line may hold onto your passport during the duration of your trip in order to expedite the clearance formalities at each port of call. In those cases, we recommend making color photocopies of your passport to carry with you during visits to international ports.

How do you keep your passport safe on a cruise?

The most popular way to keep your passport safe while on a cruise is to store it inside a money belt or passport necklace. A money belt is a soft pouch with a zipper that can fit your passport, some cash, and a couple of credit cards. The pouch is connected to a belt that sits comfortably around your waist.

A passport necklace is similar, but is worn around your neck and inside your shirt instead. It’s not usually as discreet as a money belt, but is often more convenient and allows for easier access to your travel documents and money.

Traveling with a passport cover is also wise since it helps to keep your passport in pristine condition. Some countries won’t accept a damaged passport in customs.

What if you lose your passport during a cruise?

If you lose your passport while on a cruise, the first thing you need to do is notify the nearest U.S. consulate in order to get a replacement passport issued. Also, contact the guest relations department on your cruise ship so they can provide guidance on how to handle the rest of your cruise before you get your replacement passport.

If you lose your passport on the ship, you should fill out a lost property report with the guest relations department on board.

To help eliminate any chance of losing your passport while on the ship, we recommend keeping it in your stateroom or suite. The in-room safes are easy to use and will keep your passport in a secure place at all times. When you’re on your cruise, there is no need to carry a passport on you since you’ll use your Sea Pass card for all transactions.

Grab That Passport and Book Your Cruise!

Do you have all the right documentation in place for your preferred cruise itinerary? Then you’re all set to book your cruise and start a wonderful vacation. Browse our cruise itineraries or call one of our vacation specialists at 1-800-852-8086 to get started.

Related Itineraries

Bahamas & Perfect Day

• 4 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• DEPARTING FROM FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
• Starting from $819 USD

Key West & Perfect Day

• Starting from $1340 USD
• 3 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• Starting from $1461 USD
• Starting from $1750 USD

Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao

• 8 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND
• Starting from $1771 USD

Bahamas Getaway

• Starting from $2205 USD

Related Articles

How to Plan an Amazing Family Reunion Cruise

How to Get Last Minute Cruise Deals

When Is the Best Time to Book a Cruise?

13 Sustainable Shore Excursions to Add to Your Bucket List

11 Expert Cruise Planning Tips

Port Vs. Starboard: What Side of the Ship Is Best?

Cruising During Hurricane Season: Everything You Need to Know

How to Choose the Best Stateroom on a Cruise

What’s the Best Way to Book a Cruise?

11 Cruise Picture Ideas

How to Feel Like a VIP on Your Cruise

10 Types of Cruises You Must Experience at Least Once

Free Vacation Planning Services

CALL US 888-751-7804

Sign Up for Special Offers

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• Country * Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Greenland Grenada Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati North Korea South Korea Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Sudan, South Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

STAY IN THE KNOW

Thank you for subscribing.

See you on board soon.

Protect Your Trip »

Here's when you need (and don't need) a passport to cruise.

It's the type of sailing – closed-loop or open-loop – that largely determines whether or not you need a passport to cruise.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Getty Images

A passport isn't always required for cruising.

To determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

• The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

• Passport card
• State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
• Government-issued birth certificate
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
• American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

• Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

• Voter registration cards
• Social Security cards
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

12 cheap fourth of july getaways.

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

• Cruise Advice

Passport Card vs. Book: Which Should I Get?

Erica Silverstein

• December 6, 2021

A passport card vs. book — which one should I get? You booked your cruise, you’ve purchased plane tickets, and now you’re scratching your head about whether you need a U.S. passport book or passport card (or neither?) for your future sailing.

Bring the wrong I.D. and your vacation could be in jeopardy.

You must show the correct documentation for your specific trip, or airport or cruise port officials will keep you from reaching your ship.

Don’t stress. We break down the passport book vs. card conundrum into simple terms, so you can pick the type of passport that’s best for you.

What is a passport book?

A U.S. passport book is a small booklet with a blue cover and your photo inside that contains 28 pages, most of them blank for customs and immigration officials to stamp as you enter a foreign country. It serves as proper identification for traveling between the United States and foreign countries by air, land, or sea.

Essentially, a U.S. passport book is your one-size-fits-all photo I.D. No matter where in the world you’re traveling or by what means of transport, your passport book will be accepted as valid identification.

But you have to pay fees for that flexibility. A passport book for adults is valid for 10 years and costs $145 for the first one and $110 for renewals. Minors under the age of 16 can get a passport book valid for five years for $115.

What is a passport card?

A U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized photo I.D. card — the size of a credit card and akin to a driver’s license — that can be used to re-enter the country at land border crossings with Canada and Mexico.

Most notably for cruisers, passport cards are also accepted identification at seaports of entry when returning by ship from destinations in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

A passport card, however, cannot be used when traveling by air to foreign countries or returning by air to the U.S. from an international destination.

What does that mean for cruisers? You can’t use a passport card if you’re flying to any foreign cruise port, even neighboring countries.

For example, if your cruise departs from Barbados, and you have to fly internationally to meet your ship, a U.S. passport card is not a valid I.D.

If your cruise sails from Florida, visits Caribbean islands (including Barbados) and returns to Florida, a passport card would be acceptable identification.

In addition, if you plan on taking an excursion on your Alaska cruise into the Canadian Yukon, you could present a passport card at the border if you’re crossing in a tour bus or on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad.

However, if you choose to charter a flight from Skagway to Whitehorse in the Yukon territory, you would need a passport book.

Passport cards are cheaper than passport books, and they’re also valid for 10 years. They cost $65 for the first one or $30 for a renewal (or if you already have a passport book). Minors under the age of 16 pay only $15 for a card, valid for five years.

Passport Card vs. Passport Book: Which Should You Choose?

How should you decide if you should get a passport card or a passport book? If you can afford a passport book, we recommend you apply for one of those because they are the most versatile form of identification. This is your proof of citizenship.

For example, if you’re sailing a roundtrip from Boston to Bermuda, where a passport is not technically required, but an emergency forces you to debark the ship in Hamilton and fly home. You won’t be able to reenter the U.S. by air unless you have a passport book.

You will need a passport book for any trip that requires you to fly internationally. If you think you might like to travel abroad in the next 10 years, go for the more expensive option.

If you only plan on sailing out of U.S. homeports to destinations in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean for the foreseeable future — with no plans for international air travel — you can save money with a passport card. 

Do I Need a Passport to Cruise?

But wait — you might not even need a passport card. A clause in the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative says that all closed-loop cruises (i.e., those that depart and return from the same U.S. homeport and visit destinations in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda and nowhere else) only require a photo I.D. (such as a driver’s license) and a birth certificate. No passport is needed.

For example, if you are taking a roundtrip cruise to the Bahamas from Florida, a birth certificate and driver’s license will satisfy the documentation requirements.

READ MORE:  5 Ways to Protect Your Passport

One-way cruises are not included in this exemption, such as repositioning cruises from New York to Ft. Lauderdale or southbound Alaska sailings from Seward to Vancouver.

These types of trips would require, at minimum, a passport card.

One more reason to get the passport card: Beginning October 1, 2021, the TSA will require all domestic air travelers to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license.

If your current driver’s license is not compliant but also won’t expire for several years, a passport card will work as proper identification on domestic flights, as well as for sea- and land-based border crossings into the U.S. 

Going with a passport card in this case saves you from having to deal with the DMV to renew your driver’s license when it’s not expired, or taking your passport book with you everywhere and risking forgetting it or losing it.

The passport card can live conveniently in your wallet, and is less expensive to replace if you misplace it.

Bottom line: Determine what type of trips you’re likely to take, for business and pleasure, in the next few years, and decide on a passport book or card based on that.

When in doubt, spend the money for a passport book, and you’re covered for any international travel situation you may encounter.

Pin it for later!

Recent Posts

New airline compensation rules mandate ‘prompt’ cash refunds for travelers, carnival jubilee 2024 review + cruise news [podcast], cruise passenger could face 12 years in prison after arrest in grand turk, royal caribbean cancels alaska cruise, guests must vacate by sunday afternoon, share this post, related posts.

Sun Princess’ New Godmother, Hannah Waddingham, Has One Very Important Tip to Share With Cruisers

Florida Man Faces Staggering $143,000 Phone Bill Following Vacation

Bringing you 15 years of cruise industry experience. Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.   

Quick links

Cruise Radio, LLC © Copyright 2009-2024 | Website Designed By   Insider Perks, Inc

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents, get a passport.

Renew or Replace a Passport

Get My Passport Fast

Prepare to Apply

Passport Help

Legal Matters

Share this page:

Apply for your First Adult Passport

Apply for a Child Under 16

Apply as a 16 or 17 Year Old

Get My Application Status

Get a Passport Card

Respond to a Letter or Email

Apply Outside the United States

Selecting your Gender Marker

Crossing the U.S.-Mexico Border by Land

The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized, plastic passport that has no visa pages. The card is proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, and has the same length of validity as the passport book.  

The card is for U.S. citizens who travel by land and sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and Caribbean countries.

The card is not valid for international travel by air and is cheaper than the passport book.

You can apply for either the book or card, or both documents.  

Steps to Apply for a Card

• Applying for the first time:  Apply in Person page .
• Applying for your child: Children Under 16 page .
• Renewing as an adult:   Renew by Mail page .  
• Change your name or correct an error on the document.  

We use the same forms for both passport books and cards. The first step on our forms is to select if you want a passport book, passport card, or both documents. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i apply for the passport card and passport book using the same application.

Yes. You can apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time using the same application. When completing your form, let us know if you would like to apply for one or both documents. 

If you're renewing both your passport book and passport card, you must provide both documents. If you can submit a passport book, but you lost your passport card, you cannot renew the passport card using Form DS-82.

Can I get a passport card if I already have a passport book?

Yes. If you already have a passport book and   you are eligible to use Form DS-82, you may apply for a passport card by mail as a "renewal" even if it is your first passport card.

You can do the same and apply for your first passport book by mail as a "renewal" if you already have a passport card.

May I use a passport card to fly?

You cannot use the passport card to fly to or from a foreign country.

The Transportation Security Administration accepts the passport card as ID for domestic flights in the United States.

The passport card is for U.S. citizens who live in northern and southern border communities and cross the border by land.

Use the passport book for international air travel.

Can I use my passport card at Ready Lanes?

Yes. You can save time at the U.S.-Mexico border by using Ready Lanes that read the U.S. passport card’s Radio Frequency Identification technology. Find a complete list of documents accepted at Ready Lanes. 

I don't have any citizenship evidence or photo ID to apply. How can I get these documents?

Go to our Citizenship Evidence page and Photo ID page for examples of documents we accept.

Don't have a birth certificate?

If you were born in the United States, contact the county, city, or state where you were born and ask for a certified copy of your birth certificate. A certified copy has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority.

If you were born outside the United States, follow the tips on the Citizenship Evidence page. 

Don't have a driver's license?

We accept other types of government-issued, primary photo ID. We will accept secondary photo ID if you do not have a primary ID. 

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• Get a Passport
• Renew a Passport
• Get a Passport Fast
• Courier Services
• Passport Information

The Essential Guide to U.S. Passport Cards: How to Apply and FAQs

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

For U.S. citizens looking to travel internationally by land or by sea, a U.S. passport card is a great option to consider.

The US passport card is smaller, cheaper, and more convenient than a passport book. That said, it is not for everyone. It only works for entry into certain countries via sea or land crossings.

These countries include:

• Caribbean countries

Please note that the Passport Card cannot be used for international air travel.

So, if you are planning to visit one of these destinations and do not have a valid U.S. passport already, a passport card can be a better option than a standard passport book.

Both a passport card and passport book can serve as identification that border agents can accept as proof of your American citizenship status.

So, who is it for? How do you get one? What does the card look like?

We answer these and other frequently asked questions below so you can make the best decision for your travel needs.

What is a passport card?

A passport card works the same way as the book version. It is issued by the Department of State and proves both your United States citizenship and your identity. It has a unique passport card number just like a standard book-style passport does. It features the same style photo as a traditional passport book. The cards also have expiration dates 10 years after issuance (or 5 years for minors) just like the books do.

The card is a valid passport, but it is similar in size to a credit card or driver's license. It has a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that stores your identifying details. When a customs official scans your card, the RFID chip transmits this information.

What does the passport card look like?

The Differences Between a Passport Book and a Passport Card

Both passport cards and passport books serve the same purpose: proving your U.S. citizenship and identity.

All American citizens are required to present a valid passport to exit and re-enter the United States. A passport is used for international travel when entering, exiting, and traveling between foreign countries.

While there are similarities between the two, the table below shows the differences between a passport card and a passport book.

The main differences are:

• Size - The passport card is about the same size as a credit or debit card. Its smaller size makes it more convenient to carry than the larger book.
• Cost - It is cheaper to get passport cards than passport books. Choosing a card can be a good way to save money.
• No stamps - Unlike a traditional passport book, there is no place on the card for the colorful immigration stamps many countries issue when you go through customs.

However, a passport book is valid for all types of travel to any destination. It can be used for international air travel, land border crossings, and at international sea ports of entry.

How to Apply for a Passport Card

You apply for both a passport card and passport book using the same application form (you are not required to get both).

The process looks differently depending on whether or not you already have a valid passport book.

• If you do not already have a valid passport book, Follow this step-by-step guide to getting a new passport .
• If you do already have a valid passport book, you follow this step-by-step guide for applying for a passport renewal .

In either scenario, you can still use the help of a registered passport expediter to simplify and speed up the application timeline for your passport card.

Important Note: However you apply, be sure to check the appropriate box for a passport card on the DS-11 application form (for those applying as first-time applicants) or the DS-82 form if you are renewing an existing card or book by mail.

Passport Card Processing Times

There is no significant difference in processing time for a passport card versus a passport book.

Both can be expedited . However, some passport agencies do not expedite passport cards.

Routine processing currently takes 6 to 8 weeks .

Expedited processing currently takes 2 to 3 weeks .

If you need a passport card quickly, a reputable registered passport expediter can submit your application on your behalf. This can ensure the fastest possible processing times for your passport card and/or book application. In some cases, you can get your new card or book in as few as 24 hours .

For more on passport expediters, who they are, what they do, and how they can help you with your travel document needs, check out our Ultimate Guide to Passport Expeditors .

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

The Purpose of a U.S. Passport Card

Any American citizen can apply for a passport card. But, it may not be the ideal choice for everyone with international travel plans.

The purpose of the card is to make it easier for Americans who have to cross land or sea borders often. For example, many people living in border communities must cross a border frequently for work, shopping, or leisure. They must show a proper credential each time they cross. A plastic card is sturdier and easier to carry than a paper passport book.

Know that citizens still need a passport book to travel outside of North America or fly abroad. There is a good reason for this. Passport books are the international gold standard for travel ID. As such, the card was never meant to replace the book. The card is simply a convenient tool more suitable for specific use cases.

The Pros and Cons of Passport Cards

• Convenience - It's the same size as a credit card, so it fits conveniently in your wallet.
• Cost - Both the initial cost and renewal costs are lower than a passport book.
• Travel - It can be used for land or sea travel to some of the most popular destinations for Americans traveling abroad: Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
• Identification - It can serve as an identity proof for children and non-drivers.
• Air Travel - You cannot use it for international air travel.
• Limited Use - It cannot be used to acquire travel visas or visit countries beyond those listed above.
• Limited Recognition - Not all countries recognize the passport card as an identifying document, as it is a relatively new form of identification.

Passport Card FAQs

Should you choose a passport card or a passport book.

Simply put, applying for a passport card only makes sense if you meet the following criteria:

• You do not plan to leave or enter the United States by air.
• You only plan to travel to Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, and/or the Caribbean (and no other countries).
• Both of the above apply to your anticipated plans for the next 10 years.

The card is a convenient option for those who live near U.S. borders and frequently use land border crossings for work or pleasure. In these cases, being able to keep a durable international travel credential in your wallet or purse - just as you would your license or state-issued ID - makes sense. If you plan on using a card often enough that it must always be on your person, it is worth considering.

For everyone else, the alternative is the traditional U.S. passport book. The book version comes in both a standard, 24-page version and a bigger, 52-page version for those who travel a lot.

Where can a U.S. citizen apply for a passport card?

If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you can do so at one of the 8,400 Passport Application Acceptance Facilities across the country. Most facilities require an appointment and many have limited spots available.

What documents will I need in order to apply for a passport card?

The passport card is a valid passport that is proof of the identity of the bearer. As such, the passport book and passport card follow the same application rules.

Applicants must provide documents that attest to their U.S. citizenship. The most common examples of acceptable documentation include:

A completed application and updated passport photo are also required.

If you already have a traditional passport book and you are eligible to submit Form DS-82, you may apply for a passport card as a Renewal by Mail - even if it is your first passport card!

How much does a passport card cost?

The first card for an adult costs $65, and $50 for any minor under the age of 16. This includes the $35 execution fee. These fees can be paid by money order or check. Cash and credit card payments are not accepted.

Adults who received their most recently issued passport when they were age 16 or older can apply for the card at a cost of $30, as long as their passport is still valid or has expired no more than 5 years ago.

How long does it take to receive your passport card?

This process can take from weeks to months, depending on the demand at the time that you apply.

Using first class mail or similarly fast, reliable shipping options can help reduce your turnaround time by several days.

Can a passport card be renewed?

Yes. You can renew a passport card by following the same steps you would follow to renew a passport book .

Similarly, you also have the ability to rush your passport card renewal in the same ways that you would expedite a passport book renewal.

How can a passport card application be expedited?

You can request expedited passport service when you submit the application. There is an extra fee of $60 for this service. Expedited processing can take up to 2 to 3 weeks by mail. This can save you several weeks compared to the standard wait time, but it is still a long wait for those who need to travel soon.

Applicants who need to get one quickly, but are unable to visit a regional passport agency in person, can authorize a registered expediter to submit the passport application for them. Be sure to check out our directory of the top passport expeditors for our most up-to-date recommendations.

Can a valid passport card be used as a Real ID?

How many passport cards have been issued.

This makes it a much stronger form of personal identification than some driver's licenses or other forms of state issued id.

The passport card has only been around since July 14, 2008. Only 189,560 cards were issued that year.

Just a few years later, the number of passport cards issued rose to over one million. Due to this growth, more and more questions are sent to us about this travel document.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we have received over the last 15+ years from our readers.

Readers' FAQs About Passport Cards

Click the links below to see the answers to questions that other visitors have submitted.

Will a passport card be sufficient for a child or adult traveling to Bahamas from the U.S.   Question: If we are traveling to Bahamas from the US, will a passport card work fine for that, and will it last for 5 years like other passports do?

Should I get a passport card for my children instead of a book when traveling on a cruise to Bahamas?   Question: We are traveling with a 4 and 2 year old on a Disney cruise. We fly from Maryland to Florida where we board our ship and sail to the Bahamas...

Passport Card in addition to Passport Book   Question: If my US passport book does not expire for 6 more years, can I complete the DS-82 for a card without renewing my passport book?

My son lost his passport card--NOT his passport. What do we need to do?   Question: My 12 year old son lost his wallet and it contained his passport card, with the passport number on it. He DID NOT lose his passport...

Can I get a passport card for my honeymoon so I don't have to pay the extra cost of a passport book?   Question: My fiance and I are planning a honeymoon, but its based on whether we will have a passport. I'd rather pay the $55 pp for the passport card ...

I have a passport card but need a passport book to travel to Barbados.   Question: I currently have a passport card that was issued in June 2009. I will be needing to get a passport book within the next couple of years so ...

Can you use the passport card instead of the passport book when traveling to Bahamas?   Question: Travel from metro Detroit to Bahamas do I need a book passport or card passport?

Can I renew a passport book that is not expired for a passport card and change the name?   Question: I will be traveling this Feb. 2011 to Mexico (cruise) and would prefer to renew my passport just in case of an emergency. I have two children...

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting .

Get the Latest Updates

Passports are required for all travelers, including citizens of the U.S. and Canada, who enter or re-enter the U.S. by air, land or sea .

There are a few notable exceptions pertaining to land and sea border crossings:

• U.S. citizens on cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port and travel to destinations in Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean (except the French West Indies for certain cruise lines), the Bahamas or Bermuda are able to re-enter the U.S. with proof of citizenship other than a passport or passport card. Acceptable proof of citizenship includes a U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable) or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization and a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license). Passports are required for cruises that begin in one U.S. port and end in another.  
• Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean cruises that visit islands in the French West Indies (Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin and Saint Barts) require a valid passport regardless of departure port.  
• Children under the age of 16 who are citizens of the U.S. or Canada are exempt from the passport requirement for land and sea border crossings. In lieu of a passport, children are able to use a U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable) or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization as proof of citizenship for entry into the U.S. by land or by sea. Children entering or re-entering the U.S. by air are required to have a valid passport.  
• When minors are traveling with only one adult, Holland America and Princess require that all passengers have a valid passport.  
• A new, lower-cost alternative to the passport, called a passport card, is acceptable for entries into the U.S. by land or sea. The passport card is not acceptable for air travel.  
• The following cruise lines require a passport for all sailings, regardless of destination or port of departure: Azamara, Cunard, Hurtigruten, Oceania, P&O, Paul Gauguin, Regent, Seabourn, SeaDream, Silversea, Star Clippers and Windstar.

Photocopies of required documentation are not acceptable in any circumstance.

Even though passports are not required at this time for U.S. citizens who sail on cruises to the above destinations that begin and end in the same U.S. port, we strongly recommend that all cruise passengers travel with a valid passport anyway. This is because guests who need to fly to or from the U.S. unexpectedly during their cruise will likely experience significant delays and complications related to booking airline tickets and entering the U.S. if they do not have a valid passport with them. For example, a passenger missing a cruise departure due to a late inbound flight to Miami would need a passport to fly to meet the ship at the next port. Similarly, guests needing to fly to or through the U.S. before their cruise ends because of medical, family, personal or business emergencies, missing a ship's departure from a port of call, or a mechanical problem of some sort with the ship, would need a passport. Of course, situations like these are rare, but they can happen.

Passports are not required for U.S. citizens traveling to or returning directly from Hawaii or a U.S. territory, including Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Swains Island, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Passports are required for cruise travel to all International destinations not mentioned above, and for cruises that involve air travel that begins or ends outside of the U.S. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the last day of travel.

Vacations To Go has partnered with CIBT, the largest and most well-established travel visa and passport company in the world, to offer you a fast, easy and reliable way to obtain a passport or other document for travel anywhere in the world. For information about obtaining a passport or passport card for the first time, or about renewing a passport or passport card, click here to visit the CIBT Web site.

Legal U.S. Residents (Non-Citizens)

Legal permanent residents of the U.S. must have a valid passport from their country of citizenship and a valid Alien Registration Card (Green Card) to enter or re-enter the U.S.

Non-U.S., Non-Canada Citizens

The following countries participate in a visa waiver program with the U.S., and citizens of these countries must have a machine-readable passport for entry into the U.S.:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom

Citizens of the countries listed above who do not possess machine-readable passports, and citizens of countries not listed above must present a valid passport and a valid United States visa upon entry into the U.S. For those whose travel plans include multiple entries into the U.S., such as a cruise that begins and ends in a U.S. port, a multiple-entry visa is required.

All travelers, including U.S. and Canada citizens , are responsible for verifying visa requirements with consular officials, and obtaining visas where required, for every country visited during their trip, including countries visited via connecting flights.

Always check with your Vacations To Go cruise counselor at the time of booking to verify the documentation requirements for your vacation.

This is a privately owned website and not a government agency. FTC Disclosure: We may be compensated if you make a purchase via a link on this site.

Uspassporthelpguide.com is a privately owned website. Privacy

Everything You Need to Know About Passport Requirements When Taking a Cruise

Sailing away on a cruise is one of the most exciting and enjoyable vacations you can take. But before you head off to those blissful waters, there are some important passport requirements that every traveler must consider.

Don’t let passport complications delay your next vacation – learn everything you need to know about passports for cruises so your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Getting your passport ready for your cruise. Know that passport requirement for a cruise are largely the same as traveling on your own, with some key differences. By and large, if you can legally travel to Canada and Mexico by plane, you can do so on a cruise.

Here’s what you need to know in order to make sure that you’re prepared for your cruise:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)

There was a time when regulations were a little more relaxed when it came to cruises and certain other forms of travel, but over time, the borders have been tightened, for better or worse. You have the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative to thank for the fact that you’re going to need a passport in order to make certain cruises.

If you are traveling to or from popular destinations outside of the US like Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean Islands, or Bermuda, and you are not making a closed-loop trip, then you will need either a passport or a WHTI-compliant document . You can find a list of compliant documents here.

Unfortunately, there are no workarounds. Either you take the time to get a passport or some other WHTI-compliant document in order, or you skip the trip.

Closed Loop Cruises

While you need a passport for the kind of cruise where you get off the boat, rent a hotel room. Or, stay at a resort for an evening or two. Closed-loop cruises are a little more lax. As long as you have a valid proof of American citizenship, you can ride most closed-loop cruises without a passport or WHTI-compliant document .

Note that a social security card won’t be regarded as proof enough, nor will a baptismal paper or a hospital certificate. A laminated photo ID will usually work, as will a government-issued birth certificate.

In the event of air travel, you will always need a passport or WHTI-compliant document. This only applies to cruises where you board the ship in the U.S. Or, the final destination is within the US.

Green Card Holders

A Green Card will serve as valid proof for lawful permanent residents, however, renewal is very important. If your card is expired or about to expire, you may wind up leaving the country on the cruise ship. But, being denied reentry.

It’s important to get all of your documents in order well in advance of your cruise. Make sure that your photo ID is valid and up to date. If you are going to be doing some air travel outside of the US, make sure that you have a passport or a WHTI-compliant document on hand.

Even if you’re pretty sure that all of your papers are in order. You may want to use this as an opportunity to double-check all of your documents nonetheless.

Traveling on a cruise can be an exciting adventure and the perfect way to spend a vacation. Though passport requirements when taking a cruise may seem confusing, it’s important to take the necessary steps and double-check what type of ID is needed. In some cases, all you might need is a government-issued photo identification such as a driver’s license , but in other cases, you will need your original government-issued birth certificate with a raised seal and a valid passport.

Related Topics

Top 10 Countries Every First-Time Traveler Must Visit

Travel Photography 101: How To Take Great Travel Photos?

7 Air Travel Tips to Have an Enjoyable Flight

Choose your passport office location, passport services.

•  New Passport
•  Passport Renewal
•  Child Passport
•  Passport Replacement
•  Name Change
•  Lost Passport
•  Passport Correction
•  Second Passport
•  Passport Card

Where to Apply

•  Passport Offices
•  Expedited Services
•  Regional Passport
•  Expedited Visa & Passport Directory
•  Acceptance Agent

Passport Forms

•  Passport Photos
•  Passport Requirements
•  Passport Fees
•  Passport Books
•  Passport Applications
•  International Drivers Permit
•  Travel Visa

Do you really want to delete this post ?

What's the difference between a passport book and passport card?

Editor's Note

If you've ever applied for or renewed a U.S. passport , you may have noticed the option to purchase both a passport book and a passport card.

Although both serve as proof of your U.S. citizenship and identity, they are used for different travel purposes.

Here's all you need to know about the differences between a passport book and a passport card, as well as which one you should get.

What is a passport book?

A passport book is likely the document travelers are most familiar with, as it's used for international travel to and from the U.S., including by air, sea or land.

All U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals are eligible for a U.S. passport book.

Passport books contain identifying details, including your full name, nationality, date and place of birth, sex, place of issuance, birthplace, issuance and expiration dates, and an alphanumeric eight-digit passport number.

Biometric passport books come in the form of a booklet with a navy blue cover containing 28 pages, where border agents stamp each time you cross into a new country. Should you ever receive a visa to enter a country, that information will also be documented on those pages.

For travelers aged 16 or older at the date of issue, passport books are valid for 10 years. Otherwise, they're valid for five years , and these travelers must renew their passports at that time.

What is a passport card?

Unlike passport books, a passport card is wallet-sized, similar to the size of a driver's license. Passport cards can be used for land and sea entry to the U.S. from Canada , Mexico , Bermuda and the Caribbean .

These contain almost identical information as passport books, specifically your full name, nationality, date/place of birth, sex, issue and expiration dates, plus a unique passport card number.

All U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals are eligible for a U.S. passport card.

Unlike passport books, a passport card can be used in Ready Lanes in Canada and Mexico, which provide expedited vehicle and pedestrian border entry for approved users by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Like passport books, passport cards are also valid for 10 years for travelers aged 16 and older, and five years for those under age 16 at the time of issuance.

Differences between the passport book and passport card

The passport book is larger than a passport card, measuring 5 inches by 3.5 inches when closed. The passport card is the size of a standard credit card.

Overall, obtaining a U.S. passport book is much more expensive, at $165 for first-time applicants aged 16 and older, $135 for those under 16 and $130 for those who renew their passport book by mail, regardless of age.

It only costs first-time applicants aged 16 and older $65 to get a passport card, while it's $50 for younger applicants. Passport cards are renewable by mail for just $30.

Both serve as acceptable alternatives to a state-issued ID (driver's license) for U.S. citizenship identification for travel and other purposes. However, only passport books are valid for international air travel.

Can I have both a passport book and a card?

You can apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time, either in person using Form DS-11 or via mail using Form DS-82 , simply by checking the appropriate box at the top of the form indicating that you would like to apply for both products. You cannot renew one without the other.

If you have a passport book and are eligible for mail renewal, you can also apply for a passport card renewal via mail, even if it is your first passport card.

For eligibility rules regarding mail renewal, see here .

Which should I get?

You can technically obtain both documents. However, it doesn't make sense to pay for both when a U.S. passport book grants international air, land and sea access to the U.S. from all destinations the passport card does.

Having said that, you may want to consider also applying for a passport card if you frequently travel both by air and land, as a passport card is a smaller document to travel with and potentially more convenient than carrying a traditional passport book.

Either way, both a passport book and card are accepted as forms of Real ID . As a reminder, Real-ID-compliant driver's licenses will be required to pass through TSA security lines at airports for all travelers aged 18 and older starting May 7, 2025 .

Bottom line

Passport books and passport cards serve different purposes. Passport books are required as identification verification for international air travel. Passport cards serve that purpose but can only be used for land travel into the U.S. from specific destinations.

Travelers can apply for one or both documents, as they both are acceptable as U.S. citizenship identification.

10 Things to Never do in Cruise Ports

A re you going on a cruise? It’s always a good idea to do your research so you familiarize yourself with the do’s and don’ts in cruise ports of call. You don’t want to get in harm’s way. Here are things to never do in cruise ports so your vacation goes smoothly and safely.

Things to Never Do in Cruise Ports of Call

1. don’t assume there will always be taxis.

It’s not a good idea to assume that you can easily hail a taxi or an Uber at the port. In some smaller ports, finding taxis can be difficult, which can lead to trouble. 

For example, during our British Isle Cruise, we docked at Cobh, which is a small town close to Cork and the Blarney Castle. We wanted to save some money, so we decided to get a cab to and from Blarney Castle instead of using the cruise shore excursion. We were able to get a taxi to Blarney Castle, but when it was time to come back to the ship, we couldn’t find any taxis. 

Uber kept canceling on us because there weren’t enough drivers available in the small town. I started to panic, but fortunately, we were eventually able to get an Uber back to the ship. 

However, if we hadn’t been able to get a ride, we would have been stranded at Blarney Castle, which was 38 minutes from the cruise port. This would have made us miss the ship! To be safe, it’s better to book a shore excursion from the cruise or through an independent tour operator like viator .

Suburbs 101 participates in affiliate programs including Amazon Associates Program and may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

2. Wear Your Cruise Lanyard

One of the things you should never do in the cruise port is to wear your cruise lanyard ashore. It can make you stand out as a tourist when you are off the ship. 

When you are out ashore sightseeing, shopping or at the beach, don’t wear your cruise lanyard. You will immediately look like a tourist and become a target for thieves and pickpocketers. 

I suggest keeping a low profile when you are on shore. You can store your keycard and other valuables in a secure pocket or bag. This way, you can avoid drawing attention to yourself and enjoy your shore excursion without any trouble. 

Check out: 16 Cruise Ship Embarkation Hack (How to Board the Ship Faster)

3. Miss the Ship

Similar to airplanes, cruise ships will not wait for you. If you miss the “all aboard time” you will have to find another way to get back on the ship by meeting your cruise at the next port! It’s a hassle and can be very stressful!

That is why when disembarking from the ship, it’s important to always check what time you need to be back on board. You can usually find the “all aboard” time in the daily planner and it will posted on a sign at the gangway. 

If you are forgetful, take a picture of the “all aboard time” sign and set an alarm on your phone. Also, make sure to check that your watch has the correct time since time zones can change. 

If you need to take a tender boat to the port, make sure you allocate enough time for it. Find out when the last tender departure time is, there is usually a sign near the tender gangway.

Check out: 10 Ridiculous Time Wasters to Avoid on a Cruise

4. Bringing Shells Back on Board

It’s important to remember that seashells, corals, flowers, plants, and even leaves are not allowed to be brought back to the cruise ship. Although it can be tempting to collect these items during your shore excursions, many cruise lines prohibit their guests from bringing them back onboard. 

For example, during a Caribbean cruise with my then 3-year-old son, he found a large leaf (as big as his head) on a beach in Dominica and wanted to bring it back to the ship. Unfortunately, the ship’s security wouldn’t allow it, and despite his tears, they couldn’t make an exception.

Check Out: How to Sleep Like a Baby on a Cruise (10 Tips from an Ex-Insomniac)

5. Forgetting Your Shore Excursion Ticket

In this day and age of e-tickets, shore tickets excursions are still printed on paper. Make sure you bring your tickets with you when you get off the ship to join your shore excursion. Whether it’s a cruise shore excursion or an independent tour, it’s safest if you have your tickets as proof. It will be a real hassle to have to go back to your cabin to retrieve your shore excursion tickets.

Check out: 9 Reasons Why I’m Skipping Port Days on My Next Cruise

6. Not Checking the Travel Advisory

You should always check with the US Department of State for the latest travel advisory of the places you are going to. Don’t assume that every port is safe. For example, the US Department of State has recently raised the advisory level for the Bahamas to Level 2 due to crime and water safety issues. Read about the new travel advisory: Beware Bahamas Travel Advisory Increases

If you’re going to a port where there is a travel advisory, just take extra precautions. Even in Europe where it’s common to fall victim to pickpocketers! I suggest using slash-proof bags like this anti-theft cross body bag because the strap and bag are slash-resistant and there is also RFID blocking so your card information is safe from identity thieves. 

7. Wear Expensive Jewelry & Designer Bags

Avoid attracting unwanted attention from potential thieves at the port. You don’t want to be a target! I suggest leaving your expensive jewelry and designer bags at home. 

Instead, you can bring some inexpensive accessories that match your outfits. This way, you can still look stylish and have fun without worrying about your belongings. It’s worth the peace of mind!

Check out: 11 Anti-Theft Cruise Tips that Every Cruiser Needs to Know

8. Leave Your Passport in Your Cabin

Always bring your passport down with you to the port. Don’t leave it in your cabin. Even though you can get in and out of the ship with your cruise card, you will still need your passport at the port. Some cruise ports will ask you to show your passport and/or cruise card to get back on the ship. It’s also a good idea to have your passport with you just in case you miss the ship and you have to fly to another cruise port to get back on the ship. 

Check out: I’ve Been on over 25 Cruises, Here are 17 Things I’ll Never Do on a Cruise

9. Drink too Much

One thing to never do at cruise ports is to drink too much. Many cruise ports, especially, the Caribbean cruise ports are surrounded by bars. Some shore excursions are party boats with unlimited alcoholic beverages. 

Although it may be tempting to spend the day drinking at popular places like Senor Froggy’s, it’s important to be careful. Drinking alcohol while being exposed to the sun can be a dangerous combination. Just be careful, because you don’t want to get too drunk that you miss the ship!

Looking to save money on your cruise? 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise

10. Wing It if You are a Big Group

If you’re traveling with a large group, the last thing you want is to be stranded at the cruise port, unable to find transportation and wandering around aimlessly. It can be challenging to find taxis that can accommodate a big group, since you will need a van or multiple taxis. 

To avoid this, it’s always a good idea to pre-book shore excursions, either through the cruise or with independent tour operators. If you’re a large group, you should consider booking a private tour, since these offer a more personalized experience and allow you to explore destinations at your own pace. 

Plus, private tours may end up being the same price or even less expensive than the cruise shore excursions. A great platform to book tours is with viator . 

Check out: 9 Things I Wished I Knew When Planning a Large Family Cruise

Check out these cruise packing lists with free printables

Alaska cruise packing list

Caribbean cruise packing list

Mediterranean cruise packing list

Mexico cruise packing list

Bermuda Cruise Packing List

25 Things People Forget to Pack on their Cruise

42 Banned Items you can’t take on a cruise

Check out: 30 Unusual Things to Pack for a Cruise: Things You Didn’t Know You Need

The post 10 Things to Never do in Cruise Ports appeared first on Suburbs 101 .