Travel Documents for Cruises: What U.S. Citizens Need
The documents a U.S. citizen needs for a cruise depend on the itinerary. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) says adults on a closed-loop cruise, one that begins and ends at the same U.S. port, may use a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID.
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Closed-loop cruises
For U.S. citizens 18 and older, CBP says a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, is acceptable only on closed-loop cruises. Children 16 and under need only proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. CBP says verbal claims of citizenship alone are not sufficient.
Cruises that visit foreign ports
CBP says that on cruises that visit a foreign port, such as Alaska cruises that stop in Victoria, Canada, you need a WHTI-compliant document, such as a passport. The closed-loop option does not apply to those itineraries.
Which travel document
The State Department says a passport book can be used for international travel by air, sea or land. The passport card can be used for entry from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and certain Caribbean destinations by land or sea, and it is not valid for international travel by air. If a flight to or from the port is international, you would need a passport book.
Check before you go
Cruise lines can set their own document rules, and itineraries change. Confirm the requirements with your cruise line and CBP before you travel. Birth certificates used for travel generally need to be certified copies.
Frequently asked questions
Can I cruise without a passport?
CBP says adults may use a birth certificate and photo ID on a closed-loop cruise. Foreign ports require a WHTI-compliant document.
Do children need photo ID?
CBP says children 16 and under need only proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
Is a passport card enough?
For sea entry from places like Canada, Mexico and Bermuda, the State Department says a passport card works. Check your itinerary.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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