New cruisers passport guide.
Welcome aboard, future cruisers! If you’re gearing up for your first voyage on the high seas, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to ensure you’re cruise-ready with the right documentation. Let’s dive into the details, so you can set sail with confidence!
What is a passport?
A passport is an official travel document issued by a government that certifies the holder’s identity and nationality. Passports are required for international travel, including cruise travel.
How to get a passport for the first time
For first-timers, getting a passport is a straightforward process. Fill out the application form, gather your essential documents, and head to the nearest passport office. Keep in mind that processing times may vary, so it’s best to start early and avoid any last-minute rush.
Start with the application
Get the application DS-10 at the official US. Gov website Travel State Gov. The application is free. Do not pay a third-party website
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html
Apply only at the official website
To apply for a passport first start by going to the official website. Find out which application you need. Fill out the application online. Print out the application, but DO NOT SIGN IT!!!!!
You can visit a passport acceptance facility or apply by mail.
Next, find out where the closest or most convenient acceptance facility is. You may be able to make an appointment or there may only be drop-in hours.
What Documents do I need to apply for my passport?
Gathering the right documents is key to obtaining your passport. You’ll need to prove your citizenship, which can be done with your birth certificate or an equivalent document.
Additionally, a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, is required. And of course, bring along some passport-sized photos. A little bit of cash will be needed for the application fee too! Find out all the details on the Travel Gov Website.
- Proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization)
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID)
- Social Security Number
- Two passport-sized photos
- A completed DS-11 application form
- The application fee
Passport Photos
Passport photos must meet certain requirements in order to be accepted. These requirements include:
- The photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches.
- The photo must be in color.
- The photo must be taken within the past 6 months.
- The photo must be taken against a plain white or off-white background.
- The photo must be facing the camera directly.
- The photo must be with a neutral expression.
- The photo must be with your eyes open and mouth closed.
- You must remove your glasses and hats.
Where to get passport photos taken
You can get your passport photo taken at most drugstores and photo studios.
Here are some additional tips for getting a good passport photo:
- Wear clothes that contrast with the background.
- Avoid wearing jewelry or other accessories that could cover your face.
- Style your hair in a way that doesn’t cover your face.
- Make sure your entire face is visible in the photo, from your hairline to your chin.
How to take a passport photo of a baby or toddler
According to the Passport help page on travel.gov, here are the tips on how to take a passport photo of a baby or toddler:
- When taking a photo of your baby or toddler, no other person should be in the photo, and your child should be looking at the camera with his or her eyes open.
- Lay your baby on a plain white or off-white sheet. This will ensure your baby’s head is supported and provide a plain background for the photo. Make certain there are no shadows on your baby’s face, especially if you take a picture from above with the baby lying down.
- Cover a car seat with a plain white or off-white sheet and take a picture of your child in the car seat. This will also ensure your baby’s head is supported.
Why you should have a passport to cruise
Expect the Unexpected
Illness and injuries can happen anywhere, including on cruise ships and in port.
Imagine you’re on a cruise stop in Guatemala and you suddenly experience severe stomach pains.
You rush to the nearby hospital and are diagnosed with appendicitis. You need to be admitted for surgery.
If you can’t be discharged before the ship leaves, you’ll need a U.S. passport to fly home after you’re cleared by your doctor.
A passport makes it much easier to arrange travel in unexpected situations.
- In the event of an emergency, a passport is the best form of identification that a traveler can have. If a passenger needs to be evacuated from a cruise ship for medical or other reasons, a passport will be required to re-enter the United States or another country.
Safeguard travelers:
Passports help to protect travelers by providing them with a form of identification that is recognized by governments around the world. This can be helpful in an emergency if a traveler is lost, injured, or arrested in a foreign country.
Protect National Security
Passports help to ensure that only authorized individuals are entering and exiting a country. This helps to prevent terrorism, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities.
Track Immigration:
Passports help governments to track the movement of people across their borders. This information can be used for a variety of purposes, such as tracking the spread of disease and planning for economic development.
Expand your horizons with a passport
To travel to new and exciting places:
A passport gives you the freedom to travel almost anywhere in the world.
This means that you can experience new cultures, meet new people, and see amazing sights.
If you have always dreamed of traveling to Europe, Asia, Africa, or South America, a passport is essential.
To take advantage of unexpected opportunities
Sometimes, life throws you a curveball and presents you with an unexpected opportunity.
For example, you might win a trip to a foreign country, or a family member might invite you to their wedding in a far-off place.
If you don’t have a passport, you won’t be able to take advantage of these opportunities.
Advance your career:
If you have a passport, you may be able to find more job opportunities, especially if you are interested in working internationally.
Many companies are looking for employees who are willing to travel, and a passport is a must-have for these types of jobs.
Expand your horizons:
Traveling to different countries can help you to learn about new cultures and perspectives.
It can also help you to become more open-minded and tolerant of others.
If you want to expand your horizons and become a more global citizen, a passport is a great way to do it.
Create lifelong memories:
Traveling can be an unforgettable experience.
It is a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you want to have a lifetime of amazing travel memories, a passport is essential.
Types of passports
There are different types of US passports. The most common type is the regular passport, which is issued to US citizens for personal travel. Other types of passports include:
- Official passport: Issued to US government employees traveling abroad on official business.
- Diplomatic passport: Issued to US diplomats and other high-ranking government officials.
- Service passport: Issued to non-government employees traveling abroad to support US government interests.
- Passport card: A smaller, wallet-sized passport that can be used for land and sea travel between the US, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda.
which is better? A passport book or passport card?
More on Passport Cards
A passport card is a cheaper alternative to a passport book for people traveling by cruise to Canada, Mexico, Caribbean countries, and Bermuda. It is not valid for international air travel.
Why get a passport card?
- Less expensive than a passport book ($65 for adults 16 and older)
- Considered RealID so you can fly domestically
- Smaller than a US passport book
- Can be used as official identification
- Good for ten years for adults over 16
- Good for five years for children under 16
Passport Book
This is the passport everyone thinks of when you a passport. It is a booklet that contains personal information about the holder, such as their name, date of birth, and place of birth. It also contains a photo of the holder and their signature.
Passport Size
Did you know that all passports around the world are the same size?
Passport dimensions are standardized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This ensures that passports are the same size and format around the world, which makes it easier for border officials to process them.
- The dimensions of a US passport book are 4.5 inches by 3.5 inches when closed. It is 28 pages thick, or 52 pages thick if you request a 52-page passport book.
- The dimensions of a US passport card are 3.5 inches by 2 inches when closed. It is a single-page document.
Why get a passport book?
- Can be used for international air All TRAVEL and cruises
- Can be used as official identification almost anywhere
- Good for ten years for adults over 16.
- Contains stamps for memories
How many pages do you need?
A standard passport book has 28 pages, 17 of which can be used for entry and exit stamps. However, you can request a 52-page passport book for no additional cost. The 52-page passport book has 43 blank pages that can be used for entry and exit stamps.
Passport Color
Did you ever wonder if there is significance to the color of a passport?
There is no official significance to the color of a passport, but countries often choose colors that are symbolic of their culture, history, or geography.
For example, many Muslim-majority countries have green passports because green is considered to be a holy color in Islam.
Many South American countries have blue passports because of their proximity to the ocean. And the United States has blue passports because blue is often associated with freedom and democracy.
There are four major colors of passports for countries internationally:
- 68 bed
- 40 green
- 84 blue
- 7 black
Do all cruise lines require passports?
While some cruises might accept other IDs, having a passport is a smart move. It helps things go smoothly, especially if there are surprises along the way.
Children and passports
Do Kids Need Passports
Absolutely! Every member of the family, no matter how small, needs their own passport for the voyage. This includes infants and toddlers. So, before you embark on your cruise, make sure the little ones have their special passports ready to go.
At What Age Does a Child Need a Passport
Right from the start! Even the tiniest travelers need their own passport, from birth onwards. So, whether you’re a little tot or a slightly bigger one, you’re all set for our grand adventure!
How Long is a Passport Good for a Minor
For our young adventurers under 16, passports are valid for 5 years. Once you reach the age of 16, you’re in luck – your passport is good for a whole decade of journeys!
Teenager Passport
Hey, teenagers! As you step into the realm of independent exploration, having your own passport is a must. The process is just the same as for the grown-ups. Ensure you have all your documents organized, and you’ll be good to go!
How long are passports valid for?
Passports for adults are valid for ten years from the date of issue. Passports for minors are valid for five years from the date of issue.
A child’s passport is valid for five years. This is because children’s appearance can change rapidly, so it is important to have a current photo on their passport. After five years, the passport will need to be renewed.
How to renew a passport
Renewing an adult passport
To renew a passport, you can either visit a passport acceptance facility or apply by mail.
If you are renewing your passport in person, you will need to bring the following documents:
- Your current passport
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID)
- One passport-sized photo
- A completed DS-82 application form
- The application fee
If you are renewing your passport by mail, you will need to send the same documents, along with a money order or check for the application fee.
You can find a passport acceptance facility near you on the US State Department website. You can also download the DS-82 application form from the US State Department website.
Renewing a child’s passport
To renew a child’s passport, you will need to submit a new DS-11 application form, proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and a new passport photo. You will also need to pay the application fee.
My Child just turned 16 how do I renew their passport?
When your child turns 16, they will need to get a new passport, an adult passport. This is because child passports are only valid for five years, and adult passports are valid for ten years.
Documents to go from child passport to adult passport
To get a new adult passport for your child, you will need to submit the following documents:
- A completed DS-11 application form
- Proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization)
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID)
- Two passport-sized photos
- The application fee
You can apply for a new adult passport for your child at a passport acceptance facility or by mail.
Here are some additional tips for getting a new adult passport for your child:
- Start the application process early, especially if you are traveling internationally in the near future.
- Make sure to have all of the required documents before you visit a passport acceptance facility or mail your application.
- Check the US State Department website for the current processing times and application fees.
- If you have any questions about the passport application process, you can contact the US State Department for assistance.
How long does it take to renew my passport?
The processing time for a passport renewal application typically takes 4-6 weeks. However, it is important to note that processing times may vary depending on the time of year and the volume of applications received.
Additional tips for renewing your passport:
- Start the renewal process early, especially if you are traveling internationally in the near future.
- Make sure to have all of the required documents before you visit a passport acceptance facility or mail your application.
- Check the US State Department website for the current processing times and application fees.
- If you have any questions about the passport renewal process, you can contact the US State Department for assistance.
When you need Passports in a hurry
To get a last-minute or rush passport, you will need to visit a passport agency or center. You can find a list of passport agencies and centers on the US State Department website.
Make an appointment
To make an appointment at a passport agency or center, you will need to call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
National Passport Information Center hours
The National Passport Information Center is open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, and from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Eastern Time on Saturdays and Sundays.
What you need to make an appointment:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth
- Your Social Security number
- Your travel dates
Bring these documents
- A completed DS-11 application form
- Proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization)
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID)
- Two passport-sized photos
- The application fee
- The expedite fee
Provide additional information
You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of travel or an emergency letter.
How long does a RUSH passport take?
The processing time for a last-minute or rush passport is typically 2-3 business days. However, it is important to note that processing times may vary depending on the time of year and the volume of applications received.
How to get a US Passport in a Day
Reasons you might need to expedite a passport:
- Unexpected travel: If you have an unexpected need to travel internationally, such as for a family emergency or a job opportunity, you may need to get a rush passport.
- Lost or stolen passport: If your passport is lost or stolen, you will need to get a replacement passport as soon as possible. You may be able to get a rush passport if your travel dates are approaching.
- Expired passport: If your passport is expired, you will need to apply for a new passport. You may be able to get a rush passport if your travel dates are approaching.
- Incorrect information on your passport: If your passport contains incorrect information, such as your name or date of birth, you will need to apply for a new passport. You may be able to get a rush passport if your travel dates are approaching.
If you have a valid reason for needing a rush passport, you can visit a passport agency or center to apply for one. You will need to pay an expedited fee in addition to the regular passport application fee. The processing time for a rush passport is typically 2-3 business days.
Can I get a passport anywhere else?
There are no third-party sources for passports. Passports can only be issued by the government of the country whose citizenship you hold. In the United States, passports are issued by the US Department of State.
Passport assistance companies
There are a number of companies that offer to help people with the passport application process. These companies can help you fill out the application form, gather the required documents, and schedule an appointment at a passport acceptance facility. However, these companies cannot issue passports themselves.
Watch out for Passport Service Scams
It is important to be aware of scams related to passports. There are individuals and companies that claim to be able to get you a passport quickly and easily, for a fee. However, these claims are often false, and these individuals and companies may steal your money or personal information.
If you need to apply for a passport, the best way to do so is through the US Department of State. You can apply for a passport online, by mail, or in person at a passport acceptance facility.
Tips for avoiding passport scams:
- Be careful about who you give your personal information to.
- Do not pay anyone a fee to get you a passport.
- Apply for your passport directly through the US Department of State.
What to do when you need your passport ASAP
If you need a life or death or emergency service appointment or an emergency service travel you may have additional options.
There are central passport processing locations that you can drive to and get a passport the same day or the next day. These locations are called passport agencies and passport centers.
To find a passport agency or center near you, you can visit the US State Department website. Passport agencies and centers are located in major cities throughout the United States.
If you need to travel in the next three days because of the health or imminent death of an immediate family member who lives outside the United States, you can make an appointment by calling the National Passport Service.
Call the Life or Death Number
The number you should call to make an appointment for Life-or-Death Emergency Service depends on the day of the week, and time of day:
- On Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET), call 1-877-487-2778. These hours of operation are different than the hours for making an appointment for Urgent Travel Service. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call 1-888-874-7793 for TDD/TTY teletype services.
- If you have a life-or-death emergency after 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays, call 202-647-4000. Do not call this number between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays, or if you need Urgent Travel Service.
Have the following information:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth
- Your Social Security number
- Your travel dates
Once you have made an appointment, you will need to bring the following documents to the passport agency or center:
- A completed DS-11 application form
- Proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization)
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID)
- Two passport-sized photos
- The application fee
- The expedite fee
Proof of travel may be required
You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of travel or an emergency letter.
The processing time for a same-day or next-day passport is typically 2-3 business days. However, it is important to note that processing times may vary depending on the time of year and the volume of applications received.
Here are some additional tips for getting a same-day or next-day passport:
- Start the process as early as possible, even if you are traveling in the next few days.
- Make sure to have all of the required documents before you visit the passport agency or center.
- Be prepared to pay the expedited fee.
- Check the US State Department website for the current processing times and fees.
- If you have any questions about the same-day or next-day passport process, you can contact the US State Department for assistance.
Keep your passport safe
Tips for keeping your passport safe
- Keep your passport in a safe place at all times. While not using it, keep it in a locked hotel safe or in a money belt worn under your clothes.
- Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your original passport. This copy can be helpful in an emergency, if you lose your passport or if it’s stolen.
- Be careful about who you give your passport to. Only give your passport to government officials or authorized personnel.
- Be aware of your surroundings when you’re traveling. Be careful about pickpockets and other criminals who may try to steal your passport.
RFID scanning and passports
- Buy an RFID-blocking passport sleeve or wallet.
- Keep your passport close to your body when you’re in crowded areas.
- Avoid placing your passport near electronic devices, such as smartphones and laptops.
Potential for identity theft
RFID scanning passports is a potential problem, but it is not a widespread one.
The main risk of RFID scanning passports is that criminals could potentially use the stolen information to create counterfeit passports or to commit identity theft.
Scanners have to be close
However, it is important to note that RFID scanners cannot read passport information from more than a few inches away, so criminals would need to be very close to you in order to scan your passport without your knowledge.
What to do if your passport is lost or stolen
If you lose your passport, you should report it to the nearest US embassy or consulate as soon as possible. You can also report your lost passport online at the US State Department website.
Here are some tips for replacing a lost passport:
- Fill out a DS-11 application form.
- Provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization.
- Provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- The application fee.
Timing for replacing a passport
The processing time for a replacement passport can vary depending on the time of year and the volume of applications received. However, you can typically get a replacement passport within 2-3 business days if you apply in person at a US embassy or consulate.
Conclusion
A passport is a necessary document for travel, including cruise travel. It is important to make sure that your passport is valid and up-to-date before you travel. You can apply for a passport online, by mail, or in person at a passport acceptance facility.
Here are some key points to remember about passport requirements for cruise travel:
- All passengers on a cruise ship should have a valid passport to travel.
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your return to the United States.
- Some countries may require visitors to also have a visa.
- You can check the passport requirements for each country on your itinerary on the website of the respective country’s embassy or consulate.
- If your cruise is booked and you don’t have a passport, start the process ASAP!
Happy cruising! And now that you have a passport, be sure to find out about Global Entry.
Passport FAQs
1. Q: Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?
A: It depends on the cruise itinerary. For cruises that visit international ports or involve foreign countries, a passport is typically required.
2. Q: Can I use a driver’s license instead of a passport for a cruise?
A: While some cruises may accept a driver’s license for certain itineraries, having a passport is highly recommended. It serves as a universally accepted form of identification and can be essential in case of emergencies.
3. Q: Is it possible to cruise without a passport if I’m a U.S. citizen?
A: Yes, some “closed-loop” cruises (those that begin and end at the same U.S. port) may allow U.S. citizens to travel with just a government-issued photo ID and birth certificate. However, a passport is still strongly advised for added flexibility and safety.
4. Q: Can I apply for a passport just for a cruise?
A: Yes, you can apply for a passport specifically for your cruise travel. It’s a valuable travel document that can be used for various international trips beyond just cruising.
5. Q: What if my passport expires during my cruise?
A: It’s crucial to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. If it’s set to expire soon, it’s recommended to renew it before your cruise.
6. Q: Can I use my child’s birth certificate instead of a passport for a cruise?
A: While a birth certificate may be accepted for certain cruises, obtaining a passport for your child is strongly recommended. It provides greater flexibility and can be crucial in case of unexpected situations.
7. Q: How long does it take to get a passport for a cruise?
A: The processing time for a passport application can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned cruise. Expedited services are available for an additional fee.
8. Q: Do I need a visa for a cruise?
A: Visa requirements depend on the countries you’ll be visiting during your cruise. It’s essential to check the visa requirements for each port of call on your itinerary.
9. Q: Can I use a passport card for cruise travel?
A: A passport card is a limited-use travel document and is not sufficient for international air travel. However, it can be used for land and sea travel to certain destinations, including on cruises.
10. Q: Can I travel on a cruise with an expired passport?
A: No, an expired passport is not a valid travel document. Make sure your passport is current before embarking on your cruise adventure.
Remember to always check with your cruise line and review the specific requirements for your chosen itinerary.
Passport in hand
Now that you have a passport, where will you go? Contact us today to start planning!