Do I Need A Passport

TL;DR: Yes. You need a passport book.

Some sailings do not require a passport, such as some closed-loop cruises. These "closed-loop" cruises require a current government issued ID, such as a driver's license. They also require a proof of citizenship, such as a copy of your birth certificate.

However, at CruiseAlly, we believe it's best to keep your options open and get a passport as we have seen closed-loop cruises document requirements inconsistently enforced over the years. When on vacation, you're there to relax, so we advise preparing ahead of time for a stress-free vacation! (What's the point of a stressful vacation?)

Passport Card

If you are getting a new passport, or renewing your existing one, ensure that you get a passport book. Passport books can be used for travel worldwide, whereas, a passport card is valid only for land and sea travel from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and a variety of Caribbean countries.

Passport Expiration

While some jurisdictions will allow you to enter with as few as three months remaining until your passport expires, we recommend that you travel with a passport with a minimum of six months until expiration. 

Passport Validity

Passports are valid for 10 years from issuance or renewal if you are 16 years or older. For those under the age of 16, they may be valid for a lesser period of time. 

Passport Renewal

Be sure to be aware of the passport expiration dates for you and your family so you have time to renew them well in advance if required. While the long processing times of the covid era have since come down to earth, we recommend 10-12 weeks of lead time. Fortunately, you can now renew your passport directly on the Department of State's website. Visit Travel.State.Gov to get started.

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