What documents will be required when I check in for my cruise? A: At check-in, all Guests must present valid passports or other acceptable proof of citizenship. All travelers are required to have a valid passport to enter or re-enter the United States by air.

The documents required for a cruise in 2026 depend heavily on your citizenship and the ship's itinerary. For most international cruises, a valid Passport Book with at least six months of validity remaining is the absolute "gold standard" and often mandatory, regardless of the destination's rules. For U.S. citizens on "closed-loop" cruises (starting and ending at the same U.S. port and traveling within the Western Hemisphere), you can technically use a government-issued Birth Certificate and a valid photo ID, or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL). however, cruise lines and the State Department strongly recommend a passport in case of an emergency medical evacuation. You must also have any necessary visas for the countries on your route, even if you don't plan to get off the ship. Additionally, 2026 travelers should carry a copy of their cruise boarding pass (digital or paper) and travel insurance documents, as many ports now require proof of coverage for entry.