What happens if you travel without a passport?

The most likely scenario is that you will be prevented from boarding transport by the staff on duty. If you managed to avoid that situation, you could be blocked from entering your destination by border authorities upon arrival. Generally, it is necessary to have a valid passport if you want to travel abroad.



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The American Citizen Services Section wants to remind all U.S. citizens not to travel outside the United States without a valid U.S. passport. While dual citizens may be able to travel abroad with alternative documentation, all U.S. citizens are required to present a U.S. passport to re-enter the United States.

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All U.S. citizens need U.S. passport books if re-entering by air. Land and sea border crossings accept additional travel documents, such as U.S. Passport cards and Trusted Traveler cards. Child travelers have additional options - see the Traveling with Children section.

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All citizens of the United States must present a valid passport when entering Mexican territory by any means of transportation. There are no exceptions for minors. Stays less than 72 hours within the border area, do not require an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM).

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If your passport's time is almost up, don't wait — start the renewal process now. You can't travel while your renewal application is being processed, and you need to make sure your travel documents are valid for at least six months past the dates of any planned international trips.

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If your travel date is less than 5 days away: Call (877) 487-2778 for an 'Urgent Travel Service' appointment with a local passport agency. Again, call as soon as they open at 8am Eastern Time.

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Can you cross the Mexican border with a birth certificate? Birth certificates are only acceptable as forms of identification for minors traveling to Mexico by road or closed-loop cruises.

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At a Glance: Yes, you need a passport to go to Cancun, Mexico from the United States. When traveling by air, a valid passport is required, along with a completed Multiple Migratory Form (FMM).

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You must present an acceptable ID, such as a valid passport, state-issued enhanced driver's license or U.S. military ID, to fly within the U.S. You will not be allowed to fly if your identity cannot be verified.

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Do you need a passport to enter Mexico? Yes, Americans need a passport (or appropriate alternative travel document) to visit Mexico. In the past, visiting Mexico with just a driver's license or birth certificate was possible.

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No. REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico or other international travel.

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A passport is strongly recommended. However, citizens of this country may enter Mexico presenting their original birth certificates (assuming they were born in the same country) plus valid-official photo I. D.; or citizenship card; or certificate of naturalization.

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All travelers must have a passport book for international air travel. Please note that hospital-issued birth certificates, voter registration cards, and affidavits cannot be used.

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All citizens of the United States must present a valid passport when entering Mexican territory by any means of transportation. There are no exceptions for minors. Stays less than 72 hours within the border area, do not require an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM).

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Lost my passport before my flight—summary In the US and flying domestically: No passport is required (a valid driver's license will suffice). In the US and flying internationally: A new passport is required. Reschedule your trip to a new date or see if you qualify for life-or-death emergency passport service.

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If you are traveling within the next two weeks, you may be able to visit the U.S. Passport Office for same-day or next-day processing. Please contact my office for additional assistance. My office is always available to assist you with the issuance or renewal of your passport.

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