For Americans, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are easy destinations to visit. The islands are either territories or Commonwealths of the Unitied States. Whether flying or traveling by boat, U.S. citizens can leave the passport at home for these trips.
People Also Ask
U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel between the U.S. and these territories:
What Caribbean Countries Do Not Require a Passport? Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands are two Caribbean destinations that do not require a passport for American citizens when traveling by air or sea. Essentially, these US territories are regarded as domestic travel within the United States.
U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to The Bahamas, as well as proof of anticipated departure from The Bahamas. Those traveling to The Bahamas on a cruise may use another Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document.
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).
Upon arrival in Aruba, you must have: a U.S. passport valid for the duration of your stay; a completed Embarkation and Disembarkation Card (ED-Card); a return or onward ticket.
The most relevant documentation to travel to Punta Cana is the passport, which must be valid, at least for a period of six months from the date of your entry. Also, two blank sheets are required to seal both the entrance and the exit.
Upon arrival in the Turks and Caicos Islands, you must show a valid passport. You must also have a valid onward or return ticket. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date.
NOTE: Generally, all U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to Saint Lucia, as well as proof of anticipated departure from the country. This includes travelers arriving by airplane and by private sea-going vessel.
U.S. citizens are welcome to travel to Puerto Rico without a passport. Puerto Rico is like any other state for Americans because it is a U.S. territory. Any form of government-issued identification, like a driver's license or state ID card, is sufficient for a trip to Puerto Rico.
U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to Jamaica, as well as proof of anticipated departure from Jamaica. If you are traveling to Jamaica on a cruise, you may use another Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document.
Entry, Exit and Visa RequirementsU.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Barbados. No visa is needed for stays up to 6 months. NOTE: Generally, all U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to Barbados, as well as proof of anticipated departure from Barbados.
Cultures collide in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico, the tropical island that tempts mainland Americans with its proximity to Miami (just a 2.5-hour flight).
Passports for U.S.Citizens are NOT required for the U.S. Virgin Islands, but you must be prepared to show evidence of citizenship upon leaving the territory (such as a government issued photo ID or your passport). Citizens of countries other than the U.S. should follow U.S. travel regulations.
And if you're starting and ending your cruise at different ports within the U.S. — or flying in to or out of a Caribbean country — you will need a passport. However, while many cruise lines may not require passengers to bring their passports, plenty recommend it, as does the U.S. Department of State.
All persons traveling between the United States and Bermuda are required to present a passport to enter Bermuda or re-enter the United States. Travelers with questions concerning travel to Bermuda may contact the British Embassy in Washington, DC or any of the British Consulate General offices across the United States.
NOTE: Generally, all U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to Antigua and Barbuda, as well as proof of anticipated departure from the country. This includes travelers arriving by airplane and by private sea-going vessel.
Every person arriving in the Cayman Islands is required to produce for inspection by an immigration officer a passport or some other valid document establishing their identity and nationality or place of permanent residence. This should be valid beyond the date of their return ticket.
A valid passport book is required to enter Mexico by air, and those attempting to enter at an airport with a U.S. passport card only may be denied admission.
U.S. citizens traveling by sea must now have either a U.S. passport, passport card, or other WHTI- compliant document. Be aware that the “enhanced driver's licenses” or “enhanced ID cards” offered by many states are not accepted by Dominican authorities for ferry travel from Puerto Rico.
A valid U.S. passport is required for all U.S. citizens seeking to enter or transit through the Dominican Republic. Authorities have not made any exception to this policy for travelers arriving from Puerto Rico. Dominican immigration authorities will deny entry to persons arriving without a valid travel document.
Entry, Exit and Visa RequirementsAll U.S. citizens must have a U.S. passport for all air travel to and from the BES Islands. All sea travelers must have a U.S. passport or passport card. Review further information on Bonaire travel here.