Passports

(Dive Travel Business News - May 29, 2009) -- The travel industry faces still another federal mandate with the June 1 deadline for implementation of the Western  Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). But luckily, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency assures us they will be flexible and practical in implementation, allowing U.S. and Canadian citizens, if otherwise admissible, to be able to re-enter the United States when the new WHTI rules are implemented.

“CBP’s mission is to protect our borders,” said CBP Acting Commissioner Jayson P. Ahern. “WHTI implements a key 9/11 Commission recommendation by requiring secure travel documents while facilitating entry. We will be practical and flexible in implementing WHTI using the same informed compliance approach that proved successful during other major changes at our borders over the last two years.” read more »

(March 25, 2008 - DTN) -- Does your client need a passport in a jiffy? With the busiest travel season coming up, millions will be trying to get passports. Though the State Department has improved their performance, last spring travelers who applied for passports through the U.S. Passport Agency waited two to three months to receive passports.

In addition, new passports may be required before the old ones expire as many countries insist the passport must be valid for six months beyond the end of the trip. Some countries, like South Africa, insist on as many as three empty “Visa” pages in the passport. Even newborn babies need a passport if flying abroad, or a passport card if traveling by land or sea to Mexico, Canada or the Caribbean.

ItsEasy.com, a passport and visa expediting company, has introduced a list of tips for acquiring passports. The agency strongly suggests your clients apply at an authorized post office well in advance but for travelers who urgently need a passport they can try the expedited services at itseasy.com. read more »