Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)

As of January 23, 2007, U.S. citizens and citizens of Canada, Mexico and Bermuda traveling by air between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda are now required to present a valid passport to enter (or re-enter) the U.S. As early as January 1, 2008, all persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security.

This is an ongoing political and policy issue in the United States, with alternatives to passports—something possibly called a passport card—under consideration, given that not all Americans have passports, and some people consider getting a passport to be a significant burden.

NBTA will focus its efforts to make whatever system is ultimately developed fast and efficient for business travelers, while also effectively enhancing the security of our nation.  As part of this effort, we have endorsed HR 1061, the “Protecting American Commerce and Travel Act of 2007”, sponsored by Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-NY).

For additional information, please contact Shane Downey at sdowney@nbta.org.