The Bush administration's proposal to tighten
border security by requiring passports for U.S. citizens returning
from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, Panama or Bermuda is currently
being reconsidered.If you've visiting the
Caribbean, it's likely you won't need a passport to ren-enter the
United States until Dec. 31, 2006, according to Frank Moss, deputy
assistant secretary for consular affairs. A change could be announced
soon.
Under the current plan, which is to be phased in
over three years beginning Jan. 1, U.S. travelers to Mexico and Canada
will need passports y Dec. 31, 2006, if t hey return by ship or plane,
and by Dec. 31, 2007, regardless of how they return. Changes in the
rules for visitors to the Caribbean would match those guidelines. The
same unless regarding passports would apply to citizens of those
countries entering the United States.
Anyone who frequently crosses the border into
Mexico or Canada might be able to avoid the $97 fee for a new
passport. The Department of Homeland Security and State Department are
expected to propose a low-priced identification card for U.S.
citizens, although the price has not been determined.
- SJ Mercury News -
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