Passports & Visas

Entering the United States

Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom who plan to stay in the United States for fewer than 90 days do not need entry visas. A valid passport, a return-trip ticket, and proof of financial solvency are required; you'll be asked to fill out the Visa Waiver Form, I-94W, upon entry. Travelers who plan to stay more than 90 days can apply for the appropriate visa at the United States embassy or consulates in their home country. Canadian citizens need valid identification but neither a passport nor a visa to enter the United States.

At Home

If you live in the U.K.:

U.S. Embassy Visa Information Line for U.S. visa information. 01891/200290 calls cost 49p per minute.

U.S. Embassy Visa Branch for U.S. visa information; send a self-addressed, stamped envelope. 5 Upper Grosvenor Sq., London, W1A 1AE.

Write the U.S. Consulate General if you live in Northern Ireland. Queen's House, Queen St., Belfast, BTI 6EO.

Write the Office of Australia Affairs if you live in Australia. 59th fl., MLC Centre, 19-29 Martin Pl., Sydney, NSW, 2000.

Write the Office of New Zealand Affairs if you live in New Zealand. 29 Fitzherbert Terr., Thorndon, Wellington.

Passport Offices

The best time to apply for a passport, or to renew your old one, is in fall or winter. Before any trip, check your passport's expiration date, and, if necessary, renew it as soon as possible.

Australian Citizens

Australian Passport Office. 131-232. www.dfat.gov.au/passports.

Canadian Citizens

Passport Office. 819/994-3500 or 800/567-6868. www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/passport.

New Zealand Citizens

New Zealand Passport Office. 04/494-0700 for information on how to apply; 04/474-8000; 0800/225-050 in New Zealand for information on applications already submitted. www.passports.govt.nz.

U.K. Citizens

London Passport Office for fees and documentation requirements and to request an emergency passport. 0990/210-410. www.ukpa.gov.uk/ukpass.htm.

U.S. Citizens

National Passport Information Center. 900/225-5674 calls are 35¢ per minute for automated service and $1.05 per minute for operator service. travel.state.gov/passport_services.html.