I will be going to Negril in March 2006 for weddingmoon. I have talked to different ones at the passport office and some say I do need a passport and some say not until 2008. I really don't want to spend the extra money if it is not necessay. Has anyone else heard this?

It appears you don't "need" a passport to go to Jamaica from the US yet, but according to the US State Department soon you will need one to get back into the US.

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

For the relatively small cost of a passport, IMO it's worthwhile regardless. Your time going through security will probably be quicker.

The total costs associated with getting a passport are $97. If you can afford a vacation to Jamaica, can't you afford to get yourself a passport?

As of January 1, 2006 passports will be required to leave the country.

As of January 1, 2006 passports will be needed to re-enter the US.

The only way to be absolutely sure you won't have a problem is to get a passport. You mention the extra cost associated with passports - what if you are denied boarding because you don't have the proper documentation and have to leave a day later or can't go at all? That would cost you way more $$ than getting passports. Please be safe - get passports.

I am very perplexed - why would someone NOT buy a passport ? Why does this topic come up so often ? I can't believe it's the cost !

harleysangel: IMHO, you should just bite the bullet and get the passports. I have faith in you. You're starting your new life together beautifully in a very beautiful foreign country. I think you guys will travel many times to exotic places during the next ten years... and you'll be all set with your passport, ready to go. This year Jamaica, next year Mexico...Have a wonderful wedding and honeymoon.

Get the passport, so much easier and your mind will be at rest, do I or don't I need it.

Why would anyone not have a passport in these days? You still have a plenty time to get one.

I have been reading the same question on various travel forums during the last year. It is always the same - I do not want to spend extra money to get a passport. And the question is always asked by a citizen of the United States of America.

The rest of the world needs a passport to get into the US of A, so it is time "you guys" have to have a passport to get into OUR Territory. Jamaica is not US Territory.

And once you have spent the money, you are free to travel all over the world!

You know, there's a whole bunch of reasons that makes a passport THE document to carry, whether it's officially required or not.

First off, you sure don't want to be denied boarding if rules change suddenly. And remember, it might not be your own USA rules that change, but the other country might change their rules of entry. Far better to be prepared.

Secondly, with a passport, there should never be a question that challenges the validity of your documents. That's worth peace of mind to say the least.

Thirdly, what if while you are traveling, your documents are stolen. With a passport number (which you should always note seperately somewhere) you can walk into any of your countries Embassys anywhere in the world and receive consular help including replacement emergency travel documents. Try to get a Birth Certificate or replacement Drivers License in some foreign country.

Travel without a passport.... no thanks. I'm smarter than that.

Steve

wish i could recall who was on a radio show today but..the "official".. said that most passports applications are sent to a main office in NEW ORLEANS..for obvious reasons there will be delays on current appplications. it was also stated that the effective date for necessary passports for us citizens re-entry to us is being pushed back a year 2007. this might help some people. i'm going to check further on this subject. my son does not have a pasport and was going to send in his app...anyone have any info???

Here is some info on the passport office in New Orleans - many people will have to reapply - depending on where you live.