Passport Questions
 

My family and I do not have passports. At this moment we have no firm plans to travel outside the US but are contemplating Canada next year. Although you don't really need one for Canada, I am thinking about Mexico as well. I understand you will soon need them for cruises to Mexico. Should we go ahead and get them way in advance? What does it cost? Two adults and two children, 5 and 13?

I have to run out the door right now, but just want to say that you will need one for Canada.

After December 32, 2006, you must have a valid passport in order to enter the United States.

Your problem will not be leaving the US but being allowed back into the country.

In other words, both Canada and Mexico may allow you entry but you will not be able to come home.

Neither Mexico or Canada require passports for US citizens, but you will need them to come back home, regardless of where you're going to.

You can check details at:

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

The requirement depends on method of travel. For air/sea, you must have a passport starting Dec 31, 2006. For land border crossings starting Dec 31, 2007.

Yes, actually that is what I meant -- you won't be able to return to the US without a passport from either Canada or Mexico.

Since we have family in Europe, we always have a valid passport on hand regardless of our vacation travel plans. Life happens. Always better to be prepared.

The website above shows fees: $82 under 16, $97 over 16.

Just get the passports. You never know what might come up. Older kid may have opportunities in middle and HS to travel outside US.

It is only moderately annoying to collect necessary birth certificates, get passport photos, etc.

Go to Dept of State website, download and print forms - check carefully information for kids, since depending on age both parents may need to present themselves when application filed or bring notarized something - the website is very clear.

I know you probably have lots of other things you want to do with the roughtly $400 it will cost (with photos), but if you are talking about Canada, Mexico and other travels, just figure it in as part of your travel budget.

Thanks for all your responses. I will look into that and budget for it.