Do you need a passport to travel to Mexico?
Planning a trip to Mexico in 2007?
If you are planning on visiting the Orphanage this year, it is imporant to know if you need a passport. The problem is not getting into Mexico; that is pretty easy. The real question is do you need a passport to get back into the United States?
I did some research and found lots of incorrect information. To get to the bottom line, I checked the U.S. State Department, and read about “New Requirements for Travelers.” If you are traveling to Mexico by air, you need a passport.
What if you are crossing the border by car, on foot, et cetera? According to the U.S. State Department’s site:
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.
Please note that this says passports may be required in 2008. So if you are planning to visit the Orphanage this year, 2007, you are fine without a passport. (Unless you fly into Mexico, but it is so much easier to fly into San Diego!)
Will you need a passport next year? Probably. My passport expires this year. Figures!