The University of New Mexico Office of International Programs and Study wants students, faculty and staff to be aware of a U.S. State Department policy change on international travel that takes effect next month.
In the past, U.S. citizens and others could travel to Mexico, Canada and some other nearby countries and return with only a driver’s license or photo ID. A passport was not required.
As of Jan. 23, 2007, all persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air to Canada, Central and South America, Mexico and the Caribbean will be required to present a valid passport to re-enter the country. A valid driver’s license will no longer suffice for re-entry documentation. Re-entry into the U.S. may be denied without a valid passport. The same rule will be extended to land travel in the near future.
For those planning to travel out of the country next year, the U.S. State Department recommends applying for a new passport, or checking your current passport to ensure it is still valid. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your travel dates. It can take up to six weeks to process a new one, so plan ahead. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department Web site at: U.S. State Department.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu