Jamaica is a paradise of white-sand beaches, crystal-blue water and
excellent coffee. All of these features make it an attractive summer
vacation choice for many Americans. However, Americans traveling to
Jamaica should be sure that they understand which documents they need to
carry for their trip. For details, consult this helpful guide:
If You Are Traveling by Plane
If you are traveling by plane, the only acceptable document is a US passport
book. All American citizens flying to Jamaica need to carry a passport,
even newborn infants. You will not be allowed to board your plane with
your passport.
If You Are Traveling by Sea
Jamaica is included in the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative
(WHTI), which requires US citizens traveling to Jamaica by sea to
present a US passport book or one of the following documents in order to
return to the United States:
- A passport card
- An enhanced driver's license (EDL)-only available in certain states
- A NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card
Exceptions
There are a few exceptions to passport
requirements for Americans traveling to and from Jamaica by sea in
certain situations. For example, children under the age of 16 traveling
by sea can use their birth certificates as proof of citizenship, as can
children under the age of 19 if they are traveling by sea under adult
supervision as part of a school group, church group or sports team.
American citizens visiting Jamaica as part of a closed-loop cruise,
one that begins and ends in the same US port, can also get by with just a
driver's license and a birth certificate.
However, even if you can get by with a birth certificate and a
driver's license, it's best to carry a passport with you anyway. That
way, if an emergency happens and you need to fly back home, you'll be
covered.
Remember, it takes about 6 weeks for a passport to be issued if you
apply for regular processing. If you apply for expedited passport
processing, expect to wait about 3 weeks. If you need it sooner, you can
either make an appointment at the nearest Regional Passport Agency
office or apply for an expedited passport or passport renewal through a private expediting company.
Author,
Alison Kroulek
