Travel Requirements Guide
Passport, visa, Real ID, TSA, and official travel requirement resources — everything you need to know before your trip.
Always verify requirements before you travel. Entry requirements, visa rules, and passport policies can change. We stay on top of this for our clients — if you're unsure about anything, just text or email Heather.
Passport Tips
Your passport is your most important travel document. Here's what every traveler needs to know.
6-Month Validity Rule
ImportantMost countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Check this before every international trip.
Apply Early — Very Early
ImportantRoutine passport processing currently takes 4–6 weeks. Expedited service takes 2–3 weeks. Apply as early as possible, especially for peak travel seasons.
Renewing Your Passport
You can renew by mail if your passport is less than 15 years old, undamaged, and was issued after age 16. Visit travel.state.gov for the renewal form.
Passport Cards vs. Books
A passport card is cheaper but only valid for land/sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. For flights and all other international travel, you need a passport book.
Children's Passports
Children under 16 must apply in person with both parents present (or with consent documentation). Their passports are valid for only 5 years.
Lost or Stolen Passport
Report it immediately at travel.state.gov and contact us right away. If you're already abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Visa & Entry Requirements
A general guide for U.S. citizens — always confirm the latest requirements with us before you travel.
Caribbean & Mexico
Most destinations require only a valid U.S. passport. Mexico and many Caribbean islands require a tourist card, which is often included in your airfare — but not always. Cuba requires a tourist card (~$25) purchased separately. We'll make sure you have everything sorted before you go.
Europe (Schengen Area)
U.S. citizens can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Starting September 2026, ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) pre-travel authorization will be required. It's a quick online application — we'll help you get it sorted before your trip.
Canada
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Canada. A passport is strongly recommended for land and sea crossings and is required for air travel. No additional authorization is needed.
Asia
Requirements vary widely. Japan and South Korea are visa-free for short stays — Japan recommends registering with Visit Japan Web for faster entry. China expanded visa-free access for U.S. citizens in 2025 for stays up to 30 days. Others like India and Vietnam require an e-visa in advance. Always confirm with us.
Africa
Many African countries offer visa-on-arrival or e-visa options for U.S. citizens. Kenya requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) applied for online before arrival. Tanzania, Egypt, and South Africa each have their own entry requirements. We'll confirm exactly what you need.
South & Central America
Most countries are visa-free for U.S. citizens for tourism. Brazil restored visa-free entry for U.S. citizens in 2024. Some destinations may require proof of onward travel, sufficient funds, or a return ticket. We'll make sure you're fully prepared.
What to Keep in Your Carry-On
Keep important travel documents with you — not in checked luggage. Some items may not apply to every trip.
Must Carry With You
These are the most important documents to keep in your personal item or carry-on.
- Passport or government-issued ID
- Visa, tourist card, or entry authorization, if required
- Travel insurance policy information
- Flight confirmation and boarding passes
- Hotel, resort, or cruise confirmation
- Emergency contact information
Helpful to Have
These backup items can make travel smoother if plans change or Wi-Fi is unreliable.
- Photo or copy of your passport/ID stored separately
- Printed copy of your itinerary
- Transfer details
- Tour and excursion confirmations
- Credit card, debit card, or travel card
- Small amount of local currency, if needed
Trip-Specific Items
These may only apply to certain destinations, cruise lines, tours, or traveler situations.
- Cruise boarding documents
- Luggage tags
- Vaccination or health documents, if required
- International driving permit, if renting a car
- Minor travel authorization documents, if applicable
- Medical equipment documentation, if applicable
Tip: Save digital copies of important documents to your phone, but keep printed or offline copies too in case Wi-Fi or cell service is unavailable.
Useful Official Resources
Trusted government and official sources — click any card to visit the official site.
Each card opens the official site in a new tab
Not Sure What You Need?
Document requirements can be confusing — that's what we're here for. Just text or email Heather and we'll tell you exactly what to prepare for your specific trip.
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