Passport Rush Predicted for Crossing U.S. Border

This new requirement is the second and final stage of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), a U.S. plan aimed at tightening border security. Until now, Canadians have only needed a driver’s licence and proof of citizenship to enter or re-enter the States by land and sea. In January 2007, passport requirements were introduced for Canadians travelling to, from or via the U.S. by air.

In addition to a passport, other WHTI-compliant documents can be used when entering the U.S. by land, post June 1, 2009: a NEXUS card, FAST card or an Enhanced Driver’s Licence (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EIC) from a province or territory where a U.S.-approved EDL/EIC program has been implemented. Note however, Canadian citizens entering the United States by land but exiting by air must present a valid passport in compliance with U.S. air exit requirements.

“Back in 2007, when travellers began needing a passport to fly into the U.S., the long and lengthy lineups made frontpage news,” says BCAA Travel Director, Dale Urquhart. “We are reminding customers that it takes time to locate or obtain the necessary documentation to apply for a passport.”

“The new rule may impact many B.C. vacationers who prefer to travel by land or sea,” adds Urquhart. “The U.S is among the biggest international destinations for B.C. travellers and the June 1 deadline coincides with the start of summer holiday season.”

According to Passport Canada, passport applications take two weeks if processed in person or four weeks if processed by mail, not including mailing time. For information on obtaining a passport, visit Passport Canada website: http://www.pptc.gc.ca./

Passport applications and passport photos (BCAA members save $2) are available at any BCAA sales centre. Go here to find your closest BCAA sales centre.

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BCAA Travel is one of the largest travel agencies in B.C. and one of the first in Canada to introduce a fully-disclosed pricing policy. All advertised prices under BCAA’s “What You See Is What You Pay” prices include all fees, surcharges and taxes. BCAA is there for its customers before, during, and after their vacations with its Travel Guarantee and 24-Hour Travellers’ Helpline. BCAA also offers travel planning tools such as TripTik® routing maps & TourBook® guides.

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