As your feature travel writer, I want to keep you all up to date on what is new in laws regarding traveling outside of the United States. Having all your ducks in a row before heading out the door will make for a stress-free and enjoyable vacation or business trip.< p>

As of January 1, 2007 anyone leaving or entering into the United States MUST present a U.S. government issued passport in order to clear customs.

This includes traveling to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Panama.

Those quick little jaunts across the border will now require you to obtain, and have with you, a passport.

A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and nationality of the bearer.

*”New Application for a U.S. Passport
To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go in person to one of 9,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States with two photographs of yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid form of photo identification such as a driver’s license.”*

Passport Fees
*”Routine Services (Form DS-11)

Non-Refundable

Age 16 and older: The passport application fee is $67. The execution fee is $30. The total is $97 .

Under Age 16: The passport application fee is $52. The execution fee is $30. The total is $82 .

The passport application fee includes the $12.00 Security Surcharge, which became effective March 8, 2005.”*

For more information on obtaining or renewing a passport, click on the link below.

**This information provided by http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_830.html.

Always prepare the necessary travel documents so your vacation goes smoothly!

London England

Picture courtesy of:
http://www.bugbog.com/gallery/london_pictures/london_pictures_1.html