Passport Requirements Lifted

Press Release

PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS LIFTED

Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11) today announced that the U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security have temporarily waived the new passport requirements for U.S. citizens visiting Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda in response to complaints from U.S. citizens about a backlog in passport approvals.

"I applaud today's announcement," said Rep. McNerney. "I know many 11th district residents were increasingly concerned about whether they'd be able to continue with their summer vacation plans due to the passport application backlog."

"This increased flexibility makes sense because it will enable travelers to keep their summer travel plans, while allowing the Departments of State and Homeland Security to ensure a safe, secure, and streamlined process in the future," Rep. McNerney continued.

Now, U.S. citizens who have plans to travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda and who have applied for but not yet received a passport may do so with simply a government-issued photo identification and proof of passport application. This policy will remain in place through September 30, 2007.

Children under the age of 16 traveling with their parents or legal guardian will be permitted to travel with the child's proof of application.

Proof of passport application for U.S. citizens may be obtained at http://travel.state.gov/passport.

Any 11th district residents with questions about the new passport policy are welcome to call one of Congressman McNerney's offices. The Stockton office can be reached at 209-476-8552 and the Pleasanton office can be reached at 925-737-0727.

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