PASSPORT INFORMATION
If you do not have a valid passport, and you need to be flown from one of the ports back to the US, you cannot do so without a valid passport. For more information about passports, please visit this website:
http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html
You can also call 877.487.2778 for passport information
International travelers:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html
To apply for a NEW passport, or RENEW a passport visit:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport.html
For non-U.S. citizens please verify with your Consulate any additional documents that may be required such as a Visa or Alien ID Card (a/k/a Green Card)
Definition of valid passport: Must be a 10 year passport (5 years for children) valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of the return to your home country
NOTE: As of May 7, 2025 - or TSA will charge a $45 fee without it.
See info re REAL ID REQUIREMENTS - https://www.tsa.gov/real-id
This is a great website for checking travel requirements and visa requirements. You don't have to join. Find the latest visa and travel requirements for your trip (joinsherpa.com)
TRAVELING IN EUROPE (All 29 Schengen Area Countries):
The Euoropean Commission has officially confirmed that the Entry/Exit System (EES) will be fully deployed by April 9, 2026. EES is separate from (but connected to) ETIAS.
Website's FAQ: ETIAS Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Website link for more details: EU Entry/Exit System Full Implementation Still April 9, with Flexibility
TRAVELING IN UK:
Please make sure they use the official UK ETA app downloaded from the Apple app store or Google Play store. Otherwise, you may pull up a third-party website or app that will charge significantly more.
REQUIRED UK TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
As of January 8, 2025, the United Kingdom (UK) began requiring most travelers, including those from the United States, Canada and Australia, to hold a valid Electronic Travel Authorization, or ETA, prior to entering the country. These new requirements apply to all those entering the UK by land, air and sea. All visitors, regardless of age, will require an ETA in order to be able to enter the country.
Applications can be submitted in advance by paying the required fee, online at GOV.UK or through the UK ETA App, available on the Apple App store and Google Play. Please note it can take up to three business days for applications made online or via the apps to be approved. Once approved and issued, these ETA's last for two years or until the expiration of the passport, whichever comes first.
See this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkvNxxHYK1Y
Says best to do it on their app. You can read the guide on using the UK ETA app.
Otherwise you can do it on line:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
https://apply-for-an-eta.homeoffice.gov.uk/apply/electronic-travel-authorisation/easier-on-the-app