There is no greater travel nightmare than arriving at the airport after months of trip planning and anticipation–only to get stuck on the wrong side of security because you do not having the correct travel documents. With constantly changing requirements for U.S. citizens traveling both domestically and internationally, it can be hard to keep up with the rules. Here is what you need to know.
Domestic U.S. Travel
Beginning October 1, 2020, all flyers must have a REAL ID compliant license in order to pass through security. Not sure if your license is a REAL ID? Check the top righthand corner. Does it have a star, a circle with a star in it, or a bear with a star in it? If so, you are REAL ID compliant. If not, time to check out the REAL ID frequently asked questions page to learn how to get yours. The only exception to this rule is in Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, and New York where state-issued enhanced IDs (which do not feature a star) are also acceptable.
International Travel
A valid passport is required when traveling internationally, but in the majority of countries a passport is not enough. Many countries require Visas, vaccinations, empty passport pages, a six-month window until expiration and even birth certificates. For an up-to-date list of U.S. citizen requirements by country, visit the Department of State website and type in the country you are visiting. Pro tip: if you are traveling with a minor, bring a copy of their birth certificate and do some research to ensure that you are not required to have a raised seal copy. Since passports do not indicate parents names for minor travelers, it can be the only way to legally identify you as their guardian.
Starting January 1, 2021, even Europe will require pre-trip registration and authorization before U.S. citizens can enter. Travel to any of the 26 nations in the Schengen Zone (see list below) will require EITAS (European Travel Information Authorization System) approval. When launched, the process will require the completion of an online form and a payment of seven Euros per person. Validation is supposed to take as little as five minutes for most applicants. Once approved, travelers may enter Europe an unlimited number of times over a three year period (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first). It is important to note that visits may not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer duration stays, a visa must be obtained. As is currently the case, passports must be valid for a minimum of six months from your departure date back to the U.S. to enter any of the Schengen Zone countries.
In addition to making sure your travel documents are in order, be sure your bag is packed with all the essentials by checking out my travel gear ‘must have list.
Schengen Zone Countries–Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. The micro-states of San Marino, Vatican City, and Monaco are also part of the EITAS requirements.
