Administration Proposes Raising Use of Passports Between U.S., Neighbors

The days of passport-free travel between the United States and other Western Hemisphere countries may come to an end as officials look for new ways to keep terrorists out of the United States. The federal departments of Homeland Security and State yesterday proposed new rules that by 2008 would require the use of passports for Americans traveling to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and such Caribbean countries as the British Virgin Islands, unless an alternative document can be created that meets the security parameters established in a new terrorism prevention law enacted last year.

"We recognize the implications this might have for industry, business and the general public, as well as our neighboring countries, and they are important partners in this initiative," said Maura Harty, the assistant secretary of state for consular affairs. "The advanced notice of proposed rule making will allow these affected publics to voice concern and provide ideas for alternate documents acceptable under the law. The overarching need is to implement this legal requirement in a way that strengthens security, while facilitating the movement of persons and goods."

Officials said they intend to phase in the new documentation requirements. Documents that may be accepted in lieu of a passport include a Border Crossing Card, also known as a "laser visa," currently in use for Mexican citizens traveling to the United States from a contiguous territory. Other acceptable documents may include Customs and Border Protection Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI), the Nexus joint American/Canadian pre-approved entry system for frequent travelers and Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program cards.

The program, beginning Dec. 31, 2005, will require passports for U.S. citizens reentering the country from the Caribbean and Central and South America by air or sea, government officials said. The U.S. government will require passports for all crossings between the United States and Mexico and Canada by Dec. 31, 2007, they said.

The announcement yesterday heralds a more formal rulemaking process that will begin later this year. The government is inviting comments from the public. Sixty million Americans have passports, according to the State Department.