What country can I travel to without a US passport?



It is true that the United States is a larger mass of land in comparison to Europe and this means that as you are a US citizen, you are able to move from one state to another within the same time that it takes traveling between two European countries. Since the fifty States comprise the United States of America, you don't require passports for travel across states.

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The US has a few territories within the Pacific Ocean that have some particular rules with regard to travel without having a passport. Prior to 9/11, travel rules between the US and its territories and the countries that bordered it were more relaxed than they are today. Nowadays, most of the time, you must be carrying a passport while traveling however there are certain exceptions.

The Best Places to Travel Without Passports from the US. US Passport

It is possible to journey without having a travel document in these countries:

  1. Puerto Rico
  2. US Virgin Islands
  3. Northern Mariana Islands
  4. American Samoa
  5. Guam
  6. Canada
  7. Alaska
  8. Mexico

Be aware that traveling with an identity card in these countries or US territories is only valid through sea or land and even if you are traveling directly to these areas, you must have proof of valid ID to get into these areas.

Puerto Rico

It is not necessary to have an ID card to travel to Puerto Rico. The island in the Caribbean is in the Caribbean located about 1,000 miles away from the southeast of Florida It is possible to visit any time when you have an ID card that is valid or a birth certificate. Even if you're not a US citizen, but are a legal permanent resident may be admitted without the need for a passport.

When you're living in Puerto Rico, you can go to some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet You can also enjoy a wide range of water-based activities take trail hikes, or go kayaking to Mosquito Bay where the water shines. Overall, Puerto Rico is the perfect destination to take a trip for those who don't want to go through the hassle of obtaining a passport.

US Virgin Islands

The archipelago is found in the Caribbean and in order to travel there you don't require a passport, however, it is still necessary to have an identification document to travel. It is believed that the US Virgin Islands has been an integral member of the US since 1917 when Denmark transferred it to the US in 1917. Today, you can travel to the archipelago to enjoy your time there.

While on vacation in the Virgin Islands, you are able to visit three of the biggest islands, St. Thomas, St. Croix as well as St. John. There are many things to do starting with a visit to The Virgin Islands National Park up to snorkeling in Trunk Bay.

Northern Mariana Islands

Northern Mariana Islands are a distinct territory within the US located in the northwestern region of the Pacific Ocean. It is comprised of 14 islands within the archipelago including Guam being the southernmost of them and is an autonomous territory. Since these islands are US territorial waters, it means that you do not require a passport to travel into or out of the archipelago. Similar to the other US territories, you'll require an ID card valid and valid, or a birth certificate.

Some of the most popular islands are Saipan, Tinian, and Rota The most popular islands are Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, is Saipan being the most populous island. Within these 3 islands you'll be able to take in some stunning sights, like Micro Beach, Mount Topachau, Banzai Cliff, and numerous historical sites.

American Samoa

Another fantastic destination to take holiday without a visa can be American Samoa. The US territory is comprised of several islands and is with stunning sights. However, this is among the most difficult ones to access because flights to it are scarce and typically, you must travel through Honolulu or Hawai'i.

Guam

It is located in situated in North Pacific Ocean, US citizens are able to visit the island without passports as long as they show evidence of their citizenship or a valid identification. It is among the most populated islands of the Mariana Islands and is ideal to spend a summer holiday.

This island has some of the finest beaches on the planet such as Ypao Beach Park, and it is blessed with a pleasant climate. It also has rich heritage of culture as well as a rich history. You may even see two distinct ships that were sunk deep into the ocean- remnants of World War I and World War II.

Canada

It is possible to travel to Canada without having a passport if traveling by boat or land. You will need either a passport card or the NEXUS card. An NEXUS card is form of travel document that permits users to cross the Canadian border using an expedited process. This is a joint venture that is shared between Canada as well as the US and therefore the process of applying for the NEXUS card is scrutinized in both nations.

If you are flying to Canada and you want to access the country without a passport, you require a passport or Travel document called NEXUS.

Mexico

As of this year's Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, you are able to enter Mexico with no passport so in the event that you carry either a passport as well as an upgraded driver's license (EDL). EDLs are a type of travel document that confirms the authenticity of your identity as well as US citizenship. It makes traveling easier and quicker when you travel to Mexico by land or sea. It is also possible to make use of your EDL to get into Canada as well as other US territories within the Caribbean.

Furthermore, children younger than 16 are able to go to Mexico and Mexico without passports, using only a birth certificate (applicable only for travel via land).

Alaska

Because Alaska is a portion of the US and is a part of the US, you do not require an entry permit to get into the state. If, however, you are flying with an overnight stay in Canada it is required to carry to present a passport at the terminal.

Closed-Loop Cruises

If you're planning to take a closed-loop cruise through the Western Hemisphere that leaves from the same port and returns to that port in the exact same way, you do not require a passport. A valid ID is sufficient. Make sure, however, that your cruise isn't traveling to other countries or territories beyond the US which might require an entry permit.

About This Author

Philip Diack is Founder and Managing Director of Passports and Visas.com, a national passport and travel visa service with offices in Atlanta, Miami, Washington, DC, NYC, Denver and San Francisco.

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