Similar rules regarding travel by land and sea will take effect at a later date—as early as January 1, 2008. The changes, which are part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, result from recommendations made by the 9-11 Commission. Birth certificates had been a leading form of identification for travel to Canada and the above named areas. But the new rule is expected to make entering and leaving the U.S. faster, because it will dramatically reduce the types of documents presented to inspectors.

Flights to U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are considered domestic travel, meaning the new requirement will not apply. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of State website.”