New U.S. passport rule could hurt Caribbean tourism, regional leaders say

The latest US effort to increase border security may negatively impact tourism--cruising and otherwise--by requiring passports for travel to regions where, today, a certified birth certificate and photo ID would suffice. Our opinion is that it's a good idea anyway.

Current plans call for passports to be required beginning December 31 , 2005 for US citizens returning from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central and South America, and beginning December 31, 2006 for those returning from Canada and Mexico.

Our opinion is that passports have always been the preferred proof of citizenship and identity, especially since travelers are frequently denied boarding when they arrive at the pier with a simple photocopy of a birth certificate, instead of the required certified copy. The passport requirement elimintes any ambiguity.

USA Today: New U.S. passport rule could hurt Caribbean tourism, regional leaders say