A major change is about to occur less than two months from now, requiring all U.S. travelers by land, sea or air to have a passport in order to enter Canada, Mexico, the Bahamas and any of the Caribbean islands.  Since it takes up to seven weeks to process a new passport application some foresight is needed if you plan to travel anywhere in the western hemisphere after June 1, 2009.  If you have family in any of these areas, you will probably want to get a passport now to prevent having to wait if you need to make an emergency trip across the border.

The following are the only allowable options for U.S. citizens traveling outside our borders after June 1:

• Official U.S. Passport
• Official U.S. Passport Card
• Enhanced Driver’s License
• Travel Program Cards such as NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST
• Native American travel documents

With this crucial date looming in the very near future, there is sure to be a mad rush for passports.  Again:  be sure to plan ahead!!!

If you find yourself in a crunch, you may also consider using our expedited passport service which will help you get your new passport approved in far less time than the standard seven week.  Visit our main website to learn how: www.swiftpassportservices.com

Now that you are required to have a passport  to go to Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean; the U.S. State Department has introduced a simpler style passport card which serves the same purpose as the original passport book–only it fits in your wallet like a driver’s license!  This card cannot be used for overseas travel, but for people who go to either Canada or Mexico on a regular basis–it makes life much easier.

Swift Passport Services is offering both the passport card and book expedited for quick travel:

• Adult passport book $135
• Adult passport book and card $155
• Child passport book $120
• Child passport book and card $$140