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As you dream of that perfect family getaway cruise with sandy beaches and exciting destinations, a key question arises – do your kids need passports to go too? Rules vary depending on what cruise you book and where it’s going. Understanding exactly how passport requirements work for minors can avoid unnecessary hassles or even getting turned away at the port.
Through comprehensive new regulations, increased security measures and differing enforcement policies country to country, cruising internationally with kids introduces unique passport considerations before you all set sail.
Domestic Cruises
For cruises that depart and return to U.S. ports without stopping at any foreign ports of call along the way, children do NOT need a passport. This applies to cruise itineraries that sail Hawaii, Alaska, the Caribbean islands (U.S. territories), or simply up and down the U.S. coastline.
On these domestic routes, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative does NOT require those under 18 to carry passports, including:
- U.S. Citizen Kids
- Kids with U.S. Permanent Resident Status
- Kids with Appropriate Proof of Citizenship
Instead you can provide other WHTI-approved documents like an original or certified copy of their birth certificate or certificate of citizenship. These streamlined requirements make domestic cruise vacations an easy, wallet-friendly option for enjoying that ocean getaway with the whole family.
Some U.S. territories, such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, may require additional documentation for entry, such as a valid driver’s license or a REAL ID-compliant identification card. You can find more information on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
Partial-Transit Cruises
On many Caribbean cruises, the ship makes brief port calls in foreign countries but passengers don’t actually disembark before returning to the U.S. Kids DO need proper documentation on these trips.
The WHTI labels these “partial-transit cruises.” Despite not leaving the ship during stops, all children still must carry approved citizenship verification which includes:
- Valid U.S. Passport
- Passport Card
- Certified Birth Certificate plus Government-Issued Photo ID
- Certificate of Naturalization plus Photo ID
Without proper ID, minors can be denied boarding entirely or charged hefty fines if allowed on board without it. The rules apply to any cruise with single-day or overnights stops in places like Cozumel, Mexico or Falmouth, Jamaica. Ensure you understand documentation requirements based on the exact route and port calls of your cruise.
Closed-Loop Cruises
On some short “closed-loop” itineraries, a ship departs from one U.S. port, stops only in Canada, Mexico and/or Caribbean islands, then returns to the original port without repeating destinations. These trips have unique, streamlined rules.
U.S. minors only need government-issued proof of citizenship like:
- Birth Certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
The ease of these requirements makes quick, affordable closed-loop cruises hugely popular for family vacations. You can relax knowing passports aren’t necessary as long as all routes remain within North America and the Caribbean.
Some cruise lines, such as Holland America and Princess, may require minors traveling with only one adult to carry a valid passport, even on closed-loop cruises that otherwise wouldn’t require one. You can check the cruise line’s website or contact them directly for their specific policies and requirements.
International Cruises
For standard cruises sailing roundtrip from U.S. ports with multi-country itineraries spanning Europe, Asia, Australia and beyond, ALL passengers including minors MUST carry valid passports that meet all entry requirements for each destination country.
On these trips you disembark at foreign ports of call to tour and explore. Without passports, kids won’t be allowed off the ship at stops or could be denied boarding altogether.
The same strict passport requirements apply to any one-way cruises starting or ending at foreign ports as well as voyages between non-U.S. destinations like a Mediterranean cruise between Italy and Greece. No exceptions exist for children on these international routes per the cruise line, the WHTI and individual foreign country entry rules.
Bottom Line
Passport requirements vary based on exact cruise itinerary for kids but lean toward needing them in many scenarios. On domestic voyages, they aren’t mandated but provide the simplest, safest option for verifying citizenship across all ages. For cruises with any international ports of call, they are absolutely necessary without exception.
Review passport rules carefully based on your planned cruise line, precise route including all ports of call, durations in foreign territories and countries visited. Ensure you have proper documentation for everyone in the family before arriving at the terminal to avoid vacation frustration and enjoy smooth, unforgettable sailing!
