Travel Alerts

U.S. State Department Issues Travel Warning for Japan

As of March 16, 2011, the U.S. Department of State warns U.S citizens of the deteriorating situation at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Alert dated March 13, 2011. The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) recommends that U.S. citizens who live within 50 miles (80 kilometers) of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant evacuate the area or take shelter indoors if safe evacuation is not practical. The State Department strongly urges U.S. citizens to defer travel to Japan at this time, and those in Japan should consider departing.

In response to the deteriorating situation at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the Department of Energy, and other technical experts in the U.S. Government have reviewed the scientific and technical information they have collected from assets in country, as well as what the Government of Japan has disseminated. The State Department recommends, as a precaution, that U.S. citizens who live within 50 miles (80 kilometers) of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant evacuate the area or to take shelter indoors if safe evacuation is not practical. U.S. citizens should defer all travel to the evacuation zone around Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, areas affected by the earthquake and tsunami and tourism and non-essential travel to the rest of Japan at this time.

Commercial flights have resumed at all airports that were closed by the earthquake, except Sendai Airport, and commercial seats are available at the time of this posting. In Tokyo, most public transportation including trains and subways are operating. Many roads have been damaged in the Tokyo area and in northern Japan, particularly in the Miyagi prefecture where government checkpoints have been established on damaged roadways. In Iwate Prefecture, toll road highways are restricted to emergency vehicles only.

Hardships caused by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami continue to cause severe difficulties for people in the areas affected by the disaster. Temporary shortages of water and food supplies may occur in affected areas of Japan due to power and transportation disruptions. Telephone services have also been disrupted in affected areas; where possible, you may be able to contact family members using text message or social media such as Facebook or Twitter.

Strong aftershocks are likely for weeks following a massive earthquake such as this one. The American Red Cross recommends that in the event of aftershocks, persons should move to open spaces away from walls, windows, buildings, and other structures that may collapse, and should be alert to the danger of falling debris. If you are indoors, DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON. If possible, seek cover under a sturdy desk or table, hold on, and protect your eyes by pressing your face against your arm. If there is no table or desk nearby, sit on the floor against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases or tall furniture that could fall on you. Avoid damaged buildings and downed power lines. Use care with matches, lighters, candles, or any open flame due to the possibility of disrupted gas lines.

Due to the continuing possibility of strong aftershocks, Japan remains at risk for further tsunamis. Japanese authorities have issued a warning for people to stay away from low-lying coastal areas. If a tsunami alert is issued by Japanese authorities, evacuate immediately to higher ground. Further information about what you can do if a tsunami occurs can be found at the National Weather Service's TsunamiReady Website, and the International Tsunami Information Center's Website. Current tsunami alerts can be found at the Japan Meteorological Agency Website, and the website of the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

For the latest U.S. Government information on the situation in Japan, please go to http://www.travel.state.gov/. Information about nuclear radiation exposure risks can be obtained from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and from the Centers for Disease Control.

8.9 Magnitude Earthquake in Japan and Pacific Tsunami Warnings

An 8.9 earthquake hit Sendai, Japan in the middle of the night, sending off tsunami warnings to more than 20 countries, including the U.S. West Coast and Hawaii. A tsunami warning issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii has been widened beyond East Asia to include Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, North, Central and South America and the rest of the Pacific Ocean. Tsunami waves have already hit Hawaii, and residents in coastal areas were evacuated to refuge areas at community centers and schools while tourists in Waikiki were moved to higher floors of their high-rise hotels. On Call International urges those in the affected areas to monitor and follow all emergency recommendations from local officials until the danger has passed.

Tsunamis can rapidly flood coastal areas with devastating results. Areas at greatest risk are those less than 25 ft/8 m above sea level and within 1 mi/1.6 km of the shoreline. If you're in a coastal area when an earthquake that lasts 20 seconds or longer occurs, first protect yourself from the earthquake: Drop, cover, and hold on. When the shaking stops, move quickly to higher ground away from the coast.

If you are on the beach and the water suddenly and dramatically recedes from the shoreline, a tsunami may be imminent. The approaching wave may be visible as a churning line of foamy water, but it may not be visible at all until it strikes. Don't delay to collect belongings: Run for higher ground immediately, or climb to the highest floor of a multistory, well-built building. Be careful to avoid downed power lines, and stay away from buildings and bridges from which heavy objects might fall during an aftershock. A last-ditch survival tactic is to climb as high as you can into a sturdy tree or climb onto the roof of a building. Tsunamis often occur as multiple waves of varying size, so do not return to an affected area until you're certain the danger has passed.

Tokyo's Narita airport has partially resumed flights after closing following the earthquake. Officials from the airport said some departing flights were now taking off from the airport, but that it was not accepting arrivals following the worst quake in Japanese history.

Japan Airlines said the airports of Sendai, Iwate Hanamaki, Yamagata and Aomori were shut. All Tokyo area trains were halted, while the shinkansen bullet train service in the quake-torn areas has been suspended.

U.S. State Department Issues Travel Warning for Libya

With continuing protests and violent clashes between protesters and security forces continuing throughout Libya, the U.S Department of State has now issued a formal travel warning. At this time the U.S Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all non-essential travel to Libya and recommends that those U.S. citizens in Libya depart immediately, due to the potential for ongoing unrest.

The U.S. Government is in the process of chartering a flight from Tripoli for Friday, February 25th and will provide details in another warden message as soon as they are available. Travelers should be prepared to bring valid travel documents and any necessary medications. Each traveler may bring one suitcase and a small personal carry-on item. U.S. citizens seeking evacuation should be prepared to wait several hours. U.S. citizens requesting evacuation on U.S. Government-chartered transport must sign paperwork promising to reimburse the U.S. Government for transportation costs at a later date. Exact transportation costs are not yet available, but will be comparable to a one-way commercial airfare of a comparable distance on the date of travel. U.S. citizens who travel on U.S. Government–chartered transport will be expected to make their own onward travel plans.

The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli will assist U.S. citizens with travel documents. U.S. citizens who do not hold a valid U.S. passport or visa and are interested in departing Libya via U.S. Government-chartered transportation should contact the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Embassy Tripoli by sending an email to LibyaEmergencyUSC@state.gov or by calling 1-202-501-4444.

For more information visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_5356.html

Continuing Political Demonstrations in Bahrain

Political protests in Bahrain continued today, with large groups of civilians demanding the overthrow of the ruling family and the conversion of Bahrain to a constitutional monarchy in which the king would reign, but not rule. Thousands of protestors have spoken out and gathered stronger after the death of two fellow demonstrators during what was deemed a "peaceful protest" on Tuesday. The King of Bahrain vowed that the government would investigate the killings of the two protesters, and today the Interior Ministry announced that those involved in the deaths had been detained in an apparent attempt to placate angry Bahrainis.

Approximately 3,000 demonstrators have camped out at the foot of central Manama's Pearl Roundabout, implying that they will not cease until their governmental demands are met and that they plan to retain their hold on the area as the Egyptians did in Cairo's Tahrir Square just weeks ago. At this time, the atmosphere in this heavily demonstrated area is described as being peaceful and relaxed. Reports indicate that the majority of the activists are simply mocking their government and calling for political reforms while security forces monitor the activities and give demonstrators space to vent their anger.

It is likely that protesters will remain camped out in the area overnight on Wednesday, and further demonstrations calling for improved economic conditions and political freedoms are expected to take place tomorrow. Larger rallies are likely to break out after Friday prayers on February 18 and could spread beyond Pearl Roundabout to government buildings and ministries. At this time, the U.S. State Department has not implemented a travel warning or advisory for U.S. citizens traveling to Bahrain, but has stated that they are "very concerned" by recent violence in protests and urges all sides to exercise restraint. It is advised that all bystanders currently located in Bahrain should avoid areas of planned demonstrations, but if caught unexpectedly near a demonstration, travelers should obey military and/or police officials and vacate the premises immediately. It is also advised that all U.S. citizens carry proper identification and a cell phone operational in Bahrain at all times.

Cyclone Strikes Australian Coastline

One of the most powerful cyclones on record anywhere in the world, Cyclone Yasi, hit the northeast coastline of Australia early Thursday morning (AUS time zone). At this time all mines, rail lines and coal ports have been shut down, with officials warning the storm could move inland, hitting Queensland state which is already struggling to recover from devastating flooding that has occurred in the last two weeks.

Shortly after midnight Wednesday (AUS time zone) a Bureau of Meteorology spokesman reported that the eye of the cyclone was crossing the coast close to the tourist town of Mission Beach and would move further inland before the storm is through. Engineers have now warned that Yasi could destroy "cyclone proof" homes as the storm moves inland. At this time authorities have reported that 150,000 homes are currently without power. This storm is not only devastating to the areas of Australia where the storm physically hits, but also to economies around the world. Officials believe that this cyclone threatens to inflate world sugar, copper and coal prices as many copper refineries, sugar and coal exports have been shut down and will not be operating until further notice.

U.S. State Department Issues Travel Alert for Egypt

The widespread anti-government demonstrations occurring in Egypt have entered a sixth day on Sunday, January 30, as thousands of demonstrators ignored the curfew in place from 1600 local time to 0800 local time to continue their calls for President Hosni Mubarak to step down. Today, January 30, the Department of State has officially authorized the voluntary departure of dependents and non-emergency employees out of Egypt. The U.S. State Department has also recommended that its citizens defer non-essential travel to the country at the current time, and for those already in country to minimize non-essential movement and exercise caution. U.S. citizens should avoid areas of planned demonstrations, but if caught unexpectedly near a demonstration, travelers should obey military and/or police officials and vacate the premises immediately. It is also advised that all U.S. citizens carry proper identification and a cell phone operational in Egypt at all times.

At this time, it has been reported that many local stores and shops in the Cairo area have closed in fear of vandalism and other crime related actions during growing protests continue throughout the streets. Reports also indicate that many Egyptian civilians have formed local policing units, armed with various weapons, after the army called for citizens to “protect their property and possessions” while limited security services are being stretched out over the many areas of conflict.

The Egyptian military has still not shown total course of action in eliminating the protests at this time, resulting in large demonstrations in various parts of Egypt being held just in spite of the presence of tanks and military personnel. Many witnesses have reported that it seems the military is somewhat sympathizing with protestors. On Saturday afternoon, a report on an attempted raid by protestors on the interior ministry in Cairo stated that four military vehicles had moved to the front of thousands of protestors to shield protestors from being injured by police and anti-riot tactics of the Central Security Forces (CSF) guarding the premises, allowing protestors to take cover behind the military vehicles and threw rocks and fire-bombs at the CSF. Reports citing witnesses also stated the Egyptian Tax Authority building in central Cairo and the National Press Building near the ruling National Democratic Party (NDP) had been set on fire.

Similar scenes were reported in Suez, Alexandria and other Egyptian cities. In Luxor, NDP offices were also set in flames, while in the northern Sinai Peninsula, a group of protestors reportedly threw hand grenades at the state security headquarters in the town of Rafah near Egypt's border with Israel, killing three policemen.

At least 100 people have been killed and more than 2,000 injured across the country since the unrest began, including 68 deaths in Cairo, Suez and Alexandria on Friday. A member of the ruling NPD, Maged Reda Boutros, said that half of those who were killed were members of security forces who died while acting in self defense. Looting at police stations have been reported, signaling an increased circulation of firearms within the civilian population.

The protests seen throughout Egypt area have also spurred conflict in other areas including the International airport. At least 2,000 people had descended upon there on Saturday in a frantic bid to leave the country, placing pressure on available aviation resources. Several international carriers have announced delays and cancellations, while others have adjusted their schedules to accommodate the curfew.

While the anti-government movement appears leaderless at this point, it is still assumed that the protests and demonstrations will not cease until President Mubarak steps down from power. The liquidation of his cabinet on Saturday did not seem to make a difference in the minds of protestors. Reports indicate that the thousands of people participating in the violent demonstrations throughout Egypt will not rest until they receive what they demand; President Mubarak out of office.

Political and Social Unrest in Tunisia

As of January 13, 2011, the U.S. Department of State advises U.S. citizens of the political and social unrest that began in December 2010 in central Tunisia and urges caution when traveling to the area. It is recommended to defer non-emergency travel to western and central Tunisia until the situation stabilizes.

Political and social unrest has intensified recently and has the potential to spread to Tunis and other major cities. These spontaneous and unpredictable events have degenerated on several occasions into violent clashes between police and protesters, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. While these disturbances appear to be triggered by economic concerns and not directed toward Western tourists, travelers are urged to remain alert to local security developments and to be vigilant regarding their personal security. The U.S. Department of State strongly advises and urges U.S. citizens to avoid all demonstrations, as even peaceful ones can quickly become unruly and a foreigner could become a target of harassment or worse.

Government security forces, including the police and National Guard, are visibly present throughout Tunisia. Travelers should heed directions given by uniformed security officials and are encouraged to carry a copy of their passport as proof of nationality and identity at all times.

For more information, visit https://www.osac.gov/Pages/ContentReportDetails.aspx?cid=10282.

Political Demonstrations and Unrest in Nepal

On January 12, 2011, the Department of State updated its Travel Warning for Nepal dated June 15, 2010. The Department of State remains concerned about the security situation in Nepal and advises travelers about the continuing possibility of political demonstrations, unrest, and concerns about travel in Nepal by road and air. U.S. citizens are urged to obtain updated security information before traveling and they should be prepared to change their plans on short notice.

Nepal has experienced significant political violence in the past and, although there have been markedly fewer major disturbances in recent months, political tensions remain. Protests, demonstrations, and disruptions continue to occur, often without advance notice. Given the nature, intensity, and unpredictability of past disturbances, U.S. citizens are urged to exercise special caution during announced demonstrations, avoid areas where demonstrations are occurring or crowds are forming, avoid road travel, and maintain a low profile. Curfews can be announced with little or no advance notice. U.S. citizens should consult media sources and enroll with the Embassy for current security information.

The U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu strongly recommends that you do not hike alone or become separated from larger traveling parties while on a trail. Solo trekking is dangerous, has contributed to injuries and deaths, and makes an individual more vulnerable to criminals. The safest option for trekkers is to join an organized group and/or use a reputable trekking company that provides an experienced guide and porters who communicate in both Nepali and English. Destruction of telephone services in many trekking areas has complicated efforts to locate U.S. citizens and make arrangements for medical evacuations when needed. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu for the latest security information and to share their itinerary before undertaking treks outside the Kathmandu Valley. Trekkers also are advised to leave their itinerary with family or friends in the United States and to check in at police checkpoints where trekking permits are logged.

Visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_927.html for more information.

Protest Turns Violent in Athens

Thousands of Greeks took to the streets of Athens today, Wednesday, December 15, 2010, to protest against austerity measures voted upon late Tuesday evening. The protest quickly turned violent and brought international travel and public services to a standstill.

Police responded to the violence with several rounds of tear gas, filling the square with smoke. For more than an hour, riot police chased and clashed with hooded and helmeted protesters who released petrol bombs at two luxury hotels in the central Syntagma Square near parliament, setting the balcony of one hotel on fire. Protestors were also reported to setting fire to garbage bins and cars, vandalizing bus shelters and shops, and throwing chunks of broken masonry at local buildings and government vehicles.

The demonstration has been depleted by police officials, and at this time reports indicate that at least three people have been reported injured and around 20 were detained by police during the demonstration.

*Note that new information is received constantly. For continuing updates and the latest information, you should stay tuned to national news sources and the U.S. State Department's website.

Grace Period for Secure Flight Program is Over

In October 2009, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) mandated a set of travel regulations under the Secure Flight Program. Since implementing these requirements, airlines are required to collect complete personal information for all individuals traveling internationally to or from the U.S. By collecting each traveler's full name as it appears on a government issued ID, date of birth, gender and redress number (if applicable), the TSA is able to use this information to compare it against a government watch list.

Beginning November 1, 2010, the year-long grace period for this required information will end. The TSA will no longer conduct watch list matching or approve airline boarding passes that do not indicate co-ordinance with the Secure Flight Program. After November 1, 2010, any international traveler that does not meet the Secure Flight Program requirements within 72 hours of their departure risks being refused boarding by airport authorities.

International travelers who have already booked a flight and have a ticket that does not include the Secure Flight Program Data are advised to submit their personal information with their airline as soon as possible. For more information on the Secure Flight Program visit tsa.gov/secureflight.

US State Department Issues Travel Alert for Europe over Terror Concerns

The State Department alerts U.S. citizens to the potential for terrorist attacks in Europe. Current information suggests that al-Qa'ida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks. European governments have taken action to guard against a terrorist attack and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions.

This travel alert follows information which emerged on Tuesday, September 28, indicating that intelligence agencies in Europe and the United States had jointly foiled a Mumbai-style attack on European countries by Pakistani-based militants. The alleged plan reportedly involved attacks in London and other major cities in France, Germany and other European countries, and was in its advanced stages, though not its imminent phase. Another source suggested that officials were concerned that members involved in executing the plot were already travelling in the region with European passports, thereby complicating counter-terrorism operations. Japan has also implemented a European travel alert for its citizens.

European travel is not discouraged but U.S citizens are advised to take the proper precautions and to adopt appropriate safety measures to protect themselves when traveling, including being aware of their surroundings. Travelers are also reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure.

It is also recommended that U.S. citizens register their travel plans with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website. Travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444 from elsewhere in the world.

State of Emergency Declared in Ecuador

A state of emergency was declared in Ecuador on Thursday, September 30, after protests began by dissenting police officers and members of the armed forces due to compensation disputes. Protests were staged in the capital Quito and several other Ecuadorian cities including Guayaquil, Cuenca, Loja, Riobamba and Manta. The southern and northern areas of the capital are believed to be the most affected by the unrest.

Air travel has also been affected, with operations at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), which serves Quito, forced to shut down after the runway was reportedly seized by about 300 air force personnel and soldiers. It should be noted that disruption can be expected in the short term.

The risk rating for Ecuador is currently MODERATE. Travelers in Ecuador are strongly encouraged to:

• Stay indoors until the situation in Quito and other cities normalize.
• Closely monitor local developments and plan all essential movements accordingly. Passengers with flight reservations are advised to reconfirm all travel plans.
• Reconfirm hotel accommodations due to the backlog of passengers, which has resulted from disruptions in air travel.
• Stay away from all large public gatherings to reduce the risk of exposure to incidental violence, and cooperate with security authorities.

Russian Wildfires: State of Emergency

The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risk of travel to the Russian Federation due to the ongoing wildfires. The Department of State has authorized the departure of dependents and non-critical mission personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. The Russian Government has declared a state of emergency in specific regions of the country, including the capital of Russia, Moscow. Air travel to Russia, including international flights, is affected however airports remain open. U.S. citizens are therefore urged to postpone travel to the Russian Federation until the situation has improved.

Ongoing forest fires and extreme high temperatures in the Moscow region and surrounding areas of central Russia have produced hazardous levels of air pollution and caused numerous flight delays and cancellations in Moscow. The hazardous air quality means that persons with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should seek to relocate to unaffected areas of the country and avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.

The situation has prompted the Russian government to declare a state of emergency in Moscow, Vladimir, Ryazan, Voronezh, Novgorod, the Republic of Mordovia, and the Republic of Marii-El.

If you require further information or assistance, please visit the U.S. Embassy Moscow website or e-mail MoscowWarden@State.gov. You can also visit the U.S State Department website.

Icelandic Volcanic Ash Affecting European Aviation

As of Tuesday May 18th, airports in Ireland, Britain and the Netherlands have reopened following the dissipation of ash clouds caused by the erupting Eyjafjallajokull volcano.

In further attempts to regain normal European flight operation, the United Kingdom's Civil Aviation Authority has implemented new flight procedures to open up the skies for more activity. The new measures go into effect at midday Tuesday May 18th, allowing planes to fly at higher ash densities than previously permitted.

With flight disruptions continuing due to the ash cloud from the Icelandic volcano, the measures announced by the United Kingdom's Civil Aviation Authority on Monday are designed to ease the backlog. Flights that will operate in what is being called the Time Limited Zone will be subject to time limits and stricter maintenance policies to fly at these levels.

For more information, visit the Eurocontrol website.

Political Unrest in Thailand

The Department of State has issued a formal travel warning for U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Thailand of ongoing political demonstrations and unrest in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. This politically torn region has experienced escalating violence in central Bangkok, including gunfire near the U.S. Embassy, violent demonstrations in Chiang Mai, and other incidents throughout the country. The U.S. Department of State is advising U.S. citizens to defer all travel to Bangkok and defer all non-essential travel to the rest of Thailand. With situations becoming more dangerous, The U.S Embassy in Bangkok will remain closed today Monday, May 17. The U.S Department of State has also authorized the departure of all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members from Bangkok.

The Department strongly encourages U.S. citizens in Thailand to register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok when re-opened, or through the State Department's travel registration website. For information on general crime and security issues, U.S. citizens may also consult the Department of State's Country Specific Information for Thailand and the Worldwide Caution, located at the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website. U.S. citizens may also obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada, or 202-501-4444 from overseas.

For more information visit the U.S Department of State website.

Expansion of Random Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) Technology

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced the expansion of random Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) technology in airports across the nation to provide an additional layer of security.

This critical tool is said to be vital in securing the TSA's ability to handle evolving threats to aviation security and keep the public safe when traveling by air. Since the last failed attack during December 2009, the TSA has increased use of the ETD within checkpoints to screen passengers, and had decided to take their efforts to the next level. The TSA piloted the use of ETD technology in both the checkpoint queue and boarding areas for two weeks at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Orlando International Airport, and Pitt-Greenville and Coastal Carolina Regional Airports in North Carolina.

The TSA has advised aviation travelers that they can continue to expect heightened random ETD screenings at security checkpoints, checkpoint queues, and boarding areas. Passengers can also expect to be subject to a random swab test, where a TSA official will swab passengers' hands and/or their luggage, then test the sample with the ETD for explosives residue. With this process being implemented on random basis, passengers should not expect to see this process executed at every airport each time they travel.

For more information visit the TSA website.

DHS Announces Predeparture Screening Of International Passengers

The Department of Homeland Security requires all airlines to collect the name, date of birth, and gender of all travelers. This is part of the implementation of the Secure Flight Program for air travelers this year. Failure to provide this information when booking a flight will inhibit online check-in and printing of boarding passes. Passengers will also be subject to additional security screening and could possibly be denied boarding. Travel agents, brokers, and airline customer service representatives will most likely ask you for this information at the time of booking in order to comply with the Department of Homeland Security's request for safe air travel.

For more information visit the Secure Flight Homepage or the TSA Press Release.

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative Effective 6/1/2009

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is in effect as of June 1, 2009 for land, sea, and air travelers entering or exiting the United States.

Air Travel:
U.S. citizens traveling by air are required to present a passport book to enter or re-enter the United States.

Land or Sea Travel:
U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or other travel document approved by the Department of Homeland Security.

Children:
U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 will be able to present the original or copy of their birth certificate, or other proof of U.S. citizenship such as a naturalization certificate or citizenship card.

Groups of U.S. citizen children ages 16 through 18, when traveling with a school or religious group, social organization, or sports team, will be able to enter under adult supervision with originals or copies of their birth certificates or other proof of citizenship. See the Department of Homeland Security's GetYouHome.gov for more information on the changing travel requirements.

For more information visit the U.S. Department of State or the Department of Homeland Security.