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How To Get The Government To Pay For Your Study Abroad?

Posted on by Lloyd C

There are many colleges ready to accept exchange students from around the world. If you intend to do some of your studies outside the U.S., you can get the government to pay for your study abroad. For this to happen, start looking online for scholarships offered by governments.

The U.S. has a few scholarships for study abroad. There is other countries’ government that also do the same. I have compiled a list of scholarships in different countries. The list contains eight countries, but there are many more than offer scholarships.

Related Read: Search Study Abroad Programs

1.  Boren Scholarships

Degree Level: Undergraduate

Awards:

  • $8,000 (summer programs for STEM students only)
  • $10,000 (semester program)
  • $20,000 (academic year program)

The Boren Scholarship provides study abroad in places like Africa, Asia, Central & Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. If your focus is on language studies, this scholarship could be yours. One of the stipulations after completing the study abroad is to work for the federal government for at least a year after graduation.

2.  Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program (BGISP)

Degree Level: Undergraduate

Awards:

  • $3,000 (summer program)
  • $4,000 (fall and spring program)
  • $5,000 (academic year program)

The BGISP offers scholarships to a limited number of students who wish to study abroad in non-traditional countries. The scholarship is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State.

3.  Critical Language Scholarship

Degree Level: Undergraduate & Graduate

Award: Varies

The Critical Language Scholarship is another sponsored by the State Department. With this scholarship, you can study languages including Arabic, Japanese, Swahili, and Russian.

4.  Fulbright U.S. Student Program

Degree: Undergraduate seniors, Graduate, & Young Professionals

Award: Varies

The Fulbright grant offers two types: Study/Research and English Teaching Assistant. It is given for one academic year to work, live, and learn. The number distributed changes since it depends on the availability of federal funds.

5.  Chevening Scholarships

Degree Level: Graduate

Award: Varies

The Chevening Scholarship program is offered by the UK government to support the development of future global leaders. The grant helps recipients to develop their potential academically and professionally at any university in the UK. It is open to anyone in a master’s program.

6.  Australia Awards Scholarships

Degree Level: Undergraduate, Graduate, & PhD

Award: Varies

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade offers the Australian Awards Scholarships. If you wish to get a degree in any of the programs from any college in Australia, this award could be yours.

7.  Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists

Degree Level: PhD

Award: Varies

The Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students provides this scholarship to any student who will pursue doctoral research in any public or private institution in Switzerland.

8.  New Zealand Pacific Scholarships

Degree Level: Graduate & PhD

Award: Varies

The New Zealand Aid Program funds the New Zealand Pacific Scholarship and gives international students a chance to gain knowledge and skills in specific areas of study.

How to Stay Safe While Studying Abroad?

Posted on by Lloyd C

Due to many events happening around the world, study-abroad students must think about staying safe. As a precaution and in the event of any crisis, it is better to know who to get in contact with and where to seek safety. If you have a safety plan, if not, then you come up with one, practice it as often as possible.

We have created a list of some safety tips you should consider if you are in a crisis. If you already have some of these as your getaway plan, great. Otherwise, think about implementing them.

Keep Your Document Close

One of the better things to do is make a copy of your passport. It is best not to carry it with you so that you don’t lose it. If your country requires a visa, make a copy of it as well.

Having these documents are a significant advantage for identification purposes. If you need to seek a U.S. embassy or consulate, you can provide proof you are a U.S. citizen.

Related Read: Search Study Abroad

Register With The State Department

You should register with the Department of State to get assistance during an emergency. You will provide your trip information to make it easier to receive any information.

The State Department can provide names of attorneys, doctors, or any other that will assist you. You will also get information in regards to voting (absentee voting), notarized documents, and a passport.

Related Read: Register for the STEP Program

Always Have Someone Know Your Whereabouts

Let your family or friends know where you are going to be. You can give your family and friends your address and contact information. If you plan to leave the country for a short visit to another, again, keep them abreast of your whereabouts.

Know About the Local Laws

Every country has its laws, and once you are there, you must comply with them. Some practices in the U.S. may not be legal in the country you are studying. Before you go, research about the laws so that you are aware of them.

  • Some countries impose harsh penalties for offenses we may consider in the U.S.
  • Taking pictures of some places like government buildings, military bases, and embassies could be a violation.
  • If you take any medication, make sure they are not illegal in the country you will visit.
  • Avoid any areas that have demonstrations, riots, or political activities

Know What to Do in an Emergency or Crisis

If there is an emergency, you will be contacted by the State Department if you registered before going on your trip. If not, you can contact the State Department if you find yourself in a crisis. A crisis can be anything related to injury, illness, natural disasters, or terrorism.

If, for any reason, where you are, there is no way to communicate, find a safe place where you can call the U.S. embassy or consulate. The State Department has a special task force that is in touch 24 hours a day with the country’s Ambassador or Foreign Service Officers. They will find a way to get you out safely.   

Conclusion

Traveling to a foreign country should be a fun and exciting experience. However, it’s important to remember that unexpected emergencies or crises could arise during your visit. That’s why it is crucial to prepare by registering with the State Department before you go, learning about possible risks associated with the area you will be visiting, and knowing who to contact in the event of an emergency. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your trip is safe and enjoyable. Thank you for reading our U.S. Passport Help Guide!

 

New U.S. Passport Rules for Child Sex Offenders [2023]

Posted on by Lloyd C

Once you are a convicted child sex offender, your passport gets revoked. Last year, the Department of State issued a new law that revokes a child sex offender’s passport. However, anyone convicted of such a crime can still get a passport. One crime that may disqualify an applicant from obtaining a passport is a conviction for international drug trafficking. Otherwise, a convicted felon can still get a passport.

Child Offender Registry

A convicted child sex offender’s name is added to a registry. Registries are accessible through the FBI website. You can search by state, U.S. territories, and tribes. For a person to land on the registry, he or she is found guilty of crimes such as molestation of minor, sexual conduct with a minor, kidnapping a minor, engaging in lewd acts in the presence of a minor, and viewing or sharing child pornography. Also, if you are a teen and have sex with another teen, you can be labeled as a sex offender. Posting nude pictures of yourself online, if you are underage, can also label you as a sex offender.

Child Sex Offender & a Passport

The Department of State notifies a convicted child sex offender by mail of the revocation of his or her passport. The offender can still apply for a new passport; however, the document will contain a statement on the inside back cover. The statement reads “The bearer was convicted of a sex offense against a minor and is a covered sex offender pursuant to 22 United States Code Section 212b(c)(l).”

The issuance of the passport does not prevent the person from traveling to another country. However, it is up to the country to grant admission to a person with such a passport. If a person is convicted of sex tourism crimes, he or she is disqualified from getting a passport.

Megan’s Law

The law, in part was created from a crime committed by a sex offender. Megan’s Law is named after a 7-year old girl who was murdered by a sex offender in 1994. It was because of the crime; the sex offender registry was created and stored all the names of convicted individuals.

Applying for a Passport

You can apply for a passport by submitting the appropriate form and supporting documents. For a first-time applicant, complete Form DS-11. For an expired passport, complete Form DS-82 and a lost or stolen passport, complete Form DS-64 and DS-11.

Apply at a post office, county clerk’s office, courthouse, or library. The processing time is between 4 to 6 weeks and costs $130 plus $35 processing fee. You may request expedited service for an extra $60.00. The processing time is cut in half, and now you may get a new passport in 2 to 3 weeks.

For emergencies, visit a private expeditor or a regional agency. A private expeditor offers same-day or up to two weeks for a new document. A regional agency, only 26 in the United States, offers same-day service. You must provide proof of travel and emergency for approval. The cost for both services is way more than the price you will pay at the other locations.

Checklist & Tips for Traveling With Electronic Devices

Posted on by Lloyd C

Some people will carry at least one electronic device when going on a plane. However, most will have a cellphone, tablet, laptop, and a music player with them. These devices are part of the usual travel items just as clothing and footwear. So, travelers must keep in mind The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has guidelines that everyone must abide by before boarding their flight. It is best to inquire from your airline about security policies at the airport before you go.

Checking-in your Electronic Devices

When you are going through security, keep your electronic devices right where you can reach them. Preferably, having them in a carry-on can help prevent theft. So, having your devices with you is safer. If you will keep your electronics in your luggage, purchase a lock for safety. However, you must keep your luggage assessable to TSA agents in case of a random check.

All the small gadgets go in a bin together. However, the ones larger than a cell phone goes separately. TSA requires laptops and notebooks to be set individually for scanning. The agent will provide more instructions at the time you are going through the scanner. If you are in the TSA Pre-Check program, you will avoid all the hustle of taking out and putting in your devices.

Here are some devices you must place in a separate bin:

  • Tablets
  • E-readers
  • Laptops
  • External hard drives
  • Handheld video game consoles
  • Large cameras
  • CPAP machines or other medical devices

Medical Electronic Devices

Traveling with an electronic medical device should not be an issue. The best thing to do is to inform the agent about the medical device before going through the scan. Agents are trained for situations like yours and will know what to do. Also, you can download a notification card and show the agent. Any medical device with a connection will not be disconnected, so prepare for a pat-down screening instead of going through a metal detector.

Electronic Devices During the Flight

Now that you are on the plane, you must comply with the flight regulations and the airline when it comes to using electronics. You can use them before taking off and during flight. You may not before taking off or landing. Laptops and notebooks must be stored in the overhead bin compartment or under the seat in front of you. Once you are given the okay to use them, you can retrieve and use it but must continue to follow the guidelines for security reasons.

Countries U.S.Citizens Can Travel To Without a Visa

Posted on by Lloyd C

There are about 159 countries the U.S. citizens can travel without a visa. So selecting from such a long list was not easy. The top 5 countries in this article may be up for argument; however, each has something unique to offer, and when you visit, you will realize it as well.

U.S. Passport

A passport is a document issued to citizens of the country to travel outside their native country. Another way of obtaining a passport is to become a naturalized citizen of the country you now call home. The document contains the holder photo, date of birth, address, sex, and biometrics. In the U.S., a passport comes in two forms, a book, and a card.

For an adult, 16 years and older, a passport book or card is valid for 10 years. A minor, younger than 16 years, passport or card is good for five years. Only an adult passport can be renewed.

A U.S. passport is accepted in any country around the globe. Most of these countries do not require a visa but just a passport. Some, for example, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, will accept a passport card instead of the book.

Visa

A visa is a stamp or electronic document that you can use to enter a country. Most visas have an expiration date. Also, some can be used for a single entry while others for multiple. Unlike a passport, a visa is unique to the country that provides it. For example, you cannot use a Chinese visa to enter Russian and the other way around. But, you can use a passport as identification for both countries.

There four types of visas. You can apply for a tourist visa, immigration, and naturalization visa, student visa, or business or work visa. Each has a set of unique requirements you must comply with to qualify. Also, the type will determine the price and how long you are allowed to remain in the country.

Top 5 Countries to Travel Without Your U.S. Passport

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic shares the island with Haiti. This Spanish speaking country has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It also has many awards winning hotels with luxury accommodations. These hotels mostly come with all-inclusive packages.

If you love sailing and snorkeling, Punta Cana is the place to go. You will see white sandy beaches with breathtaking views. You can join the excursion and shop at the Cabeza De Toro Natural Reserve for your snorkeling equipment.

Visit historical capital, Santo Domingo, to see the Columbus Alcazar Museum. You will also see the National Palace government building and 1540 built Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor.

Another fantastic place to visit is the Fun Fun Cave. The cave is the largest in the Caribbean. Before going there, you will trek through the Los Haitises National Park and the rainforest. Once in the cave, you can explore the stalagmites and stalactites while observing the rock formation in the cave.

Peru

Peru is another country to visit without a visa. This South American country still has its history high on display, like the ruins of the Incas. You can see the modern side of the country or travel to more remote parts to understand its history.

Peru has a lot to discover. You can visit the Manu National Park, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, Llanganuco Lagoon, or the wildlife observation. If you want to walk where Peru first inhabitants did, go to Machu Picchu, Chavin de Huantar, Chan Chan, Caral, or Kuelap.

If you want to see something mysterious, fly over the desert and see the drawings done between 500 and 650 AD by the Nazca settlers.

Lima, the oldest city, is mixed with historical and modern buildings. You will see churches, monasteries, mansions, and balconies built during colonial times. Also, museums with great work of arts, archeological sites, beaches, boardwalks, and the adventures of sports.

Related Read: Visa Information for Peru

Ireland

Ireland is another magnificent place filled with history and ready for you to explore. You can be on top of a towering sea cliff or sitting in a traditional pub enjoying the locals dancing and you joining in.

You can cruise on the iconic Shannon River or a journey through heritage and history through Athlone. Athlone offers many nature adventures. You can walk, cycle, or take boat trips. Horseback riding is another fun adventure to do. You will surely be amazed by Athlone Castle.

Standing at the top of the Gobbins Cliff will give you some of the most breathtaking views. This cliff hangs from the basalt cliffs and over the Irish Sea. It is a favorite stop along the Causeway Coastal Route.

If you think you are one with the cosmos, then chasing the northern lights is something you don’t want to miss. To see this spectacular viewing, you should be at Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula.

For surfers, the Bundoran is the place to be. You will uncover beautiful beaches and mighty waves to hitch a ride. You will find surfers all year round which makes it pretty busy. You can get your surfing gears from the local stores and take surf lessons if you are a beginner.

Related Read: How to Apply for an Irish Visa?

Israel

Israel is another country with a deep history, especially for Jews and Christians across the world. For Christians, there are many historical places to visit in Israel. For instance, Jerusalem, the Dome of the Rock shrine, the historic Western Wall, Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Other famous places to visit are Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee. These places were significant in the life of Jesus Christ. You can also visit the ruins of Caesarea or the cliff fortress of Masada that overlook the Dead Sea, known for its spas and mineral-heavy water.

If you want to gather on the Mount of Beatitudes, the same place Jesus gave his Sermon on the Mount, you can join one of many excursions. Mount Tabor is another significant place to see. Yad Vashem is a memorial complex for Holocaust victims where you will view historical exhibits.

Related Read: How to Get a Visa for Israel?

New Zealand

New Zealand is located just below Australia. It comprises of two islands both with volcanoes and glaciers. Once in New Zealand, you can visit Milford Sound, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Fiordland National Park, Waitomo Caves, or the Bay of Islands.

Milford Sound is home to fur seal colonies, penguins, and dolphins. The towering Mitre Peak displays waterfalls as Stirling and Bowen Falls. You can also visit the Milford Discovery Center and the Underwater Observatory to view rare black corals and other marine life.

Aoraki/Mount Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Its elevation is 12,218 feet and it provides excellent glacial views.

Fiordland National Park is in the southwest of the South Island. It is known for the glacier-carved fiords of Doubtful and Milford sounds. A beech forest trail on the sandy Milford shore offers views of towering Mitre Peak.

Waitomo Caves is a village known for its extensive underground cave systems. In the Glowworm Caves, you will see thousands of glow-worms that light up the cave. At the Ruakuri Cave, there are waterfalls and limestone formations. Northeast of the village you will find the Otorohanga Kiwi House that shelters several species of rare native kiwi birds.

Bay of Islands is a New Zealand enclave encompassing more than 140 subtropical islands near the North Island. It is known for big-game fishing, Maori cultural artifacts, and undeveloped beaches. You will find remnants from the days when it was the country’s first colonial capital.

Related Read: New Zealand Visa

Conclusion

New Zealand is one of the most beautiful islands in the world with stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich culture. From glacial mountains to sparkling lakes, from majestic fjords to lush rainforests, it has something for everyone. Whether you want to go bungee jumping or take a leisurely hike in the countryside, New Zealand will offer you an unforgettable experience. With its vibrant cities, spectacular coastlines and unique cultural heritage, New Zealand is truly an unforgettable place to visit. With the right visa or passport requirements in place, you can explore this amazing country without any hassles. So plan your trip today and experience all that New Zealand has to offer!

 

If you have any questions about the passport or visa requirements

The Best Countries to Visit in Africa

Posted on by Lloyd C

Africa is one of the most amazing continents you should visit. From 54 countries to choose from, you will have plenty to do and see where ever you go. We have selected a few of the countries that will leave an everlasting impression and help with creating unforgettable memories for you and your family.

The Best Countries to visit in Africa in 2019 will offer breathtaking scenery of nature in the wild, beautiful beaches on the coast, and journeys in the desert. If you are ready to trek through miles of a reservation to see elephants, zebras, or lions, then get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Get Ready For Your Next Best African Vacation

The order of how the countries were selected does not refer to which is first or second to visit. This article provides information on each, and it is up to you to choose which country to visit first.

Morocco

Morocco is located in the northern part of Africa. This country is a melting pot of European, Arabic, and Berber with bustling cities, seaside villages, and snowy mountains.

Morocco is one of many African countries that has plenty to offer a visitor. In the Red City of Marrakesh, you can walk through a lively medina and become amazed by bright stalls and enjoy what is there to offer. You will surely enjoy exploring the city and walking around the old city walls.

Away from the city, you can hike in the Atlas Mountains or the highest mountain in Northern Africa, Mount Toubkal. Or, if you love watersports, there are many wind-related sports to enjoy.

When you visit Djemma al Fna, the main square in Marrakech, you will enjoy street theaters, snake charmers, and delicious street food. For history buffs, you can visit the pre-Saharan life with original houses and their unique structures.

Tanzania

Tanzania has many nature reserves to visit. This country is known for its vast wilderness. The Serengeti National Park is one of the best places to go and get to see the “big five”: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.

If you have it in you, you can try and climb the famous Mount Kilimanjaro or walk the sandy beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago. Another fantastic place to visit is the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation area to see Lake Victoria.

Lastly, you must go to Arusha and Stone Town Zanzibar to see Tanzania culture and enjoy its delicious foods.

Madagascar

Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world. The island has desserts, beaches, a vast rainforest. Inside the rainforest of the Baobabs, you will see trees that are over 800 years old.

Isalo National Park will provide wild forms, impressive gorges and canyons, and tiny stalagmite pinnacles. Along the streams, you will see ring-tailed lemurs, brown lemurs, sifakas, and nocturnal lemurs hide in the dense vegetation.

Once in Madagascar, you visit the Canyon of Monkeys. It is a popular hike trail through the dense foliage of the forest. Don’t be surprised to see a ring-tail lemur jumping from branch to branch in the canopy.

The must-see location is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ambohimanga. This place is the most important spiritual and historic site for Malagasy people. It was a fortified political capital and the royal palace in the country’s history.

South Africa

South Africa is one of the most modernized countries in Africa. Even so, there are still plenty to see. You can always visit one of the largest national reservation parks, hike on Table Mountain, or hang out with penguins at Boulders Beach.

In Kruger National Park you will see the “big five” as well. Also, there are a diverse species of bird you will encounter. Birds like vultures, eagles, and storks roam the sky and surrounding waterholes.

If you want some of the best Indian foods away from India, take a trip to Durban and enjoy some fantastic cuisines. For a quiet getaway, then go to Vermaaklikheid for a relaxing boathouse retreat.

Kenya

Kenya is the best to see the great migration. You will see the great migration of over 2 million zebras, wildebeest, and gazelle traveling from Maasai Mara to the Serengeti. You will also see large herds of lions and elephants.

Wildlife is not the only thing Kenya has to offer its visitors. You can meet the Maasai people and get to know their way of life. On your way to Loyangalani, meet the Turkana people along the shores of the Jade Sea.

The most northern part of Kenya also offer some tourist attractions. You can visit the Island of Lamu. You will encounter the busy streets of Lamu Town, one of the oldest towns in the world. The most southern tip of the island has deserted beaches going miles and miles.

The 5 Best Family Destinations for 2023

Posted on by Lloyd C

There are many amazing places to visit in the world. However, there are some seemingly made just for families. To pick at least one will require time to research. It must also be within a specific price range to afford. When planning for the family, you must consider all the members so that each one has something to do or be entertained. So, we have selected five best family destinations for 2019 that will make you create unforgettable memories for a lifetime.

  1. Grand Canyon, USA

The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a major tourist attraction and one you and your family must see. It is one of just a few famous landmarks displaying its natural wonder for everyone to see. You and your family will have spectacular views from observation decks like Yavapai Station and Lipan Point. From these points, you will see the Colorado River that flow for miles through the Canyon.

The Grand Canyon provides excellent hiking trails for anyone who is willing and ready to walk. If you prefer to be driven around the different areas of the canyon, you can use the handy shuttle service. You can also rent a car and make it a road trip. The well-marked and paved roads make the journey less bumpy.

2.   Florida, USA

Florida is known for its theme parks and beautiful beaches. It is sure a destination for families. There are also many famous cities like Miami, Orlando, and Jacksonville to name a few to visit as well.

When you visit a theme park like Disney World, Universal Studios, Seaworld, Magic Kingdom, Legoland, and Epcot to name a few and there are plenty more, it brings the kid out of everyone. There are entertainments and rides to entertain from the youngest to the oldest.

Apart from the theme and water parks, Florida is also known for its beaches. You and your family can spend some time at beaches like Key West, South Beach, Palm Beach, Clearwater Beach, and Naples, to name a few. These locations have white sand beaches and the water temperature is warm enough for you to take a dive.

3.   Thailand

Are you ready for an overseas trip? If you are, Thailand is one of the best countries to visit with your family. Thailand has some amazing water parks and indoor amusement parks. It has many ancient temples with plenty of historical meanings.

One of the many good things about Thailand is the cost of everything. A trip will not be as expensive as other vacation destinations in Europe, for example. The cost of food is very cheap, so as the hotels. There are plenty of places to visit that you can include the family.

Thailand also has beautiful beaches and is filled with explorations the kids will love. It has a rich culture and wildlife is in abundant. You can visit an elephant rehabilitation center in Chiang Mai if you like elephants. Or, take a ferry ride from Krabi to the island of Koh Lanta. In Thailand, you and your family will create everlasting memories for your family to share.

4.   Myanmar

Myanmar is another country rich with history and plenty to see. This tourist destination is best enjoyed when it is a family trip. It will be an educational trip for everyone. You can visit the temples of Bagan. These temples were once homes to many Buddhist monks. Like Bagan, you will find more Buddhist temples in the city of Yangon.

If you are finished learning Myanmar history, you can relax at Ngapali Beach, one of many, and watch the sunset. If going on the water is a fun thing to do, then riding a long-tail boat around Lake Inle to explore the floating markets and villages on stilts is just for you. If you still have the energy to go on, you can visit the Tomb-Raider-esque ruins of Inwa.

5.   Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

Guanacaste Province is located at the northwest corner of the country. This territory was once owned by Nicaragua is now back as part of Costa Rica. It has some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. The province is sunny all year round with low humidity. If you love surfing, ATV tours, snorkeling, and zip line, it is the place to go.

The area covers 34,800 acres, and for that, you will find many national parks. Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a must-see. You will see active volcanoes and deep black soils. This park is for outdoor or wildlife enthusiasts. Also, you will see a diverse ecosystem along trails that venture up the mountainside of the part volcanoes.

Another well national park in Santa Rosa. Santa Rosa contains dense forests and white sandy beaches. It is ideal for camping so you can enjoy nature and sounds. The part is also home to the country’s most famous monument, the Hacienda Santa Rosa.

Conclusion

All in all, Costa Rica has a lot to offer travelers looking for adventure and outdoor activities. From the lush national parks to the beautiful beaches, there is something for everyone. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or just someone who loves exploring new places, Costa Rica is definitely worth checking out.

If you love wildlife viewing, then don’t miss out on Corcovado National Park. With the largest remaining area of primary forest in Central America, you can view a variety of endangered species such as sloths, jaguars, and tapirs. And don’t forget to check out the Lake Arenal region, where you can explore the diverse ecosystems, hot springs and engage in activities like biking, kayaking and whitewater rafting.

Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

Posted on by Lloyd C

If you are planning a cruise with your family or significant other, there are some things to know before taking off. I know you are excited and can’t wait to see new places and make memorable moments with your loved ones. But, remember you are going to a different country, whether it is one in the Caribbean or across the ocean to Europe. Each has its laws, and all visitors must comply with them.

Highlights

  • If you are a U.S. citizen and want to go on a cruise without a passport, you have some options to choose from. These cruises are called closed-loop cruises, and they usually involve a round trip from the same port. If you depart from Miami, Florida, this means your cruise must end in the same port. If this is the case for you, then you are permitted to travel without a passport as long as you have other valid forms of identification that prove U.S. citizenship, such as a driver’s license.
  • What is a Closed Loop Cruise? Close-loop cruises are trips that begin and end at the same port in the United States. These cruises do not require you to have a passport, but you must still prove your U.S. citizenship with other valid identification, such as a driver’s license or birth certificate. While closed-loop cruises don’t require a passport, some ports of call may require one for entry. Check the port’s guidelines before you depart to ensure you have all the necessary documents.

Related Read: Do You Need a Passport to Go to Mexico?

What Documents Do You Need for a Cruise?

Cruising outside of the US or to foreign countries requires a valid passport. Additionally, some Cruise Lines require all passengers to have their passports scanned before they can board the ship. As a result, ensure you arrive at the port early to allow time for the scanning process.

If you are traveling with children under 16, you may need to provide additional documents, such as a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate.

Furthermore, if you are traveling with minors who are not your direct dependents, you may need to present proof of custody or legal guardianship in addition to the passport. It is highly recommended that you check with the specific cruise line for their requirements prior to booking your trip.

Can you go on a Cruise Without a Passport?

In most cases, the answer is no. Note that some cruise lines may offer a “closed-loop” itinerary that does not require a passport for U.S. citizens or permanent residents as long as the ship begins and ends in the same U.S. port.

However, contacting the cruise line directly to confirm any of their requirements before booking your trip is advisable. Additionally, if you plan to visit any other countries on your cruise, you will need a valid passport and possibly a visa depending on the country being visited. It is important to check all requirements prior to traveling.

In some cases, you may be able to use an alternative form of identification, such as a U.S. military ID or a government.

Can I Get off the Cruiseship in Mexico without a Passport?

Yes, it is possible for U.S. citizens to disembark a cruise ship in Mexico without a passport, provided they have the necessary documents such as proof of citizenship, government-issued ID, and other documents proving identity. However, some cruise lines may require passengers to present their passports when arriving in certain ports. It is important to check with your cruise line directly before travel to make sure you have the necessary documents.

Please note that, depending on the length of your stay in Mexico, you may be required to obtain a special permit or possibly.

If you plan to stay in Mexico for more than 72 hours, you must apply for a tourist visa and provide proof of identity, such as a passport or birth certificate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you may be able to travel to Mexico without a passport in some cases. However, it is important to check with your cruise line directly before traveling and be aware of the necessary documents required for entry into Mexico. Additionally, if you plan to stay in Mexico for more than 72 hours, you must apply for a tourist visa and provide proof of identity, such as a passport or birth certificate. Doing

 so will ensure that your stay in Mexico is safe and hassle-free. For more information on traveling to Mexico, visit www.uspassporthelpguide.com.
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What is a Passport Card and where can it Take Me?

Posted on by Lloyd C
As of October 2018, Americans can visit 186 countries without a visa and just with their passport.As of 2008, the United States government has instituted a passport card, which is the size of a credit card and fits right in your wallet.What is a passport card and where can you go with it? In this article, we’ll answer that question. We’ll also go over how you can apply for a passport card, and which documents you’ll need to do so.

What is a Passport Card?

A passport card is an identity card. It is Real ID compliant, meaning that it complies with the enhanced security measures the United States set forth for IDs after September 11th.Passed in 2005, the legislation has become more well-known as individual states’ citizens will need to obtain new ID to use it as identification. They will also not be able to fly domestically if their ID is not Real ID compliant.Starting in October of 2020, citizens who do not have Real ID-compliant licenses will be unable to board domestic flights, access Federal facilities or enter nuclear power plants.Those who have passport cards will not need to worry about whether their license is Real ID compliant, as the passport card will be sufficient identification.At the moment, IDs that are not Real ID compliant are accepted, but the holder must provide an alternate ID as well. Therefore, having a Real ID compliant identification card saves time and effort.

Where Can I Go with a Passport Card?

Unlike a US passport, a passport card will only allow you entry into certain countries by certain means of transportation. You cannot, under any circumstance, enter a foreign country by air without a passport. A passport card will not suffice.You can enter Mexico, Canada, The Caribbean and Bermuda with your passport. However, your entry must be either by sea or by crossing the border on land. Otherwise, you will need to show your actual passport to enter.

What is the Difference between a Passport Card and a Passport?

A passport card allows you land and sea entry to the countries above. A passport allows you entry to the 186 countries Americans can visit without a visa.Passports are also books with pages for visas and border agents to stamp as you enter countries to visit or live. The first page of your passport will have information about you such as your birthdate and birthplace. You will also have a photo for identification purposes.You may enter any country American citizens are allowed to enter by land, sea or air using a passport.Passports are Real ID compliant and can be used for domestic travel as well.Passports are also larger than passport cards. They cannot be carried in a standard wallet comfortably. Its dimensions are 5″ by 3.5″, or a little bit smaller than a standard 4″x 6″ photograph.Passport cards can fit into a credit card slot in your wallet.

How long is a Passport Card Good For?

A passport card is valid for the same length of time as a regular passport. This is five years for individuals under the age of 16 and ten years for individuals over the age of 16. Once the passport card runs out, you will need to renew it.

How Much Does a Passport Card Cost?

A passport card costs $65 for a new card. This does not include the cost of your photo for the card.Renewals cost $30 and must be done by mail. Those under 16 will pay $50 for the initial card and $30 for their renewal.A passport costs $145 for an adult. A child under 16 will pay $115. Renewals cost $110.

Taking Your Passport Card Photo

You can have your passport photo taken at almost any post office, UPS store or drug store. The stores are typically staffed with someone who can take the photo for you. Depending on the setup of the store, they may print your photo, or you may do it yourself.This service will typically cost $14 or $15.You can save money by taking your photos at home and printing them off at a store if you so desire. Or, if you have a printer that can print photo quality documents on photo paper, this is also acceptable.The photo must be 2″ by 2″ and taken in the past month. It must reflect your current appearance, be in color, and taken on a white or off-white background. You may not wear hats or uniforms unless it is for religious reasons and worn on a daily basis. It must be free of shadows, and you must face the camera with a neutral expression.This guideline is for both passport and passport card photos.

Should I Get a Passport Card or Passport?

Getting a passport card or passport depends on your needs. If you regularly fly out of the country or plan to at any time soon, you should get a passport. Having one far in advance of any trip saves time and frustration for you and your family.If you don’t plan to travel out of the country or are only planning to drive into neighboring countries, a passport card will suffice. This is especially encouraged if you live in a state where the licenses are no longer Real ID compliant.Hopefully, this article helped you answer the question, “What is a passport card?”For more information on passports and passport cards, visit our website.