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Learn how to get a Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization. Or prove your U.S. citizenship without a birth certificate if you were born outside the U.S. to a U.S. citizen.

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What is a Certificate of Naturalization?

Home » What is a Certificate of Naturalization?

June 21, 2021

A Certificate of Naturalization is a document to prove that the person named on the certificate has obtained U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Naturalization refers to the process in which a person not born in the United States voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. For foreign-born persons, naturalization is the most common way to become a U.S. citizen. This document is different than a Certificate of Citizenship .

Your naturalization document should contain the label “Form N-550” or “Form N-570” in the bottom margin.

Obtaining an Initial Naturalization Certificate

Initially, a person obtains a certificate by filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization , with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and completing the naturalization process. Generally, this form must be submitted by permanent residents who meet the eligibility requirements. USCIS typically issues the certificate after an officer approves the Application for Naturalization and the applicant has taken the Oath of Allegiance.

CitizenPath takes the confusion out of applying for a Certificate of Naturalization. Our affordable service was designed by knowledgeable attorneys to make the process easy. Learn more >>

RECOMMENDED: Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship through Naturalization

Replacing a Certificate of Naturalization

U.S. citizens who want to replace a Certificate of Naturalization may file Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document , with USCIS. You can replace a certificate for the following reasons:

• Certificate was lost, stolen, destroyed or mutilated
• Certificate is incorrect due to a USCIS typographical/clerical error
• Name has legally changed
• Gender has legally changed

CitizenPath takes the confusion out of replacing your certificate. Our affordable service was designed by knowledgeable attorneys to make the process easy. Learn more >>

RECOMMENDED: Certificate of Naturalization Replacement Process

Mistakes on your N-565 application can cause costly delays or a denial.

Contents of certificate.

The Certificate of Naturalization contains information identifying the person and confirming his or her U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Specifically, the certificate contains:

• Certificate number (generally a red 6- to 8-digit alpha numeric number)
• Date of issuance (date the holder became a U.S. citizen)
• USCIS registration number (A-number)
• U.S. citizen’s full name
• Marital status
• Place of residence
• Country of former nationality
• Signature of applicant; and
• Other descriptors: sex, date of birth, and height

The document also includes a Department of Homeland Security seal as well as a statement and signature by the USCIS Director indicating that the applicant complied with all the eligibility requirements for naturalization under the laws of the United States.

Certified True Copy of Certificate

When a naturalized U.S. citizen needs to have a certificate “authenticated” by the U.S. State Department for use by foreign governments or embassies, USCIS can copy the document and certify it as a true copy. “Authentication” is a term used by the U.S. Department of State and other governments to describe what USCIS refers to as Certified True Copies. When you require USCIS to authenticate a naturalization certificate, be sure to use the term “Certified True Copy.” For more information on requesting a Certified True Copy, visit the USCIS website .

Obtaining a U.S. Passport

When applying for a U.S. passport, you may use the naturalization certificate as evidence of U.S. citizenship. You’ll need to provide a photocopy of your certificate as one of the passport requirements when submitting the application for a U.S. passport (DS-11).

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• For U.S. Citizens/Lawful Permanent Residents
• Know Before You Go

Before Your Trip

Booking your tickets.

Match Names on Tickets and Documents

Purchase your travel tickets in the exact same name that appears on your passport or official ID. Ensure that all travel documents match that name precisely.

If the names don't match, your travel carrier or the Transportation Security Administration may require additional documents to verify your identity before allowing you to board.

Each Country is Different

Learn the required travel documents for each country you will visit. Find out about specific travel warnings, U.S. import restrictions, and other rules that apply to the countries on your itinerary by visiting www.state.gov/travelers .

Find the latest on making your return to the United States problem free - go to www.cbp.gov/travel .

Documents You Will Need

Carry - do not pack - all travel documents.

• All U.S. citizens need U.S. passport books if re-entering by air. Land and sea border crossings accept additional travel documents, such as U.S. Passport cards and Trusted Traveler cards. Child travelers have additional options - see the Traveling with Children section.
• Green card (Form I-551), or document for lawful permanent residents, or advance parole (Form I-512) if your Form I-551 is pending.
• A visa or other entry document for the countries you will visit.
• Receipts or registration ( CBP Form 4457 ) for new electronics, such as a camera or laptop, that you are taking abroad. (Only suggested if the goods are less than six months old.)
• Proof of rabies vaccination for dogs traveling abroad. Check the requirements for other pets at www.aphis.usda.gov .
• Valid license for driving overseas and for use as a second form of photo ID.
• Permits and/or certificates if bringing restricted animal or plant products - go to www.aphis.usda.gov .
• Medications in their original packages. Bring only the amount of medication you will need. Prescription medications have to be under the traveler's name.
• Envelope to hold the receipts of your purchases abroad.

Traveling with Children

When U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 arrive by land or sea from Canada or Mexico they may present an original or copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate.

Groups of Children: U.S. citizen children under the age of 19 arriving by land or sea from Canada or Mexico and traveling with a school group, religious group, social or cultural organization or sports team, may present an original or copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate. The group should have a letter on organizational letterhead with:

• The name of the group and supervising adult(s).
• The names of the children on the trip and their primary address, phone number, date and place of birth, and name of at least one parent or legal guardian for each child.
• A written and signed statement of the supervising adult certifying that he or she has parental or legal guardian consent for each child.

Update May 10, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Citizenship Evidence

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Where to Apply

When applying in person  for a passport, provide primary evidence of U.S. citizenship :

• The type of evidence you provide depends if you were born in the United States or born outside the United States. 
• If you cannot provide primary evidence, provide secondary evidence.
• Find examples of citizenship evidence on this page.

Tips for submitting your citizenship evidence

• Submit your evidence of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of the front (and back, if there is printed information).
• Photocopies must be: clear and easy to read, on white 8.5”x11” standard paper, black and white, and single sided.
• If you don't have the original copy of a document, submit a certified copy. A  certified copy  has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority.
• Provide a second certified copy of your citizenship evidence if you do not want to submit a photocopy of it. We will keep the second copy.
• If you don’t submit a photocopy or a second certified copy, it may take longer to get your passport.
• You cannot submit an electronic or mobile birth certificate.

Examples of Primary Citizenship Evidence

I was born in the united states.

• Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
• Lists applicant’s full name, date of birth, and place of birth
• Lists parent(s)’ full names
• Has the signature of the city, county, or state registrar
• Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
• Has the seal or stamp  of the city, county, or state which issued it
• Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.

Make sure your birth certificate looks like our sample image:

I was born outside the United States

• Full validity means the document is/was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Certificate of Citizenship

Examples of Secondary Citizenship Evidence

You must submit:

• A delayed birth certificate or a Letter of No Record, and
• Early public records or documents

Delayed birth certificate (filed more than 1 year after birth)

• List of the records or documents used to create it (example: early public records)
• Signature of the birth attendant or an affidavit signed by the parent(s)
• If your delayed U.S. birth certificate does not include these items, submit it with early public records or documents.

Letter of No Record

• Be issued by the state
• Have the applicant’s name and date of birth
• List the birth years searched
• Include a statement that no birth certificate is on file
• An early public record or document, or 
• One early public record/document and one early private record/document with  Form DS-10: Birth Affadavit .

Early public or private records/documents

• These documents are from the first five years of an applicant's life.
• Records should include the applicant’s full name, date of birth, and place of birth. 
• Baptism certificate
• Hospital birth certificate (often shows baby’s footprints)
• U.S. Census record
• Early school records
• Family Bible record
• Doctor's records of post-natal care
• Form DS-10: Birth Affadavit
• Foreign language documents should include a professional English translation. 
• The translator must provide a notarized letter about the accuracy of the translation and their ability to translate the document.
• We will return your document(s) by mail in a separate package from your passport.

I became a U.S. citizen at birth

If you were born outside the United States and got U.S. citizenship through your U.S. citizen parent(s), submit:

• Your foreign birth certificate listing your parent(s)
• Your parent(s)’ evidence of U.S. citizenship
• Your parents' marriage certificate (if your parents were married)
• A statement from your parents that details when and where they lived in the United States and abroad before your birth.

Please see  U.S. Citizenship Laws & Policy  for more information.

I became a U.S. citizen through my parent who naturalized or through the Child Citizenship Act of 2000

If you were born outside the United States and got U.S. citizenship through the naturalization of your parent(s), submit:

• Evidence of your parent’s U.S. citizenship such as a U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), or naturalization certificate
• Permanent Resident Card/Green Card
• Foreign passport with the original I-551 visa entry stamp
• Your parents' marriage certificate (if your parents were married when you legally entered the U.S. and before your 18th birthday) 
• Documentation of legal custody when you entered the United States, if your parents were not married at that time. If your parents divorced after you entered the United States, provide documentation of legal custody at the time of your parent’s naturalization 
• Evidence that you resided in the United States in the legal and physical custody of your U.S. citizen parent 
• Evidence of your legitimation (if your parents were not married at the time of your birth). Legitimation means a father – whose child was born when he was not married – establishes a full legal relationship to his child. Establishing this relationship gives the father the same rights and obligations as if his child had been born while married to the child’s mother.
• Your parents' marriage certificate dated after your birth
• Certified court order of legitimation 

U.S. Citizenship through Adoption

If you were born outside the United States and got your citizenship after you were adopted, please see our  Child Citizenship Act webpage  for more information.

Request a File Search

You may request a file search instead of submitting evidence of U.S. citizenship if:

• You got a U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad in the past, and
• You cannot submit it with your application

The file search fee is $150 and charged as part of the application fee which you pay to the U.S. Department of State. Please complete the  Request for a File Search  and include it with your application.

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Certificate of Naturalization, Explained

Learn more about the official certificate you receive when you obtain u.s. citizenship through naturalization, in this guide.

• What is the Difference Between the Certificate of Naturalization and the Certificate of Citizenship?
• How to Apply for a Replacement Certificate of Naturalization
• Certificate of Naturalization FAQs
• Related Information

What is the Certificate of Naturalization?

A Certificate of Naturalization is a document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to foreign nationals who have successfully completed the process of becoming naturalized U.S. citizens . This certificate serves as evidence of the individual’s U.S. citizenship and contains important information such as the person’s full legal name, country of birth, date of birth, and the date they were granted U.S. citizenship.

To obtain a U.S. Certificate of Naturalization, a person must complete the citizenship process and satisfy certain eligibility requirements , including having lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident for a certain period of time, demonstrating good moral character, and passing an English and civics test . Once these requirements are met and the naturalization process is complete, USCIS will issue a Certificate of Naturalization to the individual, which they can use as proof of their U.S. citizenship.

Boundless has helped more than 100,000 people with their immigration plans.

While both documents serve as proof of U.S. citizenship, the Certificate of Naturalization is issued to those who have become U.S. citizens through the naturalization process , while the Certificate of Citizenship is issued to those who acquired U.S. citizenship at birth or through other means.

The Certificate of Naturalization is issued to foreign nationals who have gone through the process of naturalization and have met the requirements for becoming a U.S. citizen. The Certificate of Naturalization is proof that the individual has voluntarily become a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process.

The Certificate of Citizenship , on the other hand, is issued to individuals who were born outside the U.S. and acquired U.S. citizenship at birth through their parents or through other means, such as adoption. For example, a child born to U.S. citizens overseas would be eligible for a Certificate of Citizenship. This document serves as proof of the individual’s U.S. citizenship from birth.

If you’ve lost or damaged your original Certificate of Naturalization, you’ll need to apply for a replacement with USCIS. Here are the steps to follow:

• Complete Form N-565 (Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document) : Fill out the form completely and accurately, providing your personal information, the reason for the replacement, and any supporting documentation required. USCIS allows Form N-565 to be filed online or by mail.
• Gather supporting documents: You will need to provide evidence of your identity, such as a copy of your driver’s license or passport, as well as evidence of your U.S. citizenship, such as a copy of your lost or damaged Certificate of Naturalization or other acceptable documentation.
• Pay the filing fee: The current government filing fee for Form N-565 is $555, and it is paid directly to USCIS at the time of filing.
• Submit the form and supporting documents: If filing by mail, mail the completed Form N-565, supporting documents, and filing fee to the USCIS Lockbox facility specified on the form. USCIS recommends using a trackable delivery method and retaining a copy of your application and supporting documents for your records. You can also file Form N-565 and all supporting documents online.

It may take several months to receive a replacement Certificate of Naturalization, so it’s important to apply as soon as possible if your original certificate is lost, stolen, or damaged.

A Certificate of Naturalization serves as proof of one’s citizenship and may be required for various purposes, including:

• Obtaining a U.S. passport: A Certificate of Naturalization may be required when applying for a U.S. passport.
• Registering to vote: The certificate can be used to prove U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in U.S. federal, state, and local elections.
• Applying for government benefits: A Certificate of Naturalization may be required when applying for certain government benefits, such as Social Security or Medicare.
• Employment verification: Employers may use the certificate to verify a person’s eligibility to work in the U.S. or ability to hold certain sensitive government positions.
• Educational and financial benefits: A Certificate of Naturalization may be used to obtain certain benefits, such as applying for student loans.

No — unlike permanent resident cards (green cards), Certificates of Naturalization do not expire. Once an individual has been granted U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process, their citizenship is permanent. The Certificate of Naturalization does not need to be renewed or replaced unless lost or damaged.

No, a Certificate of Naturalization cannot be used as a U.S. passport for international air travel. While a Certificate of Naturalization serves as proof of U.S. citizenship, it is not a travel document and cannot be used in place of a passport. To travel internationally, a U.S. citizen must have a valid U.S. passport.

Naturalized U.S. citizens can apply for a passport at a U.S. Department of State Passport Agency or at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. The passport application process requires proof of U.S. citizenship, such as the Certificate of Naturalization, as well as other identification documents and a passport photo. You can learn more about how to apply for a U.S. passport in Boundless’ guide .

Immigration guideS

• Naturalization, Explained
• Form N-400, Explained
• U.S. Citizenship Requirements
• Benefits of U.S. Citizenship
• Applying for a U.S. Passport

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• Fact Sheets

Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S.

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has required non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  On April 21, 2022, DHS announced that it would extend these requirements. In determining whether and when to rescind this order, DHS anticipates that it will take account of whether the vaccination requirement for non-U.S. air travelers remains in place.

These requirements apply to non-U.S. individuals who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals.

Effective November 8, 2021, new air travel requirements applied to many noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily. These travelers are also required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. All air travelers, including U.S. persons, must test negative for COVID-19 prior to departure. Limited exceptions apply. See  CDC guidance  for more details regarding air travel requirements.

Below is more information about what to know before you go, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about cross-border travel.

Entering the U.S. Through a Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Q. what are the requirements for travelers entering the united states through land poes.

A:  Before embarking on a trip to the United States, non-U.S. travelers should be prepared for the following:

• Possess proof of an approved COVID-19 vaccination as outlined on the  CDC  website.
• During border inspection, verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status. 
• Bring a  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  compliant border crossing document, such as a valid passport (and visa if required), Trusted Traveler Program card, a Department of State-issued Border Crossing Card, Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Tribal Card when entering the country. Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should be prepared to present the WHTI-compliant document and any other documents requested by the CBP officer.

 Q. What are the requirements to enter the United States for children under the age of 18 who can't be vaccinated?

A:  Children under 18 years of age are excepted from the vaccination requirement at land and ferry POEs.

Q: Which vaccines/combination of vaccines will be accepted?

A:  Per CDC guidelines, all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and authorized vaccines, as well as all vaccines that have an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO), will be accepted.

Accepted Vaccines:

• More details are available in CDC guidance  here .
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose COVID-19 vaccine;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart.

Q. Is the United States requiring travelers to have a booster dose to be considered fully vaccinated for border entry purposes?

A:  No. The CDC guidance for “full vaccination” can be found here.

Q: Do U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land POEs and ferry terminals?

A:  No. Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation.

Q: Is pre- or at-arrival COVID testing required to enter the United States via land POEs or ferry terminals?

A: No, there is no COVID testing requirement to enter the United States via land POE or ferry terminals. In this respect, the requirement for entering by a land POE or ferry terminal differs from arrival via air, where there is a requirement to have a negative test result before departure.

Processing Changes Announced on January 22, 2022 

Q: new changes were recently announced. what changed on january 22.

A:  Since January 22, 2022, non-citizens who are not U.S. nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents have been required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States at land ports of entry and ferry terminals, whether for essential or nonessential purposes. Previously, DHS required that non-U.S. persons be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States for nonessential purposes.  Effective January 22, all non-U.S. individuals, to include essential travelers, must be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request. DHS announced an extension of this policy on April 21, 2022.

Q: Who is affected by the changes announced on January 22?

A: This requirement does not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. It applies to other noncitizens, such as a citizen of Mexico, Canada, or any other country seeking to enter the United States through a land port of entry or ferry terminal.

Q: Do U.S. citizens need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land port of entry or ferry terminals?

A: Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. Citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation. 

Q: What is essential travel?

A:  Under the prior policy, there was an exception from temporary travel restrictions for “essential travel.” Essential travel included travel to attend educational institutions, travel to work in the United States, travel for emergency response and public health purposes, and travel for lawful cross-border trade (e.g., commercial truckers). Under current policy, there is no exception for essential travel.

Q: Will there be any exemptions? 

A: While most non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States will need to be vaccinated, there is a narrow list of exemptions consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Order in the air travel context.

• Certain categories of individuals on diplomatic or official foreign government travel as specified in the CDC Order
• Children under 18 years of age;
• Certain participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials as specified in the CDC Order;   
• Individuals with medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine as specified in the CDC Order;
• Individuals issued a humanitarian or emergency exception by the Secretary of Homeland Security;
• Individuals with valid nonimmigrant visas (excluding B-1 [business] or B-2 [tourism] visas) who are citizens of a country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability, as specified in the CDC Order
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age) as specified in the CDC Order; and
• Individuals whose entry would be in the U.S. national interest, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Q: What documentation will be required to show vaccination status?

A:  Non-U.S. individuals are required to be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request regardless of the purpose of travel.

The current documentation requirement remains the same and is available on the CDC website . Documentation requirements for entry at land ports of entry and ferry terminals mirror those for entry by air.

Q: What happens if someone doesn’t have proof of vaccine status?

A: If non-U.S. individuals cannot present proof of vaccination upon request, they will not be admitted into the United States and will either be subject to removal or be allowed to withdraw their application for entry.

Q: Will incoming travelers be required to present COVID-19 test results?

A: There is no COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers at land border ports of entry, including ferry terminals.

Q: What does this mean for those who can't be vaccinated, either due to age or other health considerations? 

A: See CDC guidance for additional information on this topic. Note that the vaccine requirement does not apply to children under 18 years of age.

Q: Does this requirement apply to amateur and professional athletes?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions.

Q: Are commercial truckers required to be vaccinated?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions. These requirements also apply to bus drivers as well as rail and ferry operators.

Q. Do you expect border wait times to increase?

A:  As travelers navigate these new travel requirements, wait times may increase. Travelers should account for the possibility of longer than normal wait times and lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are kindly encouraged to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers can take advantage of innovative technology, such as facial biometrics and the CBP OneTM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Q: How is Customs and Border Protection staffing the ports of entry? 

A: CBP’s current staffing levels at ports of entry throughout the United States are commensurate with pre-pandemic levels. CBP has continued to hire and train new employees throughout the pandemic. CBP expects some travelers to be non-compliant with the proof of vaccination requirements, which may at times lead to an increase in border wait times. Although trade and travel facilitation remain a priority, we cannot compromise national security, which is our primary mission. CBP Office of Field Operations will continue to dedicate its finite resources to the processing of arriving traffic with emphasis on trade facilitation to ensure economic recovery.

Q: What happens if a vaccinated individual is traveling with an unvaccinated individual?  

A:  The unvaccinated individual (if 18 or over) would not be eligible for admission.

Q: If I am traveling for an essential reason but am not vaccinated can I still enter?

A:  No, if you are a non-U.S. individual. The policy announced on January 22, 2022 applies to both essential and non-essential travel by non-U.S. individual travelers. Since January 22, DHS has required that all inbound non-U.S. individuals crossing U.S. land or ferry POEs – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request.

Q: Are sea crew members on vessels required to have a COVID vaccine to disembark?

A:  Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 or D nonimmigrant visa are not excepted from COVID-19 vaccine requirements at the land border. This is a difference from the international air transportation context.

Entering the U.S. via Air Travel

Q: what are the covid vaccination requirements for air passengers to the united states  .

A:  According to CDC requirements [www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html | Link no longer valid], most noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily must be fully vaccinated prior to boarding a flight to the United States. These travelers are required to show proof of vaccination. A list of covered individuals is available on the CDC website.  

Q: What are the COVID testing requirements for air passengers to the United States?  

A:  Effective Sunday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. ET, CDC will no longer require pre-departure COVID-19 testing for U.S.-bound air travelers.

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Here's When You Need (and Don't Need) a Passport to Cruise

T o determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

• The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

• Passport card
• State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
• Government-issued birth certificate
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
• American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

• Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

• Voter registration cards
• Social Security cards
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

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‘I could do anything now’: Top enlisted Marine reflects on his citizenship journey as new Americans are naturalized on USS Bataan

Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Carlos Ruiz waves an American flag at the end of a naturalization ceremony for 60 new American citizens on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, aboard the USS Bataan. Ruiz, a native of Mexico, is a naturalized citizen. The Navy hosted the ceremony aboard the amphibious assault ship docked in the port of Miami during the city’s Fleet Week. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes)

MIAMI — Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Carlos Ruiz talked Tuesday about becoming a U.S. citizen as he watched 60 new Americans swear allegiance to the United States for the first time aboard the USS Bataan.

“In the ceremony like this, it doesn’t hit you until — you’ll notice the people are all staring at their [naturalization] certificates — you see your name on that certificate, and it feels like you’re just being born again,” Ruiz said, recalling the moment the magnitude of his decision dawned on him. “You feel like now you’re a card-carrying U.S. citizen. You feel like, ‘I am part of it. I could do anything now.’ ”

The top enlisted Marine smiled wide as he led the newest group of American citizens in the Pledge of Allegiance from a stage set up inside the amphibious assault ship docked this week at the port of Miami for its first Fleet Week . Some 12 years earlier, it was Ruiz — already a Marine gunnery sergeant and serving as a drill instructor — affirming his allegiance to the United States.

Ruiz continues to carry a copy of his naturalization certificate with him in the form of a photograph on his phone. Just in case, he said, “no one believes I am a U.S. citizen.”

Ruiz and Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro participated in the ceremony Tuesday hosted aboard the Navy ship as symbol of American might for its newest citizens. Like Ruiz, Del Toro is a naturalized citizen, who immigrated from Cuba as a child refugee and earned his citizenship in 1978 just before entering the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md.

Del Toro said he wanted to host a naturalization ceremony aboard the Bataan this week as a reminder that there is a price for America’s freedoms. The ship, he noted, is named in honor of the American prisoners of war who in 1942 were forced by their Japanese captors to endure a brutal 65-mile trek to a prisoner-of-war camp in the Philippines during World War II. Some 1,000 Americans died on the march.

Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro congratulates a new American citizen during a naturalization ceremony Tuesday, May 7, 2024, aboard the USS Bataan. The Navy hosted the ceremony aboard the amphibious assault ship docked in the port of Miami during the city’s Fleet Week. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes)

“Freedom does not come cheap,” the Navy secretary said after the ceremony. “It’s not necessarily free. It has to be earned, and it is earned by the citizens of our great country, people who come to this nation from all across the world, you know, to live the American dream and fulfill the American dream.”

Del Toro implored the 60 new Americans who came from 24 countries to find some way to serve and give back to their new country. Perhaps, he joked, they should join the Navy or Marine Corps, telling them he could swear them into the military shortly after the ceremony.

He used his and Ruiz’s experiences as examples of what immigrants can accomplish when afforded the opportunities. Del Toro graduated from the Naval Academy in 1983 and served 22 years in the Navy as a surface warfare officer, reaching the rank of commander before retiring. In 2021, he became Navy secretary, the top civilian in charge of the Navy and Marine Corps.

“I’ve come to believe that what truly makes this country great is you,” Del Toro told the new American citizens. “Every single one of you sitting in those seats — and I don’t care whether you’re a maid working in a hotel room like my mother did for many, many years or you grow up to perhaps become the secretary of the Navy — you and the role that you play in our country is as significant as anyone else in making this great country the country that it is.”

Ruiz said he hoped some of the new citizens would at least consider military service. Without the Marine Corps, Ruiz said, he doubts he would be an American citizen.

Sixty new Americans from 24 countries are sworn in as U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony aboard the USS Bataan on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. The Bataan was visiting Miami as part of its Fleet Week. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes)

The top enlisted Marine — whose job is to advocate for the enlisted force and advise the Marine commandant on enlisted issues — came to the United States as an 11-year-old from his native Mexico when his parents wanted him to attend better schools and learn English. His mother moved him to Buckeye, Ariz., from where he enlisted in the Corps after graduating high school.

Ruiz served for years — deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan and earning a Bronze Star Medal with combat “V” for valor — before beginning his efforts to become a U.S. citizen.

At times, he considered leaving the Marine Corps and returning to Mexico. But ultimately, he said, the Marines and the United States felt like home. Last year, 29 years into his service, he was selected to become the Corps’ top enlisted Marine .

“I’d like to say that without the Marine Corps I still would have fallen in love with this country anyway, and I would have chosen to stay,” Ruiz said. “But the people that I met in the service, they are what pulled me toward this, and they made me realize this is pretty awesome.”

Ruiz was inspired to earn his citizenship after his father earned his and as he realized he would need a security clearance — granted only to American citizens — to continue to serve. It was a lot of effort, especially working on earning his citizenship while also working to make new Marines at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego.

“It’s a long journey,” he said. “And then it happens. And it’s surreal.”

After the ceremony on Tuesday, Ruiz said he would probably flip through his phone to look at his naturalization certificate and relive his efforts to become an American citizen. He said he hoped his adopted country would give the new Americans sworn in Tuesday the kind of opportunities it has provided him.

“Just a kid from Mexico, right, could barely speak English, and somehow here I am,” Ruiz said. “The people here today, they’re going to keep staring at their certificates with their names on it, and I know what they’re feeling. It felt like [I was] watching myself in their chairs. And they’re probably going to go do amazing things.”

previous coverage

• Ruiz named 20th sergeant major of the Marine Corps

related stories

• Thousands of sailors and Marines hit Miami as city launches its first Fleet Week

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Passport renewal can be a pain. What to know about applications, appointment wait times.

There are many reasons why someone may need a new passport . Whether it's because your last one was damaged or it was expired , you'll want to have a valid passport before you travel. And you'll need one if you have an upcoming international trip.

Applying for a passport can feel a little heavy on the bureaucracy thanks to all the documents and forms you need. And once you've applied, the wait time to get it may be longer than expected.

If you are looking to apply for or renew a passport, here is a guide on how to get one and how quickly you can expect it to come.

How to get a passport?

The process for passport application varies depending on your situation.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

According to the U.S. Department of State, you should apply in person if:

• You are applying for your first passport.
• You are applying for your child who is under 16.
• Your previous passport was issued when you were under 16.
• Your previous passport was lost, stolen or damaged.
• Your previous passport was issued over 15 years ago.

In these cases, you must fill out form DS-11 (that can be found online ) and print it to apply in person.

If none of the above apply, you may be able to get a new passport by mail. According to the State Department, you are eligible to renew by mail if:

• You have your most recent passport (and it is not damaged) and can submit it with your application.
• Your most recent passport was never reported lost or stolen.
• Your most recent passport was issued in the last 15 years.
• Your most recent passport issued when you were 16 or older.
• Your most recent passport is issued to your current name, or you can present a document – such as a marriage certificate or divorce papers – as evidence of a legal name change.
• "It was not limited to less than the normal 10 year period of validity for an adult passport due to multiple passport thefts or losses, or due to issues with passport damage or mutilation."

In these cases, fill out form DS-82 (that can be found online ).

What do you need to get a passport?

According to the USAGov, if you are applying for a passport for the first time as an adult , you must bring the following:

• Application form (form DS-11)
• Proof of citizenship (such as birth certificate) and government-issued photo ID (such as driver's license)
• Photocopies of both citizenship document and photo ID
• Passport photo

According to the USAGov, these are the documents you will need if you're renewing :

• Renewal form (form DS-82)
• Your most recent passport 

If your name has changed since your last passport, you will have to provide legal documentation to verify, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate or a court order of name change.

How fast can I get a passport?

Expedited processing time is two to three weeks for passport applications applied on or after Dec. 18 2023, according to the State Department.

Processing time does not include mailing time. It could take up to two weeks from your application day for your passport to be "in process." 

As of May 2024, routine processing time is six to eight weeks .

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How Do I Obtain an “Authenticated” Copy of a Certificate of Naturalization?

If you are required to provide an “authenticated” copy of your Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship to someone outside of the U.S. government, you must make an appointment with your local USCIS office to authenticate your photocopy of your certificate.  “Authentication” is a term used by the U.S. Department of State and other governments to describe what USCIS refers to as a “Certified True Copy.” These two terms refer to the same thing. When you require a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship to be authenticated, be sure to say that you want a "Certified True Copy" of the certificate.

You do not need to obtain a Certified True Copy if the U.S. government asks for a copy of your certificate for official U.S. government business. You may use a normal photocopy of your certificate for legitimate U.S. government business.  For example, when you apply for a U.S. passport, you must submit the original Certificate of Naturalization, and you should also submit a normal photocopy that has not been authenticated.

In order to certify a copy of the certificate, you must make an appointment with your local USCIS office and bring both your original document and your photocopy. We do not authenticate or certify copies as true through the mail or electronically. Please call the Contact Center at 800-375-5283 to request an appointment.

When you go to your appointment, be sure to bring:

• Your original Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship
• A photocopy of the certificate
• A form of photo identification, such as a state issued driver’s license, a state identification card, or a passport.

At your appointment, a designated USCIS employee will review your documents. The officer may certify the copy if they can confirm your identity and status as a U.S. citizen.

Note: If you are a family member requesting a Certified True Copy for a deceased U.S. citizen, you must also provide evidence of your        relationship to the decedent (such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate, or other documentation showing your relationship).

USCIS will provide Certified True Copies and return these along with the supplied documentation to you. USCIS does not accept fees on behalf of the U.S. Department of State or any other government agencies, and we do not forward Certified True Copies to any other government agency on your behalf. We will return to you all documentation that you submit to us, including any documentation supplied by the Department of Homeland Security.

To obtain the services of the U.S. Department of State, Authentication Office, contact the Department of State:

Internet:   https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/records-and-authentications/authenticate-your-document/office-of-authentications.html

Phone: 202-485-8000

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How to give your fingerprints and photo

On this page.

• Pay the biometric fee
• Get the biometrics instruction letter

Tips to get the best photos and fingerprints during your biometrics appointment

Steps involved in giving your biometrics, 1. pay the biometric fee.

You must pay the  biometric fee   when you apply , or you may experience delays.

Transit visa applications

There is  no fee to give biometrics for a transit visa.

To pay for your biometrics fee after you already applied:

If you applied online , you should

• upload your receipt in your  IRCC secure account  or by using our  web form

If you applied on paper , you should

• upload your receipt using our  web form

2. Get the biometric instruction letter

After you pay the biometric fee, you’ll get a biometric instruction letter (BIL) that

• confirms that you need to give your biometrics
• tells you where you can go to give your biometrics

When you go to your biometrics appointment, you must bring both of the following documents:

• your valid passport

If you’ve been issued a biometric instruction letter but you don’t have a passport, you must bring one of the following documents to your appointment:

• your Refugee Protection Claimant Document (valid or expired)  with your photo attached
• a  certified copy of your passport

This exception applies to you if you’re

• is in process
• has been found ineligible
• has been rejected by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB)
• whose asylum claims have been accepted by the IRB
• who have been successful in a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment application

3. Go to an official biometric collection site

There are 4 things you need to know before you give your biometrics:

• You must give your biometrics in person.
• Walk-in or emergency appointments may be accommodated, but booking ahead is best.
• Booking an appointment is free .
• Book your appointment as soon as you get your BIL.
• To avoid fraud, use our official website to find your local VAC or Service Canada location.

Find a collection site close to you

 What can be included in your photo

• Your eyes must be clearly visible.
• There must be no glare on the lenses.
• Your hair must be off your face, so that the edges of your face are visible.
• Your full face must be clearly visible.
• The head covering must not create shadows on your face.
• Your facial features and the edges of your face must both be clearly visible.

 What can’t be included in your photo

• This includes prescription lenses, even when your eyes are clearly visible.
• hats and head coverings  not  worn daily for religious beliefs or medical reasons
• Temporary hand injuries such as cuts, cracks on your fingers must be healed before giving your biometrics.

Note : If we can’t get high-quality fingerprints during your appointment, you may need to give your biometrics again at a later date.

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From August 1, 2024, Onward: What Your Dog Needs to Enter the United States

At a glance.

Starting on August 1, 2024, dogs entering or returning to the United States must meet new, specific requirements depending on where they have been in the 6 months before entering the U.S. and where they received their rabies vaccines (if required).

Requirements for all dogs

Requirements for dogs with a current and valid rabies vaccination administered in the united states.

• Requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a country with high risk of dog rabies within 6 months before entry

Requirements for dogs that have been ONLY in countries that are dog rabies-free or low-risk during the 6 months before entry

All dogs must:

• Be at least 6 months of age at time of entry or return to the United States
• This must have been implanted prior to any required rabies vaccination
• The microchip number must be documented on all required forms and in all accompanying veterinary records
• Dogs may not enter the United States if they are carrying a disease contagious to people.
• Isolation of the dog, veterinary examination, and additional testing, at the importer’s expense, may be required to determine if the dog has a contagious disease and prevent spread if the dog does not appear healthy upon arrival.

This form should be filled out online 2-10 days before arrival. If the information on the form changes before the dog arrives, you must submit a new form and indicate you are making changes to an existing form. All information, including port of entry where the dog is arriving, must be correct at time of arrival.

• This form requires you to upload a clear photograph of the dog showing its face and body. Dogs that will be less than one year of age at time of arrival should have the photograph taken within 10 days before arrival.
• There is no charge to importers for submitting this form.
• Additional requirements for dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States
• Additional requirements for dogs that have been in a country at high-risk for dog rabies within the 6 months before entry and do NOT have appropriate documentation of current US-issued rabies vaccine
• Additional requirements for dogs that have been ONLY in countries that are dog rabies-free or low-risk in the 6 months before entry

Dogs that do not meet all entry requirements or do not have accurate and valid forms will be denied entry to the United States and returned to the country of departure at the importer’s expense. These requirements apply to all dogs, including service dogs and dogs that were born in the United States.

Specific requirements depend on whether the dog has been in a high-risk country for dog rabies  in the past 6 months.

Dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States that have been in a high-risk country for dog rabies must:  

• Meet all requirements in the “All Dogs” section above
• The Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination form is required for the importation (re-entry) of U.S.-vaccinated dogs that have been in high-risk countries for dog rabies  within the 6 months before re-entry into the United States.
• Please note, for dogs that left the United States before August 1, 2024, and have been in a high-risk country, the importer may instead present a copy of the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)-endorsed export health certificate that was used to ship the dog from the United States, if that export health certificate documents the microchip number and valid rabies vaccination administered in the United States. The rabies vaccination must be valid (not expired) on the date of return or the form will be invalid.
• Arrive at the location listed on the CDC Dog Import Form receipt (This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select this location when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form.)

Dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States that have NOT been in a high-risk country in the last 6 months must:

• A Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccine form that was endorsed by USDA before the dog departed the United States; or
• The USDA export certificate must demonstrate the dog is 6 months of age or older and list the microchip number.
• The export certificate must be for the dog rabies-free or low-risk country where the dog’s return itinerary originated.
• Arrive at the location listed on the CDC Dog Import Form receipt (This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select this location when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form .)

Important information about the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination Form

The Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form must be completed before the dog departs the U.S. Before asking your veterinarian to complete this form, verify the following requirements will be met:

• Ensure your dog will be at least 6 months of age on date of return to the U.S.
• Have your dog microchipped with an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip (implanted before any required rabies vaccinations)
• Ensure the veterinarian scans the dog for the ISO-compatible microchip and records the microchip number at the time of vaccine appointment. Rabies vaccines administered prior to microchip implantation will not be considered valid.
• Ensure the rabies vaccination will be valid for the entire duration of your travels. If your dog’s U.S.-issued rabies vaccination lapses while overseas and your dog has been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months, your dog will need to be revaccinated overseas and meet requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs to return to the U.S., including having a rabies serology titer, arriving at a specific port of entry, and possible quarantine requirements.
• Your dog’s first rabies vaccination must be administered at least 28 days before travel.
• Ensure the veterinarian submits this form to the USDA for official endorsement through the VEHCS portal
• Your dog must travel with a printed copy of the official endorsed form upon your dog’s return to the United States if your dog has been in a high-risk country within the 6 months before returning to the U.S.

Dogs that departed the U.S. prior to August 1, 2024, and have been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months, may have either the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form or the USDA APHIS-endorsed export health certificate for re-entry into the United States. Without one of these forms your dog will need to meet the requirements specific to the risk category of the countries where they have been in the 6 months before returning to the United States.

The export health certificate must document the microchip number and the rabies vaccination date. The rabies vaccine must be valid (not expired) on the date of return or the form will be invalid.

Requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a country with high risk of dog rabies within 6 months before entry

Dogs, including service dogs, that have been in a country at high-risk for dog rabies within the 6 months before entry and do not have appropriate documentation of current U.S.-issued rabies vaccine must:

• Meet all requirements in the “All Dogs” section
• Ensure the dog is microchipped with an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip before receiving the rabies vaccination and the number is recorded on the veterinary documents or the vaccine will not be considered valid
• Verify the dog is at least 12 weeks (84 days) of age when vaccinated against rabies
• The dog must have a valid (i.e., non-expired) rabies vaccination. If it’s the dog’s first vaccination or if the dog’s vaccination coverage has lapsed, the vaccine must be administered at least 28 days before arrival to the United States.
• The Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form must be completed by your veterinarian AND endorsed by an official veterinarian in the exporting country.
• The blood sample for the rabies serology titer must have been drawn at least 30 days after the dog’s first valid rabies vaccination and at least 28 days before entry to the U.S.
• Dogs with a history of multiple valid rabies vaccinations administered after the microchip was placed may have the sample for the rabies serology titer drawn at any time after a rabies booster vaccination as long as the dog’s first vaccine was given at least 30 days before the blood sample was drawn and there has been no lapse in vaccine coverage. If a lapse occurs, the sample must be drawn at least 30 days after the valid booster vaccination was administered.
• The sample must be sent to a CDC-approved rabies serology laboratory . If there is no CDC-approved laboratory in your country, your veterinarian may draw the sample and send it internationally to a CDC-approved laboratory.
• Passing results must be obtained in order for a serology to be valid.
• Rabies serology titer results will be considered valid for the life of the dog as long as the dog’s rabies vaccination coverage does not lapse. If a lapse occurs, a new rabies serology titer will be required and that sample must be drawn at least 30 days after the new vaccination was administered.
• If the dog does not have a valid rabies serology titer, it will be required to be quarantined at a CDC-registered animal care facility for 28 days after the dog is revaccinated by the facility’s veterinarian.
• All foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a high-risk country in the previous 6 months must have a reservation for examination, verification of age, documents, and microchip number, and administration of a rabies booster vaccination at a CDC-registered animal care facility immediately upon arrival in the United States.
• Dogs that do not have a valid rabies serology titer must also have a reservation for quarantine. Dogs will be quarantined at the facility for 28 days at the importer’s expense after being revaccinated by the facility’s veterinarian.
• All CDC-registered animal care facility expenses, including exam, revaccination, and quarantine (if required), are the responsibility of the importer.
• The facility will need copies of all required documents prior to confirming your reservation.
• Ensure the dog meets any facility-specific requirements (contact facility for additional information).
• If after arrival the CDC-registered animal care facility determines that your documents are not valid or the dog’s microchip number, age, or description does not match the paperwork provided, the dog may be denied entry and returned to the country of departure at your expense.
• Dogs that have evidence of illness or are not healthy will be required to have testing to confirm they do not have contagious diseases before they will be eligible for release, which may extend the required quarantine period beyond 28 days. Any required testing or extended stay in quarantine will be at the importer’s expense, so please ensure dogs are healthy upon arrival (including no evidence of fleas, ticks, or skin diseases).
• Dogs must arrive to the U.S. at the airport where the CDC-registered animal care facility is located. This must be the location where the dog has a reservation.
• This must also be the airport listed on the CDC Dog Import Form
• Domestic flights or other forms of travel to other locations in the U.S. are not permitted until after the dog receives required follow-up services at the CDC-registered animal care facility and is cleared for entry.
• SERVICE DOGS ARRIVING BY SEA : Service dogs, as defined in 14 CFR 382.3, may arrive by sea if they meet the requirements in the “All Dogs” section, have a complete Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form and a valid rabies serology titer, and are traveling with their handler. Emotional support animals are not service animals under this definition.

Countries that are not on the list of countries at high risk for dog rabies  are considered to be free of or low risk for dog-mediated rabies virus variant (DMRVV) (called dog rabies-free or low-risk countries on these webpages).

Dogs, including service dogs, that have been ONLY in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries during the 6 months before entry into the United States must:

• Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form, including the endorsement by an official veterinarian of the dog rabies-free or low-risk country where the dog has been located; AND EITHER (1) a valid rabies serology titer OR (2) veterinary records* (which list the microchip number) for the dog from the exporting country for the previous 6 months. The form must be completed within 30 days before arrival to the United States.
• Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form that was endorsed by USDA before the dog departed the United States
• Valid USDA-endorsed export health certificate listing the destination as the dog rabies-free or low-risk country from which the dog is returning
• Certification of Dog Arriving from DMRVV-free or Low-Risk Country into the United States form endorsed by an official veterinarian in the exporting country; AND veterinary records* (which list the microchip number) for the dog from the exporting country for the 6 months before traveling to the U.S. The form must be completed within the 30 days before arriving to the United States.
• Foreign export certificate that documents the dog is at least 6 months of age, lists the dog’s International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip number, and has been endorsed by an official veterinarian of the exporting country; AND veterinary records* (which list the microchip number) for the dog from the exporting country for the previous 6 months
• Arrive at the location listed on the CDC Dog Import Form receipt (This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select it when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form .)

Any documentation that is not from the United States must be completed in the country where the dog’s travel originates. For example, if the dog’s documents were issued in France, the dog may not enter the U.S. via a land-border crossing from Mexico to the U.S.

*Examples of veterinary records that must accompany completed forms are European Union pet passports or proof of payment for veterinary services received in the exporting low-risk country for the previous 6 months. Records must include the dog’s microchip number.

For more information, see: Frequently Asked Questions on CDC Dog Importations  

If you have questions or need more information, please contact CDC-INFO at (800) 232-4636.

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Melbourne man 'dumbfounded' after finding out he lost Australian citizenship 33 years ago

Glenn Keogh was born in Australia to Australian parents and has never lived overseas.

But two weeks ago, he discovered he had not been an Australian citizen since 1991.

"I don't know how to describe it, except it floored me," he said.

"I was working at the time and I was just dumbfounded."

Last month the 55-year-old was informed by Home Affairs that he had no Australian citizenship or visa, due to a law that was repealed more than 20 years ago. 

When the father-of-two told his employer about the situation, he was initially stood down from work without pay.

"I'm no longer Australian and apparently I haven't been for the last 33 years," Mr Keogh told Raf Epstein on ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings . 

"It's not a situation I expected to find myself in. I'm mid-50s, I've paid my taxes ... I'm very grateful to be Australian."

Applying for Irish citizenship had unintended consequences

Mr Keogh's grandparents were Irish and, proud of his ancestry, he decided to register his heritage with the Irish government when he was 22. 

He didn't understand that would automatically be treated as an application for Irish citizenship or, crucially, that he would immediately lose Australian citizenship as a result. 

Mr Keogh received Irish citizenship and a passport, which he held alongside Australian identity documents which technically were not valid. 

It was never flagged as a problem until he came forward late last year. 

When Mr Keogh shared his story on ABC Radio Melbourne today, the office of the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles, said they were looking into Mr Keogh's case.

Three hours later his citizenship was restored. 

He said he was "absolutely elated" to have his citizenship restored after going to the media, but the problem was not solved.

'I felt punished'

Mr Keogh first realised he may be in trouble when he read an ABC article about another man whose citizenship was revoked because of a little-known, now-repealed piece of legislation. 

Before 2002, Australians lost their citizenship rights if they took up citizenship with another country, under Section 17 of the Australian Citizenship Act 1948.

That law was repealed in 2002 but it was not applied retrospectively. 

Mr Keogh applied for a resumption of citizenship in December. 

"I put my hand up and I made contact with Home Affairs," he said. 

"I didn't hear anything for about three-and-a-half months." 

When immigration officials eventually got in touch in February, they said Mr Keogh had likely lost his citizenship, and a few weeks later they confirmed the worst. 

Mr Keogh said his communication with the department was "pretty harsh".

"I'm very much aware this section of law still needs to be amended to allow people in my position to appeal for amnesty," Mr Keogh said.

"[The department] needs to respect that people in my situation did not intend to ever give up their citizenship.

"They should be respected, but I felt punished."

It is unknown how many people remain in Australia who lost their citizenship before 2002 and who have not been detected by immigration officials. 

'I've heard from families torn apart'

Another Australian man, Matthew Niall, went through the same ordeal in late 2022, and he became a support for Mr Keogh while he was stuck in limbo. 

"The response to my story shared in the ABC article has been overwhelming," Mr Niall said. 

"I've heard from families torn apart, lives up-ended by the same bureaucratic labyrinth. 

"It's clear to us that change is needed."

Mr Niall and his son lost their Australian citizenship due to the defunct law when he applied to get citizenship for two daughters, who were born overseas.

While Mr Niall has been permitted to resume his citizenship, he is still fighting for his children's right to officially become Australians.

Their mother is not Australian and the Niall family currently lives in Denmark. 

Mr Keogh and Mr Niall want to fight for change, but legal costs are a huge barrier. 

"What the average Australian views as unjust and most likely unconstitutional has been left unchallenged in the High Court, as to do so would be to risk financial ruin," Mr Niall said. 

Mr Keogh said the government's position on Section 17 marginalised "a fair percentage of the population" who had no incentive to come forward. 

"I think change can be made here, I don't think it's a hard thing."

Raf Epstein's Mornings show is  live on ABC Radio Melbourne  every weekday from 8:30-11am. Tune in on 774 AM, digital radio or the Listen app. 

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'a core part of who i am': matt has always seen himself as australian, but his citizenship has been cancelled.

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