April 8, 2008 — Residents who are U.S. citizens and planning to travel overseas this year should begin the process of applying for a passport soon to beat the summer rush and avoid any potential delay, Lt. Gov. Gregory R. Francis says.
A passport is required for international travel to or from the United States and its territories, said Francis, who oversees the Passport Office.
"New laws that went into effect at the end of January already require travelers by air to present a valid passport or other approved document signifying proof of citizenship to enter the United States," Francis said, according to a news release from his office. "From all indications, only valid passports, passport cards, alien registration cards, traveler program cards, Merchant Mariner Documents, or U.S. military identification cards will be accepted for re-entry at land and sea ports next year."
Francis also reminds citizens or residents traveling between the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and the mainland that passports are not required, and travelers will only need to present proof of identification, such as a valid driver's license.
To apply for a passport, U.S. citizens will need:
— a completed passport or passport-renewal application (which is available at the Office of the Lieutenant Governor or online at ltg.gov.vi.);
— proof of citizenship;
— proof of identity;
— two 2 x 2 photos; and
— associated fees.
Additional requirements apply for children. The average time to process new passports is currently 4 to 6 weeks. For more information, please call the Passport Division in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor at 340-774-4024 on St. Thomas and St. John or 340-773-6449 on St. Croix.
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