As the summer season approaches, New York Passport Agency Customer Services Manager Robyn J. Richards is calling on families to check expiration dates on their passports.
In an exclusive statement to Caribbean Life, Richards reminds the traveling public that passports issued to minors under age 16 are only valid for five years, rather than the regular 10 years for adults.
She noted that some countries require an entry visa that may take several weeks to process, and with the summer season being such a busy time for travel, she suggested that citizens take the opportunity to equip themselves with all valid travel documents.
“Apply early for your passport,” said Richards, who advised travelers to avoid waiting in line as well as saving $60 for an expedited book. U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book when entering the country by air.
Those entering the Unites States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land borders and sea ports must present either a passport book, passport card or other travel document approved by the U.S. government.
Information is also available at www.travel.state.gov.U.S. Citizens may also obtain passport information by phone, in English and Spanish by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-427-2778.
