Passport Requirements Eased:
Proof of Application Needed

Until September 30, 2007 there will be no need to have passport in hand for international travel to and from the U.S., Canada and Mexico, as earlier reported by the U.S. Department of State.

Because of the recent surge of passport applications, and subsequent delay in processing, the government has extended the date for required passports until later this year. Travelers, however, will need to display proof that they have indeed applied for their passport, which typically takes 10-12 weeks to process with Routine Service.

Here is what you will need to travel outside of the U.S.:

• Original or certified birth certificate
  
  
• Official proof from the U.S. State Department that the traveler has applied for a passport (this document is called U.S. Passport Application Status)
  
• Government issued photo ID

According to the State Government website, the best time to apply for a passport is "early" or "now."

If you've already applied for a passport and want to check the current status, click here.