Do You Need a Passport To Go To The Bahamas?

Posted by Passport Editorial April, 3rd 2024 in Frequently Asked Questions

176 Comments

Every year the Bahamas is ranked as one of the top travel destinations. The Bahamas is a popular place for weddings, vacations, and cruises. It’s great for families, couples, and spring breakers!

But do you need a passport to go to the Bahamas?

To answer that question, it depends on how you plan to travel to the Bahamas. We can help you determine if you need a passport for your trip. We can also help you with the process of renewing or applying for a new passport. It doesn’t matter how you are traveling, we are here to help.

Passport Requirements for the Bahamas

If you are traveling by plane, you must have a U.S. Passport.

If you are traveling by sea, you can use a passport book or one of the following documents:

Passport card
Trusted traveler card such as NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST card
Enhanced driver’s license (only some states have these).

The passport card is only for traveling to the Bahamas by sea, not by air. You can’t use it for air travel. There are some exceptions to passport requirements for some international travel options. We will outline them in the next section.

The US Department of State and cruise lines highly recommend bringing a valid passport for all travelers on cruises or trips abroad. Emergency situations may arise that would require you to fly back to the US or the next port on the cruise trip.

Many travelers have learned the hard way that a passport is required for medical, family, personal, or business emergencies. For this reason, we always recommend every traveler carry a valid passport anytime they leave the country.

Do You Need a Passport for a Bahamas Cruise?

If you’re planning to set sail on a closed-loop cruise—meaning your voyage both begins and ends at the same U.S. port—passport requirements may differ. In such cases, you can often opt to use your driver’s license and birth certificate instead of a passport for entry into the Bahamas.

Closed-loop cruises offer a convenient and passport-friendly option for travelers seeking a hassle-free vacation experience. By presenting your driver’s license alongside a birth certificate, you can seamlessly embark on your cruise adventure without the need for a passport.

The U.S. Department of State suggests having a valid passport whenever leaving the country. If there is a medical or family emergency and you need to fly home, you will not be able to board a plane without a valid passport book. If you get left behind at port and need to catch a flight to re-board your cruise, you will have issues if you do not have a valid passport. When in doubt, carry your passport book.

Passport Exceptions to the Bahamas

There are, however, a few exceptions to the above rules. Children under 16 can use certain documents to travel to and from the Bahamas by sea. These documents include a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship.

Children under age 19 can also use birth certificates IF:

They are traveling by sea AND
They are traveling with a school group, a church group, or a social or cultural organization supervised by an adult

Just like adults, children in any age group must have a passport book to travel to the Bahamas by plane.

Do You Need a Visa to Travel To the Bahamas?

U.S. travelers do not need a visa for the Bahamas if the trip is less than 90 days. For tourists with longer itineraries or business travelers, you should contact the nearest Bahamas consulate or embassy or visit RushMyTravelVisa for travel visa services.

Is it Safe to Travel to the Bahamas?

Safety in the Bahamas largely mirrors the precautions you would take anywhere else. As with any travel destination, it’s wise to safeguard your belongings and avoid secluded areas, especially after dark.

It’s recommended that you check any travel advisories for the Bahamas provided by the U.S. Department of State. This will offer up-to-date information on safety concerns, travel alerts, and other essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

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If the passport requirements have caught you off guard, RushMyPassport can help.

Get started today or visit a FedEx Office location near you to find out why RushMyPassport is the most convenient way to get a passport in a hurry!

Bahamas, cruise, passport requirements, WHTI

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176 Responses

August, 11th 2019Whitney Robertson
With the Ferry’s from Miami to the Bahamas, are there any way to use any other document than a passport for travel?
- August, 12th 2019David P
  No, you should carry a valid passport for all international travel.
June, 28th 2019Stephanie C
My daughter is getting married in Oct and taking their honeymoon in January with a cruise to the Bahamas. Can they just use a federal ID from the state where they live?
- June, 28th 2019David P
  The Dept of State recommends a passport book for all international travel. If there is an emergency and a flight is needed to return home, she will not be allowed to board any planes until she has a valid passport.
June, 19th 2019Jonathan
My girlfriend lost her green card so can she travel to the Bahamas on a close-loop cruise ship with a CA driver's license and a CA ID card?
- June, 23rd 2019David P
  Ultimately it depends on the cruise line's specific requirements. We always recommend travelers carry a passport book for all international travel. In the event of an emergency. you will need a valid passport to fly home.
May, 16th 2019Danielle
I am arriving on a close-loop cruise without a passport. Will I be able to fly between islands as long as I return to my original port?
- May, 23rd 2019David P
  No, you would need a passport book which is why the US govt recommends a passport book for all international travel.
April, 1st 2019MXCOAD
I'm traveling my plane from the US to Bahamas on April 27 & returning May 4th, Passport expires on Oct 6th of this year. I am okay to travel there correct? Airline is AA
- April, 11th 2019David P
  You only need 3 months of validity for the Bahamas so you will be fine.
January, 7th 2019Sheila Marsh
My daughter and her boyfriend are going to Bahamas on a loop cruise. He doesn't have a valid passport but will be using a birth certificate and drivers license. However the names are spelled slightly different. Elliot vs. Elliott. will that be a problem?
- January, 7th 2019David P
  He should confirm with the cruiseline if this is acceptable for their policy.
- March, 14th 2019Jim h
  Yes, likely a problem since the Cruise line has to submit matching docs to ICE for closed loops.
January, 3rd 2018Michelle Davis
If I'm going to the Bahamas can I need a passport card or passport book
- January, 28th 2018Alison Kroulek
  It depends. On a closed-loop cruise that begins and ends at the same US port, you can use a passport card. For anything else, you need a passport book.
August, 18th 2017Amber Marie Herrera
Hi! If traveling to the Bahamas from U.S on a closed looped cruise, what happens in the event of an emergency and you didn't use a passport, you only have your birth certificate?
- August, 25th 2017Alison Kroulek
  You would need to contact the nearest US Embassy for help. That's why it's best to have a passport!
July, 28th 2017Jay Andre
It has been a monumental hassle for me to try and get a passport card to go to the Bahamas at the end of Sept!!! I'm 75 and some friends want to take me on a 4 day cruise, leaving Fri.& coming back Mon., out of Miami. The reason getting a passport card has become a colossal pain in the ass is, the name on my birth certificate is different than what it is now. My dad change our very difficult to pronounce Italian name when I started school at age 5 or 6. The other issue I'm encountering is that my parents names are not on my birth certificate, nor is there a seal of any kind. It is however a legal document from New York city, in Manhattan, not from the hospital. And yesterday, 7-27-2017, I found out that up until Sept.11th, 2001, parents names weren't, and didn't have to appear on birth certificates. So, my question to you is, since my name is different on my birth certificate than all my other identification's, what other forms of i.d. will be acceptable? Thank you. Sincerely, Jay Andre
- August, 25th 2017Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jay, you might find this list of primary and secondary proof of citizenship documents helpful. I would collect as many secondary proof of citizenship documents as possible: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/information/identification.html
July, 27th 2017Anna
I'm an F1 student in the USA. I changed my status from J1 here and have been in the country for several years (without leaving). It says that if it is the closed loop, the US passport is not required. I have US driver's license and travel with it all over the US. Can I go to this cruise to Bahamas or I might not be allowed to come back?
June, 24th 2017Isaac Gray
Im a permanent resident, residing in the US and have Foreign pass, can I travel by air to the Bahama with my foreign pass or do I need a visa?
- August, 25th 2017Alison Kroulek
  You should be fine as long as you're not planning to stay longer than 30 days: https://www.bahamas.com/entry-requirements
March, 9th 2017Keno Brown
My girlfriend wants to visit the BAHAMAS with me we are going by ferrie from ft lauderdale will a us passport be just fine????? Will there be any issues departing from the us or arivving into the BAHAMAS.
- March, 20th 2017Alison Kroulek
  A US passport should be perfectly fine, Keno. Have a great trip!
February, 10th 2017Jennifer
Hello, Just double-checking. If I'm cruising with Royal Caribbean and I'm headed out of and Orlando, FL port that is going to travel to the Bahamas' and back to the same port in Florida, I do NOT need a passport. Correct? Thank you!
- February, 13th 2017Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jennifer, You shouldn't NEED one, but I'd advise you to check with your cruise line. Also, consider getting one if you have time in case there's an emergency of some sort. You can't fly outside of the US without one.
January, 30th 2017Angie
Riding a ferry from Fort Lauderdale FL to Bahamas, will we need passports fro this??
- January, 31st 2017Alison Kroulek
  Hi Angie, You should have a passport or a passport card.
November, 28th 2016bob
we have a mom and her daughter and her two boys from indonesdia that want to take a short cruise to Nassau. What do they did for a visa and how do you obtain one?
- November, 29th 2016Alison Kroulek
  Hi Bob, Contact the nearest Bahamian Embassy or consulate.
May, 11th 2016Sweetie
Good evening I am going on a cruise leving out of Florida in June do we needed passports.
- May, 11th 2016Alison Kroulek
  Hi Sweetie, As long as you're returning to the same port, probably not. Do check with your cruise line, however- I can't be 100% sure without knowing your itinerary. However, it's still a good idea to have one so that you can easily fly back home in case of emergency, or fly to the next port if you miss the boat.
October, 31st 2015María
I have polítical asallium and I have my work permit in the USA and my social and I want to go on a closed loop cruise and I have my drivers license and I have my birth certificate but it's Venezuelan. Would that be ok to go with that?
- November, 2nd 2015Alison Kroulek
  Hi Maria, We recommend you contact the cruise line and/or the embassies for the cruise destinations to see what paperwork they require. Thanks!
October, 3rd 2015lisa
my husband and I are planning a trip to the Bahamas in December we will be flying out of Chattanooga .we are both UNITED STATES CITIZENS ,we have a drivers license and a birth certificate ,,, do we still need a passport ??? thank you
- October, 5th 2015Alison Kroulek
  Hi Lisa, Yes, if you are flying to the Bahamas you definitely need a passport.
March, 17th 2013Keith
Hi, I have the same question that has been asked many times. Your answers seem a little confusing. On a closed loop cruise from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas, as a US citizen will I need a passport to actually get off of the ship in the Bahamas? I know I need a drivers license and birth certificate to get on the ship initially and once again to deboard once back to Port Canaveral, but specifically do I need a passport to explore off ship while docked in the Bahamas?
March, 1st 2013Alison Kroulek
Hi Nicole, That should be fine, as it is a closed-loop cruise. However, please double-check with your cruise line to make sure they don't require additional documentation. Have a great trip!
February, 27th 2013Nicole
I am planning to travel on a 4 days and 3 nights cruise to the Bahamas on march 22nd to march 25th. We departing from Miami, FL and docking back in Miami, Fl. I'm assuming my cruise is a "closed loop" cruise since we are not staying in the Bahamas but actually on the cruise itself. I am not sure if I am going to need a passport or if my birth certificate and DL is proof enough of my citizenship to board. Please help!
February, 24th 2013Alison Kroulek
A passport card should be fine, Nathan, but please do double-check with your cruise line.
February, 24th 2013nathan brooks
yes i'm leaveing port of palm beach takeing a cruise to nassau bahamas staying 2 days and returning to port of palm beach do i need a passport book or can i use a card instead
February, 14th 2013Alison Kroulek
You should be fine with a driver's license and birth certificate/naturalization certificate, but please confirm that with your cruise line as they have the final authority over whether or not you board. Have a great trip!
February, 8th 2013William
Want to go on a cruise out of and back in to Charleston, South Carolina with stops in Nassau, the Bahamas and Freeport, the Bahamas. Do I need a passport for any portion of this itinerary?
February, 1st 2013Alison Kroulek
Hi Suresh, Please check with the cruise line to see what documentation she needs. Also, if she doesn't have her green card yet I would check with the Bahamas Embassy and make sure she doesn't need to apply for a visa in advance.
January, 26th 2013suresh
I m a US citizen and my wife got a greencard through me but it was submitted to federal building and then they stamped extension in her passport until Jan 2014. Is that enough to travel to bahamas freeport and nassau on carnival's cruise starting in NEW YORK pier ? Please help
November, 30th 2012Alison Kroulek
Hi Latoya, Yes, and you should contact the Department of Vital Records where you born to get a new copy of your birth certificate. This page from the CDC will show you who to contact: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/w2w.htm Or, if you're in a hurry, we recommend VitalChek: http://www.vitalchek.com/birth-certificates
November, 27th 2012Latoya
My birth certificate is torn and has my maiden name as my last name. Will I also need to take my marriage license?
November, 6th 2012Alison Kroulek
Hi Rebecca, For a closed-loop cruise, the birth certificate is meant to serve as proof of citizenship. Since your birth certificate is from Canada, it's not going to work as proof of citizenship to get you back in the US, I'm afraid. As the daughter of a US citizen, do you not qualify for US citizenship yourself? IF so, you really should apply for a passport and/or a Certificate of Citizenship as soon as possible- the longer you wait, the harder it may be to find relevant documents to back up your claim. (If you already have a Certificate of Citizenship, you can just take that on your cruise.) For a passport, you'll need secondary evidence of US Citizenship, since I'm assuming one of the pieces of paperwork your mom didn't get is a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Here's some information on how to do that. I hope it helps! http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/secondary_evidence/secondary_evidence_4315.html
November, 2nd 2012Rebecca
I was born in Canada and brought to the U.S. at 6 months old. My mom who is a U.S. citizen did not fill out some paperwork that was necessary but she was unaware of this. I have a canadian birth certificate, a florida DL, and would love to go on a cruise to the Bahama's closed loop cruise. I have a social security card and DL but will they accept a canadian birth certificate and florida DL since I obviously do not have a passport (too confusing)? Thanks
October, 21st 2012Alison Kroulek
Hi Frank, That should be fine, but please go ahead and double-check with the cruise line as well. Have a great trip!
October, 18th 2012Frank klavora
Is a pennsylvania I D card and birth certificate good enough to go on a closed loop cruise to bahamas?
September, 16th 2012Alison Kroulek
Hi Ronak, Please contact the Bahamian embassy and your cruise line to verify their requirements. Good luck!
September, 11th 2012ronak
i am going to bahamas this month on the carnival cruise . leaving from baltimore port and coming back to baltimore port. is it ok to travel just with the green card and drivers license or do need to have passport too. my passport is being renewed and it wont be ready by the cruise date. will i be fine with carnival cruise of just having green card with me with drivers license. i have the receipt from india embassy saying it is in the process of being reissued. please let me know asap. it would be helpful!
August, 12th 2012Latisha Louderback
Hi I wanted to know if I am goin on a cruise to the Bahamas leaving from Baltimore and returning to Baltimore do I need a passport or can I just use a birth certificate.
- August, 14th 2012Kerri Kaufmann
  Hi Latisha, You should be fine with your birth certificate and your driver's license, but please double-check with your cruise line. Have a great trip!
July, 15th 2012Alison Kroulek
Hi Sally, You should bring the marriage certificates for each marriage, yes, just to connect your current name to the one on your birth certificate. They may not even ask for it...but sometimes they do, and it's always better to be safe than sorry when your vacation is on the line! Have a great cruise!
July, 12th 2012Sally
Hi Allison, I need to receive renewed passport by August 10. The $182.72 fee to receive it in 2-3 weeks is awful steep for me these days. Would rather take my chances and pay $110 to receive it within 4-6 weeks. But if I don't receive it in time, I can bring my drivers' license and birth certificate. My question is: Since I'm married now and was married and divorced before, do I have to bring 1st marriage certificate, divorce certificate, and second marriage certificate since, of course, my birth certificate shows my maiden name?
July, 5th 2012nayeli
Hi I am going to the bahamas in a close loop cruise in august. I recently got my US naturalization, I was wondering if I can use that with my ID to travel? It is kind of late for me to get my passport in time!
- July, 6th 2012Kerri Kaufmann
  Hi Nayeli, Congratulations on becoming a citizen! As long as it's a closed-loop cruise you should be able to use your naturalization certificate along with a government-issued photo ID, but please call your cruise line and verify that as soon as possible, since they have final authority over whether you board or not. Have a great trip!
June, 18th 2012Shaun
Can I go on a cruise if I am on probation? I'm ready for a change of scenery. Thanks!
- June, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Shaun, That's a question for your probation officer, I'm afraid. Good luck!
June, 13th 2012Jehana
Hi Alison! We want to travel to the Bahamas to/from Florida on our own boat with our children. The adult have passports, but kids do not (all under 18). We have birth certificates for all, but wonder if the no passport for a closed loop cruise rule applies to private boats as well. Where can I find this info in writing from a government source?
- June, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jehana, As long as they're under 16, they can use birth certificates. If you have any older teenagers, though, they need at least passport cards. See GetYouHome.gov for more details.
June, 12th 2012tracey
Hi Alison. I have been reading some of your5 questions and answers and I see that you have been telling people that if it is closed loop you do not need a passport and who would know better than you but anyways. My husband and I received a cruise to the bahamas for mothers and fathers day and some people that I know that travel alot are saying the laws have changed and NOW you do need a passport. Its all very confusing for something I will probably only do this one time and I really do not want to purchase a passport for this reason. do I or dont I? Thank you for your time. have a great day.
- June, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Tracey, If its closed loop, you shouldn't, but contact your cruise line just to be on the safe side. Or you could get a passport card, which is cheaper (though keep in mind it's not usable for air travel.) Good luck and have fun!
June, 6th 2012Kenl
My wife was born in Jamaica W.I and is currently a us citizen we are traveling to Bahamas by cruise ship (closed Loop) other then a valid driver license what else will she need to travel.
- June, 11th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Keni, She needs proof of citizenship, so her naturalization certificate or a passport card. Have a great trip!
May, 15th 2012Kevin Perron
Hey my kid and i are planing to got to the bahamas on our persolal boat. My kids are 17, 14, and 7. do i need a passport as well as my kids? And if not, what is needed?
- May, 25th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Kevin, The 14 and 7-year-olds can get by with just their birth certificates, though please note they will need a certified copy with a raised seal. You and the 17-year-old need a passport or a passport card. That said, since you need a passport book to fly from the Bahamas, it might be best if you all had them just in case there were some sort of emergency and you had to fly back.
May, 10th 2012Jake
I am going on a carnival cruise too the bahamas out of florida and returning too the same port in florida do i need a passport too get off the boat or will a dl and birth certificate be good enough?
- May, 14th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jake, a birth certificate and driver's license should be fine, but please call your cruise line to confirm. Thanks!
April, 25th 2012Nick Reynolds
4/25/12 Do I need a Passport to get in the Bahamas? Nick Reynolds
- April, 26th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Nick, Possibly, it depends on how you're traveling. Please read the article for further details, and then let us know if you have any questions. Thanks!
April, 25th 2012Jojo
If I want to travel to the Bahamas but I’m not a US. Citizen, but I have my permanent resident green card. How do I apply to get a passport?
- April, 26th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jojo, Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for your country of origin. Have a great trip!
April, 19th 2012Alex
Im an exchange student and my host family are going to Florida and Bahamas by cruise ship. My organization said i cant go because i dont have visa. Is that true? I search and found that can use passport is that right? Can u help by answer me quick please, if i cant go i have to stay home alone.
- April, 19th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Alex, that depends on which country you're a citizen of. Call the Bahamaian Embassy and ask what you'll need, then contact the cruise line to confirm.
April, 15th 2012Desiree
My boyfriend and I would like to go on a cruise for his birthday. I've read all the q&a's and I know you said, as long as it's a closed loop. Well this is my question, the cruise we want to go on, is a western caribbean cruise and we stop at 3 different places. Do we need passports to be able to get off & enjoy those places? Or is the driver's license & birth certificate ok? If so, do we need to carry our birth certificates & dl's on us at all times? we will be departing from tampa bay & returning there.
- April, 17th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Desiree, You don't tell me where you're stopping, so my recommendation to you is simply to contact your cruise line about what documents you need. Have a great cruise!
April, 3rd 2012Renee
Hello, I am going on a cruise next week with Carnival to the Bahamans (closed loop cruise) and was trying to save a few dollars and not get a passport. Cruise line is telling me that I will be OK with Original Birth Certificate with seal (which is foreign as my Dad was military) but I am hearing that I might not be able to get off the boat in the Bahamas without a passport. We are only there for a day so I am trying to get a clear answer, any suggestions? Thanks!
- April, 4th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Renee, From the Department of State: "Travel by Sea: Americans may enter the Unites States from The Bahamas by sea using a passport, passport card, or other Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document."
March, 19th 2012jessica
my 6 year old son is a US citizen we live in the Bahamas am Bahamian his passport expired this month will he be able to travel back to the US on the expired passport and his birth certificate his father lives in the US and will have to be present for me to do the new one
- March, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jessica, Head to the nearest US Embassy and you should be able to get your son a new passport. The father doesn't have to be present; you can get him to fill out a copy of Form DS-3053 from the Department of State's website, get it notarized and send it to you to get the passport issued. Good luck!
March, 17th 2012Laura
Hi there, we are planning on going on our friends boat from west palm beach fl to Freeport Bahamas. Does my one year old need a passport?? Thank you
- March, 18th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Laura, No, as long as you're traveling by sea you can just bring along his or her birth certificate as proof of citizenship. Have a great trip!
March, 13th 2012santos pagan
AM FROM PUERTO RICO..AM PLANING A TRIP..FROM FLORIDA TO BAHAMAS..CAN I USED MY PUERTO RICO LICENSE N BIRTHCERTIFICATE..SINCE I FLY TRAVEL WITH THOSE PAPERS N LICENSE..CAN I DO THE SAME WITH CRUISE...IT LEAVE FROM PORT AND ARRIVE SAME PORT...IN FLORIDA...
- March, 15th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Santos, That should be fine, but please contact your cruise line. Thanks!
March, 6th 2012JESSICA
If I want to travel to Atlantis with my kids do we all need passports travel from Texas?
- March, 8th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jessica, Yes, if you're flying to the Bahamas you do need passports (the passport books, not the cards). The only way you would not need a passport would be if you were on a closed-loop (beginning and ending at the same US port) cruise that stopped in the Bahamas.
March, 4th 2012venetrice
Hello! I want to visit sum1 in da bahamas and stay a few nights. Will i ned a passport or can i just use my DL and birth certificate
- March, 5th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Venetrice, You will need a passport. Have a great trip!
February, 6th 2012Ronica
I copied and pasted the below passage from Discovery Cruise line, why are they stating that a passport is needed? I am a U.S. Citizen, what travel documents do I need? Do I need a passport? U.S. citizens aged 16 and above, are required to be in possession of a valid passport or passport card when traveling with Discovery to or from the Bahamas. Please note that passport application receipts will not be accepted for travel. American citizens 15 years of age and under born in the U.S. require either a valid non-cancelled passport or an original state issued birth certificate (issued by the Department of Health & Vital Statistics). Please note that copies of birth certificates are not acceptable. American citizens 15 years of age and under born outside the U.S. require either an American valid non-cancelled passport or an original naturalization certificate.
- February, 7th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Ronica, I'm not sure, actually. If it's a closed-loop cruise from a US port, all you are legally required to have to get back into the US is a driver's license and a birth certificate. You may need the passport if your itinerary involves staying some nights on the island rather than in the ship. Otherwise, cruise lines are allowed to set their own requirements above and beyond what the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requires, so it may just be that Discovery doesn't want to carry people without passports or passport cards. Either way, you need to follow the cruise line's guidelines since they determine whether or not you get to board the ship. That's why we always advise people to check with their cruise lines, just to be sure. Enjoy your trip!
January, 25th 2012Beverly Brock
HELP!!! Me and some girlfriends are heading out for the Bahamas out of Charleston tommorow but one of my friends cannot find her birth certificate, just a certificate of birth and her passport is expired. Is there anyway she can still board even if she doesn't get off the ship in port?
- January, 25th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Beverly, Probably not. ID and a birth certificate (official copy with a raised, embossed or watermarked seal) is the minimum requirement for passengers on closed-loop Caribbean cruises, and it's highly unlikely the ship will let her board without it. Could she get another copy of her birth certificate by going to the Department of Vital Records where she was born?
December, 14th 2011Jackie
If you aren't a citizen of the US but you have a valid drivers license and a birth certificate is that enough to be able to go on a cruise to the Bahamas?
- December, 15th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jackie, If you're a permanent resident, you'll need your permanent resident card. Contact your cruise line and the Bahamian Embassy to see if you also need a passport. Have a great trip!
November, 3rd 2011Lece
Hi was wonder can i travel straight to miami with my expired passport and other documents of identfication to et my passport renewed?
October, 8th 2011Rashi
Hi, I am an Indian citizen, living in US on valid long term US visa(L1 visa). I am taking a closed loop cruise from Miami to Bahamas and back. Please let me know if I need to have Bahamas Visa also. Thanks so much!!! Regards, Rashi
- October, 10th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Rashi, Contact the Embassy of the Bahamas to see what their requirements are. Here is their contact information: 2220 Massachusetts Avenue, North West Washington United States Phone: +1-202-3192660 +1-202-3192667
September, 21st 2011Lewis
I want to take my fiancee to a closed-loop cruise for are anniversary she in the US on a visa so do i need to get somthing to take her to the Bahamas?
- September, 28th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Lewis, Contact the cruise line to see what she needs. Thanks, and have a great cruise!
September, 7th 2011Letty
I want to take my mother to the Bahamas in November but she only has her Permanent resident Card, can she go with us with only that? and if not please advice what she needs. Thank you.. Letty
- September, 15th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Letty, She'll probably need both her permanent resident card and a valid passport, which in most cases she'll be able to get at the embassy of the country in which she is a citizen. Hope this helps!
August, 27th 2011John
Extension of my last post... a closed loop cruise. Maimi-Bahamas-Miami
- August, 31st 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi John, According to the WHTI you should be okay, but contact your cruise line as they may require a valid passport and the ports you stop at may require a valid passport. Good luck!
August, 27th 2011John
I am a British Citizen living in the US with a Resident Alien card my passport has expired. Will I need a Temp(emergency) passport as my trip is in a week from Miami to the Bahamas or will my Green Card and Drivers license be enough?
August, 22nd 2011vanessa mcintosh
Question concerning documentation drivers license and birthcertificate..will be cruising carnval, miami to bahamas in a couple of weeks, worried about birth certificate name not matching my drivers license, due to marriagehave been told to bring marriage license, it doesn't match either married several times and a judge issue name change. Not sure what I need to do?? Anyone else have this problem.. Help
- August, 25th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Vanessa, When the judge issued your name change, did those documents have your maiden name on it? If so, you could bring that instead of/along with the marriage certificate. I would contact Carnival, if you haven't already. You should be fine with just your birth certificate and marriage certificate- this is not an uncommon situation, after all. But check with them first, explain the situation clearly, and see what they say, as they have the final authority over whether you board or not. Have a great cruise!
August, 22nd 2011Archie
What if I plan on taking my personal yacht to the Bahamas.Will I need a passport or just my boat registration & drivers license?
- August, 25th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Archie, You'll need a passport or a passport card. The driver's license/birth certificate option is only available if you're on a closed-loop cruise, like with Carnival. Have a great trip!
August, 8th 2011AaronR
We will be flying from Nework
- August, 13th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Aaron, No, you will not be okay with just birth certificates if you are flying to the Bahamas. When you take a plane out of the country, all passengers, no matter how young, must have a passport book. Birth certificates are only acceptable for children traveling to the Bahamas by sea.
August, 8th 2011AaronR
So I have twin 14 month old girls and we are thinking of going to the Bahamas in fFeb. Will they need passports or will birth certificates be okay.
July, 27th 2011MINERVA B
Hi, I planing a trip to FREEPORT BAHAMAS, FROM NEW YORK CITY, DO I NEED A PASSPORT OR COULD I USE MY BIRTH CERTIFICATED AND ID? AND HOW LONG DO THEY TAKE? THANKS
July, 14th 2011PAM
If I'm a felon and don't have a passport will I be able to cruise to the Bahamas with just my driver's license and birth certificate, or is there something else I must do before I make cruise reservations?
- July, 20th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Pam, All you should need in terms of ID is your driver's license and birth certificate, but do call the Embassy of the Bahamas first to make sure your history won't keep you from being able to enter. Hopefully that won't be a problem, but it's always better to know beforehand. Good luck!
July, 11th 2011Kelly Mcgruder
I am traveling to Paradise Island, Bahamas in August and have a current U.S. pass port. My passport is good for several more years but does not have my married name on it. Can I travel with my maiden name on my passport if I bring along my marriage license? HELP!
- July, 13th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Kelly, Due to the US government's Secure Flight Initiative, the name on your tickets/boarding pass must match the name on the government-issued ID you're using to travel. For an international trip, that's your passport, and so if you've booked your ticket under your married name you'll need to get the name changed on your passport. More information here: http://www.tsa.gov/what_we_do/layers/secureflight/
July, 1st 2011Mike parsons
If I take my own private boat to the bahamas from palm beach, and back does that comply with closed loop? Or is closed loop only for commercial cruise lines?
- July, 1st 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Mike, Closed-loop is only for commercial cruise lines. For a private boat, you'll need a passport or a passport card. Have a great trip!
June, 30th 2011majic
hi , i'm from saudi arabia and i go to school in usa and i would like to go to bahamas do i need visa or do i need to take my passport with me ?? what i need to take ...? thank you .
- July, 1st 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Majic, You'll need your passport and a tourist visa. You can apply for the tourist visa here: http://bahamas.visahq.com/requirements/Saudi_Arabia/resident-United_States/
June, 26th 2011Savannah
What states have the enhanced driver's license?
- June, 30th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Savannah, Currently, just Michigan, New York, Washington and Vermont.
June, 13th 2011Lee
Hi I am a U.S. citizen taking a cruise from orlando to nassau with my child (under 16). I understand that since it is a closed-loop cruise we should be fine with certified copies of our birth certificates and photo i.d.s...but, will be have any trouble getting off the ship in nassau without a passport? Also, is there any difference in the entry to the ship in the U.S. like expedited entry if you have a passport versus just birth certificate and photo i.d. or is it just one line for everyone. Please advise. Thanks
May, 31st 2011maria
Please I am going on a 4 day cruise and two of the days they stop at Nassua,Bahamas.I am a permitted resident My card was issue in 1976 and does not expire.I was ten years old and that is the picture on it I have not change much.Do you think I will have a problem?And I have a valid driver license.Please help
- June, 2nd 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Maria, You will probably need to renew it. According to US Citizenship and Immigration Services, if you have a card that doesn't have an expiration date on the front, it's a very old version that is no longer valid. Plus, if you were only 10 when it was issued, you will likely run into trouble if you try to use as ID now. For more information and renewal instructions, see: http://www.uscis.gov/USCIS/Resources/B2en.pdf
May, 21st 2011Fiona
Be safe get a passport otherwise you could be denied boarding!!
May, 19th 2011Junelly
I'm from Cuba.
May, 19th 2011Junelly
Hi, im a U.S resident, i have my permanent resident car and im going to the Bahamas on a private boat, my passport is expired, can i go with my resident card and expired passport?
- May, 19th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Junelly, That's no problem as far re-entering the US is concerned; however, you may need a valid passport to enter the Bahamas. It depends on the country you're a citizen of. Call the Bahamian Embassy and see what you need. More info here: http://www.bahamas.com/vacation-planning/us-resident-non-citizen and here: http://www.bahamas.gov.bs/bahamasweb2/home.nsf/vContentW/47AF6CB888DEC02885257754004F27DD
May, 16th 2011brandy
if my husband and i were to leave from miami to go on a cruise to the bahamas and owe back child support would we need passports or just our driver license and original birth certificate
- May, 18th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Brandy, In most cases, you should be fine with your driver's license and birth certificate but please confirm this with your cruise line prior to travel. Have a great trip!
May, 5th 2011Ernie
My Girlfriend is from Cuba, She is a permanent US resident and has a green card, but she lost her cuban passport. Do she need her passport to go on a cruise from Miami to bahama and back to Miami? Thank you for you answer.
- May, 18th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Ernie, All the US requires of her is her green card. However, the Bahamas appears to require US permanent residents to show a valid passport from their native country and their green card. See below for more details, and call the Bahamas Embassy if you have further questions about what she'll need to get in: http://www.bahamas.com/vacation-planning/us-resident-non-citizen Good luck!
April, 28th 2011Kaitlyn
I am going on a carnival cruise to the bahamas I will leave from Miami and return to Miami will I need a passport? If we get out and onto land?
- May, 18th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Kaitlyn, You should be fine with just your driver's license and a birth certificate, but please check with your cruise line for their requirements. Have a great trip!
April, 26th 2011Jake Z
Is Florida one of the states that has the enhanced Driver License? If so and I get one is that all I will need for the cruise to the bahamas?
- April, 26th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jake, No, but if it's a closed-loop cruise, one that begins and ends at the same US port, you can just use a regular driver's license and a certified copy of your birth certificate in most cases. Please contact your cruise line to verify what you need.
April, 25th 2011Julie
Hi, I just won a trip to the bahamas and I was hoping to bring my boyfriend but he doesnt have a passport. Could he get a passport card instead or is it required to have the passport book?
- April, 26th 2011Alison Kroulek
  It depends - he can use the passport card if you're traveling there by sea, but if you're flying in he has to have a passport book. Congratulations, and I hope you both enjoy your trip!
April, 17th 2011Tracey H.
I have the chance to go to fly the Bahamas on short notice with work. My daughter does not have a a us passport, but she does have a permanent resident card. Will she need a US passprt to get back onto the plane and admitted into the US?
- April, 19th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Tracey, No, if she's a permanent resident all she'll need is her permanent resident card and a valid passport from the country she's a citizen of. Have a great time!
April, 7th 2011Bob
Hi, I have a question I will be going on a cruise this year, I am a permanent resident, and have a greencard, my national passport from the country I was born in however is expired, will i be able to go on a royal caribbean cruise to mexico, under close loop sailing is this all i require(green card), since I (will depart from the same port in fort lauderdale that I leave from), or do I need to get my passport renewed, renewing the passport is not really an option though.
- April, 8th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Bob, Unfortunately, as a permanent resident you'll need both your green card and a valid passport. See below for more details: http://www.royalcaribbean.com/beforeyouboard/passportGuidelines.do
March, 21st 2011Jodi
Hi, we are from Seattle, we have teenagers and want to book a trip to Atlantis in the bahamas. Do we need passports ?
February, 26th 2011Jean
Am a permanent resident and have my permanent resident card with me. is that all i need, or do i still need to get a passport?
- February, 27th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jean, You'll need your passport (from the country you're currently a citizen of) and your permanent resident card. Hope this helps!
February, 10th 2011Carolyn W
I'm worried about the person who didn't know that Hawaii was part of the US.
January, 30th 2011Alla K
I will be going to from miami to bahamas and bahamas to miami. If am not US Citizen, just permanent resident. Do i bring my permanent resident card? Thank You
- January, 30th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Alla, Yes, you'll need to bring your permanent resident card. Have a great trip!
January, 29th 2011Cynthia
Hello, I plan on going on a Carnival cruise to the Bahamas. It start out in Miami and ends in the same port. I have an Argentine passport with a multiple entry Visa to go to the U.S., would this be all I need? I'm a bit worried since I already purchased the tickets, thank you.
- January, 30th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Cynthia, It sounds like you should be fine, but do contact your cruise line just to be on the safe side. Have a great trip!
January, 14th 2011R. Iacino
I just sent in my passport for renewal. How do I go to the bahamas Sunday?
- January, 18th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Well, if you're going on a closed-loop cruise you can use your driver's license and birth certificate. If not, you need a passport. It's unfortunate that you've already sent it off. I would call the National Passport Center and see if they can help: 1-877-487-2778 Best of luck!
December, 28th 2010kelly
My mom is taking a friend and I on a cruise to the bahamas for a girls weekend. I'm 18 and my friend is 20. I was told we only needed license and birth certificate, but I was just wondering if that was right. Were leaving from florida and will be returning to florida.. And if my friend isn't my moms daughter will she be okay with just her license and certificate too, or will she need a passport? Thank you
- January, 8th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Yes, you all should be fine. Enjoy your cruise!
December, 10th 2010Jeff
I am leaving Florida on a cruise ship to go to the Bahamas. I will be getting off the ship to get onto the island and then back on the ship to go back to Florida. Do I need a passport. Thanks
- December, 16th 2010Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jeff, You should be fine with just a certified copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license, but double-check with your cruise line to be sure. Enjoy your cruise!
November, 29th 2010Lionel harrison
If I'm leaving to the Bahamas from the u.s. Can I use a Colombian passport
- December, 2nd 2010Alison Kroulek
  Hi Lionel, I don't see why not, if you're a Columbian citizen. Bring your green card, too.
November, 9th 2010Maranda Franklin
Would I need a passport if i'm going on a cruise from the port of baltimore to the bahamas?
- November, 18th 2010Alison Kroulek
  Hi Miranda, As long as you return to the Port of Baltimore, you cruise is closed-loop and you can just use your birth certificate and ID as described above. Enjoy!
July, 12th 2010samatha
Do I need a passport to take my boat from miami to the bahamas for the day.
- July, 24th 2010Alison Kroulek
  Yes, you need your passport or another WHTI-compliant document.
July, 7th 2010Shirley
Going on a cruise from miami to bahamas.. with my 16 yr old daughter..do we need passports?
- July, 8th 2010Alison Kroulek
  Hi Shirley, Possibly. If the cruise begins and ends in Miami, you can just bring your driver's license and your birth certificate. However, if you can get a passport before you go, that'd be best because it would mean you could fly home in case of an emergency.
June, 28th 2010haze
hey i am going to hawai tomarrow by plane,US to Hawai and hawai to US do i need a passport?
- July, 8th 2010Alison Kroulek
  No, you don't need a passport because Hawaii is part of the US.
June, 26th 2010misty!
what if you are 13 without the orignal birth certifite going to a crusie to the bahamas and startss and ends in orlando????
- July, 8th 2010Alison Kroulek
  Hi Misty, You'll still need your birth certificate to use as proof of citizenship. You can order a copy here: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/w2w.htm
June, 22nd 2010Cristina
Hey am from Maimi. And i wanted to know if I go on a cruise will I need a passport. Thank tou!
- June, 25th 2010Alison Kroulek
  Hi Cristina, It depends. Where are you cruising to?
May, 26th 2010Joy
I called Rush my Passport today and I was told you must have a passportt cruising to the Bahama's from the US. On this site it said "No" could use license and birth certificate. Would you please clarity this for me. Thank you. PS Also, Mexico, a loop cruise from the USA.
- May, 27th 2010Alison Kroulek
  Hi Joy, As long as its a closed-loop cruise (beginning and ending at the same US port), you should be fine to re-enter the US with your driver's license and birth certificate (make sure it's the official copy, not a hospital copy, though). BUT I would actually call the cruise line to double-check- Mexico is requiring passports for US citizens to enter if they are traveling beyond the "border zone," which is usually 20 to 30 km in but varies depending on location. So, again, I would urge you to call your cruise line before you try to board with your license and birth certificate. They'll be able to tell you for sure if you need a passport or not. Also, remember that you have to have a passport for air travel to/from Mexico and the Bahamas, so it's best to have one for a cruise just in case you need to fly back for any reason, or in case you miss the boat at port and need to fly somewhere to catch up to it. Enjoy your vacation!