With new passport requirements, do I need a passport to visit Tijuana, Mexico? I'm going from San Diego, CA.

Question

This is a bus trip where you go to San Diego for several hours. I was told only a birth certificate was required, however, I don't want my family to be stuck in Mexico.

Answer 1

If you are driving into Tijuana....no you don't need a passport until 2008(well unless you aren't american...they usually don't ask for it, a drivers license is usually fine)....now if your flying....then you DO need it...Trust me...I travel there all the time so I know...you can also visit the homeland security page


"As early as January 1, 2008, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security"

Answer 2

There are a lot of people here who are giving you false information. If you actually check the links in other posts, you'll find that you need a passport if returning by AIR or SEA from Mexico, but you don't yet need one if you cross a land border. The passport rule at land borders will go into effect in December of 2007. You can confirm this by checking http://www.nbta.org/Government/WHTI.htm .

So, NO you don't yet need a passport to visit Tijuana from San Diego. However, it's never a dumb idea to have a passport in case anything should come up.

Answer 3

Well the new passport requirement is only needed when you fly for now so if you are taking this trip this year all you need is your birth certificate if you are a US citizen if you are only a us resident make sure you take your resident alien card. You wil need a passport to travel by land until January 2008. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

My understanding was that only those flying out of the country would need passports. Next year all travelers would need passports if going out of the country by plane, trains and/automobiles. But to be on the safe side, you might want to call the border patrol for a more information.

Answer 5

Under the new rules anytime you cross the us border, you need your passport to get back in. Just to resolve your doubts though, I would CALL the US State department and ask a live person....know what i mean? Hope this helps.

Answer 6

As of January, yes a passport is needed. You can leave but without it US BCIS won't let you return. Its the same for just going out to dinner in Windsor, Ontario.

Answer 7

Yes, you need a passport if you are leaving the country but I heard it doesn't come in affect til next year.

Answer 8

Yes, passport needed.

Answer 9

just like you said "passport requirements" every time you leave the country you need one or other wise they will not let you go anywhere.

Answer 10

Hi,,,, the answer is YES,,,, you and your family will have to possess a passport now..... forever... when you leave the US.....

got that!!!

good luck