Can I re-enter the U.S. on the passport expiration date?

Question: I will be taking a cruise to The Bahamas on October 8 and will be returning on the 10th. I was made aware that one now needs a U.S. passport or passport card to travel to The Bahamas. My passport expires on the day I return from the cruise; will I still be allowed to re-enter the United States? I read somewhere that a passport is valid until midnight of the expiration date. Thanks!

Answer: A United States passport is valid until midnight on the date of expiration. Concerning this question, you should have no problem re-entering the United States on the same day that your passport expires.

A passport book or passport card is required to re-enter the United States when traveling to The Bahamas unless the cruise is a closed-loop cruise. In such cases, passports are not required. Is the cruise you plan to take a closed-loop cruise? If so, a passport is not required to re-enter the U.S.

A passport is not required on a closed-loop cruise unless the countries which you will be visiting require such. The entry requirements for the Bahamas includes evidence of citizenship, proof of onward journey and proof of funds to support visit. A passport is acceptable as evidence of citizenship. However, an original or certified birth certificate and photo ID is also acceptable.

We recommend you contact the cruise line to verify the travel document requirements for your cruise.