Important: Processing times recently changed for both routine and expedited passport applications.

Passport for Cruise to Bahamas

by Cheryl
(Burlington, NC)

Question: We are planning on taking our teenage grandson on a cruise this summer, probably to the Bahamas. Does he need a passport? It could possibly go to Bermuda but would not go to Europe or such. We would need it by June or July.


Answer: U.S. citizens traveling to The Bahamas by sea on private watercraft or most commercial vessels must have a valid passport.

Those traveling by sea on an officially-designated “closed-loop cruise”, meaning that the port of entry is the same port as the port of re-entry upon return to the U.S., may enter using a passport, passport card, or other Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document. However, it is prudent to obtain a passport before travel in case of an unforeseen emergency that requires a cruise passenger to disembark and return by air.

Please verify with your cruise line if your intended cruise is designated a closed-loop cruise and whether or not you need a passport.

Return to Passports for Cruises.

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UPDATE:

High demand and mailing delays are impacting how long it takes to get a passport.

  • Standard service is currently taking between 7 and 10 weeks.
  • Expedited service is currently taking between 3 to 5 weeks.

NOTE: Processing times begin when applications are received at a passport agency or center. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.

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