We are Weslaco.. and We provide you with Passport Information!

The Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce will actively keep you informed of the latest updates on the U.S. passport requirements. It is part of our efforts to assist you as you make travel arrangements to visit Weslaco, Texas. If after reviewing this page you need further assistance, call on us at (956) 968-2102, or visit www.travel.state.gov or www.dhs.gov.

Q. What do I currently need to enter Mexico or Canada?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may accept oral declarations of citizenship from U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry into the United States through a land or sea border. However, as of January 31, 2008:

Q. When will I be required to have a passport to enter Mexico or Canada?

Beginning June 2009 all American citizens will be required to show a passport or other approved identification to enter the country, as announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 27, 2008. The announcement is the latest goal post for the federally mandated border-security law, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, which Congress passed in 2004.

Q. What is the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)?

As recommended by the 9/11 Commission, Congress enacted WHTI in the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. WHTI will result in both enhanced security and increased facilitation across the border once implemented. The WHTI proposes to establish documentation requirements for travelers entering the United States who were previously exempt, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, and Bermuda. During this transition, DHS and the DOS are working diligently to minimize the impact on legitimate trade and travel.

Q. How do I obtain a passport?

To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go in person to one of over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States with two photographs of yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid form of photo identification such as a driver's license.

Acceptance facilities include many Federal, state and probate courts, post offices, some public libraries and a number of county and municipal offices. There are also 13 regional passport agencies, and one Gateway City Agency, which serve customers who are traveling within 2 weeks (14 days), or who need foreign visas for travel. Appointments are required in such cases.

You'll need to apply in person if you are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time: if your expired U.S. passport is not in your possession; if your previous U.S. passport has expired and was issued more than 15 years ago; if your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16; or if your currently valid U.S. passport has been lost or stolen.
For more information on getting a new passport, please visit the U.S. Department of State Website.

Q. How do I renew my passport?

You can renew by mail if: Your most recent passport is available to submit and it is not damaged; you received the passport within the past 15 years; you were over age 16 when it was issued; you still have the same name, or can legally document your name change.

You can get a passport renewal application form at U.S. Department of State Website.

If your passport has been, altered or damaged, you cannot apply by mail. You must apply in person.

For more information on how to renew a passport, please visit the U.S. Department of State Website.

Q. Where can I apply for a passport in Weslaco?

The Weslaco Post Office, located at 109 N. Border. Call 968-7412 for assistance.

Q: What documents are required for air travel?

Implemented on January 23, 2007, all persons traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States.

Q. Where can I obtain more information on passport laws?

Visit the following websites:

www.travel.state.gov
www.dhs.gov