s pass travel requirements

How to Get S-PASS Travel Coordination Permit (TCP)

S-Pass is an online travel management system developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in line with the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) Resolution No. 101.

If you plan on traveling, this website will allow you to check the latest travel policies implemented by the local government units (LGUs) of your destinations and whether or not you need to secure travel permits.

Your destination may be classified as RESTRICTED, UNRESTRICTED or UNRESTRICTED BUT PASSING THROUGH RESTRICTED.

• RESTRICTED – you need to create an S-Pass account to apply for a Travel Coordination Permit (TCP)
• UNRESTRICTED BUT PASSING THROUGH RESTRICTED – you need a Travel Pass-Through Permit (TPP)
• UNRESTRICTED (but not passing through any restricted area) – NO NEED for an S-Pass account, TCP or TPP.

You can go to the S-Pass website to see the current policy of the province you’re planning to visit. Below is a guide on how you can create an S-Pass account.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

How to Create an S-PASS Account

• On your internet browser, go to s-pass.ph .
• Click on REGISTER . The button is located just below the destination search box. You may also go straight to this page .
• Register using your mobile number. Enter your 10 digit mobile number and click NEXT .
• Create your password and fill in your personal details. Once you’ve filled in the details, click SUBMIT .
• Review your information. Double check all the information you provided. Then, complete the captcha and click CONFIRM .

How to Apply for a TCP (Travel Coordination Pass) for Restricted Areas

After you register, you may proceed with the process of applying for a TCP. Here’s how:

• Log in to your account. On the home page, you’ll find the LOG-IN button just below the destination search box. You may also go straight to this log-in page .
• Click on APPLY PERMIT. You’ll find the button under the ARE YOU TRAVELING header.

• Enter your current location and your destination. Places are labeled by province and city or municipality. For example, if you’re traveling to BORACAY, type AKLAN – MALAY because Boracay is in the municipality of Malay in the province of Aklan. Once you’ve entered the destination, you will see if you need to apply for a TCP and the other requirements. If you do, scroll to the bottom of the page and click APPLY FOR TRAVEL COORDINATION PERMIT (TCP) .

• Fill out the S-Pass TCP Application Form. The information you need to provide include: – Full name – Type of traveler (local/foreign tourist, returning resident, etc.) – Emergency contacts – Travel dates – Origin LGU details – Destination LGU details – Mode of transportation Answer the CAPTCHA and click PROCEED .

• Upload the required documents. You’re only allowed to upload one file per item, so when uploading multiple documents as one file (i.e. for OTHER DOCUMENTS), merge them as one file. Click SUBMIT .

You must submit your TCP applications at least 2 days prior to your arrival.

The applications are processed on weekdays, 8:00am to 5:00pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

The date of departure and date of arrival fields are confusing. what’s the difference.

The Date of Departure is the day you board the plane, ship or bus to your destination. The Date of Arrival is the day you’re expected to reach your destination.

For most domestic flights (that are not close to midnight), these are the same dates. For example, if you’re traveling from Manila to Boracay and you’re flight is scheduled to depart NAIA at 8am and arrive in Caticlan at 9am, then the dates are the same.

But there are longer journeys, especially those traveling by bus or those who will connect at another airport. In some of these cases, the date of arrival is different from the date you left your point of origin.

This infographic succinctly explains it.

We get the confusion. It’s easy to assume that the Date of Departure is the date you leave the destination for your return trip, but that’s not the case. It’s the day you leave your point of origin.

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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what other documents/requirements to be uploaded when applying for tcp?

Why I cant see some of the cities in the dropdown, ex Cebu City

How to Get S-PASS: TRAVEL COORDINATION PERMIT (TCP)

Ilang beses na po ako gumagawa ng s-pass kaso nagpepepnding?

do minors need s-pass?

Website responds not currently available when uploading and submitting application for tcp

Please help me..I tell now I can’t..not sign ..S-Pass.going to exam.Pangasinan

Paano po pag mecq yong pangagalingan? Pwede pa rin po ba makakuha ng spass?

Need p b kumuha ng s pass kng uuwi ng cebu kng ngayon dec ang byhahe… gcq na po ang cebu.

Paano nman ung matanda na ndi nman marunong gumamit ng gadget required pa rin ba khit fully vaccinated na.

I dont understand. You’re required to upload the swab test result at least two days before arrival date to get the the tp form, but the swab test they’re requiring should be taken two days before arrival date. So if my arrival date is on a saturday i should submit it on thursday but i can only get swabbes on thursday and results are usually given a day after. So how will it work?

Asking f need s pass tagbilaran going to cebu city

This is still confusing. The one document direction makes for the confusion. What do you mean? You need a LGU residency approval form and results of your rt-pcr test included Also I’d cards etc How is this accomplished all in one document?

Hi Thomas, you may only upload one file per item. For example, for government ID section, one file. For vaccination card/RT PCR test, one file. For items that call for multiple documents at once, you may merge those documents into one file before uploading.

For example, in my case, they ask for hotel reservation and flight booking to be uploaded under one section, what I do is, I take a screenshot of the documents and merge them all as one PDF file (via Word or another app).

I am trying to register for an S-pass.under ” city/ municipality” why is Puerto Princesa not showing up? Can I just click on any Palawan municipality so I can register? Please advise

Hi Elsa. It appears naman sa akin. https://s-pass.ph/pages/requirements/175316

how are foreign non-filipinos supposed to register for the s-pass when we cannot select a region outside the Philippines in the personal details form?

Hi. I will be arriving from Canada in June. For my origin region, I just selected National Capital Region (NCR) as that is where Manila Airport is. What I’m trying to figure out is whether I have an “APPROVED SPASS”. I have registered, received a Personal QR code. Also, do I need a TCP for El-Nido, Palawan? There is no option to apply for a TCP in the SPASS website. It simply says that: For fully vaccinated tourists, requirements are Vax card & Approved S-PASS (Travel Coordination Permit).

This is where I’m stuck as well, there’s an option to apply for the TPP – Travel Pass Through permit but not for the TCP – Travel Coordination Permit. Did they ask you for a TCP in the end?

How did it go? Were you able to present a TCP for El Nido, Palawan?

How about point of origin for non-direct flights? Which one will i put? If I am departing from NAIA then arrived at puerto princesa then from puerto princesa to el nido?

How did it go?

were able to pass pps

Did you make a TCP for both Puerto Princesa and El Nido? Last time i checked, el nido is unrestricted and doesn’t require TCP but i wanna make it sure to make our travel smooth.

How to get traveling s pass

I’m travelling from UK. I’m fully vaccinated. I fly into Manila then I’m visiting Boracay for vacation only. I will then fly back to Manila. Do i need S-Pass?

Hi Andrew, Manila doesn’t require it for travelers from Boracay. And as of July 2022, it’s no longer on the list of Boracay requirements either.

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Traveling Domestically? Here’s How to Register and Apply for S-PaSS

You only need to register using your mobile number. by Ina Louise Manto | October 27, 2021

Travel restrictions may have eased but health and safety protocols still remain. Whether you’re planning a much-needed getaway over the holidays or just a short trip for the next long weekend, you might’ve seen the S-PaSS as a travel requirement by LGUs. Here’s how you can register and apply for it:

What is the S-PaSS?

S-PaSS is a travel management system developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) VI primarily intended to make traveling of Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs), Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs), Emergency Travelers (ETs), and other travelers during the pandemic.

Now that travel restrictions are easing and more local destinations are opening to fully vaccinated tourists, S-PaSS has become a requirement by LGUs for a Safe, Swift, and Smart way to facilitate travels to cities and provinces with travel restrictions.

How does it work?

S-PaSS is the one-stop communication and coordination platform for both travelers and Local Government Units. On the website, you’ll be able to check the travel policies of your destination province or city and its travel requirements with the following categories:

• Restricted – needs Travel Coordination Permit (TCP)
• Unrestricted – no TCP needed
• Unrestricted but passing through restricted – needs Travel Pass-Through Permit (TPP)

You will also be able to apply for travel passes and track your travel history.

Boracay’s New Normal, Travel Requirements, Island Experience | 8List.ph X WindowSeat.ph Boracay’s New Normal, Travel Requirements, Island Experience | 8List.ph X WindowSeat.ph Alain Fusana | Mar 19, 2021

How to apply for S-Pass

After checking your travel destination and finding out you need to secure an S-PaSS, here’s how to do it:

1. Create an S-PaSS account on the website where you’ll use your mobile number to register.

You will also be asked to provide a password and personal details (name, address, gender, e-mail address, age, and client type).

Sample screenshot

2. Apply for a travel pass by logging in using your mobile number.

When applying for a TCP or TPP, you’ll be required to provide personal details and travel details.

3. Upload necessary attachments, review your details and wait for the LGU Action or confirmation.

The Travel Pass-through Permit (TPP) does not need approval by the LGU.

BOOKMARK: Cebu Travel Requirements for Tourists or Non-Essential Travelers BOOKMARK: Cebu Travel Requirements for Tourists or Non-Essential Travelers Ina Louise Manto | Aug 19, 2021

For more information and updates, always visit the website or official page of your travel destination’s LGU. Travel safely and responsibly!

Ina Louise Manto

When she’s not writing, Ina’s busy curating playlists that will save her when words don’t work, reading, annoying her cat, or thinking of her next meal.

Related Posts

Here’s the full list of local destinations fully vaxxed travelers can visit without rt-pcr tests, bookmark: puerto galera travel requirements for your next getaway, psa: bohol waives rt-pcr requirement for fully-vaccinated tourists, post a comment cancel reply.

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S-PaSS for Filipino travelers launched today

Philippine Updates

How to register online on the S-Pass website for Travelers?

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI developed a website called S-Pass. On February 26, 2021, the IATF for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases through Resolution No. 101 has institutionalized the use of S-PaSS nationwide.

What is an S-Pass?

S-PaSS is an online Travel Management System in the Philippines where you can apply for travel documents and check travel restrictions of your destination province, city, or municipality nationwide.

It will help facilitate a safe, swift, and smart coordination of travels to the destination LGUS. The traveler may check if the destination LGU has a restricted or unrestricted travel policy. If the LGU is restricted, they must use S-PaSS to apply for a Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) .

The travelers are free to go to any unrestricted destination LGU, however, it is recommended to generate a Travel Pass-Through Permit (TPP) if they will be passing through LGUs with restricted status.

Key Features of S-Pass

Here are some key feautures of S-Pass

• You can check the travel policy of your destination LGU.
• Apply for a Travel coordination Permit (TCP) to the LGUs with “Restricted” travel policies or Travel Pass-Through Permit (TPP)

Note: The TCP will be acted upon/approved by the destination LGU. To avoid delay in the approval by the LGU of your TCP, please ensure that you have complied with the requirements and the required documents are available for submission online.

• Conveniently track your own travel history.
• Easily access, store and print your travel documents.

S-pass registration

• Visit the website by clicking this link s-pass.ph .
• Create an account using your personal mobile number. Fill out the online application form with your details and press submit.
• Apply for Travel Documents by logging in to y our S-pass account and clicking on ” Are you Travelling”?
• Wait for the approval and action of the destination LGU on your Travel Coordination Permit (TCP). Check on status of Application.

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about the S-Pass

Who needs to use s-pass.

Only those who intend to travel need to use S-Pass. Travelers can check the travel policy and requirements of their destination LGU. They can also use S-Pass in applying online for documents depending on the travel policy of the LGU.

What travel permits should you apply for?

If the traveler is going to an LGU with ‘Unrestricted’ travel policy, there is no need to register and use S-PasS since no travel documents are required. If the traveler is going to an LGU with ‘Restricted’ travel policy, application for a Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) is required.

If the traveler is going to an LGU with an ‘Unrestricted’ travel policy but passing through areas with strict travel protocols, it is recommended that a Travel Pass-Through Permit (TPP) be generated to be presented to the appropriate authorities when requested.

Are all LGUS using S-Pass?

Currently, not all LGUs are using S-Pass. If the LGU is not using S-Pass, the traveler cannot apply for a Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) to this LGU particularly if it has a ‘Restricted’ travel policy. The traveler is advised to contact directly the LGU to coordinate his or her travel. If the LGU has ‘Unrestricted’ travel policy, there is no need for travelers to use S-Pass.

Who approves the Travel Coordination Permit (TCP)? How long is the approval process?

The destination LGU approves the application for a Travel Coordination Permit. The approval process is dependent on the completeness of the documents submitted to the LGU and its own processing time. Travelers need to follow up with the LGU on the status of their applications. S-PasS has no control over the approval process but assists by notifying LGUs of pending applications.

Who approves the Travel Pass-Thru Permit (TPP)?

The Travel Pass-Thru Permit (TPP) does not need any approval. It is a document that is automatically generated by S-Pass.

Do you need TCP or TPP for all members of the family when traveling together?

Yes. The TCP or TPP is issued individually.

Are you exempted from having a TCP or TPP if you are an Authorized Person Outside of Residence (APOR)?

Only Authorized Person Outside of Residence (APOR) from government agencies are exempted from TCP or TPP. As per IATF Resolution 101, APOR from government agencies need to show their Travel Order, ID, and travel itinerary when traveling.

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Category: Guide

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Traveling Soon? Make sure to register at S-PaSS to acquire travel requirements and monitor travel restriction status of your destination.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI developed a travel management system called the Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage or S-PaSS to intensify movement monitoring in the country.

The primary purpose of this innovative travel monitoring system is intended to create a hassle-free journey for local travelers returning to or visiting different localities across the country.

It also served as an aid for authorities to monitor the movement of people and make informative strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Don’t know how to register? Continue reading below.

Through the application, LGUs can facilitate inbound and transient travelers in coordination with their localities. Movements of visitors who will enter a local destination registered under the S-Pass will be monitored through their uniquely generated S-PaSS QR Code. Upon scanning the QR Code, the traveler’s record will automatically log into the system, serving as an electronic logbook.

However, note that the S-PaSS is not a substitute for a contact tracing system such as the  StaySafe.ph . Instead, it served as its complementary application used to check travel restrictions status.

S-Pass key feature includes:

• Travelers can check the travel policy of their destination LGU
• Apply for a Travel Coordination Permit* (TCP) to the LGU with travel restrictions
• Conveniently track travel history
• Quickly access, store, and print travel documents

*TCP replaces previously requires Travel Authority

(UPDATED) How to register to S-PaSS?

Please be aware of a high number of registrants might be accessing the link at the same time. In case the registration link is unavailable, please visit the link some other time.

Step 1:  Go to  https://s-pass.ph/ via browser (Chrome, Mozilla, Safari, Android Browser, etc.)

Step 2: Check your destination LGU requirements and contact details . If you’re going to other province, make sure to check if you need to use S-PaSS, and your destination LGU requirements and contact details before travelling.

Click “ View Details ” to see the LGU’s travel requirements (see example below).

You can check out the requirements and phone directory inside the “ Are You Travelling ” box at the lower left of your screen (for desktop).

You have to register to S-PaSS to be able to generate the Travel Pass-Through Permit (TPP) .

Step 4:  For new users , create your personal S-PaSS account using your phone number to generate your unique quick response (QR) code. By registering you can also monitor your travel history, which is useful in case you need to conduct contact tracing.

To register, scroll down the home page and select “ Create an account .” Provide your phone number and fill in your personal information (see image below).

Note: Do not include the first 0 on your number, just proceed with e.g. 9057 […]

Make sure to review your information before submitting.

Step 5: Once registered, you can now generate your document or permit QR code. Check on whether your destination LGU requires travel documents and its current restriction status by clicking the “ Are You Travelling? ” found on the left menu bar on your account home page.

Answer the Travel Protocol questionnaire , including whether or not you are an Authorized Person Outside Residence (APOR), lived in an ECQ or MECQ area, your current location, and your destination.

If your destination LGU is unrestricted , the only travel document you will need to generate is the TPP.

However, if you’re travelling to a restricted area such as Cebu City, you will have to apply for a Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) of your destination LGU. Note: Requirements may vary depending on destination LGU.

Note:  The DOST is not responsible for the pacing of the LGU’s approval of the traveler’s TCP.

For concerns regarding your travel, see the LGU contact directory at https://s-pass.ph/visitors/contact.

Also Read : How to register to S-pass using mobile: Step-by-step Guide 2021

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) approved the adoption of the S-PaSS on February 26, 2021, as the one-stop-shop application and communication for travelers.

Currently, the DOST is coordinating with LGUs to activate their accounts and for the full roll-out of the management system. Moreover, user orientation is also in place in preparation for its full implementation.

S-PaSS official launching will be held on Friday, March 26 at 3:30 PM via DOST-Philippines Facebook page to be attended by high-ranking officials from the DOST, Department of Interior and Local Government, League of Provinces of the Philippines, League of Cities of the Philippines, local chief executives, the media and other partners and stakeholders .

See post below for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

For more information and inquiries, visit their website or Facebook page at  Facebook/SPassPH . You may also contact the following hotline numbers: 0939 606 7375 / 0998 535 4217

Don’t have an account yet? Click here to register!

—( Source :  DOST )

Check out our other How to register QR Code Articles here

Blayce helped launch WhatALife! Blog in late May 2019, publishing trendy lifestyle and entertainment articles, local and international news reports, as well as inspiring feature stories of successful individuals hailing from Cagayan de Oro City. A jack-of-all-trades, she is a part-time gamer, occasional guitar player, and a zombie-genre fanatic.

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Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint

Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.

• Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant . If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.  
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a  federally recognized , Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

In coordination with its DHS counterparts, TSA has identified acceptable alternate identification for use in special circumstances at the checkpoint.

A weapon permit is not an acceptable form of identification. A temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification.

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant . If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.

Learn more about flying with a REAL ID .

 TSA currently accepts expired driver’s licenses or state-issued ID a year after expiration. DHS has extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline to May 7, 2025. Learn more about REAL ID on  TSA’s REAL ID  webpage.

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.

Forgot Your ID?

In the event you arrive at the airport without valid identification, because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint. You will be subject to additional screening, to include a patdown and screening of carry-on property.

You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if your identity cannot be confirmed, you choose to not provide proper identification or you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process.

TSA recommends that you arrive at least two hours in advance of your flight time.

Names With Suffixes

TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation.

If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.

From vaccines to testing: What travelers need to know before the new US travel system on Nov. 8

• The U.S. is launching a new travel system on Nov. 8.
• Vaccinated foreign air travelers will need to show proof of full vaccination and test for COVID-19.
• The new travel system also adds more stringent testing requirements for unvaccinated U.S. travelers.

The United States is about to make it much easier for vaccinated international travelers to visit.  

The White House announced that a new air travel system will take effect Nov. 8, allowing entry for fully vaccinated foreign tourists .  The system is set to launch nearly two years after the U.S. began imposing travel restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 . 

The move by the White House will essentially have the U.S. drop its travel ban on dozens of countries while also making entry more challenging for the unvaccinated. The new system will allow entry for foreign nationals only with vaccinations approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization and would add testing requirements for unvaccinated Americans.

Here’s what we know about the new travel requirements:

What are the entry requirements for foreign nationals?

Starting Nov. 8, non-citizen, non-immigrant air travelers   will need to show proof of full vaccination as well as a pre-departure negative coronavirus test taken within three days of travel before they can board a plane to the U.S. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Acceptable forms of proof of vaccination include:

• Digital or paper verifiable record, such as a vaccination certificate or a digital pass with a QR code.  
• Nonverifiable paper record, such as a printout of a COVID-19 vaccination record or COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
• Nonverifiable digital record, such as a digital photo of a vaccination card or record, downloaded vaccine record, downloaded vaccination certificate or a mobile phone application without a QR code.  

The U.S. will accept nucleic acid amplification tests, including PCR tests, and antigen tests. The rules will go into effect for passengers on planes leaving for the U.S. at or after 12:01 a.m. ET on Nov. 8.  

Airlines will collect basic personal contact information   from all U.S.-bound travelers for contact tracing. Airlines are required to keep the information on hand so the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention   can reach out to travelers who may have been infected or exposed to COVID-19.

Masking will be required, but there will be no quarantine mandate for vaccinated travelers or unvaccinated children .

► US  travel bans: How COVID-19 travel restrictions have impacted families and couples

The change will make entering the U.S. possible for travelers from countries now listed on the U.S. travel ban, which prohibits entry for travelers who have been in any of the regions within the past 14 days. The travel ban  took effect in early 2020 and includes :

• United Kingdom
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• The European Schengen area (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City)

Currently, the U.S. asks international air passengers only to get tested within three days of their flight to the U.S. and show either the negative test result or proof of recovery  from COVID-19 before boarding. 

What about the land borders with Mexico and Canada?

New travel rules will also take effect for foreign nationals arriving by land or passenger ferry.

Starting Nov. 8, fully vaccinated foreign nationals can cross the land borders for nonessential reasons such as tourism or visiting friends and family . These travelers will need to verbally attest to their reason for travel and vaccination status and be prepared to show proof of vaccination  upon request. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will accept both digital and paper records showing proof of vaccination, including documents not in English.   Foreign nationals will also need appropriate travel documentation to enter the country.  

CBP will spot-check travelers' vaccination documents, and those without documented proof of vaccination can be denied entry. Travelers under 18 will be exempt from the vaccination requirement as long as they are traveling with a fully vaccinated adult, according to Matthew Davies, CBP's executive director of admissibility and passenger programs.  

The new travel rules will go into effect as soon as a port of entry opens on Nov. 8, or at midnight for ports that operate 24 hours a day changes will go into effect at midnight on Nov. 8 for ports that operation 24 hours a day.  

U.S. citizens reentering the country should also bring a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative document, such as a valid passport, trusted traveler program card, enhanced driver's license or enhanced tribal card. 

Entry rules along the border will change again in early January, with all travelers – including those traveling for essential purposes – required to show proof of full vaccination. 

► US land borders: Travelers in Mexico and Canada plan their next US visit after new land border policy announced

Which vaccines does the US accept for travel?

The CDC has announced that vaccines approved for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and World Health Organization will be accepted for air travel. White House officials expect the CDC to approve the same vaccines for travelers entering the U.S. by land or ferry.  

The FDA has authorized three COVID-19 vaccines for emergency use during the pandemic: Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer-BioNTech, the last of which has received the FDA's full stamp of approval.

Vaccines with WHO approval for emergency use include:

• Johnson & Johnson
• Pfizer-BioNTech
• Oxford-AstraZeneca/Covishield 

The CDC confirmed that it would accept a mix-and-match approach to vaccinations. Travelers who have any combination of FDA- or WHO-approved vaccines will be considered fully vaccinated.

The new travel policy does not accept foreign travelers who have had COVID and received just one shot in a two-dose series. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Tuesday that the administration will "continue to review" its entry requirements.  

► Covaxin gets WHO emergency approval: Travelers vaccinated with Covaxin can enter US   

► 'You feel lonely and left out': These fully vaccinated travelers want to visit the US. They may not be allowed in.

How do the new rules affect kids? 

Foreign nationals under 18 are exempt from the vaccination requirement. Children under two will not need to take a pre-departure COVID test.

Kids 2 and older traveling with a fully vaccinated adult can test three days prior to departure, while children traveling alone or with unvaccinated adults will need to get tested within one day of departure. 

Currently, all air passengers 2 or older, including U.S. citizens and permanent residents, need to show a negative coronavirus test to fly to the U.S.

What are the entry requirements for Americans?

The new travel system adds more stringent testing requirements for unvaccinated U.S. travelers.

Starting Nov. 8, unvaccinated U.S. citizens and permanent residents will need to take a test one day before departure and test again upon arrival in the U.S. 

► New travel rules: What US travelers need to know about the new COVID rules for international flights

Entry requirements will not change for vaccinated Americans. They will still need to show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken no more than three days before departure. 

Americans will not need to be fully vaccinated to board international flights to the U.S.

Are there any exemptions?

There is a limited set of travelers who are exempt from the vaccine requirement for entry.

Children under 18, certain COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial participants and travelers with adverse reactions to the vaccines – such as people who have had severe anaphylactic allergic reactions to a prior COVID-19 vaccine –  will be exempt.

People traveling on non-tourist visas from countries with less than 10% of its population vaccinated who need to enter the U.S. for emergency or humanitarian reasons are also exempt from the vaccine requirement. There are about 50 countries considered to have low vaccine availability at this time.

These exempt travelers will generally need to show that they will comply with public health mandates, including a requirement to be vaccinated in the U.S. if they plan to stay more than 60 days.  

Unless they have recovered from COVID-19 within the last 90 days, unvaccinated travelers  must agree to be tested with a COVID-19 viral test three to five days after their arrival and quarantine for seven days, even if their post-arrival test comes back negative. 

Unvaccinated travelers who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents must also agree to self-isolate if their post-arrival test is positive or if they develop COVID-19 symptoms. 

Unvaccinated children under 18 will not need to quarantine but will still need to take a post-arrival test. 

► Who is exempt?: These select groups of unvaccinated foreign travelers can enter the US

The CDC will not give exemptions  to people who object to the vaccinations due to religious or moral convictions. 

There will also be testing accommodations for travelers who can prove they recently recovered from the coronavirus. These travelers will need to show a positive COVID-19 viral test result on a sample taken no more than 90 days before their flight's departure and a letter from a licensed healthcare provider or public health official saying they are cleared for travel.  

Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

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COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check with the Department of State for travel advisories.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

• As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S.  arriving by air  or  arriving by land or sea  no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 
• As of June 12, 2022,  people entering the U.S. no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test . 

U.S. citizens traveling to a country outside the U.S.

Find country-specific COVID-19 travel rules from the Department of State.

See the  CDC's COVID-19 guidance for safer international travel.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Here's when you need (and don't need) a passport to cruise.

It's the type of sailing – closed-loop or open-loop – that largely determines whether or not you need a passport to cruise.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

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A passport isn't always required for cruising.

To determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

• The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

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When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

• Passport card
• State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
• Government-issued birth certificate
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
• American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

• Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

• Voter registration cards
• Social Security cards
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

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Ticket prices and travelcards

Fares for Moscow's public transport network are the same for every mode of transport making it really easy to travel. See all the different tickets here !

Troika Ticket

This is the most economical option if you're spending a few days in the Russian capital. The card can be purchased and recharged at various station machines or even with the special Moscow Metro application. Your balance can be checked on the app or in the small yellow terminals inside the metro stations. A trip works out at ₽ 42 ( US$ 0.40), but if you change transport within 90 minutes, you'll only pay ₽ 23 ( US$ 0.20) for the next trip.

The day ticket for the Moscow metro can be purchased at any of the stops in the city. The price is ₽ 265 ( US$ 2.80) per day and ₽ 500 ( US$ 5.30) for three days.

90-Minute Ticket

The most convenient card if you want to take several types of transport within an hour and a half period. It costs  ₽ 65 ( US$ 0.70) per person and allows one metro ride and an unlimited number of trips on other types of public transport in Moscow during the time of its duration.

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Moscow's crazy traffic and its excellent metro network mean that the city's buses and trolleybuses aren't the number one option for tourists.

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S Pass medical insurance requirements

You must buy and maintain medical insurance (MI) for each S Pass holder you employ before you can issue or renew an S Pass. The insurance cost cannot be passed on to your workers.

What it should cover

As part of an employer's S Pass medical obligations, you must buy and maintain MI with coverage for inpatient care and day surgery, including hospital bills for conditions that may not be work-related. The coverage for each S Pass holder has to be at least :

• (For policies with start date effective before 1 July 2023) $15,000 per year
• (For policies with start date effective on or after 1 July 2023) $60,000 per year

If the MI plan has sub-limits (e.g. inpatient care, day surgery or ‘per disability/medical condition’), each sub-limit needs to meet the minimum annual claim limit as stated above.

Enhanced MI

Since 1 July 2023 , we have  enhanced the minimum MI required  for all new and existing S Pass holders. The enhanced MI will better protect employers against large medical bills incurred by your workers, and will be implemented in two stages as shown in the table below.

Engage insurers offering the enhanced MI  early to understand the products available. We encourage you to buy an MI with all the enhanced requirements early for better peace of mind.

You can have a co-pay arrangement with the S Pass holder for their medical bills, only if all of the following are met:

• The co-pay amount is reasonable and does not exceed 10% of the worker’s fixed monthly salary.
• The duration of co-payment does not exceed 6 months (for every 2 years of employment).
• The co-payment option is explicitly in the employment contract or collective agreement and has the worker’s full consent.
• Paying salaries

Related questions

• Are S Pass holders covered under WICA?
• Can I be exempted from the requirement to buy medical insurance for my migrant worker?
• Can medical insurance for migrant workers be in the form of a group plan, individual plan or rider/add-on?
• Would a medical insurance plan with sub-limits meet MOM's requirements?
• How can I guarantee that the medical insurance (MI) for migrant worker or MDW meets MOM's requirements?
• Are there any ward class restrictions for the compulsory medical insurance?
• If my migrant worker has an individual insurance plan that meets MOM's requirements, do I still need to buy medical insurance?
• Does MOM accept medical insurance policies bought overseas?
• If my company has a number of medical insurance policies, can I use the combined coverage to meet the insurance requirement?
• Are employers responsible for the cost of a Work Permit or S Pass holder’s dental treatment?
• If I don't use WP Online, how do I update medical insurance details for my Work Permit holders?
• How should I protect myself from medical bills incurred by my S Pass and Work Permit holders?
• If my S Pass or Work Permit holder needs long-term medical care due to non-work related ailment, must I provide and pay for the entire medical treatment?
• Can I don’t pay for my S Pass or Work Permit holder’s medical expenses if he did not consult with one of the company-recognised doctors?
• What happens if I don’t pay for medical treatment for my S Pass or Work Permit holders?
• Are there any restrictions on the ward class that I can send my S Pass or Work Permit holder to?

More on S Pass

• Upcoming changes to S Pass eligibility
• Consider all candidates fairly before you apply for an S Pass
• Eligibility
• Quota and levy
• Documents required
• Apply for a pass
• Appeal against a rejected application
• Renew a pass
• Cancel a pass
• Replace a pass card
• Notify MOM of updates
• eServices and forms

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