Gaining the Edge - Tourism StrategyCOTA Member Alert
- March 27, 2008 -
WHTI FINAL RULE RELEASED
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released the Final Rule for the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). The WHTI Final Rule requires travellers "to present a passport or other approved secure document denoting citizenship and identity for all land and sea travel into the United States." The new requirements are effective June 1, 2009.
This is expected to be the final set of requirements for the implementation of the WHTI.
At present travellers from Canada and the United States are able to (re)enter the United States with only a proof of identity (such as a driver's license) and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate).
Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) have also been formally identified as acceptable documentation requirements for land and sea crossings (not air). Washington State and British Columbia have already begun issuing EDLs to the general public.
The rule also includes "provisions that allow school or other organized groups of children ages 18 and under who are U.S. or Canadian citizens to enter the U.S. with proof of citizenship alone."
DHS will be working with the Canadian government to inform U.S. and Canadian citizens about the new requirements.
In general, COTA is pleased with the Final Rule, as it addresses many of the recommendations that COTA has made in the past, including:
- Implementation date of June 2009 or later
- Acceptance of Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs)
- Exemption of organized tours for children
- Inclusion of an education and outreach program
COTA will review the final rule in more detail and will provide information updates to members via the COTA website.
Council of Tourism Associations of BC (www.cotabc.com).
