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Travel Documents Checklist
Find out what travel documents are needed for domestic and international flights
Where from?
Where to?
Dates
Passengers & Class
What Travel Documents Do I Need When Flying?
Not all documents are essential for travel. Some documents, like Nexus Cards, are optional programs designed to get you through security, customs and immigration quickly. Whereas other documents, such as travel visas and passports, are essential if you're travelling to a country that requires you to have one.
Essential Travel Documents
For all international flights, you'll need a valid passport. For domestic flights within your country, you can travel with a government-issued ID (such as a driver's licence). Some airlines will allow you to bring two pieces of non-photo identification that match the name and date of birth on your reservation whereas others will request that you bring a photo ID with the name and date of birth matching your reservation.
Other Important Documents
Depending on your destination, you may need additional documentation to travel, such as a visa. These are specific entry permits that are issued by certain countries. We recommend researching visa requirements for the country you're visiting well in advance of your trip.
Optional Documents
Documents like a passport card or Global Entry can speed up your travel process. These are optional programs that offer many benefits like quicker security and customs clearance.
Travel Documents for International Flights
Valid Passport
A valid passport is the primary document required for international travel. Your passport serves as proof of identity and citizenship. Before you book your flights, make sure your passport has sufficient validity beyond your planned travel dates as many countries require passports to be valid for a certain period after you depart (usually 6 months). Passengers of all ages flying internationally will require a valid passport.
Visa Requirements
Other than your passport, you may need a visa depending on your destination. A visa is an official document that permits you to enter a country. There are many different types of visas (work, study, tourist, etc). You'll need to research the visa requirements for the country you're visiting thoroughly and well in advance as the visa application process can be time-consuming.
While a passport and visa are essential for travel, you may be interested in other travel documents that can enhance your trip:
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Vaccination Certificates
Medical Prescriptions
Travel Insurance Policy Documents
Travel Documents for Domestic Flights
Identification Requirements
A passport isn't generally required for domestic flights, however, you will need to provide some form of government-issued identification. This can include:
- Passport (preferably valid but expired passports may be accepted)
- Driver's licence
- National ID card
- Military ID
- State-issued ID card
- Birth certificate (often with a photo ID)
- Social security card (often with a photo ID)
If you're flying domestically in a different country to your own, ensure you have your passport with you at all times, even if it isn't required for your domestic flight.
Like international flights, you will want to consider other travel documents like travel insurance policies, vaccination certificates and medical prescriptions. You should also consider applying for an international driving licence if you're doing a fly-drive trip (flying domestically and then driving part of the journey).
Travel Documents for Minors
Flying with children? You'll want to make sure you have all the essential travel documents for your child prepared in advance so that you can have a stress-free travel experience! General requirements include:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Parental consent (for unaccompanied minors)
- Visa (if required)
- Emergency contact details
Other considerations:
- If the child is travelling alone, specific documents will be required for the unaccompanied minor (UMN).
- If the child is travelling with one parent, depending on the country, a notarised letter of consent from the absent parent will be required.
- If you're travelling with step-children or as a guardian, you may need to provide legal documentation proving guardianship.
More Information on Travel Documents and Visas
Worried about getting through immigration?
Being anxious about getting through the immigration process at the airport is common - we have a guide for you that can help ease the stress, ensuring a smooth journey to/from your destination. Read our blog on common airport immigration questions for more information!
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