What documents do US citizens need to board a closed loop cruise?
The short answer
U.S. citizens on a cruise that begins and ends at the same U.S. port can enter with a birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID, according to CBP. A passport may still be required by countries the ship visits, so check with your cruise line.
What documents are enough for a closed loop cruise?
CBP's Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative page says citizens on cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port can enter with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. CBP adds that a passport may still be required for countries the ship visits, and tells travelers to check with the cruise line.
The page does not describe boarding requirements set by cruise lines, so confirm what your line asks for at check-in.
What do children need on a closed loop cruise?
For land and sea entry, U.S. and Canadian citizen children under 16 need only proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. The age limit rises to under 19 for children traveling with a school, religious group or other youth group.
CBP says the birth certificate may be an original, a photocopy or a certified copy.
What other documents does CBP list for land and sea entry?
For U.S. citizens arriving by land or sea, CBP lists a valid U.S. passport and these other documents:
- Passport Card
- Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
- Enhanced Driver's License
- Form I-872 American Indian Card (or Enhanced Tribal Card when available)
- U.S. Military ID on official orders, or a U.S. Merchant Mariner document on official maritime business
What if I need to fly to join or leave the ship?
Air travel is treated differently. For air, CBP lists a valid U.S. passport, a Trusted Traveler Program card, a U.S. military ID on official orders or a Merchant Mariner document on official maritime business, and the American Indian card cannot be used. CBP also says children must present their own passport for air travel.
Lawful permanent residents must present a valid Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) and do not need a passport.
Sources: CBP: Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a passport for a closed loop cruise?
CBP says a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID are enough for U.S. citizens to enter on a closed loop cruise. A passport may still be required by countries the ship visits, so check with your cruise line.
Is a photocopy of a birth certificate acceptable?
CBP says a child's birth certificate may be an original, a photocopy or a certified copy. The page does not say whether the same applies to adults.
What documents does a child under 16 need?
Only proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, for land and sea entry. The age limit is under 19 for children traveling with a school, religious group or other youth group.
Can my child use a birth certificate to fly home?
No. CBP says children must present their own passport for air travel.
Do green card holders need a passport?
CBP says lawful permanent residents must present a valid Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) and do not need a passport.