Destinations You Can Visit Without a Passport (Outside the 50 States)

Americans attempting to renew or apply for a new U.S. passport have faced numerous obstacles lately, especially long wait times. Although passport processing is improving, currently estimated at eight to 11 weeks compared to 10 to 13 weeks earlier this year, it’s still challenging for those eager to escape on an international beach getaway.

Fortunately, for those stuck in the bureaucratic maze (or those who prefer not to get a passport), there are plenty of destinations where American travelers can go with just a government-issued I.D. and proof of citizenship. This includes a wealth of stunning natural landscapes (like many national parks) and vibrant urban centers throughout the United States.

Outside the 50 states, here are all the places American citizens can travel without a passport.

U.S. territories

American Samoa

Fusing Polynesian and American cultures, these five islands in the South Pacific (approximately 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii) are surrounded by pristine white sand beaches and rich coral reefs. With fewer than 23,000 visitors annually, any American citizen can legally travel here. As a U.S. territory since 1900, American Samoa allows entry without a passport—only a Real I.D. is required. Additionally, an onward or return ticket is necessary for entry, according to the U.S. Department of State.

Guam

The most populated island in Micronesia offers a true slice of paradise, complete with golden beaches, swaying palms, stunning waterfalls, and a relaxed lifestyle. Despite being over 6,000 miles southwest of Los Angeles, U.S. citizens are treated as domestic travelers in Guam, so a passport isn’t necessary if you fly through Honolulu (although flights via Tokyo or Seoul do require one). You will need a government-issued I.D. and proof of citizenship, like a birth certificate.

Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands, a secluded archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean just northeast of Guam, offer American travelers another chance to enjoy tropical scenery and pristine waters without a passport. Similar to Guam, you'll need to select a flight route that avoids layovers in countries that require passports, such as Japan; flying through Honolulu and Guam is your best bet. Visitors only need a photo I.D. and a birth certificate for entry.

Puerto Rico

With its varied landscapes, vibrant historic towns, and lively nightlife, Puerto Rico presents a strong argument for taking a break from the mainland. Thanks to the Jones-Shafroth Act of 1917, Puerto Ricans gained U.S. citizenship, making the island part of the U.S. for immigration and travel, even though it isn't a state. U.S. citizens do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico—they simply require a valid government-issued I.D., such as a driver’s license or state I.D. card.

U.S. Virgin Islands

If you're dreaming of a getaway filled with stunning turquoise waters and the soothing sounds of waves on the shore, consider the U.S. Virgin Islands. This U.S. territory, which has been part of the U.S. since 1917, includes three main islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. All you need (in addition to a flight or cruise booking) is a valid government-issued I.D. and a birth certificate. Soon enough, you'll be lounging on pristine beaches, snorkeling among vibrant fish, and enjoying the rhythms of steel drum music.

International closed-loop cruises that don't require a passport

For passport-free travelers wanting to explore international destinations, “closed-loop” cruises present a great option. These cruises begin and end at the same U.S. port and visit select countries in the Western Hemisphere. Passengers on these cruises do not need a passport. The countries include:

• The Bahamas
• Bermuda
• British Virgin Islands
• Belize
• Canada
• Cayman Islands
• Costa Rica
• Dominican Republic
• Honduras
• Jamaica
• Mexico
• Turks and Caicos

Travelers must still provide proof of citizenship. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, this can include an Enhanced Driver’s License (available only to residents of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington), a government-issued birth certificate, or an official Certificate of Naturalization. Additionally, passengers aged 16 and older need to present a photo I.D. (such as a driver’s license).

It’s important to note that if the cruise includes even one stop in a country or territory that requires passports (like Barbados, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Bart’s, or Trinidad and Tobago), you will need a passport for the entire trip. It’s also advisable for passengers to carry a passport on these cruises, even if it's not strictly required, in case they need to disembark early and fly to or from an international location.