Do babies need passports for Mexico?

Yes, every person regardless of age needs their own valid passport. Babies cannot travel on parent passports.

What if we're divorced and my ex won't sign consent papers?

Bring court-certified custody documents showing you have legal authority to travel with the children. Some countries may still require additional documentation.

Can we get tourist cards for Dominican Republic online?

Yes, through the official DGII website for $10. Many airlines also include this in ticket prices, so check before paying separately.

Do we need return tickets to prove we're leaving?

Most Caribbean and Mexico destinations require proof of onward travel. This can be return flights, cruise departure, or tickets to another country.

What happens if a child's passport expires during the trip?

You'll be denied boarding or entry. Passports must be valid for the entire duration of travel, plus 6 months extra for most destinations.

How to Get Visas for Family Travel to Mexico and the Caribbean

Most US and Canadian families need only passports for Mexico and many Caribbean islands, with stays under 180 days typically visa-free. Some islands require visas or have specific entry requirements for children. Always check current requirements 8-12 weeks before travel since rules change frequently.

Check passport validity for all family members. Ensure every passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Children need their own passports - no exceptions. Renew any expiring passports immediately as processing takes 6-11 weeks.
Verify visa requirements by destination. Mexico: No visa needed for stays under 180 days with US/Canadian passports. Bahamas: No visa for stays under 90 days. Jamaica: No visa for stays under 90 days. Dominican Republic: Tourist card required, usually included in airfare or $10 at arrival. Cuba: Tourist visa required for all travelers.
Gather required documentation for children. Both parents must sign consent if one parent travels alone with children. Bring certified copies of birth certificates. For divorced parents, bring custody papers. Some countries require notarized consent letters from the non-traveling parent.
Apply for required visas 4-6 weeks early. For destinations requiring visas (like Cuba), apply through official consulates or authorized travel agencies. Tourist visas typically cost $25-85 per person. Business visas cost more and require additional documentation.
Double-check health requirements. Yellow fever vaccination certificates required if coming from affected areas. COVID-19 requirements change frequently - check official government sites 72 hours before departure.

Do babies need passports for Mexico?: Yes, every person regardless of age needs their own valid passport. Babies cannot travel on parent passports.
What if we're divorced and my ex won't sign consent papers?: Bring court-certified custody documents showing you have legal authority to travel with the children. Some countries may still require additional documentation.
Can we get tourist cards for Dominican Republic online?: Yes, through the official DGII website for $10. Many airlines also include this in ticket prices, so check before paying separately.
Do we need return tickets to prove we're leaving?: Most Caribbean and Mexico destinations require proof of onward travel. This can be return flights, cruise departure, or tickets to another country.
What happens if a child's passport expires during the trip?: You'll be denied boarding or entry. Passports must be valid for the entire duration of travel, plus 6 months extra for most destinations.