Do babies need passports for Mexico and Caribbean travel?

Yes, every person regardless of age needs their own passport. Babies cannot travel on parent passports. Children's passports cost $100 and are valid for 5 years.

What if my child's other parent won't sign a consent letter?

You'll need legal documentation showing you have sole custody or legal authority to travel with the child. Consult an attorney if needed, as immigration officials can deny entry without proper authorization.

Can I get a Cuban tourist card at the airport?

Some airlines sell them at check-in for $50-85, but availability isn't guaranteed. Safer to buy in advance through the airline or Cuban consulate to avoid travel delays.

How long are Mexico FMM tourist cards valid?

Up to 180 days, but the immigration officer decides your specific length of stay at entry. Don't lose the card - you need it to exit Mexico or face fines and delays.

How to Get Visas for Mexico and Caribbean Travel with Family

Most US citizens need only a passport for Mexico and many Caribbean islands, but some destinations require visas or tourist cards. Children need their own passports, and divorced parents should carry custody documents. Apply for any required visas 6-8 weeks before travel.

Check passport requirements for all family members. Every family member, including infants, needs their own valid passport. US passports must be valid for the duration of stay in Mexico and most Caribbean islands. Some islands require 6 months validity remaining. Children's passports expire after 5 years, so check expiration dates early.
Research visa requirements by destination. Mexico requires no visa for US citizens staying under 180 days. Most Caribbean islands allow visa-free entry for 30-90 days. Cuba requires a tourist card ($50-100). British territories like Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands need no visa. Dutch territories like Aruba require no visa for stays under 30 days.
Gather family travel documentation. If traveling with children under 18 and only one parent, bring a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent. Divorced parents should carry custody papers. Single parents should bring the child's birth certificate showing only one parent listed.
Apply for required visas or tourist cards. For Cuba, buy tourist cards through your airline or Cuban consulate. For other destinations requiring visas, apply through the respective embassy or consulate 6-8 weeks ahead. Many Caribbean nations offer electronic applications that process in 3-5 business days.
Prepare arrival documentation. Fill out customs forms for each family member. Mexico requires FMM tourist cards (often provided on flights). Keep all documentation together in a travel folder. Make copies of passports and store separately from originals.

Do babies need passports for Mexico and Caribbean travel?: Yes, every person regardless of age needs their own passport. Babies cannot travel on parent passports. Children's passports cost $100 and are valid for 5 years.
What if my child's other parent won't sign a consent letter?: You'll need legal documentation showing you have sole custody or legal authority to travel with the child. Consult an attorney if needed, as immigration officials can deny entry without proper authorization.
Can I get a Cuban tourist card at the airport?: Some airlines sell them at check-in for $50-85, but availability isn't guaranteed. Safer to buy in advance through the airline or Cuban consulate to avoid travel delays.
How long are Mexico FMM tourist cards valid?: Up to 180 days, but the immigration officer decides your specific length of stay at entry. Don't lose the card - you need it to exit Mexico or face fines and delays.