Bermuda is a popular tourist site for many reasons. Located just off the east coast of the U.S. in the North Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda consists of over 30 beautiful, sunny beaches.
Bermuda’s breathtaking views and proximity to the U.S. make this island territory a must-see for anyone seeking adventure, and you’ll fine an amazing selection of family-friendly resorts.
If you’re looking to book a trip to Bermuda for your next vacation, there are some essential things you need to know before heading off to the airport.
When planning to visit Bermuda, a few items should make your packing list. Some of these items include:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Sandals
- Beach Towels
- And, you guessed it, your passport!
Yes, you do need your passport to go to Bermuda.
If you’re planning a vacation to the beautiful pink beaches of Bermuda, your passport should be making the trip with you.
Why Do You Need a Passport To Visit Bermuda?
While it is possible for U.S citizens to enter some places with just their enhanced license, Bermuda has its own specific set of passport rules that everyone needs to follow when visiting, regardless of age. If you plan to travel by air, all international visitors to Bermuda need a valid passport book with them.
If you are traveling from the U.S., your passport must remain valid throughout your trip. Make sure your passport is still valid on the expected date of your departure. If you are traveling internationally from somewhere other than the U.S., Canada, or the UK, your passport must be valid for at least 45 days after departure from the island.
You must also have at least one blank page in your passport for a stamp from Bermuda’s Department of Immigration, so they can mark both the date you arrived and the date you departed your trip. Despite only one page being required for a visa stamp, it is strongly recommended to have multiple blank pages, just in case.
You Need a Round-Trip Ticket
To be granted entry to Bermuda, you’ll need proof of a round-trip ticket or an equivalent onward ticket to your next destination. This could be a return ticket to whichever country you are traveling from or a ticket to another country that you are heading to next. Keep proof of this ticket and your passport when traveling to Bermuda.
Whether you’re planning a destination vacation or a trip around the globe, make sure you have proof of where you’re going next when entering Bermuda. A round-trip ticket, or equivalent onward ticket, is required.
The Only Exception: U.S. Cruise Ships (Although Not Advised)
The only instance that doesn’t require a passport to enter Bermuda is in the case of a closed-loop cruise ship. If you’re planning a cruise that begins and ends in the same destination in the U.S, with a stop in Bermuda, you can enter the territory with just proof of citizenship and a valid photo ID. However, traveling without a passport book is not advised.
It is not advised to travel without a passport because, in the case of an emergency, you will not be able to fly out of Bermuda without your valid passport book. You should keep your passport safely stored in your luggage during your cruise, just in case you find yourself in a situation where you may need it.
Will a Passport Card Work?
A passport card serves as proof of identity and citizenship. They are smaller, convenient for travel, and cheaper to obtain and renew. If you have a U.S. passport card, you can travel to bordering countries such as Mexico and Canada and visit the Caribbean via ship.
If you are planning a flight to Bermuda, a passport card will not suffice.
A passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
Although Bermuda is in close proximity to the east coast of the United States, it is an international country that is technically a territory of the United Kingdom. Therefore, a passport book is required to travel to Bermuda by air. A passport card works only if you enter Bermuda by a seaport.
If you are cruising into Bermuda, a passport card is enough. However, it is strongly advised that you bring your passport book to Bermuda in case of any unforeseen circumstances that may require it.
How To Obtain a Passport
Depending on where you’re traveling from, obtaining a passport may look different. If you are traveling from the United States, it typically takes eight to eleven weeks to process the paperwork required for getting your passport. You will need to fill out an application for the passport and provide proof of citizenship, photo ID, payment, and a photo of yourself to acquire a U.S. passport.
If you’re planning on traveling internationally soon and don’t already have a passport, make sure to account for enough time to submit the proper paperwork. Giving yourself plenty of time will ensure you receive your passport before the anticipated date of your trip.
For children under 16, a passport is valid for five years. For those 16 and older, a passport is valid for ten years after you receive it. Double-check the validity of your passport before your trip in case you need to renew it.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you need a passport to go to Bermuda. It is required if you are planning on traveling by air. Although it is not needed if traveling by closed-loop cruise ship, it is still strongly advised that you bring it with you in case of an emergency. Without a passport on your cruise, you won’t be able to fly out of Bermuda once you’re there if an emergency arises. Pack your passport. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
More about our TFVG Author
A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.
Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.
- James Brockbankhttps://www.thefamilyvacationguide.com/author/james/
- James Brockbankhttps://www.thefamilyvacationguide.com/author/james/
- James Brockbankhttps://www.thefamilyvacationguide.com/author/james/
- James Brockbankhttps://www.thefamilyvacationguide.com/author/james/
