PASSPORT INFORMATION

 

For those of you planning to go on the Whistler trip you should immediately check that you will have a valid passport.  It is generally recommended that your passport should be valid for 6 months past your travel dates (at least through 6/30/08).  If you do not have a valid passport or need to get yours renewed please begin the process NOW.  Do not delay!!  The U.S. Dept. of State reports Passport processing for regular service is taking upwards of 12 weeks due to heavy demands.  However numerous media reports have documented even longer delays.  The sooner you get this taken care of, the less stress we will all encounter later.  Information regarding passports is available online at http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html  If you do not currently have a passport you must apply in person at a post office with passport service or another approved location.  Find your nearest passport facility at http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/  Renewals can generally be made through the mail. 

If you procrastinate, expedited service is available but at a much higher cost.  And if you really leave it to the last minute (i.e. to the last two weeks) you can apply in person if you can get an appointment at the Chicago passport facility. 

You should also be aware of stricter entrance screening by Canadian Customs Officials.  The US and Canada have agreed to coordinate pre-flight screening of cross-border passengers.  A synopsis of the coordinated screening program is available on-line at http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2002/12/20021206-1.html.  In essence, anyone with a criminal conviction may be deemed “inadmissible”.  This may include even minor offenses such as shoplifting, theft, assault, dangerous driving, DUI, or drug possession.  Even if the charge was from 30 years ago.  Traffic violations (parking, speeding) most likely will not prohibit you from entrance.  If you have a blemished record, you may need to apply for a “Minister’s Approval of Rehabilitation” to wipe your record clear.  Additional information is available online at http://geo.international.gc.ca/can-am/seattle/visas/inadmissible-en.asp

We provide this information not to scare anyone away from visiting Whistler but rather so that you are fully aware and can plan an enjoyable and hassle-free trip.  Some time spent taking care of details now will eliminate problems and delays later.  We hope you all are planning on joining us on our winter trips.  We’re looking forward to another great season of fun and adventure.