Proof of citizenship to be required at border

As of Thursday, you'll be asked to prove your claims of being an American citizen when you return for a visit to Mexico.

New, stricter border crossing rules take effect at U.S. ports of entry at San Luis, Ariz., Andrade, Calif., and elsewhere along the nation's borders with Mexico and Canada.

Border crossers 19 and older will be required to produce proof of citizenship - either a U.S. or Canadian passport, or a birth certificate and government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or military ID.

Those 18 and under will be asked to provide a proof of citizenship, such as a passport or a birth certificate.

People who are unable to provide the requested documents will be advised of the requirements and given a written advisory detailing what is required for the next crossing, said Brian Levin, Arizona spokesman for CBP.

"We will not automatically send people in for an inspection if the only issue is lack of documents, unless we suspect an attempt to gain entry by falsely claiming U.S. citizenship, which is what we already do," Levin said.

Vincent Bond, California spokesman for CBP, said sole oral declarations of citizenship will no longer be accepted but because this is an educational and transitional period, "there's some flexibility here."

The transitional period can take months until a passport or other acceptable document such as a passport card is required in June 2009.

"I can't predict how long it (the transitional period) will be," he said.

This requirement is part of the government's response to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI).

"We are trying to help travelers gain awareness of the requirements and get used to carrying and presenting documents," Levin said.

Those who do not have an original birth certificate or have sent it in with a passport application, a photocopy can be presented during this time or proof of application for a passport, Levin said.

Although CBP does not anticipate an increase in wait times or any delays for travelers, Levin says border crossers can help expedite traffic through ports by having the documents ready to present as they approach the inspection area.

They should also be prepared to answer all questions and declare everything they acquired while outside the country, he added.

"We are working to minimize any impact this may have and will monitor any delays and work to reduce them if they happen."

Border crossing requirements for Mexican citizens do not change, Bond said.

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On Friday, the State Department will start accepting applications for a passport card that complies with the new crossing rules.

The wallet-sized card will be good for crossing at U.S. land and sea ports of entry.

It will cost less than a standard passport: Fees for first-time applicants are $45 for adults and $35 for children. Those who already have a passport will pay $20.

First-time applicants need to apply in person at post offices and courthouses designated as passport services sites.