Based on the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, citizens of the United States, Canada, the British Territory of Bermuda, and Mexico will be required to have a passport or other accepted secure documentation to establish the bearer's identity and nationality to enter or re-enter the United Sates. Furthermore, according to the Departments of State and Homeland Security, the greatest potential impact of this plan will be realized at the land borders.

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative will be rolled out in phases to provide the public with sufficient notice, allowing them adequate time to meet the new guidelines. Below is the proposed timeline for phased implementation:

• December 31, 2005-Requirement applied to all air and sea travel to or from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central and South America.
• December 31, 2006-Requirement applied to all air and sea travel to or from Mexico and Canada.
• December 31, 2007-Requirement applied to all air, sea, and land border crossings.

Due to its advanced security attributes, the passport is the preferred document for identification purposes. However, it is anticipated that the following documents will be suitable substitutes for the passport:

• Border Crossing Card (BCC or "laser visa")

• Customs and Border Protection Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) program card
• NEXUS program card
• Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program card