Citizenship Status: The New Airline Travel Essential

When travelling by air, passengers are often required to present a valid form of identification. The specific requirements vary depending on the country and the passenger's nationality. For example, in the United States, adult passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification, such as a driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport, to pass through airport security and board their flight. Undocumented individuals may also use certain forms of ID, such as a foreign passport or a trusted traveller card. In some cases, individuals with dual citizenship need to be mindful of the requirements of their destination country and may need to use a specific passport or ID depending on their nationality. It is important for travellers to research the requirements of their destination and transit countries to ensure a smooth journey.

Domestic flights and acceptable IDs

When travelling on a domestic flight, adult passengers (18 and older) must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint. While many kinds of identification would work, the most common forms of ID are a passport or a driver's license.

• Department of Homeland (DHS) Security "Trusted Traveler" cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• US Military ID (active duty or retired military and their dependents, and Department of Defense civilians)
• Permanent Resident Card
• Border crossing card
• DHS-designated enhanced driver's license
• Driver's License or other state photo identity card issued by a department of motor vehicles (or equivalent government agency)
• Native American tribal photo ID
• Airline or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)
• A foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

It's important to note that a REAL ID-compliant license will be required to board an airplane in the US starting May 7, 2025. These IDs are marked with a star at the top of the card.

Children under 18 are not required to provide a form of identification for TSA screening when travelling within the United States.

International travel requirements

Documentation Requirements:

• For international travel, a valid passport is typically required for all travelers. Some countries may also accept other forms of identification, such as a NEXUS card for travel between the US and Canada.
• U.S. citizens are required to enter and exit the country using their U.S. passport. They are not eligible for a U.S. visa and must use their U.S. passport when traveling to or from the United States.
• Children are also required to present their own passports when traveling internationally.
• If you have dual citizenship, research the entry and exit requirements of your destination country. Some countries may require you to use a passport from that specific country or show an ID from that nation.
• It is recommended to have two copies of your travel documents, keeping one with you and leaving the other with a trusted contact.

Other Requirements:

• Some countries may have specific vaccination or testing requirements for incoming travelers. Check the latest guidelines provided by the country's official sources.
• Certain countries may impose restrictions or requirements, such as exit visas or registration of dual nationalities. Research the laws and regulations of your destination country before traveling.
• For U.S. citizens, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires adult passengers (18 and older) to show valid identification at the airport checkpoint for domestic flights. This can include a state-issued driver's license, a foreign passport, a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card, trusted traveler cards, and more.
• When booking your flight, ensure that the name on your ticket matches the name on your identification document.
• Keep your devices secure, and be aware of your rights when interacting with border officials or law enforcement. You have the right to remain silent and refuse to answer questions about your citizenship status.

Dual nationality and travel

Dual citizenship means that a person is a citizen of two countries at the same time and has legal rights and responsibilities in both countries. This can be beneficial for travellers, as it often means visa-free travel and the ability to stay longer in both countries. However, it can also cause confusion when it comes to presenting the correct passport at the right time.

When travelling between your two countries of citizenship, it is important to enter and exit each country using that country's passport. For example, if you are a citizen of Country A and Country B and are travelling from Country A to Country B, you should book your flight and present your passport for Country B. If you were to present your passport for Country A, you may be considered a "foreigner" and required to have a visa.

When travelling to a third country, you can choose which passport to use. It is recommended to check the visa requirements for each passport and select the one that grants you the best access. For instance, if you are a dual citizen of Country A and Country B, and Country A does not require a visa for entry into Country C, then it would be beneficial to present your passport for Country A when booking your trip to Country C.

What to show at the airline counter

When checking in at the airline counter, you will need to show your second passport—the one that corresponds to the country you are travelling to. For example, if you are a citizen of Country A and are departing from Country B to travel to Country A, you will need to show your Country A passport at the airline counter. The airline will need to be sure that you will be able to pass border control upon arrival.

What to show at passport control

When departing your home country, you will need to present your first passport—the one that corresponds to your home country. Even if the border guards ask for a visa, you are not obliged to show it. You only need to present your passport and your boarding pass.

Upon arrival in your destination country, you will need to present your second passport. For example, if you are a citizen of Country A and are travelling to Country B, you will need to show your Country B passport at passport control in Country B.

TSA requirements for US citizens

The TSA has specific requirements for US citizens to pass through security checkpoints at the airport. Here are the key TSA requirements for US citizens:

Identification Requirements:

US citizens aged 18 and older must present valid identification at the airport security checkpoint. Acceptable forms of ID include:

• State-issued driver's license or ID card (must be REAL ID-compliant by May 7, 2025)
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• US Department of Defense ID
• Permanent resident card
• Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued photo ID
• US Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
• US Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

TSA PreCheck®:

US citizens can enroll in the TSA PreCheck® program to expedite their security screening process. This allows travelers to keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on. US citizens, lawful permanent residents, and citizens of partner countries enrolled in Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI are eligible for TSA PreCheck®. To enroll, individuals must complete an online application, undergo a background check, and pay a fee.

TSA Training Requirements for Pilots:

The TSA has issued regulations that prohibit flight schools from providing training to non-US citizens without TSA approval. US citizens seeking flight training must create a TSA account and obtain approval. There are four categories of training requests:

• Pilots without a heavy type rating (over 12,500 lbs.) on their FAA or foreign airman certificate.
• Pilots with a heavy type rating but training in an aircraft they are not qualified in.
• Pilots training in any aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 12,500 lbs. or less.
• Pilots training in aircraft with an MTOW over 12,500 lbs. that they are already qualified in (recurrent training).

TSA Cares:

The TSA also provides a resource called TSA Cares, which assists travelers with disabilities and medical conditions during the security screening process.

Undocumented individuals travelling in the US

Travelling in the US can be a stressful process for undocumented individuals, but it is possible. If you are an undocumented immigrant with a valid passport from your home country or a valid driver's license, there is a good chance you can get on a domestic flight without issues. Here is what you need to know about travelling as an undocumented individual in the US.

Identification

All travellers flying on a domestic flight in the US must present a valid (unexpired) photo ID issued by the state or federal government. Undocumented individuals may use the following forms of ID, which are accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA):

• State photo identity card
• State driver's license
• Foreign passport (must be unexpired)
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service Employment Authorization Card
• Trusted traveller cards such as NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST cards issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• Border-crossing cards
• Native American tribal ID cards
• Airline or airport photo ID cards issued in compliance with TSA regulations and transportation worker ID credentials

Booking Your Flight

When booking your flight, ensure that the name on your ticket is an exact match with the ID you will be using. It is also important to make sure there are no layovers outside the US.

Safety Measures

Develop a safety plan in case you are stopped by authorities. Designate at least two people to have access to your important documents, and share your flight information with them before travelling. Discuss what to do in case anything goes wrong.

Your Rights

You have the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. You do not have to answer questions about your citizenship or immigration status, and you do not have to sign any paperwork without the advice of a lawyer. If you have valid immigration papers, you can provide them, but do not provide false documents.

Searches

The TSA is only permitted to conduct "administrative searches" of passengers and their belongings, looking for prohibited items to ensure passengers' safety. "Criminal searches" may only be carried out by law enforcement personnel such as the FBI and state/local law enforcement officers, who may be called in by the TSA at their discretion.

Travelling to US Territories

Undocumented individuals who hold temporary protection (e.g., TPS/DACA recipients) may travel to US Territories without Advance Parole. However, it is important to know where and how to travel safely. Ensure your DACA is valid during your entire time abroad, and bring your USCIS documents showing your granted deferred status.

Future Travel

On May 7, 2025, new identification laws for domestic travel will take effect under the REAL ID Act. This will enforce minimum standards for state licenses used for domestic travel. If you cannot get a REAL ID, consult an attorney about other options for identification.

Please note that this information is not legal advice and does not guarantee safe travel for undocumented individuals in the US. For specific guidance, consult a qualified attorney or legal services provider.

Frequently asked questions