Ahoy Ernelle, thanks for sailing by planDisney.
I wanted to clarify what you meant by a short-form state-issued birth certificate, so I looked it up. It is a summary version of the original birth certificate often used for basic identity confirmation and school enrollment. As it is a summary of the long-form certificate (a certified copy of the original birth record), it is not accepted for passports or immigration purposes. So, it cannot be used as
citizenship documentation.
Since the short-form certificate is unacceptable, let me outline the necessary documentation for your
magical sailing. It depends on a few circumstances, including government regulations, citizenship, and where your cruise is sailing to and from. Overall, for US citizens (including children) sailing to and from the United States, Caribbean, and the Bahamas, the following is required:
• Original valid US passport
OR
• Original valid US passport card
OR
• Original valid Trusted Traveler card (NEXUS, FAST)
OR • Original state-issued birth certificate
AND a physical government-issued photo ID (digital/mobile state-issued IDs are not acceptable to sail)*-**-***
• Original Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) issued by the Department of State
AND a physical government-issued photo ID (digital/mobile state-issued IDs are not acceptable to sail)
• Original Certificate of Naturalization issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services
AND a physical government-issued photo ID (digital/mobile state-issued IDs are not acceptable to sail)
*Children 15 and younger must present one of the documents listed above but do not need a government-issued photo ID.
**Puerto Rico birth certificates issued before July 1, 2010, and hospital-issued birth certificates are unacceptable.
***Social Security and Global Entry cards are not acceptable proof of US citizenship for traveling outside the US.
If you are sailing outside of the United States or Caribbean, including Australia and Europe, the biggest difference is that the passport must be valid for 6 months after the last date of your sail. You may also be required to obtain an entry visa, depending on the country you are traveling to. The
Passport and Travel Documentation page is very helpful for specifics about documentation, and you can also check the US State Department's website to verify.
Ernelle, you will need to upload your documentation before departure to complete your
check-in. Additionally, you will need to have that documentation with you on boarding day. Make sure you have the documentation in your
carry-on bag rather than your checked bag because you will be denied boarding if you don't have the documentation with you. If you have any other questions, you know where to find us. I wish you smooth sailing!
Rayna