Border crossing security goes into effect Jan. 31

Planning to go to Nogales, Sonora, in the next week or two?

Be prepared because new border crossing regulations start Jan. 31.

U.S. citizens who visit Mexico and want to re-enter the country might encounter trouble coming back without the documents.

The Department of Homeland Security says American citizens wanting to re-enter the United States will no longer be able just to declare their citizenship and show a driver’s license.

That’s been the routine for several years.

“Border crossers will be asked to present documents denoting citizenship and identity when the when entering the United States through land and sea ports of entry.

A good item to have as proof of citizenship is the U.S. passport.

Originally the plan was to enforce the use of the passport starting Jan. 1, but that was delayed because of the backlog of passport applications.

Other proofs of citizenship include birth certificates, but eventually that will be phased out and passports will be required of everyone.

“Travelers who do not present” the approved documents “may be delayed while U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPS) officers attempt to verify their identify and citizenship.”

It added, “Children ages 18 and under will only need to present a birth certificate.”

No press releases told travelers what would happen if they cross without documentation starting Feb. 1.

jlamb@gvnews.com | 547-9749