What To Know
- A passport card is a smaller, less expensive alternative to a passport book.
- Children under 16 may travel on Ryanair flights within the Western Hemisphere with a birth certificate or naturalization certificate accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- A passport card is a smaller, less expensive alternative to a passport book that allows U.
Navigating international travel can be a maze of regulations and requirements. One common question that arises is whether a passport card can be used on Ryanair, Ireland’s low-cost airline. This comprehensive guide will shed light on this query, providing you with the necessary information to plan your Ryanair journey seamlessly.
What is a Passport Card?
A passport card is a smaller, less expensive alternative to a passport book. It is a credit card-sized document that allows U.S. citizens to enter and exit Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean by land or sea.
Can I Use a Passport Card on Ryanair?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Ryanair requires passengers to present a valid passport book for all flights, including those within the Western Hemisphere. Passport cards are not accepted as valid travel documents for Ryanair flights.
Why Not?
Ryanair’s policy is based on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations. ICAO requires airlines to verify the identity of passengers using a machine-readable passport book. Passport cards do not contain the necessary machine-readable zone, making them unsuitable for this purpose.
Alternative Travel Documents
If you do not possess a passport book, you can consider the following alternative travel documents for Ryanair flights within the Western Hemisphere:
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
- Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, Global Entry, SENTRI)
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Exceptions
There are a few exceptions to Ryanair’s passport book requirement:
- Children under 16: Children under 16 may travel on Ryanair flights within the Western Hemisphere with a birth certificate or naturalization certificate accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- Unaccompanied Minors: Unaccompanied minors under 16 may travel on Ryanair flights within the Western Hemisphere with a valid passport card if they meet certain additional requirements.
Getting a Passport Book
If you need to obtain a passport book, you can apply online or by mail. The application process typically takes several weeks, so it is advisable to start the process well in advance of your travel date.
Summary
While passport cards are convenient for land and sea travel within the Western Hemisphere, they cannot be used on Ryanair flights. Passengers must present a valid passport book for all Ryanair journeys. Alternative travel documents may be available for certain circumstances, but it is always best to check with Ryanair directly for the most up-to-date information.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the difference between a passport card and a passport book?
A: A passport card is a smaller, less expensive alternative to a passport book that allows U.S. citizens to enter and exit Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean by land or sea. A passport book is a full-sized document that is required for air travel.
Q: Can I use my passport card to travel to Europe on Ryanair?
A: No, Ryanair requires passengers to present a valid passport book for all flights, including those to Europe.
Q: Can I use my Green Card to fly on Ryanair?
A: Yes, a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) is an acceptable alternative travel document for Ryanair flights within the Western Hemisphere.
Q: How can I apply for a passport book?
A: You can apply for a passport book online or by mail. The application process typically takes several weeks.
Q: What should I do if I don’t have a passport or alternative travel document?
A: You should contact Ryanair directly to inquire about possible exceptions or alternative arrangements.
