Dreaming about turquoise water, sun-soaked ports, and a Virgin Voyages sailing in your future…then realizing you don’t actually have a passport yet? Pause. Inhale. Exhale. You’re in very good company, and this is far more manageable than it feels in the moment.
Do you need a passport to book a cruise?
First things first: do you need a passport for a cruise? Short answer: you can book a cruise without a passport, but you will need a valid passport before you sail on most international itineraries.
For Virgin Voyages sailings that visit international destinations, including our Caribbean, Mediterranean, and transatlantic routes, a passport is strongly recommended (and often required) for smooth embarkation and re-entry. Think of it as your golden ticket to hassle-free (and kid-free) adventure.
Why having a passport before booking makes everything easier
Having your passport in hand before you book removes stress later. It ensures your travel documents match exactly, helps avoid last-minute scrambling, and gives you flexibility if your plans shift.
It also means you’re ready for Shore Things (our curated cruise excursions) where you have to show ID on land, for unexpected itinerary changes, or for that spontaneous decision to extend your travels before or after your voyage.
In other words, it keeps your vacation energy where it belongs.
How to apply for a passport in the United States
That said, if you don’t have one yet, no panic spirals needed. The process is fairly straightforward, as long as you account for current processing times (more on that shortly). If you’re applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, here’s what to expect.
You’ll need:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
- A government-issued photo ID
- A passport photo that meets official requirements
- A completed passport application form
- Applicable fees
First-time applicants must apply in person at an approved passport acceptance facility, like a post office branch or another government office.
The most up-to-date instructions and forms are available directly from the U.S. Department of State, and it’s worth getting familiar with them before you go.
How long does it take to get a passport?
Processing times can vary throughout the year, so timing matters.
Standard processing typically takes several weeks. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee and can significantly shorten the wait if your cruise date is approaching and your calendar is giving you side-eye.
For current processing timelines and expedited options, always check the State Department site to make sure you have adequate lead time.
Already have a passport? Now is the perfect time to check its expiration date! Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Some travelers are eligible for online renewal, but be sure to confirm eligibility before assuming that’s an option. If not, the Renew By Mail process will be your path forward.
Can you get a passport faster if your cruise is soon?
Yes. If your sailing is creeping up fast, expedited services and urgent travel appointments may be available.
If you’re within a tight window, review the State Department’s guidance on urgent travel and emergency passport services right away. The key move here is not waiting until the eleventh hour. Even expedited options have limits, especially during peak travel seasons.
When to apply for a passport before booking a cruise
If you’re planning ahead, the safest move is to apply for or renew your passport before finalizing your cruise booking. As a general rule:
- Apply as soon as you start thinking about international travel
- Renew if your passport expires within the next year
- Build in extra buffer time for processing delays
Once your passport is sorted, you can book with confidence and turn your attention to the fun stuff — like picking beach reads, getting your Scarlet Night outfit ready, and debating which onboard restaurant to try first.
What about non-U.S. travelers?
Passport requirements and processing times vary by country. If you’re traveling on a non-U.S. passport, check with your country’s official passport authority for application steps, timelines, and validity rules.
No matter where you’re traveling from, make sure your passport meets the entry requirements for every country on your itinerary.
A quick passport checklist before you cruise
Before you sail, make sure:
- Your passport is valid for the full length of your trip and beyond
- Your name matches your booking exactly
- You’ve made copies or saved a digital backup
- You know where your passport will live during your voyage
A few minutes of prep now can save you major headaches on embarkation day.
Conclusion
Getting a passport doesn’t have to slow your travel dreams. With a bit of planning and the right information, it’s a simple step that unlocks international cruising, unforgettable ports, and smooth sail days from start to finish.
Handle the paperwork now, and you’ll be free to focus on what really matters: choosing your voyage, packing your bags, and counting down to embarkation. Ready to see where your passport will take you next?
