Travel Preparation

International Travel

Currency Exchange

Currency can be bought and sold at Wells Fargo Foreign Currency, 666 Walnut Street in Des Moines. Customers may contact the office directly by dialing 515-245-3293. Customers may obtain current exchange rate information by contacting the automated line at 515-245-3290.

Who Needs a Passport?

ALL PERSONS traveling by air outside of the United States are required to present a passport to enter or re-enter the United States. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) establishes document requirements and this is the latest directive (as of June 1, 2009) from them on air travel. Minors traveling with their parents are subject to variances of the guidelines in regard to travel arrangements.

Any child 16 and over must have a passport. Children under age 16 are only required to have a birth certificate or a copy of the original (or other form of U.S. Citizenship such as a naturalization certificate) for Identification. The embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to travel can also advise you about its entry requirements.

A U.S. passport is the best proof of U.S. citizenship. Other documents to prove U.S. citizenship include an expired U.S. passport, a certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States.