Virginia Birth Certificates

My wife and I are going on our first cruise for our five-year anniversary next weekend. We were told by our TA that we needed a certified copy of our birth certificate, which we got from the dept of vital health records.

We faxed a copy to our TA and she said what we had was fine.

After reading these boards, I see that a lot of folks are saying the copy needs to have a raised seal. Our doesn't, but it is authentic and has a state seal watermark.

We just don't want to be shut out when we try to board.

Any other Virginians have any problems with this? If so, any advice.

thanks

Scott

[jleq]

I'm not from Virginia....but your description of what you have sounds OK. Some states have raised seals/some watermarks/others [such as California--where I live] have special ink seals for identification. The main thing we're saying is that is has to be authentic/a certified copy. Not a copy you made at the local drugstore....or a "hospital certificate of birth".



Post Edited (09-29-04 20:46)

[Dorothy]

BUT, a passpost is really the way to go, especially if you think you might be cruising (or traveling for that matter) out of the country again.

I've traveled with both, and a passport zips you right thru all lines. When I traveled with my birth certificate, the officials pored over it, causing my heart to beat a little faster!

dorothy

[LisaK]

You should be fine, you also need your driver's license or photo id. Using birth certificates is becoming a real hassle at customs, its fine for this trip, but if you are planning on doing any traveling or crusing in the future get the passport.