
Do Americans need a passport to travel in Mexico?
Yes, just like when traveling by land or air, you will need a valid United States passport when entering Mexico. You can also use a valid passport card if you do not have a passport book. One exception is traveling on a closed-loop cruise that starts and ends in the United States; you do not need a passport.
What does visa do Mexicans need to be an US citizen?
A visa is required for any Mexican citizen visiting the United States. In addition, an entry permit is required for Mexican visitors traveling beyond the immediate border area. Other nationalities, please visit a U.S. Consulate or Embassy before traveling to the United States.
Is a visa needed for US citizen to enter Mexico?
Whether you need to apply for a visa before traveling to Mexico depends on:
- which country issued your passport, or
- whether you have legal residency in Mexico; or
- your passport has a visa for certain other countries, or
- whether you have APEC business travel privileges.
Do I need a passport to travel to Mexico?
Travel to Mexico does generally require a passport since it is a foreign country. If traveling by land or sea, then you can get away with just a passport card. However, if traveling by air, then all passengers will need a passport book. Make sure that you know both the United States and Mexican laws when planning a trip.

What does a US citizen need to enter Mexico?
U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). Travelers should be sure to enter Mexico with valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone.
How long can an American stay in Mexico without a visa?
180 daysVisa Not Required for Mexico Visa-exempt travelers who come to Mexico for tourism or business can stay for a maximum of 180 days without a visa, while travelers who want to transit through the country can stay for a maximum of 30 days visa-free.
Can U.S. citizens travel to Mexico?
U.S. citizens are permitted to enter. A negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) is not required for entry. Health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry. Passengers and aircrew members arriving at Mexican airports may be subject to health screenings including temperature checks.
Do I need visa to go to Cancun Mexico from US?
US Citizens are eligible to travel to Cancun visa-free. However, when entering Mexico via air or a land border, you must present a Tourist Card upon entry AND exit. The Tourist Card, Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), is an Entry Immigration Form that details information about foreign tourists visiting Mexico.
Who can enter Mexico without a visa?
Additionally, if you have a residence permit issued by any of the following countries, you are also exempt from holding a Mexico tourist visa:European Union countries.Canada.Chile.Colombia.Japan.Peru.United Kingdom.United States.
How much is a tourist card for Mexico?
How much does a tourist card (FMM) cost? As of June 2021, tourist cards cost $594.00 pesos (appx U.S. ) and may be issued for up to 180 days. It is advisable to have your card valid for 180 days even if you don't plan on staying in Mexico that long.
What documents do I need to travel to Mexico by Air 2022?
What Documents Do I Need To Travel To Mexico By Air 2022?A valid passport.A completed Multiple Migratory Form (FMM)Border authorities may ask for additional documents such as hotel reservations, return tickets, etc.
What documents do I need to travel to Mexico by plane?
To enter Mexico, you must have the following documents:A valid passport or travel document. ... A properly completed Multiple Migratory Form (FMM). ... Mexican immigration officers at the port of entry may request additional documents depending on the purpose/activity of your trip.
How long can an American stay in Mexico?
180 daysAs an American, you can stay in Mexico for six months (or 180 days) at a time with a "visitor's visa" — everyone over age 16 who travels to Mexico with a US passport automatically enjoys this option. You will be given this document before you arrive in the country (either via plane or at a border crossing).
How much is a Mexican visa?
Mexico visa application is fairly simple. It costs $44 USD and takes about two business days for processing. Mexico tourist visa is valid for 180-days, multiple-entry.
How do I get a tourist visa for Mexico?
How to Apply for a Mexico Tourist Visa?Contact the Mexico embassy to set up an appointment. ... Complete the Mexico Visa Application Form. ... Collect the required documents.Submit the application and pay the visa fee. ... Wait for the visa to be processed.Pick up your passport.
What documents do I need to go to Cancun?
Travelers need the following documents:Passport valid for at least 6 months from date of entry.FMM Mexico Tourist Card.Visa for Mexico (when applicable)Return flight ticket.Documentation proving the purpose of the visit (such as hotel reservation)Proof of sufficient funds.
How long can US citizen live in Mexico?
six monthsCan Americans Legally Live in Mexico? By law, American tourists can stay in Mexico for up to six months. For many snowbirds and retirees, six months is more than enough. They head south for the chilly winter months and come back to enjoy spring and summer stateside.
What happens if I stay in Mexico more than 6 months?
Everyone who wishes to stay in Mexico for longer than six months, regardless of their nationality, has to get a Mexican Temporary Residence Permit, which is valid for one year and renewable for up to four years. Additionally, if they want to work, they have to get a work permit.
How many days can you stay in Mexico per year?
Tourists/visitors can legally remain in Mexico, holding only a valid passport, for 180 days and must then leave.
How long can a US permanent resident stay in Mexico?
It is valid for up to 180 days and will allow you to stay in Mexico for the given time. If you wish to extend your stay more than the 180 days, you need to exit and then re-enter Mexico with a new tourist card.
Good to Know
Because of Mexico’s low cost of living, 1.5 million Americans currently call Mexico home . These expats generally fall into a few different categories:
Do Americans Need a Visa to Stay in Mexico?
Landing a visa to live, work, or settle in Mexico is not as hard as you might imagine.
Visa Options
Your purpose for moving to Mexico will determine the visa that suits you best. You have plenty of options depending on your situation.
Can You Apply for a Visa While in Mexico?
For the most part, you must leave Mexico before applying for a temporary resident visa. Generally, the visa must be obtained at a Mexican consulate in your home country.
Where to Find More Information
When applying for a visa to any country, there are always going to be hurdles.
Now, on to You
Although it may seem like a far-away dream, moving to Mexico really isn’t as difficult as you may think.
Who needs to pre-apply for a visa to visit Mexico?
Whether you need to apply for a visa before traveling to Mexico depends on:
How long can you stay in Mexico if you don't have a visa?
If you do NOT have to pre-apply, you can arrive in Mexico and complete the visitor’s form, FMM that gives you up to 180 days leave to remain in Mexico.
What is the price of the Mexico Visa for the Citizens of the USA?
Don’t forget that before entering Mexico, you need to apply for the FMM, which is not the same as a paper Visa. This one is easier to get.
What is a Mexico Tourist Card?
A Mexico Tourist Card or FMM ("Forma Migratoria Múltiple," previously referred to as an FMT), is a tourist permit required for all foreign travelers wishing to enter Mexico. This document is necessary for you if you don’t get involved in any type of remunerated work.
What should I do If I’m just passing through Mexico?
If you’re just passing through Mexico, then you don’t need the Mexico Tourist Card, but keep in mind that as soon as you leave the airport there, you’ll have to apply for the document.
How long does a Mexican passport last?
Contrary to a conventional visa, the FMM can be obtained online, so you don’t have to visit the Mexican embassy to get it. This document has a validity of 180 days after arrival, it grants the holder a Single Entry for a maximum stay of 180 days. It can be used only for tourism purposes.
Can an American travel to Mexico?
However, you should know that as an American you cannot enter Mexico just by showing your passport. You have to apply for a special online document first. Apply now. The Mexico Visa for the citizens of the USA is better known as a Mexico Tourist Card, and it’s not a paper visa, but more like travel permission that allows you to enter this country.
Can you get Mexican food online?
You can get it through Mexican websites, but they might be tricky if you’re not used to online procedures. Another thing you have to consider is that you’ll probably have to wait for their availability (sometimes the servers get too crowded).
Is ivisa free?
By applying online you avoid lines at the airport that can make you waste time. But, that’s why our service has a price and it cannot be offered for free. However, you should know that these prices are always affordable.
What are the requirements for a Mexican visa?
The visa policy for Mexico defines which nationalities need a visa before applying for the Forma Migratoria Múltiple. US citizens are not required to have a Mexican visa before requesting their FMM provided they travel for any of the following reasons and do not need to stay for over 6 months: 1 Tourism and leisure 2 Professional meetings 3 Sports competitions 4 Cultural activities 5 Short term stays such as airline crew on a stopover
What is a Mexican tourist card?
Short term stays such as airline crew on a stopover. The Mexican Tourist Card grants Americans a single entry into the county. If their stay requires them to briefly exit Mexican borders, they must have a second FMM to be allowed back in.
How long is a passport valid?
Have a US passport valid for at least 180 days on their arrival date. Provide an email address to register their petition. Use a bank card to pay the FMM processing fee. US travelers must check the expiration date on their passports.
How long does a Mexican tourist card last?
The Mexican Tourist Card carries the same validity as the maximum amount of days required for travel (7 or 180).
Can US citizens travel to Mexico?
American citizens can receive the Mexican Tourist Card within a few hours, provided they meet some basic requirements for international travel. The visa policy for Mexico defines which nationalities need a visa before applying for the Forma Migratoria Múltiple. US citizens are not required to have a Mexican visa before requesting their FMM provided ...
Can a child travel to Mexico with a parent?
American groups planning a family holiday with children must note each visitor must reach Mexico with their individual Forma Migratoria Múltiple previously granted. This is regardless of their age or if they share their passport with one of their parents or legal guardians.
Can US citizens apply for Mexico tourist card?
US citizens who satisfy the basic requirements for the Mexico Tourist Card can begin the application process. The form for the FMM is available as a simple online questionnaire that can be completed in a matter of minutes. US travelers will be required to provide some personal information such as the following:
What Can I Do If I Need to Apply for a Mexico Visa?
If you need a visa for Mexico, you have to apply at one of the Mexican embassies abroad.
How long do you have to be on a visa to Mexico?
Other Mexico visa-exemptions. However, even if you would normally need a visa for Mexico, you are exempt from a Mexico visa (for up to 180 days) if you fall under one of the following categories:
Who is Eligible for Mexico Electronic Travel Authorization?
Nationals of the following countries are eligible to obtain their Mexico visa through a facilitated process online, known as the Electronic Travel Authorization ( Sistema de Autorización Electrónica, SAE):
Do I Need a Visa for Mexico if I Already Have a US/Schengen Visa?
No, if you are from a country that requires you to apply for a visa for Mexico, you do not need one if you already have a valid Schengen visa or a valid visa for:
How long does it take to get a tourist card in Mexico?
Everyone who is travelling to Mexico for tourism, visit, business or other short-term purposes (up to 180 days) needs to get Mexico Tourist Card, even if they don’t need a Mexico Tourist Visa. You can get a Tourist Card at a Mexican point of entry upon arrival or you can get it online before you travel.
Do I Need a Visa to Go to Mexico?
Nationals of most countries need a visa to visit Mexico. You don’t need a visa for Mexico only if you are from a visa-exempt country or you are in the category of people which makes you exempt from Mexico visas, as detailed below.
How many consulates are there in Mexico?
The U.S. Mission to Mexico comprises the Embassy in Mexico City, nine consulates and nine consular agencies.
Who does visa interviewing?
In the country you selected, visa applications and interview scheduling are primarily facilitated by a third-party company, U.S. Travel Docs. Please visit their website at: https://www.ustraveldocs.com for additional information on determining what visa type is best for you and how to apply.
What is a Visa?
visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship.
Who facilitates visa applications?
In the country you selected, visa applications and interview scheduling are primarily facilitated by a third-party company, Applicant Service Centers. Please visit their website at: https://ais.usvisa-info.com for additional information on determining what visa type is best for you and how to apply.
How much does it cost to get a visa to Mexico?
When you apply for a Mexico visa, you must also pay a non-refundable visa fee, which is about US$36. The payment method depends on the specific embassy, as some ask you to pay beforehand via a bank, while others only accept cash at the time of application.
What is the difference between a Mexico Tourist Visa and a Mexico Tourist Card?
The difference between a Mexico Tourist Visa and a Mexico Tourist Card is:
What do you need to sponsor a trip to Mexico?
If someone is sponsoring your trip to Mexico, you must submit: An original invitation or sponsorship letter, which states you full name, the company’s name and registration, what activity you will be doing in Mexico, and an estimated period of your stay. Photocopy of the ID of the person signing the letter.
Do you need a cover letter for Mexico?
Some Mexican embassies may require that you submit a Cover Letter, addressed to the embassy. You must explain the reason you want to travel to Mexico and give details of your trip (enter and exit dates, where you will stay etc).
Can Mexican embassy staff affix visas?
Additionally, it must also have blank pages so the Mexican embassy staff can affix your visa.
Do you need a visa to travel to Mexico?
Mexico embassies could ask you to show you have booked a return flight ticket or a travel itinerary – you do not have to actually purchase the ticket before you get your visa.
What is the emergency number in Mexico?
The phone number to report emergencies in Mexico is “911.” Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.
What to do if you are arrested in Mexico?
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, you may ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately. The Mexican government is required by international law to contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate promptly when a U.S. citizen is arrested if the arrestee so requests. This requirement does not apply to dual nationals. See our webpage for further information.
What is the number to call for a car accident in Mexico?
Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of U.S. citizen deaths in Mexico. If you have an emergency while driving, dial “911.” If you are driving on a toll highway (“ cuota ”) or any other major highway, you may contact the Green Angels ( Spanish only ), a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico.
Is a driver's license valid in Mexico?
U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires that only owners drive their vehicles or that the owner be inside the vehicle. Failing to abide by this law may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.
Is Mexico at high altitude?
Altitude: Many cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, are at high altitude, which can lead to altitude illness. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes. Air Quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Mexico.
Is Mexico a medical tourism country?
Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery: Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry in Mexico. Although Mexico has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Mexico, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and medical providers are accredited and qualified. Individuals seeking health care treatment should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on medical tourism. In recent years, U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
Can you carry a gun in Mexico?
Firearms and Other Weapons: Weapons laws in Mexico vary by state, but it is generally illegal for travelers to carry weapons of any kind including fire arms, knives, daggers, brass knuckles, as well as ammunition (even used shells ). Illegal firearms trafficking from the United States to Mexico is a major concern, and the Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against taking any firearm or ammunition into Mexico. If you are caught entering Mexico with any type of weapon, including firearms or ammunitions, you likely will face severe penalties, including prison time. Visit the Department’s Traveling Abroad with Firearms webpage, the Mexican Secretary of Defense page ( Spanish only ), and the Mexican Customs page ( Spanish only) for further information.