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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 documents do you need to travel to Mexico?
- Contact information
- Passport information
- Full Name of the Hotel or address in Mexico
- Arrival flight information
- Email to send you the Tourist Card
- A printer to print the Tourist Card
Who needs a visa 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.
What are the requirements for a tourist visa in Mexico?
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond your date of country exit and with one blank visa page
- Hold proof of onward and return flights
- Hold all documents required for the next destination
- Hold documents showing proof of travel purpose (e.g. ...
- Hold proof of sufficient funds relative to your intended length of stay
Which country can enter Mexico without visa?
Visa Not Required for Mexico Additionally, travelers of all nationalities who have a valid visa or permanent residence for select countries (Canada, any country in the Schengen area, Japan, the United Kingdom, or the United States) do not need a Mexican visa to be able to enter the country.
Do U.S. citizens need visa for Mexico?
Nationals of the United States are permitted to enter Mexico without a visa for stays up to 180 days for business or tourism, and up to 30 days for transit purposes visa-free.
What does a US citizen need to travel to 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.
Do you need a visa to go to Cancun?
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.
How long can a US citizen stay in Mexico without a visa?
Visitors who do not require a visa, with a stay up to 180 days.
What documents do I need to travel to Mexico by Air 2022?
We recommend you carry printed proof of your stay in Mexico. You must present a valid visa and proof of your return ticket. As of April 1, 2022, you will have to fill out an electronic precheck with personal and immigration information to enter Mexico.
Can U.S. citizens travel to Mexico right now?
The United States will temporarily limit inbound land border crossings from Canada and Mexico to “essential travel”. This action does not prevent U.S. citizens from returning home. These restrictions are temporary and went into effect on March 21, 2020. They will remain in effect through 11:59 pm on October 21, 2021.
What are the rules for traveling to Mexico?
To this day, there are no entry restrictions in Mexico and no obligation to carry a COVID test or to do quarantine. However, it is mandatory to register on the Mexico Vuela Seguro Platform before boarding and to show the QR code at the arrival airport.
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.
Who needs a tourist card for Mexico?
Who Needs a Mexican Tourist Card? All foreign citizens coming to Mexico for less than 180 days (6 months) must obtain an FMM.
What documents do I need to go to Cancun?
As of 2010, every foreign national visiting Mexico is required a valid, currently unexpired passport to enter the country. In the past, U.S, citizens could enter with any official proof of citizenship document such as birth certificate or a green card, however this is no longer the case.
How do I get a visa for Mexico?
You have to apply for a Mexico visa at a Mexican embassy in your country (or the one nearest to you)....The application process is as follows: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 fee.
Can U.S. citizens travel to Mexico right now?
The United States will temporarily limit inbound land border crossings from Canada and Mexico to “essential travel”. This action does not prevent U.S. citizens from returning home. These restrictions are temporary and went into effect on March 21, 2020. They will remain in effect through 11:59 pm on October 21, 2021.
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 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.
Do you need a passport to go to Cancun 2022?
The only things you need are a valid ID with your photo, such as your driver's license, as well as proof of your US citizenship, like a birth certificate or a certification of naturalization.
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.
What happens if you don't get a visa in Mexico?
Your documents and passport will be returned back. This is not a rejection, so it will not hurt your future visa attempts for Mexico or any other country.
How long does it take to get a visa for Mexico?
Mexico tourist visa processing takes 2 working days. If there are too many applicants, the processing can take up to 10 working days. You will be told at the visa interview when to come back to pick up your passport.
What to do after you pick up your passport in Mexico?
After you pick up your passport, verify the name and dates on your Mexico visa to make sure everything is correct.
How long is a Mexico visa valid?
Mexico tourist visas are valid for 6 months from the date of visa issue. Visas are usually multiple-entry. Example: If your Mexico visa was issued on December 05, 2020, the visa will be valid until June 05, 2021. —.
What do you need to do at your first port of entry in Mexico?
At your first port of entry in Mexico, you have to go through passport control. You will be asked about your purpose of travel, whether it’s your first time in Mexico, etc. Your passport will be stamped.
How much is a Mexico visa?
The Mexico tourist visa fee is $44 USD payable in local currency. You may end up paying a bit more or less due to the exchange rate. Keep in mind that the visa fee is non-refundable.
How long can you stay in Mexico on a tourist visa?
The Mexico tourist visa allows you to stay up to 180 days in Mexico.
Who Needs a Mexico Visa?
If you are coming to Mexico as a tourist, transiting, for business or technical activities (such as journalism or studies), will not be working, and are staying for less than 180 days, a Mexico visa is NOT required—IF YOU ARE A CITIZEN of one of the following countries:
Where to ask someone for immigration in Mexico?
If you are driving to Mexico, pull into the “something to declare” area. The INM desk/office will be near there. If you need to ask someone, ask for immigration (INM or Instituto Nacional de Migración).
What is an FMM in Mexico?
Mexico requires all foreigners visiting Mexico have what is called an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple). Regardless of the length of your stay or where you’ll be visiting/staying in Mexico, it is required. An FMM is a travel permit issued by Mexican immigration, INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración), to foreigners for travel in Mexico. ...
What is an FMM visa?
An FMM is a travel permit issued by Mexican immigration, INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración), to foreigners for travel in Mexico. Although often referred to as a “tourist visa,” it is not officially a visa, but a travel permit issued to foreigners for short-term (180 days or less) travel. A visa is an official document allowing you ...
Where is the desk in Mexico?
If you are walking into Mexico (rather than driving), there will be a desk somewhere near the crossing area.
Do you need to put FMM on your travel checklist?
So, when you’re planning your trip , don’t forget to put the FMM on your travel checklist. Now you know to stop at the border and get your paperwork in order so that you can avoid any troubles from immigration. Enjoy your trip!
What is a Mexican tourist permit?
Every tourist must have a Mexican-government tourist permit called a Forma migratoria múltiple (FMM; tourist permit). These can be obtained on arrival or completed online in advance of your trip. Citizens of the US, Canada, EU countries, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Norway and Switzerland are ...
How long can you stay in Mexico?
The length of your permitted stay in Mexico is written on the card by the immigration officer. The maximum is 180 days, but they may sometimes put a lower number unless you tell them specifically what you need.
How much does it cost to get a tourist permit in Mexico?
The fee for the tourist permit is around M$500 (approx USD30) , but it’s free for people entering by land who stay less than seven days. If you enter Mexico by air, the fee is included in your airfare. If you enter Mexico by land, you must pay the fee once you arrive or at a bank in Mexico at any time before you re-enter the border zone to leave Mexico (or before you check-in at an airport to fly out of Mexico). The border zone is the territory between the border itself and the INM’s control points on highways leading into the Mexican interior (usually 12 miles/20km to 18 miles/30km from the border).
Can non-US citizens travel to Mexico?
Non-US citizens passing (even in transit) through the USA on the way to or from Mexico should check well in advance on the US’s complicated visa rules. Consult a US consulate or visit the US State Department's visa wizard for further guidance.
Do you have to pay a border fee to leave Mexico?
If you enter Mexico by land, you must pay the fee once you arrive or at a bank in Mexico at any time before you re-enter the border zone to leave Mexico (or before you check-in at an airport to fly out of Mexico ). The border zone is the territory between the border itself and the INM’s control points on highways leading into the Mexican interior ...
Do you need a visa to visit Mexico?
Every tourist to Mexico must have a Mexican-government tourist permit. Some travelers also need a visa that they must arrange in advance. From tourist permits to visas and the identification that will get you across the border, here's the paperwork you need to visit Mexico.
How long is a visitor permit valid in Mexico?
This will be a maximum of 180 days; but it may be less than 180 days. The time granted to you (in days) is shown on the part of the permit that’s handed to you for safe-keeping. Check to see how many days you are granted to determine your exit date. Learn more about the number of days being granted to people arriving in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit, FMM.
How much does it cost to get a visitor's permit in Mexico?
The fee is approximately US$25. If you arrive in Mexico by land, you will need to get a visitors permit at the port of entry; If you fly to Mexico, air crews on international flights hand-out the visitor permit forms before the flight lands, and they are also available at Mexican airports, near the immigration desks.
What to do if your country is not on the no visa list?
If your country does not appear on the no-visa list, you should check with your nearest local Mexican Consulate for details of visa requirements before you travel to Mexico.
How long can a minor stay in Mexico?
Passport validity: The maximum period of time that a visitor/tourist may stay in Mexico under the auspice of a FMM (see above) is six months.
Where to check duty free allowances in Mexico?
If you are planning to do a lot of shopping in Mexico, you should check at the information desk at (air)port of departure in your home country for the latest duty-free allowances.
Do you need a passport to fly to Mexico?
A passport is required for air travel to and from the the United States . Traveling to Mexico via the United States: As of January 12th, 2009, the United States government introduced new rules for travelers entering the country using the Visa Waiver Program (Wiki).
Do you need a prescription note to take with you when traveling?
If you or a member of your family are taking prescription drugs, be sure to take the prescription/doctor’s note with you, which includes the patient’s name and the name of the medication (s) to prove medical need of the drugs you are carrying in case your luggage gets inspected. Don’t bring firearms or ammunition!
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 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 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.
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.
Mexico Tourist Visa Requirements by Nationality
- Minimum passport validity required to enter Mexico
1. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival — - Visa EXEMPT with a valid VISA from the US, Canada, UK, Schengen or Japan
Visa is NOT REQUIRED for ANY nationality holding a valid visa or permanent residence from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Schengen or Japan for stays up to 180-days as a tourist. Example:You hold an India passport with US B1/B2 visa, both valid for more than 6 months. You …
Mexico Tourist Visa Application Process
- Check if you need a Mexico tourist visa from the “Visa Requirements” section above. Alternatively, you can check if a visa is REQUIRED or EXEMPTon the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico website. —
Entering and Leaving Mexico by Air
- Entering Mexico by air
A Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) is a Mexican immigration form similar to an arrival/departure card. Normally, an FMM card will be given to you on your inbound flight. You must fill this FMM card before you enter the immigration and customs at the first port of entry in Mexico. At your fir… - Leaving Mexico by air
You have to return the FMM card to the airline staff on your exit. If you lose your FMM card, you must pay a penalty. To avoid any penalties and delays on your exit, make sure to keep the FMM card safe while you are in the country. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I left Mexico by air at Mexico cit…
Entering and Leaving Mexico by Land
- Entering Mexico by land
Grab and fill a FMM card at the immigration office. Present your passport, FMM card and cash for tourism tax. You will be asked about your purpose of travel, whether it’s your first time in Mexico, etc. Your passport will be stamped. The number of days you will be allowed to stay will be mark… - Leaving Mexico by land
You must present your original passport, FMM card and proof of tourism tax paid to the immigration officer. PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I left Mexico by land at Ciudad Cuauhtemoc near the Mexico/Guatemala border. I had a receipt of my tourist tax, so I presented my tourist tax rec…
Entering and Leaving Mexico by Sea
- Entering Mexico by sea
Grab and fill a FMM card at the immigration office. Present your passport, FMM card and cash for tourism tax. You will be asked about your purpose of travel, whether it’s your first time in Mexico, etc. Your passport will be stamped. The number of days you will be allowed to stay will be mark… - Leaving Mexico by sea
You must present your original passport, FMM card and proof of tourism tax paid to the immigration officer. If you do not have a tourism tax receipt or your airline booking doesn’t indicate it clearly, you will have to pay tourism tax when leaving Mexico by sea. PERSONAL EXP…
Summary
- Mexico visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. Mexico offers visa EXEMPTION to many nationalities. Any nationality holding any visa from the US, UK, Canada, Schengen or Japan are also visa EXEMPT. The Visa application procedure is fairly easy, quick and costs $44 USD.