Business travelers, other non-tourist travelers, or any visitors remaining for more than 180 days must have a Mexican visa and a valid passport to enter the country. U.S. citizens can apply for a Mexican visa at the Mexican Embassy
Embassy of Mexico, Washington, D.C.
The Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C. houses the diplomatic mission from Mexico to the United States.
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
Do US citizen need visa to visit 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 do I need to enter Mexico as a tourist?
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 I 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.
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.
Does Mexico require Covid test for entry?
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.
Are there any travel restrictions for Mexico during the Covid 19 pandemic?
Entry and Exit Requirements Into 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.
What documents do I need to travel to Mexico by air?
The government of Mexico requires current proof of citizenship, a photo ID, and a valid passport for entry into Mexico. or you might be denied entry into Mexico, even for shorter visits! You will need an FMT (Mexican Visitor's Permit), which is valid for up to 6 months.
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 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.
Where Can You Apply for a Mexico Visa?
You can apply for a Mexico visa at a Mexican embassy abroad. However, if you are from Turkey, Russia, you may be eligible to get a Mexican Tourist Visa online through the Electronic Travel Authorization ( Sistema de Autorización Electrónica, SAE).
How many types of visas are there in Mexico?
There are three main types of Mexico visas, depending on the duration of your stay:
Can you Extend a Mexico Visa?
Whether you can extend a Mexico visa or not depends on the type of visa you have .
What Happens if I Lose my Mexico Tourist Card?
If you lose your Mexico Tourist Card, you must visit an immigration office in order to get a replacement. You will also have to pay a replacement fee.
How long is a tourist visa valid in Mexico?
The duration of a Mexico tourist visa is a maximum of 180 days. However, once you arrive at the point of entry in Mexico, the immigration officials could give you a tourist card that is valid for 30, 60, or 90 days, not the full 180.
How much does a visa cost in Mexico?
A visa for Mexico costs about $36. However, the visa fee may change depending on the type of visa you’re applying for as well as the country in which you submit your application. The payment method also differs from country to country since some may require you to pay upfront via bank while others ask you to pay in cash.
How long does it take to get a Mexican visa?
Some only take about two days to process your visa while others may take up to four weeks.
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.
How long is a passport valid in Mexico?
Note that Passport Cards are not valid for air travel. We also recommend that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Mexico.
Is the Mexican consulate reopening?
Due to Covid-19, passport offices in many countries have suspended or restricted the issuance of new passports, as well as passport renewals. Mexican Consulates are gradually reopening to issue visas and provide other Consulate services; check with your nearest Mexican Consulate for details about their schedules and procedures.
How long do you have to have a passport to enter Mexico?
A passport: You must have a valid passport with at least 6 months left on it from the point of entry date into Mexico. An airplane ticket: This is only for those travelling by air, but you must ensure you have a copy of your ticket to hand as evidence of your travel plans.
What is a tourist card in Mexico?
The official term for this tourist card is Forma Migratoria Múltiple or FMM for short. An FMM is an official card that a tourist requires to travel to Mexico for a vacation if you plan to stay for more than 72 hours and travel more than 12km from the Mexican border. This cannot be used if you intend to travel to Mexico for any kind of work.
Do you require a passport if you have a US Green Card?
Whilst holders of a Green Card are equal with US citizens in terms of their right to work and live, it is important to remember to ensure you have a passport from your country of origin that is valid before you travel to Mexico. If you have this and your Green Card then you are absolutely fine to visit Mexico for your next holiday. If you decide to travel without it then you will quickly discover a problem.
What is an FMM in Mexico?
An FMM is for a single visit to Mexico, so if you plan to travel back and forth on multiple trips then you would need to get a new one.
How to get a passport if it is not valid?
If your passport is not currently valid, then you will be required to get this resolved and the best way is by contacting your country’s embassy located in the US. The fees and lead times vary depending on the nationality and government rules so it is important to do this as far in advance as possible so that you don’t end up cancelling your holiday. Our advice is to also register at the US embassy in Mexico to ensure you can get assistance in an emergency.
Is Mexico a popular destination?
When it comes to Mexico, it is an incredibly popular destination for many U.S Citizens, particularly when those colder months set in and the temptation of an escape to the sunshine becomes too much. A country full of delicious food, vibrant culture, beach life and historical wonders, let’s go through what exactly is required for people ...
Do you require a visa?
The short answer is no you don’t require a visa if you are a US Green Card holder. Just for reference, Green Card holders are assimilated US citizen who are permanent residents. However, you still need to remember certain documentation including what is known as a Mexico tourist card. You might see it referred to as a Mexican visa but technically it isn’t. You can definitely enter Mexico without a visa, as well as some other countries and regions including Canada, Costa Rica and the Virgin Islands.
Where can I find information on Mexican visas?
You should find all the relevant information related to travel visas on our website iVisa.com. It contains info and FAQs about Mexican travel visas and many different country's visas too. You will be assured of all the vaccination processes and thoughts of Do I need a vaccine to travel to Mexico? can be cleared there too.
What is the CDC's recommendation for travelers going to certain areas of Mexico?
Malaria: the CDC (Center for Disease Control) recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Mexico take prescription medicine to prevent malaria.
What is Mexico known for?
Mexico is well-known for the beaches on the Pacific and the Gulf of Mexico, and its diverse landscape of mountains, deserts, and jungles. Ancient ruins, such as Teotihuacán and the Mayan city of Chichén Itzá, are distributed throughout the country, as are cities from the Spanish colonial era.
What are the best shots to take in Mexico?
Some of these vaccines include: Chickenpox (Varicella) Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis. Flu (influenza) Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) Polio.
How long does it take to get a visa for Rush?
Rush processing – Application processes in 4 hours, and you pay USD 20.00.
What is the Mexican state?
The United Mexican States is also known as Mexico is located in North America. The land of Mexico has a contrasting topography in comparison to its neighboring countries. You can find deserts, highlands and even mountains there. The population of this country is 122.3 million and the currency used there is the Mexican Peso.
Can you get rabies in Mexico?
Rabies: Rabid dogs are commonly found in Mexico. However, if you end up getting bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Mexico, rabies treatment is often available. It's a good idea to get this vaccination if the activities you plan to do on your trip mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.
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.