mexico visit visa

Update May 10, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory August 22, 2023

Mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passport must be valid at time of entry

One page per stamp

Yes, if visiting for more than 180 days

See Travelers’ Health section

Embassies and Consulates

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS IN MEXICO From Mexico: 800-681-9374 or 55-8526-2561 From the United States: 1-844-528-6611

U.S. Citizen Services Inquiries: Contact Form

U.S. Embassy Mexico City

Paseo de la Reforma 305 Colonia Cuauhtémoc 06500 Ciudad de México

U.S. Consulate General Ciudad Juarez

Paseo de la Victoria #3650 Fracc. Partido Senecú 32543 Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua

U.S. Consulate General Guadalajara

Progreso 175 Colonia Americana 44160 Guadalajara, Jalisco

U.S. Consulate General Hermosillo

Monterey, Esqueda 141 El Centenario 83260 Hermosillo, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Matamoros

Constitución No. 1 Colonia Jardín 87330 Matamoros, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Merida

Calle 60 No. 338-K x 29 y 31 Colonia Alcalá Martin 97050 Mérida, Yucatán

U.S. Consulate General Monterrey

Avenida Alfonso Reyes 150 Colonia Valle del Poniente 66196 Santa Catarina, Nuevo León

U.S. Consulate General Nogales

Calle San José s/n Fracc. Los Álamos 84065 Nogales, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Nuevo Laredo

Paseo Colon 1901 Colonia Madero 88260 Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Tijuana

Paseo de las Culturas s/n Mesa de Otay Delegación Centenario 22425 Tijuana, Baja California

Consular Agencies

Acapulco Hotel Continental Emporio Costera M. Alemán 121 – Office 14 39670 Acapulco, Guerrero Cancun

Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 ZH Torre La Europea, Despacho 301 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo

Los Cabos Las Tiendas de Palmilla L-B221, Km. 27.5 Carretera Transpeninsular 23406 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur

Playa Gaviotas 202, Local 10 Zona Dorada 82110 Mazatlán, Sinaloa

Oaxaca Macedonio Alcalá 407, Office 20 68000 Oaxaca, Oaxaca

Piedras Negras Abasolo 211, Local 3, Centro 26000 Piedras Negras, Coahuila

Playa del Carmen Plaza Progreso, Local 33 Carretera Federal Puerto Juarez-Chetumal, Mz. 293 Lt. 1. 77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Puerto Vallarta

Paradise Plaza, Paseo de los Cocoteros 85 Sur, Local L-7 63732 Nuevo Nayarit, Nayarit

San Miguel de Allende Plaza La Luciérnaga, Libramiento Jose Manuel Zavala 165, Locales 4 y 5 Colonia La Luciérnaga 37745 San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

Destination Description

See the  State Department’s Fact Sheet on Mexico  for more information on U.S.-Mexico relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A valid passport book is required to enter Mexico by air, and those attempting to enter at an airport with a U.S. passport card only may be denied admission.

Review the Mexican government’s most current  entry, exit, and visa requirements  ( Spanish only ) or visit the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information.

For travelers entering Mexico by air only, Mexican immigration authorities implemented a process to replace the previous paper Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM with a Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital or FMMD.  The FMMD process is in place at all 66 international airports in Mexico.  Upon arrival at an airport, Mexican immigration authorities will determine a traveler’s authorized length of stay and either place a date stamp in the traveler’s passport or direct the traveler through a self-service electronic gate (E-Gate) that will generate a printed receipt with QR code. Air travelers who wish to download a record of their FMMD or find more information on the FMMD process may visit the National Migration Institute’s (INM) website .

Travelers entering Mexico by land should have a valid passport book or card.  If you enter Mexico by land and plan to travel beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles or 20 kilometers into Mexico), you must stop at an INM office to obtain an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM), even if not explicitly directed to do so by Mexican officials.  INM may opt to allow tourists entry of up to 180 days without a visa or may limit authorized stays to shorter periods at their discretion; visitors should confirm the specific length of authorized stay written on the entry permit (FMM) or by the stamp in their passport. Mexican immigration authorities could ask you to present both your passport and entry permit if applicable at any point and may detain you while they review your immigration status if you are not carrying your passport and proof of legal status in Mexico, or if you have overstayed your authorized stay. Immigration check points are common in the interior of Mexico, including in popular tourist areas far from the border.  

You will also need a temporary vehicle import permit to bring a U.S.-registered vehicle beyond the border zone. These permits are processed through Banjercito and require a deposit that will be refunded once the vehicle leaves Mexico.  For more information, visit the  Banjercito  website ( Spanish only ).

Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Sonora have a “hassle-free” zone that allows cars traveling without an entry permit or car registration within the zone. 

Mexican authorities can impound a vehicle that enters the country without a valid U.S. registration, a vehicle driven by a Mexican national who is not resident in the United States, or a vehicle found beyond the border zone without the temporary import permit.

Mexican law permits Mexican immigration authorities to deny foreigners entry into Mexico if they have been charged with or convicted of a serious crime in Mexico or elsewhere.

Travelers bringing in goods beyond their personal effects worth $300.00 or more must declare those goods with Mexican customs (SAT) Mexican customs  ( Spanish only ) or risk having them confiscated. This also applies to used goods or clothing, including items for donation. U.S. citizens driving such items into Mexico without declaring them or without sufficient funds to pay duty fees are subject to having their vehicle seized by Mexican customs authorities. For further information about customs regulations, please read our  customs information page .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents in Mexico.

A parent or legal guardian departing Mexico with minor children should carry a notarized consent letter from the other parent if traveling separately. INM requires at least one parent to complete a  SAM  ( Formato de Salida de Menores, Spanish only ) for all Mexican or foreign minors with Temporary Resident, Temporary Student Resident, or Permanent Resident status departing Mexico alone or with a third party.  Further information about the  prevention of international parental child abduction  is available on our website.

Find information on dual nationality , and customs regulations on our websites. Both Mexico and the United States allow dual nationality.

Safety and Security

Travelers are urged to review the  Mexico Travel Advisory  for information about safety and security concerns affecting the country on a state-by-state basis.

U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Mexico should not expect public health and safety standards like those in the United States. Even where such standards exist, enforcement varies by location. Travelers should mitigate the risk of illness or injury by taking standard health and safety precautions.

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.

Crime:  Crime in Mexico occurs at a high rate and can be violent, from random street crime to cartel-related attacks. Over the past year, Mission Mexico has assisted U.S. citizens who were victims of armed robbery, carjacking, extortion, homicide, kidnapping, pick-pocketing, and sexual assault. Increased levels of cartel-related violence have resulted in territorial disputes and targeted killings, injuring or killing innocent bystanders. Travelers who find themselves in an active shooter scenario should flee in the opposite direction, if possible, or drop to the ground, preferably behind a hard barrier.

Drivers on roads and highways may encounter government checkpoints, which often include National Guard or military personnel. State and local police also set up checkpoints in and around cities and along the highways to deter criminal activity and enforce traffic laws. In some parts of Mexico, criminal organizations and other non-governmental actors have been known to erect unauthorized checkpoints and have abducted or threatened violence against those who fail to stop and/or pay a “toll.” When approaching a checkpoint, regardless of whether it is official, cooperate and avoid any actions that may appear suspicious or aggressive.

While Mexican authorities endeavor to safeguard the country’s major resort areas and tourist destinations, those areas have not been immune to the types of violence and crime experienced elsewhere in Mexico. In some areas of Mexico, response time of local police is often slow. In addition, filing police reports can be time consuming. See our  Mexico Travel Advisory  for more information.

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.  Protesters in Mexico may block traffic on roads, including major thoroughfares, or take control of toll booths on highways.  Travelers who encounter protesters who demand unofficial tolls are generally allowed to pass upon payment.  U.S. citizens should avoid participating in demonstrations or other activities that might be deemed political by authorities, as Mexican law prohibits political activities by foreign citizens and such actions may result in detention or deportation.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.  
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.  

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.  

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Mexico. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:   

• Romance/Online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Lucrative sales 
• Grandparent/Relative targeting 
• Free Trip/Luggage 
• Inheritance notices 
• Bank overpayments 

Mexico’s consumer protection agency,  PROFECO  (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor, Spanish only), can sometimes  provide assistance  (Spanish only) to victims of such scams. In addition, there have been allegations of banking fraud perpetrated by private bankers against U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens who believe they have been victims of fraud can file a police report  file a complaint  (Spanish only) with the Mexican banking regulatory agency, CONDUSEF  (Comision Nacional para la Proteccion y Defensa de los Usuarios de Servicios Financieros, Spanish only), or consult with an attorney.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate for assistance.  Report emergencies to the local police at 911, report crimes already committed to the Ministerio Publico, and contact the Embassy or Consulate at +52-55-85262561.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

U.S. citizen victims of crime should contact the local authorities to file a Mexican police report before departing Mexico. In most instances, victims of crime will file reports with the Ministerio Publico (equivalent to the office of public prosecutor or district attorney in the United States) and not with police first responders. U.S. citizens should also inform the  U.S. Embassy or nearest consulat e . 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .    We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care,
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police,
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent,
• provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion, 
• provide a list of local attorneys,
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States ,
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution,
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home,
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the  U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate  for assistance.

Kidnapping:  Mexico experiences very high rates of kidnapping.  If you believe you or your U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) relative has been kidnapped, please contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately.

Robbery:  Mexico experiences robberies, typically in cities, in which abductors force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release. Perpetrators commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi drivers. To minimize the risk of such robberies:

• Only use a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app.
• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand.

Extortion:  Extortion schemes are common in Mexico.  In a typical scheme known as a virtual kidnapping, criminals convince family members that a relative has been abducted, when, in fact, the person is safe but unreachable.  The purported abductors will often use threats to persuade victims to isolate themselves, making communication with family members less likely.  Unable to reach their loved ones, family members often consent to paying the “ransom” demand.  Criminals use various means to gather information about potential victims, including monitoring social media sites, eavesdropping on conversations, or using information taken from a stolen cell phone.  Some of these extortions have been conducted from Mexican prisons.  You can reduce the risk of falling victim to this type of extortion through the following:

• Do not discuss travel plans, your room number, or any other personal information within earshot of strangers.
• Do not divulge personal business details to strangers in person or over the phone, especially when using hotel phones.
• If you are threatened on the phone, hang up immediately.

Sexual Assault:  Rape and sexual assault are serious problems in some resort areas. Many of these incidents occur at night or during the early morning hours, in hotel rooms, on hotel grounds, or on deserted beaches. In some cases, assailants drug the drinks of victims before assaulting them. Pay attention to your surroundings and to who might have handled your drink.

Credit/Debit Card “Skimming:”  There have been instances of fraudulent charges or withdrawals from accounts due to “skimmed” cards. If you choose to use credit or debit cards, you should regularly check your account to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions. Travelers should limit the amount of cash they carry in public, exercise caution when withdrawing cash from ATMs, and avoid ATMs located in isolated or unlit areas.

Alcohol:  If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to stop and seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill. There have been reports of individuals falling ill or blacking out after consuming unregulated alcohol. The Mexican Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk,  COFEPRIS  ( Comision Federal para la Proteccion contra Riesgos Sanitarios, Spanish only ), is responsible for inspecting hotels, restaurants, and other establishments for health violations, including reports of unregulated alcohol. Please email COFEPRIS at  [email protected]  for more information or if you wish to file a report. You can file a report online (Spanish only) via the COFEPRIS website, by calling the COFEPRIS call center at 800 033 50 50 (from Mexico) or +52 (55) 5080-5425 (from the United States), or by scheduling an appointment  (Spanish only)  to visit a COFEPRIS office.

There have also been instances of criminals drugging drinks to rob or sexually assault victims. Additionally, if you feel you have been the victim of unregulated alcohol or another serious health violation, you should notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate . You may also contact the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries).

Drug Smuggling:  Mexican criminal organizations are engaged in a violent struggle to control trafficking routes. Criminal organizations smuggling drugs into the United States have targeted unsuspecting individuals who regularly cross the border. Frequent border crossers are advised to vary their routes and travel times and to closely monitor their vehicles to avoid being targeted.

Tourism:  In major cities and resort areas, the tourism industry is generally well-regulated.  Best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.  Hazardous areas and activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country.  Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and/or provide life-saving assistance.  In smaller towns and areas less commonly frequented by foreign tourists, the tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur.  Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities.  First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Since 2016, Mexico has opened seven multilingual Centers for the Care and Protection of Tourists (CAPTA) and Tourist Assistance Centers (CATTAC) in Los Cabos, La Paz, Acapulco, Playa del Carmen, Mazatlan, Ciudad Madero, and Queretaro. These offices have proven helpful assisting U.S. citizen visitors in resolving disputes with merchants and government entities, filing criminal reports, securing needed services, and locating special needs accommodations. 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

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.  

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 firearms, 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. U.S.-issued permits allowing an individual to carry weapons are not valid in Mexico.  Visit the Department’s  Traveling Abroad with Firearms webpage .

Vessels entering Mexican waters with firearms or ammunition on board must have a permit previously issued by a Mexican embassy or consulate.

Drugs:  Drug possession and use, including medical marijuana, is illegal in Mexico and may result in a lengthy jail sentence or fines.  

Electronic Cigarettes (Vaping Devices):  It is illegal for travelers to bring electronic cigarettes (vaping devices) and all vaping solutions to Mexico. Customs will confiscate vaping devices and solutions and travelers could be fined or arrested. Avoid delays and possible sanctions by not taking these items to Mexico. 

Real Estate and Time Shares:  U.S. citizens should exercise caution when considering time-share investments or purchasing real estate and be aware of the aggressive tactics used by some sales representatives. Before initiating a real estate purchase or time-share investment, U.S. citizens should consult with a Mexican attorney to learn about important regulations and laws that govern real estate property.

Mountain Climbing and Hiking:  The Mexican government has declared the area around the Popocatepetl and the Colima volcanoes off limits. In remote rural areas, there can be limited cell phone coverage and internet connectivity, and it may be difficult for rescue teams and local authorities to reach climbers and hikers in distress.

Potential for Natural Disasters:  Mexico is in an active earthquake zone. Tsunamis may occur following significant earthquakes. Please visit our  disaster and crisis preparedness  webpage for more information. For additional information concerning disasters, see:

• U.S. Embassy Mexico City website
• Civil Protection  ( Proteccion Civil, Spanish only ) provides information from the Mexican Government about natural disaster preparedness
• U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  provides general information about natural disaster preparedness
• U.S. Geological Survey  provides updates on recent seismic and volcanic activity

Storm Season:  Tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Caribbean and Pacific Coast between May and November can produce heavy winds and rain. Please visit our disaster and crisis preparedness  webpage for more information.

Spring Break:  Millions of U.S. citizens visit Mexican beach resorts each year, especially during “ spring break ” season. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18. See the “Alcohol” section above to learn more about the risks associated with drinking, as well as reports of illnesses associated with the possible consumption of unregulated alcohol.

Resort Areas and Water Activities:  Beaches in Mexico may be dangerous due to strong currents, rip tides, and rogue waves. Warning notices and flags on beaches should be taken seriously. Not all hazardous beaches are clearly marked. If black or red warning flags are up, do not enter the water. Strong currents can lead to dangerous conditions for even the most experienced swimmers. U.S. citizens simply walking along the shore or wading have been swept out to sea by rogue waves, and some citizens have drowned or disappeared at Mexican beaches. Avoid the consumption of alcohol while engaging in water activities and do not swim alone. 

Boats used for excursions may not be covered by accident insurance and sometimes lack adequate life jackets, radios, and tools to make repairs.  Participation in adventure sports may not be covered by accident insurance and safety protections and regulations for these activities may differ from U.S. standards.  Visit  our website  and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about adventure travel.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also be subject to fines or forced to relinquish the goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or on the organization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Intersex (LGBTQI+) events in Mexico. However, due to sporadic reports of violence targeting LGBTQI+ individuals, U.S. citizens should exercise discretion in identifying themselves publicly as LGBTQI+. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and Section 6 of the  Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Mexico  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:   Mexican law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure in more rural and remote parts of the country, and more common in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure in major cities.  U.S. citizens with disabilities should consult individual hotels and service providers in advance of travel to ensure they are accessible.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  There were several reports of sexual assault or domestic violence involving U.S. citizen women over the past year. See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Excellent health facilities are available in Mexico City and other major cities. Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi to a health provider. Mexican facilities often require payment “up front” before providing medical care, and most hospitals in Mexico do not accept U.S. health insurance. A list of doctors and hospitals is available on the U.S. Embassy or consulate website.

U.S. citizens have lodged complaints against some private hospitals in Cancun, the Riviera Maya, and Los Cabos to include exorbitant prices and inflexible collection measures.  Travelers should obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care in these locations.  Be aware that some resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers and ambulance services, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.  Some hospitals in tourist centers utilize sliding scales, deciding on rates for services based on negotiation and on the patient’s perceived ability to pay.  In some instances, providers have been known to determine the limits of a patient’s credit card or insurance, quickly reach that amount in services rendered, and subsequently discharge the patient or transfer them to a public hospital.

Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism.

For emergency services in Mexico, dial  911 .  Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.

Ambulance services are: 

• widely available in major cities but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards,
• not present in many remote and rural areas of the country,   
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.  
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.  

We do not pay medical bills:  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation as well.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check the Mexican government’s Drug Schedule to ensure the medication is legal in Mexico. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery: 

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.   
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas 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.  
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Mexico.  Several foreigners have successfully enlisted the support of  PROFECO  (Spanish only) in order to resolve disputes over medical services.
• 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 professionals are accredited and qualified.  

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls.  Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.  
• The Drug Enforcement Agency reports counterfeit prescription pills are sold by criminals on both sides of the border. These pills are sometimes represented as OxyContin, Percocet, Xanax, and others, and may contain deadly doses of fentanyl. Counterfeit pills are readily advertised on social media and can be purchased at small, non-chain pharmacies in Mexico along the border and in tourist areas.  U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or adulterated prescription pills.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.   
• Visit the  Mexican Health Department  website (Spanish only) or contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information about obtaining a permit to import medicine into Mexico.
• For a list of controlled substances in Mexico, visit the  COFEPRIS  website (Spanish only) and the  Mexican Drug Schedule  (Spanish only). U.S. citizens should carry a copy of their prescription or doctor’s letter, but it is still possible that they may be subject to arrest for arriving in Mexico with substances on these lists. Note that a medicine considered “over the counter” in some U.S. states may be a controlled substance in Mexico. For example, pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed, is considered a controlled substance in Mexico. For more information, contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy  

• If you are considering traveling to Mexico to have a child using assisted reproductive technology (ART) including surrogacy, visit the State Department’s ART and Surrogacy Abroad page for general information regarding U.S. citizenship for the child. 
• Surrogacy in Mexico presents serious risks that must be considered before U.S. citizens begin the surrogacy process.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Mexico via ART with a gestational mother, be prepared for possible long delays to document your child’s birth in Mexico and their U.S. citizenship by obtaining a U.S. passport. 
• Ensure you understand Mexican law, which varies by state. The only four states with a legal framework for surrogacy do not permit foreigners and/or same-sex couples to use the procedure. In the other 28 states, surrogacy is largely unregulated.
• In most states, Mexican courts may not enforce surrogacy agreements between non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents and a gestational mother should disputes arise, due to a lack of legal framework for surrogacy. The U.S. Embassy is aware of several cases where surrogacy agencies presented a partial, or false, interpretation of Mexican surrogacy laws.
• In most Mexican states, the gestational mother is the child’s legal parent with full parental rights, and the gestational mother’s name is typically listed on the Mexican state-issued birth certificate. In certain states, a court may amend the birth certificate to remove the name of the gestational mother.
• The U.S. Embassy is aware of cases of foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, being arrested for attempting to circumvent local law related to surrogacy.

Carbon Monoxide

• Many hotels and other lodgings are not equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, even if they contain sources of this potentially lethal gas. U.S. citizens have died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning throughout Mexico. If your lodging is not equipped with a carbon monoxide detector, consider traveling with a portable one.

Water Quality: 

• In many areas in Mexico, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks might be made using tap water.

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 .

Adventure Travel

• Participation in adventure sports and activities may not be covered by accident insurance and safety protections and regulations for these activities may differ from U.S. standards.  Visit  our website  and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website  for more information about adventure travel.

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Typhoid Fever
• Travelers’ Diarrhea
• Chikungunya
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
• Parasitic Infections
• Chronic Respiratory Disease
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Mexico.   

Air Quality

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Mexico. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

For further health information, go to:

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

  Private Residential Treatment Facilities: 

• These facilities provide care to U.S. citizens throughout Mexico and include child behavior modification facilities, rehabilitation facilities, and assisted living centers. 
• There is a wide range in standards for education, safety, health, sanitation, immigration, and residency.  Staff licensing may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the United States.  
• The State Department has received reports of abuse, negligence, or mismanagement at some of these facilities. U.S. citizens should exercise due diligence and do extensive research before selecting a residential treatment facility.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  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.  Generally, individuals involved in an accident who do not require immediate medical care should contact their insurance providers, who may come to the site to provide an immediate assessment.

Avoid driving on Mexican highways at night. Travel with a charged and functional cell phone capable of making calls in Mexico. Travelers should exercise caution at all times and should use toll (“ cuota ”) roads rather than the less secure free (“ libre ”) roads whenever possible. Do not hitchhike or accept rides from or offer rides to strangers anywhere in Mexico. Travelers encountering police or security checkpoints should comply with instructions.

Road conditions and maintenance across Mexico vary with many road surfaces needing repair. Travel in rural areas poses additional risks to include spotty cell phone coverage and delays in receiving roadside or medical assistance.

Vehicular traffic in Mexico City is subject to restriction Monday through Saturday, according to the license plate number, in order to reduce air pollution. For additional information, refer to the  Hoy No Circula website  ( Spanish only ) maintained by the Mexico City government. See our  Road Safety Page  for more information.  Also, visit  Mexico’s national tourist office website , MexOnline, and Mexico’s customs website  Importacion Temporal de Vehiculos  ( Spanish only ) for more information regarding travel and transportation.

Traffic Laws:   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.

Mexican citizens who are not also U.S. citizens or LPRs may not operate U.S.-registered vehicles in Mexico. Mexican insurance is required for all vehicles, including rental vehicles. Drivers involved in accidents, even minor incidents, may be subject to arrest if they are found to be driving without proper insurance, regardless of whether they were at fault. Driving under the influence of alcohol, using a mobile device while driving, and driving through a yellow light are all illegal in Mexico.

If you drive your vehicle into Mexico beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles into Mexico), you must apply for a temporary vehicle import permit with Mexican customs, Banjercito , or at some Mexican consulates in the United States. The permit requires the presentation of a valid passport and a monetary deposit that will be returned to you upon leaving Mexico before the expiration of the permit. Failing to apply for a temporary vehicle import permit may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle. 

Vehicles crossing into Mexico must have a valid license plate and registration sticker. Mexican authorities will often refuse to admit vehicles with temporary or paper license plates. Vehicles with expired registration or unauthorized plates will likely be confiscated and the operator could be charged with a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

The Mission Mexico Vehicle Recovery Unit  assists with the return of stolen U.S. vehicles recovered by Mexican authorities.

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.  Generally, individuals involved in an accident who do not require immediate medical care should contact their insurance providers, who may come to the site to provide an immediate assessment.

Public Transportation/Taxis:  Security on public buses varies throughout the country but is considered a relatively safe transportation option in Mexico City and other major tourist centers. Passengers should protect their personal possessions at all times as theft is common. Intercity bus travel should be conducted during daylight hours in preferably first-class buses using toll roads.

Robberies and assaults on passengers in taxis not affiliated with a taxi stand (known as “libre” taxis) are common. Avoid taking any taxi not summoned by telephone or contacted in advance, including “libre” taxis. When in need of a taxi, telephone a radio taxi or “sitio” (regulated taxi stand) and ask the dispatcher for the driver’s name and the taxi’s license plate number. Application-based car services such as Uber and Cabify are available in many Mexican cities, and generally offer another safe alternative to taxis. Official complaints against Uber and other drivers do occur, however, and past disputes between these services and local taxi unions have occasionally turned violent, resulting in injuries to U.S. citizens in some instances.

See our Road Safety page for more information. 

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority as not being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Mexico’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Mexico should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

If you enter by sea, review the Mexican boating permit requirements  prior to travel or contact the  Embassy of Mexico  in Washington, D.C., for more information.

Maritime Safety Oversight:  The Mexican maritime industry, including charter fishing and recreational vessels, is subject solely to Mexican safety regulations.  Travelers should be aware that Mexican equipment and vessels may not meet U.S. safety standards or be covered by any accident insurance.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Mexico . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Do you need a visa to go to Mexico?

Oct 24, 2023 • 4 min read

Find out if you can apply for a working holiday visa in Mexico © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Mexico is a vibrant country full of incredible culture and wonderful people – no wonder it's so continuously popular with visitors.

But navigating tourist permits, visas and officialdom can be daunting when you’re headed to a foreign country, especially one that revels in red tape. Have no fear! Here’s exactly what you need to know about entry requirements for  Mexico .

Who doesn't need a visa for Mexico?

Citizens of the US, Canada, EU, Israel, Japan and dozens of other countries are among those who do not require a visa to enter Mexico as tourists.

The same goes for any visitor, regardless of nationality, who is a permanent resident of or has a valid visa from the US (including an H1-B visa), Canada, the United Kingdom and any country in the Schengen Area or Pacific Alliance.

Notwithstanding visas, all foreign visitors must have  a passport with at least six months validity and a completed  Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), Mexico’s tourist card or stamp.

Where do I get an FMM?

The paper version of the FMM is gradually being phased out across Mexico and replaced with a passport stamp. However, when needed, FMM forms are available at border crossings , international airports and ports ; if you’re flying to Mexico, the form will be provided to you on-board your aircraft. The FMM form can also be completed online , printed and presented to immigration officials.

Processing an FMM costs US$28, which is paid on the spot at borders and ports or is integrated into the cost of airline tickets under “fees and surcharges.”

Upon entering Mexico, immigration officials stamp the FMM or your passport, adding the number of days you’re permitted to stay. Officials can approve up to 180 days but often grant less. Be sure to ask for the number of days you’ll need to cover your visit!

When you leave Mexico, you must surrender your FMM, if it’s a paper version. Keep it safe. If you lose it, you’ll face a US$40 fine.

The requirements are a little different if you're entering Mexico by land:

• FMMs are free for visitors staying less than seven days
• FMMs are not required for visitors who stay less than 72 hours in the " Zona Libre " or "Free Zone" – the areas 20 to 26 km (12 to 16 miles) south of the US border
• If you're entering through the Zona Libre but are planning to travel beyond its limits, request an FMM form when crossing the border. If you forget, you’ll be stopped upon return to the Zona Libre and made to pay for the FMM. If departing Mexico from beyond the Zona Libre , you may be fined if you don’t have an FMM.

Visitors requiring a visa

Chinese, Indian, Russian and South African citizens are among those who are required to have a tourist visa to enter Mexico . In addition to having a valid passport, the following must be submitted in person at the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate:

• Visa application form
• A color passport photograph
• Proof of ties to an origin country (eg, a letter certifying employment or full-time study)
• Proof of economic solvency (eg, three months of bank statements or investments)
• Approximately US$51 fee (cash or bank transfers only)  

Appointments for tourist visas at Mexican embassies and consulates must be made online with the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores . At the pre-scheduled time, the submitted documents will be reviewed, biometric data taken (photo and fingerprints) and an interview conducted by a consular agent.

Once approved, a tourist visa is valid for up to 180 days. Upon entry to Mexico, travelers with tourist visas must also have an FMM.

Can I extend my stay in Mexico?

It's no surprise that many visitors wish to extend their visa and see more of Mexico. How you do that will depend on the details of your particular visit.

If your FMM was issued for less than 180 days, you can request an extension at an immigration office . Be sure to apply well before your FMM expires! Documents needed include a valid passport, valid FMM, valid tourist visa (if necessary) and proof of sufficient funds to remain in Mexico for the intended length of stay.

If your FMM was issued for 180 days, you'll need to leave Mexico and re-enter – this triggers the issuance of a new FMM. Most travelers opt to visit a neighboring country for just a couple of days before returning.

Travelers with tourist visas should seek an extension or apply for a new visa at an immigration office. Be sure to start the process well before the visa expires, as it may take some time to process the paperwork.

Can I take a working holiday in Mexico?

Mexico offers a working holiday visa called a " Visa Temporal – Vacaciones y Trabajo ," wherein certain foreign nationals are permitted to accept paid work in Mexico for up to 180 days. Those include citizens, aged 18 to 30, from Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, New Zealand, Peru and South Korea.

Extensions are not permitted and the visa cannot be converted into a work visa. To obtain this visa, schedule an appointment at your nearest Mexican embassy or consulate via the website of the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores .

This article was first published Jun 30, 2021 and updated Oct 24, 2023.

Explore related stories

Sustainable Travel

Apr 29, 2024 • 11 min read

Step away from the gas pump and strap on your seat belt: these are the best US road trips for electric vehicles.

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 27, 2024 • 15 min read

Dec 28, 2023 • 5 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Dec 15, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 5, 2023 • 11 min read

Oct 13, 2023 • 8 min read

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Mexico tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: October 31, 2023

Mexico tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. Mexico has a liberal visa policy offering visa EXEMPTION to many nationalities. Those who REQUIRE a visa are also exempt from visa if they hold a valid visa from the US, UK, Canada, Schengen or Japan. 

Mexico visa application is fairly simple. It costs $44 USD and takes about two business days to process. Mexico tourist visa is valid for 180 days, multiple-entry.

Table of Contents

BONUS: FREE eBOOK

Enter your name and email to download the FREE eBOOK: The Secret to VISA-FREE Travel

Opt in to receive my monthly visa updates

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

Your FREE eBook is on it’s way to your inbox! Check your email.

MEXICO TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Minimum passport validity required to enter Mexico

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival

Visa EXEMPT nationalities

180-day entry.

• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Sint Maarten
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

• Afghanistan
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia Herzegovina
• Brunei Darussalam
• Burkina Faso
• The central African Republic
• Congo (Dem. Rep. of)
• Congo (Rep. of)
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Salomon Islands
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Timor-Leste
• Turkmenistan
• Vatican City

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 from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Schengen or Japan for stays up to 180 days as a tourist.

Example: You hold an Indian passport with a US B1/B2 visa, both valid for more than 6 months. You can enter Mexico using your India passport and US B1/B2 visa. No need to apply for a separate Mexico visa.

Visa EXEMPT with a valid PERMANENT RESIDENT CARD from the US, Canada, UK, any Schengen country, Japan or any Pacific Alliance country (Chile, Colombia, Peru)

Visa is NOT REQUIRED for ANY nationality holding a valid permanent resident card from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Schengen, Japan, Chile, Colombia and Peru for stays up to 180 days as a tourist.

Example: You hold an Egypt passport with a US green card, both valid for more than 6 months. You can enter Mexico using your Egypt passport and US green card. No need to apply for a separate Mexico visa.

Visa EXEMPT for cruise passengers

Visa is NOT REQUIRED for cruise passengers of ANY nationality entering Mexico at maritime ports as part of the cruise trip. 

Example: You are on a Caribbean cruise trip that will make a stop at Cancun, Mexico. You do not need any visa to enter Mexico at Cancun as part of your Caribbean cruise trip.

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 EXEMPT on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico website.

Validity of Mexico tourist visa

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.

When to apply for Mexico visa

You can apply for a Mexico visa up to 3 months in advance.

Example: If you plan to visit Mexico on April 15, you can apply for your Mexico visa on or after January 16.

How long can you stay in Mexico

The Mexico tourist visa allows you to stay up to 180 days in Mexico. 

In most cases, immigration officers give 180-day entry. But there may be occasions where you will be given fewer days. Check your FMM form for the number of days you’re allowed to stay. 

Example: If you entered Mexico on July 01, you will be allowed to stay till December 27. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE When asked at the port of entry, I usually say that I’m in Mexico for 1 month. But if necessary I continue staying longer. In one instance, I stayed close to 180 days and it wasn’t a problem leaving or re-entering Mexico.

Application procedure

Mexico tourist visa application is a 5 step process.

• Prepare documents required
• Schedule visa appointment
• Pay visa fee
• Attend visa appointment
• Pick up Passport

1. Prepare documents required

The following documents are required for Mexico tourist visa. 

• Completed Mexico visa application form
• One passport-size photograph
• Original passport
• Copy of the first and last page of your passport
• Original employment letter (must have been working for at least 1 year in the current company)
• Bank statements for the last 3 months
• Payslips for the last 3 months
• Copy of the visa/residence permit if applying in a third country (Example: if you hold an Indian passport and applying in the US, you have to provide a copy of your US visa)

1.2. Photo requirements

The photo must be 4.5cm x 3.5 cm with a white background, no glasses and the face covering 80% of the photo.

2. Schedule visa appointment

You must schedule your visa appointment at your nearest Mexican embassy or consulate using the MEXITEL visa appointment website. You cannot appear at the consulate without a prior scheduled appointment. 

First, you will have to create an account in MEXITEL. You will need the following details to create your account.

• Surname/Family Name
• Mother’s Last Name
• Primary Phone
• Phone Number

After creating your account, you will have to select the country and the consulate. You will then see the calendar with available dates. You can select the date and time that works for you and schedule the appointment.  

After you finish scheduling your appointment, you will receive a confirmation letter in your email. You must print this confirmation letter and carry it with you on the day of your appointment. 

The Mexican embassy in India made a nice step-by-step guide on how to schedule visa appointments using the MEXITEL website. 

NOTE Use Chrome browser if you can to schedule your appointment. MEXITEL website is not compatible with certain web browsers.

3. Pay visa fee

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. 

The payment method for the visa fee depends on the country and consulate. Some Mexican consulates accept cash payments within the consulate. Some require you to pay the fee at a designated bank in person or online prior to attending your appointment at the consulate. Check on your nearest consulate website for the exact procedure and fee.

4. Attend visa appointment

On the day of your visa appointment, you must appear at the Mexican consulate. If the consulate requires the visa payment to be made at the consulate, you will be instructed to pay the visa fee at the cashier. 

You will then meet the consular officer. You must present your passport, documents and visa fee receipt.

The consulate office will review your documents and capture your biometrics such as photos and fingerprints. They will ask you a few questions to assess your background and purpose of travel. 

If you are not eligible for the visa or do not meet the requirements, you will be told so. 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.

4.1. Visa processing time

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.

05. Pick up passport

You have to go back to the Mexican consulate again in person to pick up your passport. 

Keep in mind that passports cannot be mailed back to you. You also cannot send anyone else to pick up your passport. You must go back in person to pick up your own passport.

After you pick up your passport, verify the name and dates on your Mexico visa to make sure everything is correct.

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, also called a Mexico Tourist 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 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.

The number of days you will be allowed to stay will be marked on the FMM card. Usually, it’s 180 days but it can be less also. Verify the card right away to make sure you were given enough days for your trip.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I have entered Mexico by air at Mexico City, Guadalajara and Cancun airports. I was always asked how long I plan to stay in Mexico. I was never asked to show proof of my return ticket or hotel bookings.

IMPORTANT You must retain the FMM card while you are in Mexico. If you lose, you have to pay a penalty on your exit.

As always, carry a copy of your return ticket and hotel booking just in case. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, don’t forget to get proof of onward ticket .

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 City, Guadalajara and Cancun airports. There was no exit passport control. The airline staff verified my FMM card at check-in and took it away at the gate before boarding.

ENTERING AND LEAVING MEXICO BY LAND

Entering Mexico by land

Grab and fill an 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 marked on the FMM card. Usually, it’s 180 days but it can be less in some instances. Check the FMM card right away to make sure you were given enough days for your trip.

TOURISM TAX All tourists entering Mexico must pay a tourism tax. If you are flying into Mexico, your airline fare will include tourism tax. But if you are entering by land, you must pay tourism tax at the immigration office. The tourism tax is $594 MXN. It must be paid in cash in Mexican pesos only, but at some borders accept USD.

Leaving Mexico by land

You must present your original passport, FMM card and proof of tourism tax paid to the immigration officer. 

If you have entered Mexico by air, check your airline booking for itemized price details. You should see a line such as “Tourism Tax”. You can print your booking and show this as proof of the tourism tax paid when leaving Mexico by land. If you do not see tourism tax in your booking, you can email the airline requesting an itemized invoice. If the airline can’t provide you with one, you MUST pay tourism tax when leaving Mexico by land. 

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 receipt, FMM card and passport. The immigration officer took away the tourist tax receipt, and FMM card and stamped my passport with an exit stamp. It took about 5 minutes at the immigration office.

ENTERING AND LEAVING MEXICO BY SEA

Entering Mexico by sea

TOURISM TAX All tourists entering Mexico must pay a tourism tax. If you are flying into Mexico, your airline fare will include tourism tax. But if you are entering by sea, you must pay tourism tax at the immigration office. The tourism tax is $594 MXN. It must be paid in cash in Mexican pesos only, but some maritime ports accept USD.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I entered Mexico by sea at Chetumal near the Mexico/Belize border. I grabbed an FMM card, quickly filled and lined up at the immigration counter. It took a while to get through the immigration as there were many on the boat and there was only one immigration officer. I paid $533 MXN for tourism tax and received a receipt of payment. 

Leaving Mexico by sea

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 EXPERIENCE I left Mexico by sea at Chetumal near the Mexico/Belize border. I did not have a receipt for my tourism tax paid, so I had to pay the tourism tax at the port. I did not receive a receipt for tourism tax paid since I’m exiting and the receipt will not be useful anyway. The immigration procedure took about 10 minutes.

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 is also visa EXEMPT. The Visa application procedure is fairly easy, and quick and costs $44 USD.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

MORE VISA GUIDES

UNITED KINGDOM

VIEW ALL VISA GUIDES

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

Mexico Visa – How to Apply, Fees, Full Process

A Mexico visa is required for all US citizens (and most other countries) who wish to travel to Mexico for business or pleasure.

The process of applying for a Mexico visa can be daunting, but this guide will make it as easy as possible.

We’ll cover everything you need to know, from the types of visas available to the requirements and application process.

Apply Online

In this article…

Do you need a visa to go to Mexico?

Mexico is a popular destination for travelers from the United States. The country has a variety of attractions that are perfect for families, with plenty of outdoor activities and beaches to enjoy.

In addition, Mexico is one of the safest destinations in Latin America, making it a great place to travel with children .

It is possible to visit Mexico with a tourist visa, but most parents will want to get a longer-term Mexican visa. The easiest way to get a Mexican visa is to apply online.

To obtain a tourist visa, you must show that you have a return ticket or prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while in Mexico.

If you are applying for a work visa , you will need to provide more documentation to prove that you are eligible to enter the country and that you will be able to support yourself during your stay.

The tourist visa process can take several days, so you should apply as soon as you know that you want to travel to Mexico.

💡 Tip: Buy travel health insurance before your trip.

Check out popular travel insurance plans and choose one that suits you.

Most plans only cost less than $20 a day.

Mexico Visa Types

There are different types of Mexico visas, each with its own purpose and requirements. The most common types of Mexico visas are:

Tourist visa:

This type of visa is for individuals who wish to travel to Mexico for tourism purposes. To apply for a tourist visa, you must have a valid passport and proof of financial means to support your stay in Mexico.

Business visa:

This type of visa is for individuals who wish to travel to Mexico for business purposes. To apply for a business visa, you must have a letter from your employer detailing the purpose of your trip and your financial means to support your stay in Mexico.

Student visa:

This type of visa is for individuals who wish to travel to Mexico to study . To apply for a student visa, you must have been accepted into a Mexican educational institution and have proof of financial means to support your stay in Mexico.

Temporary resident visa:

This type of visa is for individuals who wish to live in Mexico for a period of time. To apply for a temporary resident visa, you must have proof of financial means to support your stay in Mexico and a clean criminal record.

Also read: US Visa

How to apply for a Mexico tourist visa?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as the process for applying for a Mexico tourist visa may vary depending on the country of origin.

However, it is generally advisable to contact the nearest Mexican consulate or embassy for specific instructions.

Additionally, it is important to note that all visitors to Mexico must possess a valid passport.

How can Americans visit Mexico?

There are a few ways that an American can visit Mexico. One way is to drive there. Another way is to take a bus or a train. Another way is to fly into Mexico.

Yes, Americans need a visa to enter Mexico.

A tourist visa is required for Americans visiting Mexico .

There is no specific visa required for a H1B visa holder to visit Mexico. However, it is recommended that you consult with a Mexican consulate or embassy in order to determine if you will need a tourist visa.

How to apply for Mexico visa online

1. Go to the website of the Mexican consulate or embassy in your country.

2. Look for the section on visa requirements.

3. Read through the requirements and gather the necessary documents.

4. Fill out the online application form .

5. Pay the visa fee.

6. Submit the application form and required documents.

7. Wait for the processing of your application.

8. Once approved, print out the visa and present it at the port of entry into Mexico.

Mexico Visa Requirements

The requirements to apply for a Mexico visa depend on the type of visa you are applying for. For most visas, you will need to submit a visa application form, your passport, and supporting documents.

What about a visit visa?

There is no specific list of requirements to apply for a Mexico visit visa, but applicants must show that they have a valid reason for travel and sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.

They must also have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Mexico.

There are no restrictions to get Mexico visa for any countries.

Mexico visas are available to citizens of many countries. Check the website of the Mexican embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

Mexico Tourist Card

The Mexico tourist card is an identification document that allows foreign nationals to enter and exit Mexico for tourism purposes.

It is also used as a form of payment for certain government services. The card is valid for up to 180 days from the date of issue and can be renewed for an additional 180 days.

Anyone who is a citizen of a country that does not require a visa to enter Mexico can get a tourist card.

Citizens of the following countries can get a Mexico visa on arrival :

• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Required documents to apply for Mexico Tourist Card Online

In order to apply for a Mexico Tourist Card Online, you will need a valid passport, a credit or debit card, and an email address.

You can get a Mexico Tourist Card online through the Mexican government’s official website , as well as through many private travel websites.

How to get a tourist visa to Mexico

U.S. citizens can visit Mexico without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 180 days. If you plan to stay in Mexico for longer than 180 days, you will need to apply for a tourist visa at a Mexican consulate.

Most visitors from Europe can enter Mexico with a valid passport and a tourist card, which can be obtained from Mexican consulates or online.

Mexico Tourist Card Fees

The Mexico E-tourist card fees is $25 USD. The fee must be paid in order to obtain the card, which is valid for up to 180 days. The card allows holders to enter Mexico for tourism purposes only.

Mexico Tourist Card Processing

The cost of the Mexico Tourist Card is $25 USD, and it can be obtained online or at the airport upon arrival. The processing time is typically instant, although it may take up to 72 hours for the card to be processed and delivered.

Do I need a Mexico Tourist Card if I’m transiting through Mexico?

If you’re not leaving the airport, you do not need a Mexico Tourist Card. The card is only required for those who are going to be leaving the airport and spending time in Mexico.

What does the Mexico Tourist Card look like?

The Mexico Tourist Card looks like a credit card and has the words “Tourist Card” written on the front. The back of the card has the name of the issuing authority, the expiration date, and the cardholder’s name and address.

The card also has a hologram of the Mexican flag on the front and a barcode on the back.

Can I Get a Mexico Visa On Arrival Instead of the Embassy?

No, you cannot.

You must apply for your Mexican visa at a Mexican embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel.

The Mexican Government has announced that it is possible to apply for a visa at the airport or land border upon arrival in Mexico. However, you may only do so if you meet the following requirements:

You must be from the U.S., Canada, Japan, South Korea , or the United Kingdom.

You must hold a valid passport from your country of citizenship.

You must have proof of sufficient funds to support your stay in Mexico.

You must have a return ticket or onward ticket to another destination.

You must not have a criminal record .

If you meet all of the above requirements, you can apply for a visa at the airport or land border upon arrival in Mexico.

How long should my passport be valid for to enter Mexico?

Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Mexico.

Which nationalities also require a visa to enter Mexico?

Citizens of Afghanistan , Algeria , Bangladesh , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Brazil , Bulgaria , Burkina Faso , Cambodia , Cameroon , China (Mainland), Colombia , Cote d’Ivoire ( Ivory Coast ), Cuba , Ecuador , Egypt , El Salvador , Guinea, Haiti , India , Indonesia , Iran , Iraq , Laos , Lebanon , Mali , Montenegro , Morocco, Nepal , Nigeria , North Korea , Pakistan , Panama , Peru , Philippines , Romania , Russia, Senegal , Serbia , Sierra Leone , Sri Lanka , Sudan , Syria , Taiwan, Thailand , Tunisia , Turkey, Uganda , Ukraine , Vietnam , Yemen , and Zimbabwe require a visa to enter Mexico.

Fill out Mexico E-tourist card application form online

1. Enter your personal information into the online form.

2. Select the type of tourist card you need.

3. Enter your travel dates.

4. Enter your credit card information.

5. Review and submit your application.

Who is eligible to apply for the Mexico Tourist Card?

Only citizens of countries that do not require a visa to enter Mexico are eligible to apply for the Mexico Tourist Card.

Which international airports can I enter Mexico from?

There are many international airports that offer flights into Mexico, including Mexico City International Airport, Cancun International Airport, and Los Cabos International Airport.

Do minors need to apply for the Mexico Tourist Card?

Minors are not required to apply for the Mexico Tourist Card.

How do I apply for the Mexico Tourist Card online?

To apply for the Mexico Tourist Card online, you will need to fill out an application form and submit it along with a copy of your passport. Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email with instructions on how to pay for the card. After your payment has been processed, you will receive your Mexico Tourist Card in the mail.

How Can I Stay in Mexico Longer Than Six Months?

If you want to stay in Mexico for longer than six months, you will need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa.

What Happens if I Lose my Mexico Tourist Card?

If you lose your Mexico Tourist Card, you can go to any Mexican consulate for a replacement or to the Mexican Customs office at the airport.

How long is the Mexico Tourist Card valid for?

The Mexico Tourist Card is valid for 180 days.

Where Can You Apply for a Mexico Visa?

You can apply for a Mexico visa at the Mexican consulate in your country of residence.

What is the Duration of a Mexico Visa?

The duration of a Mexico visa is generally 90 days, although this can vary depending on the type of visa and the country of origin.

Documents Required for a Mexico Visa

As you begin the process of applying for a Mexico visa, you will need to gather a few important documents. First and foremost, you need a passport that is valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into Mexico.

You will also need a completed application form with a photograph attached. If you are applying for a business visa, you will need a letter from your employer confirming your travel to Mexico. Finally, you will need to submit proof of financial resources sufficient to cover your expenses while you are in Mexico.

These financial resources can include a bank statement, a traveler’s check, or an international credit card.

Once you have gathered all of the required documents, you will need to submit them to the Mexican consulate or embassy nearest you.

The application process can vary somewhat from one consulate to another, so it is best to contact the consulate directly to find out how to apply for a Mexico visa.

In general, however, you will need to submit your application form, photographs, and supporting documents by mail or in person. After your application has been processed, you will be notified by the consulate whether or not your visa has been approved.

Mexico resident visa

A Mexico resident visa is a document that allows a foreign national to live and work in Mexico on a long-term basis.

This type of visa is typically valid for four years and can be renewed for an additional four years.

To be eligible for a Mexico resident visa, an individual must have a valid passport, a clean criminal record, and proof of financial stability.

If you want to become a resident of Mexico, you will need to obtain a Mexican residency visa.

This can be done by either applying for a Mexican residency visa at a Mexican consulate in your home country, or by applying for a provisional residency permit once you are already in Mexico.

To apply for a Mexican residency visa at a consulate, you will need to submit the following documents:

• A completed application form
• A passport-sized photo
• Your passport
• A copy of your birth certificate
• A copy of your criminal background check
• Proof of financial solvency
• A medical certificate

Once your application is approved, you will be issued a Mexican residency visa, which will allow you to live and work in Mexico indefinitely.

FAQs: Mexico Visa – How to Apply, Fees, Full Process

1. Do all travelers need a visa to visit Mexico? No, citizens from many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and the EU, can enter Mexico for short visits using a tourist card (FMM) without a visa.

2. What is an FMM? FMM stands for “Forma Migratoria Múltiple.” It’s a tourist card that most travelers fill out upon arrival in Mexico for short stays, typically up to 180 days.

3. How do I apply for a Mexican visa? You can apply for a Mexican visa at a Mexican consulate or embassy in your home country. The application typically involves filling out a form, providing required documents, and attending an interview.

4. What are the fees associated with a Mexican visa? Visa fees can vary based on the type and duration. It’s best to check the official website of the Mexican embassy or consulate in your country for current fees.

5. How long does the visa application process take? Typically, it takes a few days to a few weeks, but it might vary based on your nationality, visa type, and specific circumstances.

6. Can I extend my stay in Mexico? Yes, but you would need to apply for an extension with the National Immigration Institute (INM) in Mexico before your current status expires.

7. I lost my FMM while in Mexico. What should I do? It’s essential to replace a lost FMM before departing Mexico. You can obtain a replacement at an INM office by paying a fee.

8. Can I work in Mexico with a tourist visa or FMM? No. If you intend to work, you’ll need a specific visa or permit that allows employment.

9. How long is the FMM valid for? The FMM is typically valid for up to 180 days for tourists, but the exact duration is determined upon entry by an immigration official.

10. Are there special visas for students or researchers? Yes, there’s a Temporary Resident Student Visa for those planning to study in Mexico.

11. Can I change my visa status while in Mexico? In some cases, yes. But you’d need to visit an INM office and meet specific criteria.

12. Do children need separate visas? Yes, regardless of age, every traveler must have their visa or tourist card to enter Mexico.

13. Can I apply for a Mexican visa online? The FMM can be obtained online, but most visas require an in-person visit to a consulate or embassy.

14. How can I check the status of my visa application? You can inquire about your application status by contacting the Mexican consulate or embassy where you applied.

15. What happens if I overstay my visa or FMM? Overstaying can result in fines and potential issues when trying to re-enter Mexico in the future.

16. Is proof of onward travel required? Yes, you might be asked to provide evidence of return or onward travel when entering Mexico.

17. What documents do I need when applying for a visa? Typically, you’d need a valid passport, completed application form, passport-sized photos, and supporting documents like bank statements or invitation letters, depending on the visa type.

18. Can I bring my pet with me to Mexico? Yes, but there are specific regulations and requirements for importing pets. It’s best to check ahead with Mexican authorities.

19. Do I need any vaccinations to visit Mexico? There are no mandatory vaccinations for most travelers, but some are recommended. Always check with your doctor before travel.

20. Can I renew my visa while in Mexico? Some visas can be renewed or extended at an INM office in Mexico, but it’s essential to apply before your current visa expires.

• UK Visit Visa Fees & Cost
• Canadian Visit Visa Fees and Cost
• How to Apply for Switzerland Visa
• Switzerland Visa Fees and Cost
• Spain Visit Visa – How to Apply

Apply Online easily.

5 responses to “mexico visa – how to apply, fees, full process”.

I want to give me a saqaty visa

Good afternoon, I want to travel from Bangladesh to Mexico. I would be happy to know what documents are required

Hi I’m Bilaly tambedou From the Gambia Africa I want come holiday in mexco Together with my family’s My wife and daughter

I just want to travel, visit beautiful places.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You can also search using these:

Discover Mexico A-Z

• News & Offers
• Mexico Guides
• Mexico Features
• Free eBooks

• Free Guides

Travel Experiences

Trip planning, travel destinations, destination highlights, mexico lifestyles, living & lifestyle, lifestyle planning, real estate, healthcare & wellbeing, leisure assistance, lifestyle assistance, insurance coverages, property assistance, about mexperience, mexico essentials, discover more, guide to mexican visas, residency and immigration.

Mexico has a comprehensive legal and statutory Immigration Policy affecting Mexicans and foreign nationals

This page gives an overview of the Mexican immigration system and outlines the principal visas and options open to persons seeking to visit Mexico for leisure, business, for retirement, for living and working, as well as those seeking permanent residence in Mexico or Mexican Citizenship.

Latest articles about visas and residency in Mexico

Detailed outline of the process to apply for legal residency in Mexico

Financial criteria to qualify for residency in Mexico

Difference between Temporary and Permanent residency

FAQs – Visas and Residency in Mexico

See Also: Latest articles about Mexico Visas & Immigration

What is Mexico’s immigration policy?

Mexico’s General Law of Population sets out the rights and obligations of foreigners, as well as the different statuses associated with foreign immigration.

Types of immigrant permits

There are broadly two kinds of immigration permit: Non-Immigrant and Immigrant:

• Non Immigrant Permits are for people who intend to visit Mexico for a specific purpose and then depart;
• Immigrant Permits are for people who wish to gain long term permanent residence in Mexico.

Applying for Mexican visas

You have to apply for your visa(s) in person, but you may hire a representative to advise you and undertake the appointment scheduling, paperwork and filing on your behalf.  See Immigration Consultancy and Support  and  Immigration Lawyers for more details.

Renewing an existing Mexico resident permit

If you currently hold a Mexican resident permit (card), you can find information about renewal of your Mexico resident card here .

Please Note

The information on this page is intended as a summary of basic principles and immigration procedures in Mexico. For detailed information download our free Mexico Immigration Guide eBook

Mexico’s visitor permit, FMM

If you intend to visit Mexico for a short period, for example as tourist, on a business trip, or a short-term visitor (e.g. to volunteer, undertake a medical procedure, or take a sabbatical) then you may be able to use Mexico’s visitor permit.

Visitante : Visitor permit for short-term visits to Mexico

The ‘ Visitante ‘ permit is intended for visitors —usually tourists and business trips— to Mexico on short-term visits.  For visitor of longer than six months, you should consider applying for residency—see the sections below for details about this.

A Visitor’s Permit is issued when you arrive in Mexico (by air, or travel inland by road beyond the ‘free border zone’) by completing a Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM): these forms are issued by airlines, and are also available at ports of entry.

The Visitor Permit is valid for up to a maximum of 180 days and cannot be extended or renewed beyond the number of days written on the form by immigration official when you enter Mexico. Upon its expiry you will need to leave the country .

There is a fee of about US$25 for this permit, which is usually included in the price if your flight (under taxes and fees). If you arrive by road or ship you will have to pay for this permit separately.

See Also: Entry requirements for tourists

Special Procedure for Residency Applications

Under a special procedure announced by the INM some people with expired visitor permits may exchange these for residency permits in-country without having to leave Mexico .  Learn more about the special procedure to find out if you qualify .

Mexico’s temporary resident visa

If you intend to reside in Mexico temporarily, the Residente Temporal permit enables you to remain in Mexico for up to 4 years.

Visa de Residente Temporal : temporary resident visa

Mexico offers a Temporary Resident visa , intended for people who wish to live in Mexico for up to 4 years. The Temporary Resident visa is a renewable, long-term residency permit that gives legal temporary residency status to the holder.

The permit is issued for one year* initially, and can can then be renewed for a further 1, 2, or 3 years; this permit can optionally carry work permissions, and allows unlimited entries to, and exits from, Mexico.

There are various categories under which the Temporary Resident visas are granted, and these relate to the activities you intend to undertake while in Mexico. Under the terms of the Temporary Resident Visa, you are authorized to only undertake certain, specific, activities which may be lucrative or non-lucrative , depending on the visa’s classification.

A key criterion that the Mexican authorities require for the issuance of a Temporary Resident visa is that the applicant prove that they have sufficient funds to sustain themselves while in Mexico and/or a proven steady income.

With a few exceptions, the Temporary Resident visa cannot be issued to you in Mexico ; you must apply for it at a Mexican consulate outside of Mexico.  This article explains who can apply for residency within Mexico .

When applied for from overseas, the Temporary Residency permit (card) itself is not issued by foreign consulates. Instead, they process and pre-approve the application and place a visa (sticker) in your passport. When you arrive in Mexico you have to attend your local immigration office within 30 days of arrival, and undertake a procedure to  exchange your temporary resident visa (passport stamp) for a Temporary Resident permit (a plastic card).

All Temporary Residency cards are valid for only 1 year initially; they must be renewed after the first year for a further 1, 2, or 3 years if you wish to remain legally resident in Mexico.

After four years of holding Temporary Residency, you can apply to exchange the temporary residency for permanent residency; or enter into a regularization procedure to start temporary residency again; or leave the country.

*If you are married to a Mexican national, you are granted  two years of temporary residency and after those two years you can exchange this for permanent residency.

Detailed information about temporary resident visas

Learn more about temporary residency permits in Mexico .  For detailed information about Resident Visas download our free eBook Mexico Immigration Guide .

*To holders of passports from specific countries only. See Mexico Entry Requirements for details.

See Also: Latest articles with insights about Mexico Visas & Immigration

Mexico’s permanent resident visa

Permanent resident visas  are issued to foreign nationals who have the intention of living in Mexico who intend to settle permanently (indefinitely) in Mexico.

Visa de Residente Permanente : Permanent Resident Visa

The Permanent Resident permit is intended for people seeking permanent residency status in Mexico, and/or those who may seek eventual Mexican Citizenship. You do not need to be a Temporary Resident first to become a Permanent Resident later, provided that you fulfill the other requirements needed for permanent residency.

To apply for and be granted a permanent resident visa , the applicants must:

• have certain close family connections in Mexico, or
• apply for retirement status and prove they have sufficient qualifying monthly income or savings (and some consulates require applicants to be retired), or
• have 4 consecutive years of regular status as Temporary Resident, or
• have 2 consecutive years of regular status as Temporary Resident where that Temporary residency was issued through marriage to a Mexican national or a foreign permanent resident,  or
• meet a minimum score under the Points System * , or
• be granted residency on humanitarian grounds or through political asylum.

With a few exceptions, the Permanent Resident permit  cannot be issued to you in Mexico ; you must apply for it at a Mexican consulate outside of Mexico.

You can apply to exchange an existing Temporary Resident card for a Permanent Residency card in Mexico.  This article describes who can apply for residency within Mexico and this article describes the difference between temporary and permanent residency, including exchanging a temporary residency card to permanent residency.

When applied for from overseas, the Permanent Residency permit (card) itself is not issued by foreign consulates. Instead, they process and pre-approve the application and place a visa (sticker) in your passport. When you arrive in Mexico you have to attend your local immigration office within 30 days of arrival, and undertake a procedure to  exchange your permanent resident visa (passport sticker) for a Permanent Resident permit (a plastic card).

Permanent Residency cards do not expire, but you must notify the immigration office of certain changes in your circumstances, e.g. address, marital status, etc.

* Points-based System not in force:  The 2012 immigration law references a Points-based system as one of the routes foreigners may use to seek residency in Mexico.  However, details of the points system have yet to be announced by the government.

Detailed information about Permanent Residency visas

For detailed information about Resident permits, download our free eBook Mexico Immigration Guide .

Examples of people who apply for Mexico resident visas:

This section lists typical situations of people seeking residency permits in Mexico.  You can learn more about the principal routes to obtain legal residency here on Mexperience.

Retirees / independent income

If you want to engage in “non-remunerative activities” (i.e. you do not intend to earn money in Mexico) and you are receiving funds from abroad (from a pension or other investments or income sources) you can apply for a Temporary or Permanent Resident permit  when you meet the criteria . Read more about Retirement in Mexico on Mexperience.

You can receive a resident permit if you are willing to invest your capital in Mexico. Your investment can be directed at industry or services, and must equal a minimum set amount .

Professionals

If you are a qualified professional, technician, or scientist, Mexico offers a category of visa that enables you to live and work in Mexico under sponsorship from a company. The company must cover all of your income and expenses while you are in Mexico.  Learn more about Working in Mexico.

There are other situations including students and people with family connections in Mexico.  Download our free Mexico Immigration Guide eBook for detailed list of visa types and details.

Which Mexican visa is right for my situation?

Here are some examples of typical situations and the type of Mexican visa you may consider applying for.

Temporary visitor or temporary resident

When you do not want to seek permanent residence in Mexico right away.

For vacations, casual trips, or short business trips to Mexico: Simply fill out and use the Visitors Visa permit, available from the airline you travel with, or at the port of entry*

Volunteer work in Mexico: If you plan to volunteer here in Mexico, read the article about  Volunteering in Mexico  for details about the visa required.

For temporary work placements in Mexico: If you plan to live and work in Mexico for a defined period, and intend to return to your home country afterwards, a Temporary Resident permit, valid for up to 4 years, is the permit to apply for.

For other activities where you intend to stay longer in Mexico: You should apply for a Temporary Resident permit commensurate with your activity (e.g. Retiree, Student, Journalist, Scientist, Professional, etc.)  Our Immigration Assistance service can provide personalized consultation and support.  If your plans change and you decide to stay longer, you can renew your temporary residency for a maximum of four years and, after that, you can optionally apply to exchange your temporary residency for permanent residency.

Detailed information about Temporary Resident visas: For detailed information about Temporary Resident Visas download our free Mexico Immigration Guide eBook .

Long-term resident, economically active

When you want to obtain residency and you want to work in Mexico

Most people who want to work in Mexico either get sponsored by a Mexican company, or move here to work independently and/or invest in Mexico. You need to apply for temporary residency with work permissions.

For detailed information about applying for residency to work in Mexico, including investment visas, download the free Mexico Immigration Guide  eBook.

Long-term resident, not economically active

When you want to obtain permanent residency but do not want to work in Mexico:

If you have a regular source of income from abroad (e.g. investments, savings, pension, etc.) then you can apply for a Temporary or Permanent resident permit . By law, you need to prove that you have sufficient funds or investments to sustain yourself.

Detailed information about long-term residency permits: For detailed information about long-term residency when you don’t intend to work in Mexico (including retirees’ visas) download the free Mexico Immigration Guide  eBook.

See also: Latest articles with insights about Mexico Visas & Immigration

Principal routes to obtain legal residency in Mexico

Read our article about the principal routes to legal residency for an overview of the ways most foreigners consider when they want to apply for legal residency in Mexico.

Applying for Mexican citizenship

There is a specific process to apply for and acquire Mexican Citizenship (also known as ‘naturalization’). As a minimum you must have applied for, and been granted, permanent resident status, although exceptions to this rule may apply, depending upon a variety of circumstances: marriage to a Mexican national, for example, may enable naturalization with a shorter qualification period.

If you are between 18 and 60 years of age you will be asked to take an exam, which you must pass, in order to acquire naturalization/citizenship.

For further information, read : Becoming a Naturalized Mexican

Immigration consultancy and support

If you’re thinking about or actively planning a move to Mexico and need some detailed personal advice about the move, this  immigration assistance service can help.

Immigration Assistance by phone/email differs from hiring an immigration lawyer (see next section) as you don’t have to be physically located in Mexico and the consultancy will enable you to talk to and correspond with an expert in Mexican immigration matters about your specific circumstances.

This type of consultancy is ideal if you want to discuss your situation with an expert and talk through the various immigration options which may be open to you so that you can form your plans based on informed choices, and then help you with all the forms and letters you need to complete as part of the application.

The consultation will seek to assess your individual circumstances and suggest a proper course of action, based on your personal situation, that will have the best chance of leading to a successful application to live, work, invest or retire in Mexico, and then support you as you make your own way through the procedures.

Consulting and practical support for your Mexico residency application

To learn more about immigration consultancy connect to our Mexico Immigration Assistance Service  for further details.

Immigration lawyers

You may apply for Mexican visas directly in person at any Immigration Office in Mexico, or you may hire a representative to do the paperwork and administration on your behalf.

How you go about applying for your visa will depend on your circumstances, how much Spanish you speak, and how much time you have to deal with the bureaucracy involved in the application process.

Most people undertake the process themselves with no trouble (sometimes with some tele-support, see previous section) but if you definitely want in-person accompanied support at the immigration office in Mexico, or if your case is very unusual or complex (most are not), then you’ll need to hire the services of a local immigration lawyer at the location in Mexico where your residency papers are being processed.

A good immigration lawyer will be up-to-speed on the latest legislation as well as the latest “on the ground” policies being implemented at a local level. A good lawyer will also advise you if it is not possible for a person in your circumstance to make a successful application.

Personalized consultation support

If you want advice about your immigration choices, based on your own individual circumstances, as well as practical tele-support assistance to help you get thorough the procedures yourself, our Mexico Immigration Assistance Service can help.  It’s staffed by immigration and expatriate consultants who can help you to understand your options and determine a pathway for your immigration to Mexico and then support you as make your way through the procedures.

Immigration Assistance

Mexico Immigration Assistance

Our associates provide advice to apply for residency in Mexico and practical assistance as you make your way through...

Routes to Residency

Principal Routes to Obtaining Legal Residency in Mexico

This article describes principal routes foreigners take to apply for legal residency in Mexico, with references to additional information...

Mexico Immigration Guide 2024 — Continually Updated

Complete and continuously-updated guide about about Mexico immigration, including visas, rules, applications, and procedures for legal residency in Mexico

Visas & Immigration

Mexico Visas & Immigration

Guides and articles about Mexican visas, legal residency, and immigration

Mexico Safety

6 Reasons Why Mexico is Safer than You Think

These things don't make headlines, but they are the real-life experiences of people visiting and living safely in Mexico

Please SAVE the PDF for your personal use.

Download again

My File Downloaded - Close this box

Mexico Solved

Types Of Visas In Mexico: Explained

Dreaming of mariachis , margaritas , and the magical beaches of Mexico?

Before you savor the flavors of this vibrant nation, it’s visa time !

Delve into our comprehensive guide to unveil the various visa flavors Mexico offers to world travelers.

Do I Need A Mexican Visa?

Whether you need a Mexican visa depends on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit. Let’s break down the essentials :

Mexican Visa Not Required

• Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, European Union nations, and most Latin American countries, can enter Mexico for tourism purposes without a visa. 

However, some nationalities may need to apply for a tourist visa at a Mexican consulate or embassy before traveling.

Mexican Visa Necessary

• If your country is not exempt from Mexican visa requirements, and your stay in Mexico will be 180 days or less , you must apply for a Schengen (short stay) visa.
• Even if your country is exempt from Mexican visa requirements, if you plan to stay longer than 180 days, you’ll need to apply for an extended visa from your home country before coming to Mexico.

However, there are exceptions for citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, and the United States of America.

Individuals from these countries can enter Mexico without a visa and then apply for a residence permit from within Mexico.

• Citizens of all other countries planning to stay in Mexico longer than 180 days must apply for a long-stay visa at their local Mexican consulate or embassy before traveling.

What Are The Requirements To Enter Mexico?

Regardless of whether you need a visa or not, there are specific requirements you must meet to enter Mexico:

• Plausible Purpose : You must have a plausible and understandable reason for your trip to Mexico.
• Valid Passport : Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Mexico.
• Financial Means : You must demonstrate that you have the financial means to cover your living and travel expenses while in Mexico.
• Return Ticket : You should be prepared to leave Mexico before your visa or permitted stay expires, which may require booking a return flight.
• Travel Health Insurance : It’s essential to have travel health insurance coverage during your stay in Mexico.
• Security and Public Order : You must not threaten security or public order in Mexico.

What Are The Different Types Of Visas In Mexico?                      

Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s look at the many types of Mexican visas available:

Tourist Visa (Visitante) 

The tourist visa, known as the “Visitante” visa, is one of the most common types of short-term visits to Mexico, allowing stays of up to 180 days (6 months). 

Visa Fee is 170 – 615 Mexican Peso (varies by nationality).

Requirements For A Tourist Visa

• Valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
• Completed tourist visa application form.
• Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your stay in Mexico.
• Return or onward ticket .
• Payment of the visa fee , if applicable.

Temporary Resident Visa (Residente Temporal)

The Temporary Resident visa, or “Residente Temporal,” is for individuals planning longer stays in Mexico, such as retirees, expatriates, or those with family ties to Mexican citizens or residents. 

Visa Fee is 615 – 1999 Mexican Peso (varies by nationality)

Requirements For A Temporary Resident Visa

• Proof of sufficient income or financial savings.
• Proof of a legitimate reason for staying in Mexico (e.g., retirement, employment, family reunification).
• A Mexican sponsor or family member, if applicable.
• Completed visa application forms.
• Medical examination and health insurance coverage, depending on your age.
• Criminal background check.
• Payment of the visa fee.

Permanent Resident Visa (Residente Permanente)

The Permanent Resident visa, or “Residente Permanente,” is suitable for those planning to live in Mexico indefinitely , offering the advantage of no annual renewals. 

Visa Fee is 1999 – 3339 (varies by nationality).

Requirements For A Permanent Resident Visa

• Proof of stable income or financial savings.
• Proof of a legitimate reason for staying in Mexico.
• Medical examination and health insurance coverage.

Work Visa (Visa de Trabajo)

Foreign nationals seeking employment in Mexico must obtain a work visa, known as “Visa de Trabajo.” It requires a job offer from a Mexican employer. Visa Fee Varies (depending on nationality and circumstances).

Requirements For A Work Visa

• A valid employment offer from a Mexican company.
• Proof of qualifications and skills.

Student Visa (Visa de Estudiante)

International students wishing to study in Mexico need a Student Visa, which allows them to study for the duration of their academic program. Visa Fee is 184 – 1367 Mexican pesos (varies by nationality).

Requirements For A Student Visa

• Acceptance letter from a recognized Mexican educational institution.
• Proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses.

Investor Visa (Visa de Inversionista)

Mexico offers an Investor Visa, or “Visa de Inversionista,” for those making significant investments in the country, whether in real estate, businesses, or stocks. Visa Fee varies (check with consulate or embassy).

Requirements For An Investor Visa

• Proof of a significant investment in Mexico.

Family Reunification Visa (Visa de Reunificación Familiar)

The Family Reunification Visa, or “Visa de Reunificación Familiar,” allows family members of Mexican citizens or permanent residents to join their loved ones in Mexico. Visa Fee varies (check with consulate or embassy).

Requirements For A Family Reunification Visa

• Proof of the family relationship with a Mexican citizen or permanent resident.
• Sponsorship and financial support from the family members in Mexico.

Humanitarian Visa (Visa Humanitaria)

The Humanitarian Visa, or “Visa Humanitaria,” is granted to individuals facing exceptional circumstances, such as asylum seekers, refugees , or those requiring urgent medical treatment in Mexico. 

This type of visa is typically issued at the discretion of Mexican immigration authorities, and the eligibility criteria can vary based on specific circumstances and documentation. Visa Fee varies (depending on circumstances, may be exempt) .

Requirements For A Humanitarian Visa

• Detailed explanation of the exceptional circumstances necessitating the visa.
• Supporting documents that demonstrate the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
• Relevant medical documentation if the visa is sought for medical treatment.
• Criminal background check if applicable.
• Payment of the visa fee, if applicable

How To Apply For Mexican Visa?

The application process for a Mexican visa varies based on the kind of visa and your nationality. However, here is an overview of the stages required in applying for a Mexican visa.

Determine Your Visa Type

• Identify the type of visa that corresponds to the purpose of your visit to Mexico. 
• Common visa types include tourist visas, temporary resident visas, permanent resident visas, work visas, student visas, investor visas, family reunification visas, and humanitarian visas.

Check Visa Requirements

• Visit the website of the nearest Mexican consulate or embassy to check the specific requirements for the type of visa you are applying for. 
• Requirements can vary based on your nationality and visa category.

Complete The Visa Application Form

Obtain and fill out the appropriate visa application form. You can download these forms from the consulate or embassy’s website or obtain them in person.

Gather Required Documents

Collect all the necessary supporting documents based on the visa category. 

This may include your valid passport, passport photos, proof of financial means, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, criminal background check, health insurance, and other specific documents related to your visa type.

Schedule An Appointment

Many Mexican consulates and embassies require applicants to schedule an appointment for visa submissions. 

Check the consulate’s website for information on how to schedule an appointment, if required.

Attend The Visa Interview

Attend the scheduled visa interview at the Mexican consulate or embassy. 

During the interview, be prepared to present your application form and supporting documents and answer questions related to your visa application.

Pay The Visa Fee

Pay the required visa application fee. The fee amount can vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Be sure to inquire about acceptable payment methods.

Biometric Data Collection (If Applicable)

Some visa applicants may be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints or photographs, as part of the application process. This requirement can vary by nationality and visa type.

Wait For Visa Processing

After submitting your visa application, you must wait for the processing time specified by the consulate or embassy. Processing times can vary, so applying well before your intended travel date is advisable.

Visa Decision And Collection 

Once your visa is processed, you will be notified of the decision. You must collect your visa and any relevant documentation if your visa is approved. 

If your visa is denied, you will receive a notification explaining the reasons for the denial.

Travel To Mexico

If your visa is approved, you can travel to Mexico within the validity period of your visa. Ensure that you adhere to the visa conditions and the length of stay permitted.

It is important to remember that specific processes and regulations may differ from one Mexican consulate or embassy to the next. 

As a result, you must visit the consulate website or embassy where you want to apply for your visa to acquire the most precise and up-to-date information on the visa application procedure for your circumstances. 

Furthermore, it is best to begin the visa application procedure before your intended travel date to allow for any processing delays.

What Happens If My Mexican Visa Application Is Rejected?

In case a Mexican visa application is rejected, the applicant receives a formal notification in which the details are given as to why the visa was rejected. 

Reasons may vary but may include incomplete or incorrect documentation, insufficient financial means, and failure to meet the criteria set for eligibility, security concerns, or some other issues.

Applicants can reapply for their visa, considering the reasons that led to their visa rejection and addressing the issues that led to it. 

Reapplication must be done diligently, making sure all requirements are met. So the chances of a successful visa application are higher. 

As our journey through Mexico’s visa labyrinth concludes, you’re now poised to embrace the country’s kaleidoscope of cultures, tastes, and vistas.

With the right visa in hand, it’s time to say “Hola!” to your Mexican dream.

Mexico Mastered!

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in following:

• Freelancer Visa In Mexico
• Spouse Visa In Mexico
• Work Employment Visa In Mexico

Similar Posts

English-Speaking Lawyers In Mexico: Explained

Navigating legal matters in a foreign country can often feel like trying to solve a crossword puzzle in a language you barely speak, right? Don’t Worry! For expats in Mexico, the challenge doubles when faced with legal situations requiring expert guidance. Enter the world of English-speaking lawyers in Mexico – your linguistic lifeline in a…

How To Register Your Address In Mexico

Navigating the process of registering your address in Mexico can seem like a daunting task, especially for expats encountering the local bureaucracy for the first time. But fear not! We’ve got you covered! This guide is designed to demystify the process, offering you a straightforward and witty roadmap to officially establishing your residence in Mexico….

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Mexico set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Mexico’s embassy or consulate in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Mexico.

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting Mexico, your passport should be valid for the length of your stay in Mexico.

Visa requirements

If you’re visiting Mexico as a tourist, you do not need a visa.

You’ll get a stamp in your passport with the number of days you are allowed to stay.

British Nationals entering Mexico by land must fill out an immigration form online .

Employment, voluntary work, research and eco activities

Tourists cannot undertake voluntary (including human rights) work, or activity, or any form of paid employment. To carry out this type of work, you must get the correct visa from the Mexican embassy before you travel.

You may need a visa for some adventure or ecotourism activities like caving, potholing or entomology, especially if they involve any scientific or technological research. The Mexican authorities may define scientific or technological research activities far more broadly than other countries. If in doubt, check with the Mexican Embassy in London well before your visit and ask for written confirmation if necessary.

Applying for a visa

For information on how to apply for a visa while in the UK read the Mexican Embassy in the UK website .

For information on applying for a visa while in Mexico, read the Mexican government website .

Entering Mexico via the USA

If you’re crossing the border into Mexico from the USA, and there isn’t an immigration officer at the port of entry to issue your visa on arrival or give you an entry stamp, find the nearest immigration office to get your passport stamped before continuing your journey into Mexico. Customs officials at the border should be able to tell you where to find the immigration office – it’s usually close to the border. If you don’t clear immigration correctly at this point, it is often more complicated to do so once you have left the border area.

If you are travelling to or from Mexico via the USA, even if you are only transiting, check the latest USA entry requirements on our USA travel advice or with the US Embassy in London . If you do not have the correct authorisation, you will not be allowed to travel to or transit through the USA.

Check with your closest US embassy or consulate for more information.

The immigration service has installed e-gates in some terminals of the main international airports. You can use them if you are a tourist aged 18 or over. Make sure you collect the ticket printed by the e-gate as you will need to present it when exiting the country.

You can get digital proof of entry and how long you are allowed to stay in Mexico, by downloading it from the Portal de Servicios del INM website within the first 60 days of your visit.

Entry tax for the state of Quintana Roo

The state of Quintana Roo charges all visitors a tax. You can pay before or during your stay on the VISITAX web portal , available in English. You can get help with the web portal at Cancun Airport. You must show proof of payment at the airport before leaving.

Travelling with children

If you are accompanying a child, you may be asked for:

• evidence of your relationship with the child– for example, a birth or adoption certificate, divorce or marriage certificates, a Parental Responsibility Order
• the reason why you are travelling with them

Dual nationals

Children with dual nationality of Mexico who are travelling without a parent or legal guardian must apply for a permit to leave the country.

Accommodation, funds and proof of departure

Mexican immigration officials may ask to see proof of your departure plans from Mexico before allowing you into Mexico. You may also need to:

• show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation
• prove that you have enough money for your stay

If you have been invited to stay in someone’s home, immigration officials may also ask for a ‘letter of invitation’ from the person you’re visiting. This should include as much information as possible, including the host and travellers:

• contact details
• address while in Mexico
• reason for visit

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can bring into and take out of Mexico. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Check whether you will need to declare anything on arrival to customs officials – read the guidance from the Mexican government (in Spanish) . If you have goods to declare, you must fill in an online form before travelling to Mexico. If you do not declare goods, they may be seized, and you may be fined.

Leaving Mexico

To leave Mexico, you must show your passport with the stamp showing the number of days you were allowed to stay.

If you lose your passport, you must pay a fee to replace the entry stamp. The fee is approximately 600 Mexican pesos, to be paid at a bank. Migration officers do not accept cash. You can replace the stamp at the immigration office at any international airport in Mexico or start the replacement process online on the Mexican government website . You’ll be told how to pay by the immigration officials.

False immigration officers can operate in international airports. Always refuse offers of help and head directly to the immigration office.

Departure tax

You may need to pay a departure tax when leaving Mexico by air or land. The cost can vary, and some airports or border crossings only accept cash. Most airlines include the cost within the ticket price. If in doubt, check with your airline or tour operator.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey .

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Mexico tightens travel rules on Peruvians in a show of visa diplomacy to slow migration to US

Peruvian Julia Paredes, left in white hat, listens to instructions from a Border Patrol agent with others seeking asylum as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Julia Paredes, right, of Peru, gets a hug from volunteer Karen Parker, after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

A Border Patrol agent instructs a group of people seeking asylum, including Peruvians, as they are transported for processing after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum walk through a field of wildflowers as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Peruvian Julia Paredes, center in white hat, listens to instructions from a Border Patrol agent with others seeking asylum as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Men seeking asylum, including Peruvians, line up as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum keep warm near a fire as they wait to be processed, after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum, including a group from Peru, walk behind a Border Patrol agent towards a van to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

• Copy Link copied

BOULEVARD, Calif. (AP) — Julia Paredes believed her move to the United States might be now or never. Mexico was days from requiring visas for Peruvian visitors. If she didn’t act quickly, she would have to make a far more perilous, surreptitious journey over land to settle with her sister in Dallas.

Mexico began requiring visas for Peruvians on Monday in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country, after identical moves for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians. It effectively eliminated the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border, as Paredes, 45, did just before it was too late.

“I had to treat it as a emergency,” said Paredes, who worked serving lunch to miners in Arequipa, Peru, and borrowed money to fly to Mexico’s Tijuana, across from San Diego. Last month smugglers guided her through a remote opening in the border wall to a dirt lot in California, where she and about 100 migrants from around the world shivered over campfires after a morning drizzle and waited for overwhelmed Border Patrol agents to drive them to a station for processing.

Senior U.S. officials, speaking to reporters ahead of a meeting of top diplomats from about 20 countries in the Western hemisphere this week in Guatemala, applauded Mexico’s crackdown on air travel from Peru and called visa requirements an important tool to jointly confront illegal migration.

For critics, shutting down air travel only encourages more dangerous choices. Illegal migration by Venezuelans plummeted after Mexico imposed visa requirements in January 2022, but the lull was short-lived. Last year Venezuelans made up nearly two-thirds of the record-high 520,000 migrants who walked through the Darien Gap, the notorious jungle spanning parts of Panama and Colombia.

More than 25,000 Chinese traversed the Darien last year. They generally fly to Ecuador, a country known for few travel restrictions, and cross the U.S. border illegally in San Diego to seek asylum. With an immigration court backlog topping 3 million cases, it takes years to decide such claims, during which time people can obtain work permits and establish roots.

“People are going to come no matter what,” said Miguel Yaranga, 22, who flew from Lima, Peru’s capital, to Tijuana and was released by the Border Patrol Sunday at a San Diego bus stop. He had orders to appear in immigration court in New York in February 2025, which puzzled him because he said he told agents he would settle with his sister on the other side of the country, in Bakersfield, California.

Jeremy MacGillivray, deputy chief of the Mexico mission of the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration, predicts that Peruvian migration will drop “at least at the beginning” and bounce back as people shift to walking through the Darien Gap and to Central America and Mexico.

Mexico said last month that it would require visas for Peruvians for the first time since 2012 in response to a “substantial increase” in illegal migration. Large-scale Peruvian migration to Mexico began in 2022; Peruvians were stopped in the country an average of 2,160 times a month from January to March of this year, up from a monthly average of 544 times for all of 2023.

Peruvians also began showing up at the U.S. border in 2022. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Peruvians an average of about 5,300 times a month last year before falling to a monthly average of 3,400 from January through March, amid a broad immigration crackdown by Mexico .

Peru immediately reciprocated Mexico’s visa requirement but changed course after a backlash from the country’s tourism industry. Peru noted in its reversal that it is part of a regional economic bloc that includes Mexico, Chile and Colombia.

Adam Isacson, an analyst at the Washington Office on Latin America, said Peru’s membership with Mexico in the Pacific Alliance allowed its citizens visa-free travel longer than other countries.

It is unclear if Colombia, also a major source of migration , will be next, but Isacson said Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is in a “lovefest” with his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, while his relations with Peru’s government are more strained.

Colombians are consistently near the top nationalities of migrants arriving at Tijuana’s airport. Many find hotels before a guide takes them to boulder-strewn mountains east of the city, where they cross through openings in the border wall and then walk toward dirt lots that the Border Patrol has identified as waiting stations.

Bryan Ramírez, 25, of Colombia, reached U.S. soil with his girlfriend last month, only two days after leaving Bogota for Cancun, Mexico, and continuing on another flight to Tijuana. He waited alongside others overnight for Border Patrol agents to pick him up as cold rain and high winds whipped over the crackle of high-voltage power lines.

The group waiting near Boulevard, a small, loosely defined rural town, included several Peruvians who said they came for economic opportunity and to escape violence and political crises.

Peruvians can still avoid the Darien jungle by flying to El Salvador, which introduced visa-free travel for them in December in reciprocation for a similar move by Peru’s government. But they would still have to travel over land through Mexico, where many are robbed or kidnapped.

Ecuadoreans, who have needed visas to enter Mexico since September 2021, can also fly to El Salvador, but not all do. Oscar Palacios, 42, said he walked through Darien because he couldn’t afford to fly.

Palacios, who left his wife and year-old child in Ecuador with plans to support them financially from the U.S., said it took him two weeks to travel from his home near the violent city of Esmeralda to Mexico’s border with Guatemala. It then took him two months to cross Mexico because immigration authorities turned him around three times and bused him back to the southern part of the country. He said he was robbed repeatedly.

Palacios finally reached Tijuana and, after three nights in a hotel, crossed into the U.S. A Border Patrol agent spotted him with migrants from Turkey and Brazil and drove them to the dirt lot to wait for a van or bus to take them to a station for processing. Looking back on the journey, Palacios said he would rather cross Darien Gap 100 times than Mexico even once.

Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed.

Mexico tightens travel rules on Peruvians in a show of visa diplomacy to slow migration to US

Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country

BOULEVARD, Calif. -- Julia Paredes believed her move to the United States might be now or never. Mexico was days from requiring visas for Peruvian visitors. If she didn't act quickly, she would have to make a far more perilous, surreptitious journey over land to settle with her sister in Dallas.

Mexico began requiring visas for Peruvians on Monday in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country, after identical moves for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians. It effectively eliminated the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border, as Paredes, 45, did just before it was too late.

“I had to treat it as a emergency,” said Paredes, who worked serving lunch to miners in Arequipa, Peru, and borrowed money to fly to Mexico's Tijuana, across from San Diego. Last month smugglers guided her through a remote opening in the border wall to a dirt lot in California, where she and about 100 migrants from around the world shivered over campfires after a morning drizzle and waited for overwhelmed Border Patrol agents to drive them to a station for processing.

Senior U.S. officials, speaking to reporters ahead of a meeting of top diplomats from about 20 countries in the Western hemisphere this week in Guatemala, applauded Mexico's crackdown on air travel from Peru and called visa requirements an important tool to jointly confront illegal migration.

For critics, shutting down air travel only encourages more dangerous choices. Illegal migration by Venezuelans plummeted after Mexico imposed visa requirements in January 2022, but the lull was short-lived. Last year Venezuelans made up nearly two-thirds of the record-high 520,000 migrants who walked through the Darien Gap, the notorious jungle spanning parts of Panama and Colombia.

More than 25,000 Chinese traversed the Darien last year. They generally fly to Ecuador, a country known for few travel restrictions, and cross the U.S. border illegally in San Diego to seek asylum. With an immigration court backlog topping 3 million cases, it takes years to decide such claims, during which time people can obtain work permits and establish roots.

“People are going to come no matter what,” said Miguel Yaranga, 22, who flew from Lima, Peru's capital, to Tijuana and was released by the Border Patrol Sunday at a San Diego bus stop. He had orders to appear in immigration court in New York in February 2025, which puzzled him because he said he told agents he would settle with his sister on the other side of the country, in Bakersfield, California.

Jeremy MacGillivray, deputy chief of the Mexico mission of the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration, predicts that Peruvian migration will drop “at least at the beginning” and bounce back as people shift to walking through the Darien Gap and to Central America and Mexico.

Mexico said last month that it would require visas for Peruvians for the first time since 2012 in response to a “substantial increase” in illegal migration. Large-scale Peruvian migration to Mexico began in 2022; Peruvians were stopped in the country an average of 2,160 times a month from January to March of this year, up from a monthly average of 544 times for all of 2023.

Peruvians also began showing up at the U.S. border in 2022. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Peruvians an average of about 5,300 times a month last year before falling to a monthly average of 3,400 from January through March, amid a broad immigration crackdown by Mexico.

Peru immediately reciprocated Mexico's visa requirement but changed course after a backlash from the country's tourism industry. Peru noted in its reversal that it is part of a regional economic bloc that includes Mexico, Chile and Colombia.

Adam Isacson, an analyst at the Washington Office on Latin America, said Peru's membership with Mexico in the Pacific Alliance allowed its citizens visa-free travel longer than other countries.

It is unclear if Colombia, also a major source of migration, will be next, but Isacson said Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is in a “lovefest” with his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, while his relations with Peru's government are more strained.

Colombians are consistently near the top nationalities of migrants arriving at Tijuana's airport. Many find hotels before a guide takes them to boulder-strewn mountains east of the city, where they cross through openings in the border wall and then walk toward dirt lots that the Border Patrol has identified as waiting stations.

Bryan Ramírez, 25, of Colombia, reached U.S. soil with his girlfriend last month, only two days after leaving Bogota for Cancun, Mexico, and continuing on another flight to Tijuana. He waited alongside others overnight for Border Patrol agents to pick him up as cold rain and high winds whipped over the crackle of high-voltage power lines.

The group waiting near Boulevard, a small, loosely defined rural town, included several Peruvians who said they came for economic opportunity and to escape violence and political crises.

Peruvians can still avoid the Darien jungle by flying to El Salvador, which introduced visa-free travel for them in December in reciprocation for a similar move by Peru's government. But they would still have to travel over land through Mexico, where many are robbed or kidnapped.

Ecuadoreans, who have needed visas to enter Mexico since September 2021, can also fly to El Salvador, but not all do. Oscar Palacios, 42, said he walked through Darien because he couldn't afford to fly.

Palacios, who left his wife and year-old child in Ecuador with plans to support them financially from the U.S., said it took him two weeks to travel from his home near the violent city of Esmeralda to Mexico's border with Guatemala. It then took him two months to cross Mexico because immigration authorities turned him around three times and bused him back to the southern part of the country. He said he was robbed repeatedly.

Palacios finally reached Tijuana and, after three nights in a hotel, crossed into the U.S. A Border Patrol agent spotted him with migrants from Turkey and Brazil and drove them to the dirt lot to wait for a van or bus to take them to a station for processing. Looking back on the journey, Palacios said he would rather cross Darien Gap 100 times than Mexico even once.

Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed.

Trending Reader Picks

Police clear pro-Palestinian protest camp and arrest 33 at DC campus as mayor's hearing is canceled

• May 8, 5:52 AM

DOJ says judge should send Bannon to prison

• May 14, 8:57 AM

Teen graduates with doctoral degree

• May 14, 12:07 PM

Controversy follows Gov. Kristi Noem as she is banned by another South Dakota tribe

• May 11, 6:02 PM

North Carolina bill to curb mask-wearing in protests could make it illegal for medical reasons too

• May 14, 3:21 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

• English (UK)

Embajada de México en Canadá

Entry requirements, important announcements.

The Embassy of Mexico in Canada informs the public that Canadian nationals and permanent residents of Canada do not require a visa to enter Mexico.

Canadian nationals must present a valid passport to prove their nationality. Mexican authorities do not require a minimum period of validity of passports ; nevertheless, this document must be valid at the time of entry and during the period you wish to be in Mexico.

Permanent residents of Canada must present their Permanent Resident Card and one of the following documents: valid Passport or Refugee Travel Document.

All foreign visitors, regardless of their nationality, traveling to Mexico for tourism, business or in transit to another destination, are exempt from presenting a Mexican visa as long as they have a valid visa issued by any the following countries: Canada, Japan, the United States of America, the United Kingdom or any of the countries comprising the Schengen Area.

Migratory Regulations – Travel of minors

A Decree was published on December 2, 2013, reforming the provisions of the Migratory Law Regulation corresponding to the travel of minors under 18 years of age; this took effect on January 24, 2014.

FOREIGN MINORS (UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE) TRAVELLING TO MEXICO ALONE OR WITH A THIRD PARTY OF LEGAL AGE (GRANDPARENT, AUNT/UNCLE, ETC.) AS VISITORS (TOURISTS OR WITH A SHORT STUDY STAY OF UP TO 180 DAYS), DO NOT REQUIRE authorization or a letter of consent from their parents or guardians. Mexican migratory authorities will allow these minors to leave Mexico upon presentation of a valid passport.

The Canadian government requirements for minors departing or entering Canada may be consulted at the following webpage: http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/children

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Minors under 18 years of age (girls, boys, adolescents or those under legal guardianship) who are of Mexican nationality or foreigners holding the migratory status of Permanent Resident, Temporary Resident or Temporary Student Resident, who are in Mexico and wish to travel abroad alone or accompanied by a person of legal age other than one of their parents, must present:

• Notarized document in which those holding parental authority or guardianship authorize the minor’s departure from Mexico, granted before a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths, or;
• The document issued by the National Migration Institute (INM), in the format published for this purpose, available at the following webpage: www.inm.gob.mx

If the parents or holders of parental authority or guardianship choose to authorize the minor’s departure from Mexico with the document granted before a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths , the document must specify the mode of transportation, destination and date of travel. If this document is issued abroad (Canada) it must be legalized at the Mexican Consulate or the Embassy of Mexico in Canada . In addition, this document must be accompanied by a translation into Spanish. Mexican offices abroad do not provide translation services.

Minors under the age of 18 travelling with at least one of their parents or guardians DO NOT require authorization or a letter of consent.

Criminal record

Immigration authorities may decide to refuse the request to enter the country if the applicant is subject to criminal process or has been convicted of a serious crime as defined by national laws on criminal matters or provisions in international treaties or conventions that the Mexican State is party to, or if the applicant’s background in Mexico or abroad could compromise national or public security, in accordance with Article 43 of the Migration Law.

According to Article 194 of the Federal Code on Criminal Proceedings, serious crimes include all crimes that have a significant, negative effect on the fundamental values of society.

Serious crimes include, among others: manslaughter; terrorism and international terrorism; sabotage; piracy; genocide; prison break; attacks on public thoroughfares; drug-related crimes; corruption of minors; child pornography; exploitation of minors; falsifying and counterfeit of currency; rape; highway robbery; trafficking in minors; trafficking in undocumented persons; aggravated robbery; vehicular theft; extortion; crimes against the environment, committed with intent; forced disappearance of persons; bearing arms reserved for the exclusive use of the Army, Navy or Air Force; smuggling into the country firearms not reserved for the exclusive use of the Army, Navy or Air Force; smuggling and comparable crimes, and; tax fraud and comparable crimes.

FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROCESS OF ENTERING MEXICO

At the point of entry, Mexico's immigration officers (INAMI) are the only authority that can accept or refuse the entry of any traveller into Mexico, regardless of whether the traveller has previously attained a visa or is exempt from obtaining one.

New Electronic Multiple Migratory Form for Air Travel (FMME Aérea)

Learn about the new Electronic Multiple Migratory Form for Air Travel (FMME Aérea) which facilitates and expedites the registration of your entry to Mexico.

To obtain this form, you must:

• Go to the following link: https://www.inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/solicitud.html
• Fill out the application from any electronic device connected to the Internet.
• Print the Multiple Migratory Form and keep it with you to be validated at the airport, where the immigration authorities must stamp it.

Once the form has been printed, it will be valid for 30 days and allow foreign visitors to remain in Mexico (without engaging in paid activities) for up to 180 days.

The traditional way of obtaining the FMM at ports of entry is still in force. The FMME Aérea is an additional option to the traditional practice, and will facilitate the process by enabling the user to fill out the form in advance, from any country.

It is very important to keep the stamped portion of the FMM that corresponds to the record of entry, as this is proof of your legal entry into Mexico and will be required when you leave the country.

For further information, consult: http://www.gob.mx/inm/articulos/fmm-electronica-aerea?es-MX

Mexico Tightens Travel Rules on Peruvians in a Show of Visa Diplomacy to Slow Migration to US

Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country

Gregory Bull

Peruvian Julia Paredes, left in white hat, listens to instructions from a Border Patrol agent with others seeking asylum as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

BOULEVARD, Calif. (AP) — Julia Paredes believed her move to the United States might be now or never. Mexico was days from requiring visas for Peruvian visitors. If she didn't act quickly, she would have to make a far more perilous, surreptitious journey over land to settle with her sister in Dallas.

Mexico began requiring visas for Peruvians on Monday in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country, after identical moves for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians. It effectively eliminated the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border, as Paredes, 45, did just before it was too late.

“I had to treat it as a emergency,” said Paredes, who worked serving lunch to miners in Arequipa, Peru, and borrowed money to fly to Mexico's Tijuana, across from San Diego. Last month smugglers guided her through a remote opening in the border wall to a dirt lot in California , where she and about 100 migrants from around the world shivered over campfires after a morning drizzle and waited for overwhelmed Border Patrol agents to drive them to a station for processing.

Senior U.S. officials, speaking to reporters ahead of a meeting of top diplomats from about 20 countries in the Western hemisphere this week in Guatemala, applauded Mexico's crackdown on air travel from Peru and called visa requirements an important tool to jointly confront illegal migration.

For critics, shutting down air travel only encourages more dangerous choices. Illegal migration by Venezuelans plummeted after Mexico imposed visa requirements in January 2022, but the lull was short-lived. Last year Venezuelans made up nearly two-thirds of the record-high 520,000 migrants who walked through the Darien Gap, the notorious jungle spanning parts of Panama and Colombia.

More than 25,000 Chinese traversed the Darien last year. They generally fly to Ecuador, a country known for few travel restrictions, and cross the U.S. border illegally in San Diego to seek asylum. With an immigration court backlog topping 3 million cases, it takes years to decide such claims, during which time people can obtain work permits and establish roots.

“People are going to come no matter what,” said Miguel Yaranga, 22, who flew from Lima, Peru's capital, to Tijuana and was released by the Border Patrol Sunday at a San Diego bus stop. He had orders to appear in immigration court in New York in February 2025, which puzzled him because he said he told agents he would settle with his sister on the other side of the country, in Bakersfield, California.

Jeremy MacGillivray, deputy chief of the Mexico mission of the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration, predicts that Peruvian migration will drop “at least at the beginning” and bounce back as people shift to walking through the Darien Gap and to Central America and Mexico.

Mexico said last month that it would require visas for Peruvians for the first time since 2012 in response to a “substantial increase” in illegal migration. Large-scale Peruvian migration to Mexico began in 2022; Peruvians were stopped in the country an average of 2,160 times a month from January to March of this year, up from a monthly average of 544 times for all of 2023.

Peruvians also began showing up at the U.S. border in 2022. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Peruvians an average of about 5,300 times a month last year before falling to a monthly average of 3,400 from January through March, amid a broad immigration crackdown by Mexico .

Peru immediately reciprocated Mexico's visa requirement but changed course after a backlash from the country's tourism industry. Peru noted in its reversal that it is part of a regional economic bloc that includes Mexico, Chile and Colombia.

Adam Isacson, an analyst at the Washington Office on Latin America, said Peru's membership with Mexico in the Pacific Alliance allowed its citizens visa-free travel longer than other countries.

It is unclear if Colombia, also a major source of migration , will be next, but Isacson said Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is in a “lovefest” with his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, while his relations with Peru's government are more strained.

Colombians are consistently near the top nationalities of migrants arriving at Tijuana's airport. Many find hotels before a guide takes them to boulder-strewn mountains east of the city, where they cross through openings in the border wall and then walk toward dirt lots that the Border Patrol has identified as waiting stations.

Bryan Ramírez, 25, of Colombia, reached U.S. soil with his girlfriend last month, only two days after leaving Bogota for Cancun, Mexico, and continuing on another flight to Tijuana. He waited alongside others overnight for Border Patrol agents to pick him up as cold rain and high winds whipped over the crackle of high-voltage power lines.

The group waiting near Boulevard, a small, loosely defined rural town, included several Peruvians who said they came for economic opportunity and to escape violence and political crises.

Peruvians can still avoid the Darien jungle by flying to El Salvador, which introduced visa-free travel for them in December in reciprocation for a similar move by Peru's government. But they would still have to travel over land through Mexico, where many are robbed or kidnapped.

Ecuadoreans, who have needed visas to enter Mexico since September 2021, can also fly to El Salvador, but not all do. Oscar Palacios, 42, said he walked through Darien because he couldn't afford to fly.

Palacios, who left his wife and year-old child in Ecuador with plans to support them financially from the U.S., said it took him two weeks to travel from his home near the violent city of Esmeralda to Mexico's border with Guatemala. It then took him two months to cross Mexico because immigration authorities turned him around three times and bused him back to the southern part of the country. He said he was robbed repeatedly.

Palacios finally reached Tijuana and, after three nights in a hotel, crossed into the U.S. A Border Patrol agent spotted him with migrants from Turkey and Brazil and drove them to the dirt lot to wait for a van or bus to take them to a station for processing. Looking back on the journey, Palacios said he would rather cross Darien Gap 100 times than Mexico even once.

Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed.

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Photos You Should See - May 2024

Join the Conversation

Tags: Associated Press , politics , immigration , world news , California

Related Articles

Best states.

America 2024

Best States Rankings

• # 2 New Hampshire
• # 3 Nebraska
• # 4 Minnesota

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed on the latest news on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 best states in america.

Elliott Davis Jr. May 7, 2024

Why Utah Is the Best State

Elliott Davis Jr. and Julia Haines May 7, 2024

Why Florida Is No. 1 in Education

Tim Smart May 7, 2024

Family of Lewiston Shooter to Testify Before Commission Investigating Tragedy

Associated Press May 16, 2024

Topeka Was at the Center of Brown V. Board. Decades Later, Segregation of Another Sort Lingers

Biden's Upcoming Graduation Speech Roils Morehouse College, a Center of Black Politics and Culture

California College Professor to Stand Trial in Death of Pro-Israel Protester Last Year

Hawaii Study Shows Almost 75% of Maui Wildfire Survey Participants Have Respiratory Issues

Associated Press May 15, 2024

Idaho Inmate Pleads Guilty to Escaping Hospital After Correctional Officers Are Attacked

Donald Trump Asks New York’s High Court to Intervene in Fight Over Gag Order in Hush Money Trial

Mexico is stopping nearly three times as many migrants now, helping keep U.S. border crossings down

Mexico is stopping nearly three times as many migrants who have crossed its southern border as it was a year ago, a trend that U.S. officials say has helped blunt the surge in crossings of the U.S. border usually seen at this time of year.

Biden administration officials also point to the increased help from Mexico in slowing migration as proof that their relationship with their southern neighbors is more effective than the Trump administration’s.

Former President Donald Trump has derided President Joe Biden’s record and claimed that his administration was more successful at controlling the border. 

Early last year, Mexico interdicted roughly 100,000 migrants at its southern border or inside Mexico per month, while the U.S. was apprehending over 193,000 migrants monthly at the U.S.-Mexico border. This year, more migrants are being stopped inside Mexico than in the U.S., with over 280,000 being interdicted in Mexico and 189,000 in the U.S. in March, according to figures obtained by NBC News. 

The Mexican government doesn’t publicly share its migrant interdiction numbers like the U.S. does.

The high numbers of migrants stopped in Mexico show how chaotic the U.S. border could become if Mexico cannot sustain its interdiction efforts. Another spike in border crossings could hurt Biden in the coming election. 

According to Customs and Border Protection officials, April’s figures, which have yet to be publicly released, are expected to continue to show relatively low numbers compared to the seasonal uptick typically seen in April and May.It isn’t known how many of the migrants Mexico intercepts are actually deported. Many migrants are stopped by Mexican officials at the Guatemala-Mexico border and promptly returned to Guatemala, immigration advocates told NBC News.

Many others are being stopped in northern Mexico and bused to the southern end of the country. From there, they can’t use the CBP One app on their mobile phones to make appointments for U.S. asylum hearings, since the app doesn’t work south of Mexico City, said Amy Fischer, director of refugee and migrant rights at Amnesty International USA.

“In one way, they are doing the dirty work of the U.S. in order to keep people from accessing the U.S. southern border and exercising their right to seek safety,” Fischer said.

Certain groups, like unaccompanied children and migrants traveling as families, receive special protection under Mexican law that limits their deportation.

U.S. officials say Mexico’s willingness to interdict more migrants, a costly process, is in large part due to increased dialogue between the two countries on issues like immigration, fentanyl and illegal firearms trafficking. 

Both Biden and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, known as AMLO, recognized the severity of the problem at the end of last year when Mexico’s funding to stop migrants ran low and the number of migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border surged to record highs. 

At the end of December, Biden held a call with López Obrador and sent Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Mexico to meet with their counterparts. Since then, Mexico has interdicted at least 270,000 migrants each month. 

“President Biden and President AMLO have developed a relationship in which they talk about the shared challenges [of migration], and they both jointly recognize the shared challenges,” a senior Biden administration official said. “They’ve had multiple conversations and multiple calls over the last couple of years tackling and talking about this issue.”

The Trump administration threatened Mexico with increased tariffs and disruptions in trade if it didn’t comply with policies like Remain in Mexico, which forced immigrants seeking asylum in the U.S. to wait in poor conditions in northern Mexico. 

“We have treated Mexico with respect as a sovereign equal,” the senior Biden administration official said. “That’s a difference with this administration’s approach.”

A history of cooperation

The Biden administration isn’t the first to work jointly with Mexico to address migration and other border issues. 

In 2008, during George W. Bush’s administration, the Merida Initiative — a security agreement between the U.S. and Mexico — was launched to reduce violence and fight drug trafficking. Congress approved $1.5 billion for the initiative over two years, enabling the purchase of equipment like helicopters and other aircraft to support the efforts of Mexican law enforcement.

During the Obama administration, the U.S. and Mexico expanded cooperation to include combating transnational criminal organizations by providing forensic equipment and training to Mexican law enforcement and improving immigration enforcement in Mexico.

The Trump administration focused on reducing synthetic drug production and refining border interdiction and port security. In 2018, it reportedly wanted to pay Mexico $20 million to help deport thousands of migrants who entered Mexico in hope of reaching the U.S. The sum, according to CNN  and  The New York Times , would be used to fund bus and airplane tickets to send migrants back to their home countries. In 2019, Trump  stopped threatening tariffs  against Mexico after it agreed to crack down on crossings of its southern border. Mexico deployed 6,000 troops to its border with Guatemala to intercept migrants. 

During the Biden administration, the U.S. and Mexico announced a new security cooperation agreement in 2021 called the Bicentennial Framework. The Bicentennial Framework replaced the Merida Initiative and emphasized preventing transborder crime by minimizing human and arms trafficking and disrupting illicit drug supply chains.

Julia Ainsley is homeland security correspondent for NBC News and covers the Department of Homeland Security and the Justice Department for the NBC News Investigative Unit.

Chloe Atkins reports for the NBC News Investigative Unit, based in New York. She frequently covers crime and courts, as well as the intersection of reproductive health, politics and policy.

Pulse of Pride

21 Visa-Free Destinations That Roll Out the Red Carpet for Americans

Posted: May 13, 2024 | Last updated: May 13, 2024

Are you sick of the labyrinth of red tape and hidden fees that seem to strangle the joy out of international travel? Let’s slice through the bureaucratic nonsense with a no-nonsense guide to places where you won’t be nickel-and-dimed into submission. Here are 21 countries that not only roll out the welcome mat for American visitors without a visa but also promise to stretch your dollars till they scream for mercy. For those of us who’ve honed the fine art of budget mastery without tossing the thrill of escape, these destinations offer a much-needed respite from the usual wallet-wringing escapades. So pack your bags, and prepare to outsmart the travel system that seems designed to drain your bank account and your spirit.

Just over the border, Mexico offers sun, sand, and savings. Forget the pricey resorts; savvy travelers can enjoy vibrant culture and delicious cuisine at prices that make fiscal sense. It’s a straightforward choice for a quick getaway without a visa hassle.

Our neighbor to the north isn’t just about maple syrup and moose. Canada offers diverse landscapes and cities like Toronto and Vancouver where U.S. dollars can take you surprisingly far, considering the scenic bang for your buck.

3. United Kingdom

No visa? No problem. The UK lets you explore historic sites from London to Scotland for up to six months visa-free. It’s an ideal spot for history buffs looking to maximize cultural intake without a financial outtake.

4. South Korea

Tech, culture, and kimchi. South Korea combines advanced technology with ancient traditions, and it’s surprisingly affordable. Public transport is cheap, efficient, and a no-brainer for getting around Seoul or Busan.

Dive into the vibrant life of Brazil where you can explore everything from bustling cities like Rio de Janeiro to the expansive Amazon rainforest, all without needing a visa for stays up to 90 days. It’s a colorful, dynamic country that promises adventure without the hefty price tag.

6. Costa Rica

For those who love nature without the expense of long-haul flights, Costa Rica offers rainforests, beaches, and biodiversity, all accessible with a U.S. passport and without a visa for stays under 90 days.

7. Argentina

Steak, tango, and stunning landscapes, Argentina is a cultural feast. The favorable exchange rate makes it a practical choice for travelers looking to get the most out of their dollar.

Not the state, but the country nestled at the intersection of Europe and Asia. It’s a hidden gem with low living costs, welcoming locals, and a visa-free policy for up to a year. Talk about Southern hospitality!

9. Montenegro

Montenegro might be small, but its majestic mountains and Adriatic beaches offer big draws for tourists. Plus, its affordability makes it a prime spot for those watching their wallets.

10. Thailand

Thailand remains a top destination for budget-conscious travelers. Street food, affordable accommodations, and stunning beaches make it a hotspot for those looking to get the most bang for their buck.

11. Morocco

Morocco offers a tapestry of experiences from bustling markets to tranquil deserts. It’s a feast for the senses without the feast-sized prices, and you don’t need a visa for up to 90 days.

12. Ireland

Discover the Emerald Isle visa-free. Ireland’s welcoming pubs and verdant landscapes are perfect for travelers looking to explore without breaking the bank.

13. New Zealand

OK, it’s a longer flight, but New Zealand’s visa waiver program makes it worth considering. The landscapes are cinematic, and the adventure sports are priced for real people, not just the jet set.

History on a budget? Peru offers ancient Inca trails and Machu Picchu. High value, low cost, no visa required for up to 183 days—ideal for the history-loving pragmatist.

15. Singapore

Singapore might seem upscale, but it’s surprisingly manageable. Efficient public transport and hawker centers (think food courts with character) offer a slice of luxury without the luxurious price tag.

16. Philippines

With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines offers endless beaches and the warm hospitality you can enjoy without a visa for up to 30 days. It’s a perfect escape for those who dream big but spend smart.

Eastern Europe without the hassle. Serbia offers historic charm with modern nightlife at prices that make Western Europe seem wasteful.

18. Dominican Republic

Beach lovers rejoice! The Dominican Republic allows U.S. citizens to enjoy its sandy shores and clear waters visa-free, making it a prime choice for a budget-friendly tropical vacation.

19. Iceland

Iceland’s natural wonders are accessible without a visa for up to 90 days. Yes, it’s a bit pricier, but smart travelers can enjoy its unique landscapes affordably by planning ahead.

20. South Africa

Experience safaris and urban culture in South Africa. It’s a far trek but offers a powerful experience for the dollar-savvy adventurer without needing a visa for up to 90 days.

Experience the blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity in Japan. The country is open for visa-free travel for 90 days, making it accessible for those looking to immerse themselves in a wholly unique culture.

There you have it—21 countries where your passport is your ticket, not just a travel document but a gateway to experiences that respect both your time and money. Who says you have to break the bank to see the world? Not us, and certainly not these destinations. Travel smart, spend smarter—your wallet (and sanity) will thank you.

The post 21 Visa-Free Destinations That Roll Out the Red Carpet for Americans first appeared on Pulse of Pride .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / christinarosepix.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

More for You

Elon Musk axed the entire Tesla Supercharger team after their division chief defied orders and said no to more layoffs

Famous women in history: 8 influential women from around the world

Crimea Air Base on Fire After ATACMS Strike Hosted 32 Russian Jets: Report

3 Ways to Grow $100,000 Into $1 Million for Retirement Savings

Georgia erupts in fury as 'Russian law' passes

How to Stop Taking Things Personally: 6 Expert Tips to Build Resilience

Peloton's demise is another in a long line of failed fitness fads

'Top Gun' star Tom Cruise ready to fly again as co-star Jennifer Connelly says 'I'll be there'

My top 4 must-try Tesla features

Alvin Bragg Praised for 'Skillfully Played' Trial Move: Legal Analyst

What's Your Social Security Break-Even Age? It Matters a Lot.

12 Things Old People Were Made Fun of That Now Make Sense

When I get jealous of people, I use that envy as a guidepost. Here's how it led me to quit my prestigious Big Law job.

New weapon being developed to blast drones out of sky with radio waves, says MoD

Head of Britain's Intelligence service warns of Russia's plans for physical attacks on West

Hippies Settled This Unusual California Community. Now Its Homes Sell for Millions.

Fact Check: Warren Buffett Allegedly Said if Billionaires Paid Fair Share, No One Else Would Have to Pay Taxes Again. We Checked the Transcript

Iain Armitage on emotional "Young Sheldon" finale and what's next

‘I feel ripped off’: Californians fed up with fast food chains hiking prices are now biting back — by taking their business elsewhere. Where they’re going instead

10 of the Most Valuable American Girl Dolls and Accessories From the ‘80s and ‘90s

KPMG Personalization

• Turkey – Certain Passengers in Transit via Istanbul Airport to Some Countries Need New E-Visa

GMS Flash Alert 2024-109

• Share Share close
• Download Turkey – Certain Passengers in Transit via Istanbul Airport to Some Countries Need New E-Visa pdf Opens in a new window
• 1000 Save this article to my library
• Go to bottom of page
• Home ›
• Insights ›

Jump to:  More Details   |  Can Be Obtained via Internet Free-of-Charge |  Passenger Practical Matters 

An electronic airport transit visa requirement has been introduced, starting15 April 2024, for citizens of 10 countries who will transit to Mexico, Panama, Colombia, and Venezuela using Istanbul Airport. 1

WHY THIS MATTERS

Turkey, which is both a transit country and a destination country in terms of global “irregular” migration movements, is actively implementing measures to reinforce its fight against irregular migration. 2

With this obligation, irregular migration is expected to be prevented to some extent.

Passengers travelling from the afore-mentioned countries, from 15 April 2024, have new steps and procedures to complete in order to be in compliance. 

More Details

Inspections within the framework of accepted international aviation rules have been increased due to the recent rise in the number of irregular immigrants heading to North America via various Central and Latin American countries, using transit airline opportunities via Turkey.

Turkish Airlines (THY) warned in March for passengers traveling to South American countries that "some additional checks may be applied in addition to the general rules such as passport and visa requirements for accepting passengers on flights." 3

According to information obtained from diplomatic sources, in this context, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has completed the necessary preparations to implement the electronic airport transit visa (e-HTV) application. 4

Citizens of Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Guinea, India, Mauritania, Nepal, Somalia, and Yemen who will travel to Mexico, Panama, Colombia, and Venezuela, but transit through Istanbul Airport, as of 15 April 2024, must obtain an electronic airport transit visa.

Can Be Obtained via Internet Free-of-Charge

The electronic transit visa can be obtained free-of-charge online from the "evisa.gov.tr" portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as of 15 April 2024. 5  Passengers must correctly enter their personal information, accommodation address information, and ticket numbers when obtaining an electronic visa.

Passenger Practical Matters

Istanbul Airport transit passengers who are subject to an electronic transit visa are also expected to have print-outs of their transit visas with them.

Passengers subject to an electronic transit visa will be able to pass through security control and go to the departure floor after having their visas checked at one of the visa points located in both wings of the Istanbul Airport international transit passenger arrivals hall.

KPMG INSIGHTS

The changes to the rules for nationals of the 10 countries in question mean additional steps and procedures in order to complete their journeys.  There may be some confusion and questions regarding who the rules apply to and the appropriate next steps.  Concerned parties may wish to consult with their usual travel agents and immigration counsel.  They may also reach out to a member of the KPMG Immigration team in Turkey for assistance (see the Contacts section).

1  As an example of the Turkish government’s announcement of this policy, see: Turkish Embassy in New Delhi, India, " IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT THE INDIAN/NEPALESE PASSANGERS TRAVELING TO MEXICO, PANAMA, COLOMBIA, VENEZUELA VIA İSTANBUL AIRPORT ."

2  The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) defines the term 'migrant in an irregular situation' as follows: A person who moves or has moved across an international border and is not authorised to enter or to stay in a State pursuant to the law of that State and to international agreements to which that State is a party (Source: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/networks/european-migration-network-emn/emn-asylum-and-migration-glossary/glossary/irregular-migrant_en ).

3  See this webpage on the Turkish Airlines website: https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-int/announcements/passenger-admission-rules-for-south-america/ .

4  Passengers can obtain their e-ATV via the website: evisa.gov.tr .

5  Ibid.

Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.

The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Turkey.

Connect with us

• Find office locations kpmg.findOfficeLocations
• Email us kpmg.emailUs
• Social media @ KPMG kpmg.socialMedia
• Request for proposal

Stay up to date with what matters to you

Gain access to personalized content based on your interests by signing up today

Browse articles,  set up your interests , or  View your library .

You've been a member since

• GMS FLASH ALERT - TURKEY
• GMS FLASH ALERT - IMMIGRATION
• GMS FLASH ALERT - VIEW ALL

GMS Flash Alert is a Global Mobility Services publication of the KPMG LLP Washington National Tax practice. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organization. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee and does not provide services to clients. No member firm has any authority to obligate or bind KPMG International or any other member firm vis-à-vis third parties, nor does KPMG International have any such authority to obligate or bind any member firm. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

© 2024 KPMG Bağımsız Denetim ve Serbest Muhasebeci Mali Müşavirlik A.Ş, a Turkish Corporation and a member firm of the KPMG global organization of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved.

For more detail about the structure of the KPMG global organization please visit https://kpmg.com/governance .

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked