top of page
BASICS OF CROSSING
This guide provides essential information about crossing the U.S. border, including required travel documents and available entry lanes. Whether you're a U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, Mexican citizen, or foreign national, this guide helps you navigate the border efficiently and avoid delays.
WHERE ARE YOU PLANING TO TRAVEL?
Select One
Into Mex
You and your child are U.S. citizens
You are a pedestrisan crossing into Mexico for a day visit only
WHICH TRAVEL DOCUMENTS CAN I USE TO ENTER MEXICO?
About Me
You and your child are U.S. citizens
All U.S. citizens must present a valid passport when entering Mexico by any means of transportation. There are no exceptions for minors.
You are a pedestrisan crossing into Mexico for a day visit only
In addition to a valid passport, you will need a free, short-term permit known as an FMM, acquired from the Mexican authorities at the Mexican port of entry or online. (links to INM).
You are crossing into Mexico in a car for a day visit only
In addition to a valid passport, you will need a free, short-term permit known as an FMM, acquired from the Mexican authorities at the Mexican port of entry or online. Mexican auto insurance: you should never drive in Mexico without Mexican auto insurance. If you are uninsured and have an accident, the consequences can be serious.
Recommended insurance provider: www.bajabound.com
You are crossing into Mexico for seven days or less
In addition to a valid passport, a free, short-term permit known as an FMM, acquired from the Mexican authorities at the Mexican port of entry or online.
You wish to stay in Mexico longer than seven days
Purchase a 180-day permit known as an FMM from the Mexican authorities at the Mexican port of entry or online. The fee is approximately $30.10
You must hold a valid and current passport. In case the country of citizenship requires it, the passport must have a valid unexpired visa.
If you are not a U.S. or Mexican citizen
Passport holders from countries on Mexico’s no-visa-required list do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. They may, instead, use a visitor’s permit, known as a FMM (see above).
You are visiting for business
If you wish to conduct professional business in Mexico, you must obtain a business visitor visa, which can be for one year maximum and for multiple entries. You need to have a job offer or work contract from a company registered in Mexico to apply for a work permit. The company has to apply for the work permit with the Mexican Migration Institute (INAMI). You can stay in Mexico on a tourist visa until you have been summoned to pick up your visa in the Mexican consulate of your home country.
You are crossing into Mexico in a car for a day visit only:
You are crossing into Mexico for seven days or less
You wish to stay in Mexico longer than seven days
If you are not a U.S. or Mexican citizen
You are visiting for business
bottom of page