mexico tourist card on plane

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Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Ultimate Guide

If you’ve ever travelled to Mexico then you know that in order to get access into the country you will have to fill out and submit a “Mexico tourist card.”

The problem is not every airline will issue you one of these cards while you are on the plane and so in many cases you will have to wait until you arrive at the airport to fill it out.

Some Mexican airports, especially the popular ones such as Cancun, can receive an overwhelming amount of tourists hopping off flights which means that you will be trying to beat the crowds while filling out your Mexico tourist card.

That can be quite a stressful experience but luckily you can avoid some of that stress by taking care of your immigration card ahead of time.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about filling out this form including how to do it and also give you some other tips.

Table of Contents

What is a Mexico tourist card?

The Mexico tourist card aka Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM) is an immigration form that must be filled out prior to your entry in Mexico.

It’s a form that you will submit to immigration once you arrive at the airport and is required for every person including children.

It is recommended to fill out the form and register online in order to make it more convenient for yourself when you are making your way through immigration at the airport.

Update: this form is no longer needed for US tourist visits to Cancun.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

Are you eligible for a Mexico tourist card?

The first question that you need to answer is are you actually eligible for a Mexico tourist card?

If the following situations apply to you then the answer is yes.

You are a foreign citizen traveling to Mexico
You have a valid passport
You will travel to Mexico in less than 30 days
You will not stay in Mexico more than 180 days
You are traveling to Mexico for pleasure, vacation, or recreational purposes
You are NOT going to Mexico to seek employment

So if you are a standard American heading to Mexico for a nice week long vacation then you will fall into the category of being eligible for a Mexico tourist card.

I think the most important factor to consider is that you need to be traveling in less than 30 days in order to fill out the form and register.

Related: How to Easily Get to Tulum Mexico (for Cheap)

How to get a Mexico tourist card

You can now fill out your immigration form online via a very convenient and straightforward process.

Here is what you will need to fill out your form completely:

Contact information

Flight information.

Address or name of the hotel you were staying at

Email address

This will be basic information like your name and address.

For the form, you will need to provide your passport number along with dates such as the issue date and expiration date.

When filling out your passport details, Make sure that you have at least six months of valid time on your passport when visiting Mexico, regardless of how long you plan to stay in the country.

If your passport expires in under six months, you will have to fill out a manual form once you arrive at the airport. Also, according to some reports it’s possible that you may be denied entry into the country.

To be 100% on the safe side I would advise for your passport to have at least six months of eligibility left.

You will need to provide your flight number and airline.

This can be found on your boarding pass or when you check your itinerary via the airline’s website or app.

Look for a number that has two letters in front of it and then numbers following after that.

For example, if you were flying on United Airlines flight 125 your flight number would look like “UA125.”

When you input your details, typically you will input the airline separate from the number.

So using that UA125 example above, You would input your details as follows.

Airline: United Airlines
Number: 125

Hotel information

Many people often arrive at the airport with no idea about the address of the hotel and some people don’t even know the name of the hotel.

By filling out this form ahead of time you can avoid any confusion at the airport.

While it is not necessarily required to input the full address of your hotel and you could simply include the name, since you are filling this out ahead of time you might as well input all of the relevant information regarding the address.

It’s also always a great idea to have the address of your hotel saved somewhere in your phone or on a piece of paper just in case you need to reference that while traveling.

Your tourist card will be emailed to you so make sure that you have a working email address.

Tip: Sometimes there will be issues with the email system so it is recommended that you download and print the tourist card as soon as you have that option.

Finally, you will need to print off your tourist card. Make sure that your printer is working well so that you can avoid any issues with legibility.

Filling out the tourist cards

You can find a link to register for the Mexico tourist card here.

The first part of the process is filling out some basic information which I will break down below.

The form that you will be filling out will look like this:

Country of citizenship

This will be the country of your passport.

Port of entry

You will be able to select from a drop-down menu of different airports.

You should be able to find your airport on the menu if it is one of the major airports but if you are flying into a smaller city then you may have to just select “other.”

Here are the airports you will find:

Acapulco International Airport
Cancun International Airport
Cozumel International Airport
Guadalajara International Airport
Huatulco International Airport
Los Cabos International Airport
Manzanillo International Airport
Mazatlan International Airport
Merida International Airport
Mexico City International Airport
Puerto Vallarta International Airport
Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa Airport

Note that some airports may refuse to accept your online tourist card and might require you to submit a manual card. This might be more common at smaller airports.

Arrival and departure dates

You will need to select your arrival and departure dates which are the dates that you will actually be entering and leaving the country.

The dates should line up with your airline’s itinerary if you are flying.

Name or address of hotel

As stated above, supply your name or preferably the address of your hotel. You can likely just copy and paste the address from something like Google Maps.

Contact name

Simply input your name.

Total number of people traveling to Mexico

You will need to select the total number of individuals traveling to Mexico including yourself. This number should include all children and also infants.

Main contact email

Make sure you input a valid email address.

Simply enter in your postal or ZIP Code.

Things to consider

After you submit your details, there will be a confirmation page that goes over some of the key points of consideration.

Here is a summary of these points:

Every individual must fill out an individual tourist card
The cards are free for all passengers traveling by air with a major commercial airline
You can only apply for a tourist card within 30 days of your arrival to Mexico
Your passport must be valid for 180 days to apply for a card online otherwise she will have to fill it out manually when you arrive
The information on your application must exactly match the information on your passport
The flight information that you will input is only for your arrival flight
Sometimes there are issues with the email systems so you should download and print your card when given the option
After you download the first card you finish you will have the option to begin a new application
You can print your tourist card in color or black-and-white
You will print out two pages and do not cut or alter the forms in any way
On rare occasions, an immigration officer may not accept a tourist card and may require you to fill out a manual form.

In addition to the points above, be sure to retain the portion of the card that the immigration officer returns to you.

In many cases, you will need to show this stub when you depart the country. If you lose this then you might be delayed at the airport when departing and you might even get fined.

Finally, you will have to fill out a customs form when you arrive regardless of if you have already filled out your tourist card.

Related: Cabo vs Cancun: Which is Better for You?

Registration form

After you input your preliminary details you can then proceed to the next stage of registration. You will need to input some of the same details you already did but this is the final step to register.

You will begin by selecting the type of travel you are doing which could be air or land.

After you select your type of travel (let’s say you selected air) you will then need to input more details.

Tip: if you will be making multiple land crossings into Mexico you should consider applying for SENTRI ).

Once again, you will need to fill out the point of entry, which is the airport you are arriving to, your travel dates, airline name, and flight number.

You will then need to input your personal information which would include your name surname (which is your last name), gender, date of birth, nationality, and country of birth.

Then you will need to fill in the details regarding your identification document which in most cases will likely be your passport.

Select the type of document that you have and then enter in your document number which would be your passport number, country of issue which will be the US for a lot of readers, date of issue, and expiration date.

Keep in mind that the format for your dates is date, month, year.

Then we need to input your place of residence which would be the US and your current home address.

Next you will select the reason of your trip.

Then select the state and address that you will be staying at which would be the hotel.

Finally, provide your email address and submit the verification code.

Once you have finished processing your form, you can download and print it out and bring it along with you on your flight. It should also arrive in your email inbox.

Coronavirus update

Due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, you may encounter additional requirements when entering the country. For example, you may be required to complete a health questionnaire.

In addition to contact and trouble information, it will ask you questions such as “have you been in contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus?”

It will also inquire about potential symptoms such as temperatures, coughing, headaches, and difficulty breathing.

Global Entry

If you would like to expedite your entry back into the US when traveling from an international destination, you should highly consider getting Global Entry.

It will allow you to bypass the main immigration line which can often be very long and you can also get expedited entry through customs as well.

If you have the right credit card, you can get it for free and it will be good for five years.

Obtaining a Mexico tourist card is a great idea because it will make your travels much more convenient when arriving at the airport.

It is easy to fill out the form and register and so I would strongly recommend anybody traveling to Mexico to go ahead and complete the registration online.

You might also be interested in the following article:

Is Cabo, Mexico Safe?

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

Unfortunately, it isn’t as easy as you claim….or at least not in my case. I’m planning on flying into the Queretaro International Airport…but that isn’t offered in the Point of Entry drop down box….yes, I initially put in Other, but then it proceeds to the next page and again asks for Point of Entry where “Other” is not offered, nor is Queretaro International Airport. I see that Ing. Fernando Espinoza Gutiérrez Airport is offered as a selection, but as per Wikipedia…

“Ing. Fernando Espinoza Gutiérrez Airport (IATA: formerly QRO, ICAO: formerly MMQT) was located in Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico. This airport was inaugurated in 1955.[2] Due to the construction of the new Querétaro International Airport in 2004, the airport is no longer used. The buildings and land that formed the airport are now government buildings, and were donated to the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro.”

…so what’s a guy to do??? So frustrating and this is only my first step on this journey…it’s not looking promising!!

I would like to be FULLY ready and prepared when we travel to Cancun next week. How do I know which forms/webistes are true and safe to submit. Is there a place I can print out a blank hard copy of a form and fill it out manually? Is it safe to submit it online? In the past, we have always been given the forms on the plane and had them filled out when we landed. We have had 3 trips canceled because of COVID so I know things have changed. Now facing possible cancellation again next week. Thank you in advance for any help to make our trip go smoothly. Also, this was a very good and informative webiste. Thank you!!!

Thanks, not all sights (even the government one) mentions “within 30 days” I was trying to fill out the application but it wouldn’t accept my arrival date. I’m just trying to get as much done as I can now to alleviate anxiety later… but I’ll wait a few more days to apply!

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Tourist Card

Cancun Airport >> Airport Info >> Tourist Card

When you arrive at Cancun Airport , you present your printed Tourist Card, your passport, and since your information is already in the system, the Immigration Officer just needs to stamp your Tourist Card and that’s it. Enjoy your stay in Cancun!

How to get my Tourist Card?

It is really easy you can fill it out online. We highly recommend do it at home before your flight to avoid long ranks when you arrive at Cancun Airport. We will show you all the steps to get your tourist card.

WHAT YOU NEED:

Contact information
Passport information
Full Name of the Hotel or address in Mexico
Arrival flight information
Email to send you the Tourist Card
A printer to print the Tourist Card

You have to click on this to fill out your Tourist Card it is the government’s official website

The FMM for Mexico Explained: How to Get a Tourist Card

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: January 19, 2024

Categories Mexico , Visas and Borders

Home » Mexico » The FMM for Mexico Explained: How to Get a Tourist Card

Mexico offers visa-free entry to those who hold passports from countries on its no visa required list. Instead of a Mexican visa, visitors must obtain an FMM tourist permit (Forma Migratoria Múltiple). This document allows you to stay in Mexico for the purpose of tourism or business for up to 180 days. The FMM currently costs 685 pesos or $38. If you’re staying for less than 7 days, it’s free. To get an FMM, you need a valid passport or passport card. This guide explains everything you need to know about the FMM for Mexico. I’ll explain what the FMM tourist card is, how to apply, the travel documents you’ll need, where it is issued, costs, eligibility, validity, and more.

I’ve also made this YouTube video that outlines the main points of the article.

The FMM Tourist Permit for Mexico Explained

Quick Info About the FMM Tourist Card

Cost- $687 pesos (about $38). Free for stays of 7 days or less
Validity- Up to 180 days. The number of days you’re granted will be written on the form.
Issued on arrival at the point of entry or online . The Mexico FMM is available at land borders, international airports, and most seaports.
Eligibility- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, European Schengen Area Countries, Japan, South Korea, and more. If your country is on this list , you’re eligible.
How to apply- Fill out the form with basic travel info. You will receive the form at the port of entry.
Required documents- A valid passport or passport card
Issued by INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración), a Mexican government agency

Important note

The Mexican government is currently phasing out the paper version of the FMM permit. It is being replaced with a passport stamp. Currently, some ports of entry still use the paper form. Some have transitioned to the stamp. The rules are all still the same. The eligibility, validity, and cost haven’t changed. If you’re given a paper form on arrival, fill it out as normal. If you don’t receive a paper form, the Mexican authorities will stamp your passport instead. I’ll update this article as additional information about this change comes out.

Table of Contents

What is the FMM Visitor’s Permit?
Eligibility and Who Needs an FMM
Required Documents
FMM Validity
How to Get an FMM

What is an FMM Tourist Permit?

The FMM Tourist Permit (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) is a travel document that allows those who are eligible to enter Mexico without a visa.

The FMM Visitor’s Permit allows you to stay in Mexico for up to 180 days. During that time, you can participate in tourism activities, do business, transit through the country, study, volunteer, or live anywhere in Mexico.

You are not allowed to be employed, work, or earn money in Mexico while visiting on an FMM permit. If you plan to work and earn money in Mexico, you will need to apply for a temporary resident visa and work permit.

The FMM is issued by the INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración), a Mexican government agency. You can obtain an FMM permit on arrival at the port of entry. All you need is a valid passport. Mexico also offers online FMM applications as well. You simply fill out the application form, print it out, and bring it with you to get stamped by immigration authorities when you arrive.

The FMM is also referred to as the Mexico tourist card. It is also sometimes called a Mexico tourist visa, even though it is not technically a visa.

Who is Eligible for an FMM Tourist Permit and Who Needs a Visa?

FMM tourist permits are available for visitors from countries on this list. If the country that issued your passport is on that list, you don’t require a visa to visit Mexico. The list includes the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Schengen area countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, most Latin American and Caribbean countries as well as many others. If your country is on the list, you only need an FMM permit to visit Mexico. You do not need a Mexican tourist visa.

In addition, to be eligible for an FMM you must be visiting Mexico only for purposes of tourism, business, volunteering, or studying. Your trip must last 180 days or less. If you plan to visit for another purpose or for a longer duration, you’ll need to apply for a Mexico visa in advance.

Regardless of your citizenship or residency, you are also eligible for an FMM tourist permit if you hold a valid permanent residency visa or a multi-entry visitor visa for the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, or a European Schengen Area country.

You are not eligible for an FMM if you are a citizen of one of these countries. If the country that issued your passport is on this list and you do not have a valid visa to one of the above-listed countries, you need to arrange a visa in advance to enter Mexico.

You can apply for a visa at your nearest Mexican consulate or embassy. For more info on the application process, check out this Mexican government website.

If you plan to travel to Mexico for longer than 180 days or if you plan to work, study, invest, or get married in Mexico, you need to arrange a visa in advance, regardless of your citizenship. The most common type of visa for these types of trips is a temporary residency permit. There are several classes of temporary residency permits available for different types of trips. For example, some allow you to work and earn money while others don’t. For more info, check out my guide here.

If you already hold a temporary or permanent residency visa for Mexico, you do not need an FMM permit. You can present your residency visa at the port of entry instead.

Who Needs an FMM Tourist Permit?

Everyone entering Mexico for the purposes of tourism, business, studying, or volunteering needs an FMM tourist permit. Only temporary resident visa holders, permanent residency visa holders, and Mexican citizens can enter Mexico without an FMM permit.

Children under 2 years of age do not need to pay for an FMM. They will need a valid passport.

Before October 2015, there was an unofficial ‘free zone’ near the Mexican border where an FMM was not required if you were staying for 72 hours or less. This was never part of Mexico’s official immigration law but it was widely accepted.

Now, all foreign nationals entering Mexico needs an FMM unless they have a valid Mexican residency visa. Even if you’re only crossing the border to spend the day in Tijuana and staying near the border, you still need to stop and get an FMM.

Ideally, you should carry your passport and FMM permit with you when you’re out and about so you can present them if you’re stopped by the police or at a security checkpoint. Checkpoints are set throughout the country where you must present your FMM and passport to prove that you’re in the country legally.

While walking around cities I don’t like to carry my passport. I always worry about it getting lost or stolen. While in transit, I always keep my passport handy just in case.

What Documents Do I Need to Get an FMM Tourist Permit?

A valid passport. If you’re crossing the border by land or sea, you can use a passport book or passport card. If you’re flying in, you need a passport book. It must be valid when you enter and must remain valid for as long as you plan to stay in Mexico. Your passport must also have at least one blank page for a stamp. For more info, check out my guide: Do I Need a Passport to go to Mexico?
A completed FMM form. You get the form at the port of entry. If you’re flying to Mexico, a flight attendant may hand you the form during the flight. If you’re applying for your permit online, you fill the form out online. You’ll receive an acceptance email that you must print and bring with you to get stamped at the Mexican border.
594 Pesos (about $30) in cash. You pay this at the border upon entry or exit depending on where you enter. It’s best to bring pesos. Dollars may be accepted.

What Information is Required to fill out the FMM Form?

The FMM form requires basic travel information including:

Date of birth
Residency and nationality
Passport number
Purpose of your trip- tourism or business
Entry date and date that you plan to leave Mexico
How you’re entering- by air, sea, or land
Your destination in Mexico
The name and address of the place that you plan to stay in Mexico
Your signature

If you enter by air, you may get a slightly different form that asks for the flight number and airline that you arrived on.

How Much Does the FMM Tourist Permit Cost

If you’re staying in Mexico for less than 7 days, the FMM tourist permit is free.

If you’re staying in Mexico between 7 and 180 days, there is a 594 peso (about $30) fee for the FMM tourist permit.

You pay this fee in cash at a Banjercito bank window at the border. At some borders, you pay the immigration official who checks your passport directly.

How to Pay for the FMM Tourist Permit

Most borders accept payment in pesos or US dollars. You’ll get a more favorable rate if you pay in pesos. Some borders only accept pesos. It’s best to carry pesos just in case.

If you arrange your FMM permit online, you can pay the fee with a credit card or debit card. They accept Visa and Mastercard.

Some smaller land border crossings don’t have the facilities to accept the FMM fee. In this case, you will pay when you exit Mexico. You can also pay the fee at immigration offices that are located in cities and towns throughout Mexico as well as in all international airports.

After you pay your FMM fee, the banker gives you a receipt. You bring the receipt to the immigration official. They stamp the receipt, tear the FMM form in half, and hand your half back. You must keep the receipt as proof that you paid. If you lose it, you will have to pay the fee again when you exit Mexico because there is no proof that you have paid.

When you arrive by air or cruise ship, the FMM fee is often included in the price of your ticket. Check with your airline or cruise line before you travel so you don’t pay twice. Usually, the FMM will be listed in the ‘fees and taxes’ section of your ticket.

If you find that you’ve already paid for an FMM, carry a copy of your ticket with you for proof. When the Mexican authorities try to charge you again when you exit, you can show them that you have already paid. If you can’t prove that you’ve paid, you’ll be charged again.

How Long Can You Stay with an FMM Visitor’s Permit?

The FMM Visitor’s Permit is valid for up to 180 days (about 6 months) from the date that you entered Mexico. The number of days you get is up to the immigration agent issuing you the permit.

Sometimes the Mexican immigration authorities will ask you how many days you plan to stay in Mexico and then grant you that many days on your FMM. For example, if you indicate that you plan to stay in Mexico for 2 weeks, you may only be granted 2 weeks on your FMM. This means you can only stay in Mexico for 2 weeks. I recommend you always request 180 days. That way, you can stay longer if your plans change.

Your passport cannot expire before you plan to exit Mexico. For example, your passport must have at least 180 days of validity if you want an FMM that is valid for 180 days. Mexico does not require that your passport have 6 months of validity to enter, like most other countries. If your passport has 1 month of validity but you want to travel to Mexico for 1 week, you can.

When you pass through immigration, the official who checks your passport and FMM form will write the number of days you can stay on the visitor’s permit. It’s up to you to calculate the correct exit date so you don’t accidentally overstay. For example, if you enter Mexico on January 1, and are granted 180 days, you must exit Mexico by June 30. It’s important to remember that 180 days isn’t exactly 6 months because some months are longer than others. You must leave before the permit’s expiration date or you will be fined.

There are several cases where Mexican officials may grant you fewer than 180 days. For example, when entering Mexico on a cruise ship you often only get 21 days. When transiting through Mexico, you may only get 30 days. If you indicate on the FMM application that you only plan to stay for 2 weeks, the immigration official might only grant you two weeks. If you want the full 180 days, you can always ask. Usually, you’ll get it.

Caution: Do not tamper with the FMM form. I have read stories of travelers changing the date on their FMM to give themselves more days. Don’t do this. Your FMM form has a serial number that is recorded when you enter Mexico. The number of days you are granted is stored. You could get in trouble if you’re caught tampering with your FMM.

How to Apply for an FMM Tourist Permit?

You get the FMM Visitor’s Permit at the port of entry. This could be a land border, airport, or seaport. The process varies slightly depending on where and how you enter Mexico. In this section, I’ll outline the process of obtaining an FMM at each type of port of entry. I’ll also outline how to get the FMM online.

Entering by Land: Driving or Walking into Mexico

When driving across the border, you will need to park your car and go into the immigration and customs office (INM and Aduana) to get your FMM tourist permit.

While driving across the border, look for a sign pointing you to the ‘something to declare’ area. There will be parking available here. The immigration office is generally nearby. If you don’t see this area, you can ask around for immigration (inmigración in Spanish.) Alternatively, you can just drive across the border into Mexico, find a place to park near the border, and walk to the immigration building.

If you’re walking into Mexico, you can proceed directly to the immigration desk. There is no exit procedure for the U.S. There will be signs pointing you toward immigration and a path to follow. If you’re unsure, just walk toward Mexico and follow the crowd.

Once you find the immigration desk, you will be handed an FMM form to fill out. The forms are available in the immigration building. Be sure to bring a pen with you.

At some borders, an immigration officer may fill the FMM form out for you. In this case, they will ask you a few questions about your trip and copy your personal information from your passport.

After filling out the FMM form, hand it to the immigration official along with your passport. They will look over the form and run your passport through their computer.

The immigration official may ask you a few additional questions about your trip such as, how long are you going to stay in Mexico? Where are you staying? Do you have accommodation booked? What is your final destination in Mexico? What is the purpose of your trip? Where are you going? etc.

At most land borders, you pay your FMM fee when you enter the country if you’re staying longer than 7 days. After an immigration officer inspects your completed FMM form and your passport, you will take the FMM form to a Banjercito bank window near the immigration desk and pay the fee. The cashier will hand you a receipt. Next, you take your receipt back to the immigration official along with your passport. They will stamp your receipt and FMM form and the receipt. After that, you can proceed to customs and into Mexico.

Some small land border crossings do not have payment facilities. If you enter through one of these borders, you will pay your FMM fee when you exit Mexico. You can also pay the fee at an immigration office in Mexico or at all international airports.

Be sure to keep your FMM receipt. When you exit Mexico, you’ll have to prove that you’ve already paid for the FMM permit. If you can’t prove it, you will be charged again.

If you’re driving to Mexico, you’ll need to buy temporary car insurance. I recommend Baja Bound Mexican Insurance . They offer reasonable prices and friendly service. Click the link to get a free quote in just a couple of minutes.

Arriving in Mexico by Air

On most flights, a flight attendant will hand out FMM forms to everyone who needs one. You should fill it out before you land so you’re ready to go through immigration when you arrive. If you don’t get an FMM form on the plane, you can get one at immigration when you land. They will be sitting around on a table or someone will be standing around handing them out.

Once you land, follow the signs to immigration. You’ll present your passport and completed FMM form to an immigration official and they will stamp you into Mexico.

Mexican airports do not collect FMM fees from inbound passengers. This is because pretty much every airline includes the FMM fee in the price of the ticket. If you’re flying into Mexico, chances are you’ve already paid for an FMM.

Make sure you keep a copy of your ticket with proof that you have paid the FMM fee. This will usually be outlined in the ‘taxes and fees’ section of your ticket. If you can’t prove you’ve already paid, you will be charged a second time when you exit Mexico.

Tip: Once you get your FMM, place it in your passport. If you’re traveling long-term and you’re afraid you’ll lose it, consider stapling it or taping it to a page in your passport. You can do the same with your receipt.

Entering Mexico by Sea

If you’re entering Mexico on a cruise ship or your own boat, you can get an FMM at the first port of call. You’ll simply fill out the FMM form at the port and pay the fee. The process is basically the same as arriving overland.

If you’re arriving on your own boat, you should double-check to make sure the port where you plan to enter Mexico offers FMMs. You won’t have to worry about this if you’re arriving on a cruise ship. Cruise ships only dock at major ports.

If you’re bringing your own boat to Mexico, you also need to get a temporary vehicle importation permit (TIP) for the boat. You need to arrange this before you enter Mexican waters. You can’t get this document in Mexico.

If you’re entering Mexican waters but don’t plan to go to land, you’ll need a nautical Sportfishing FMM visitor’s permit. This document is also required if you plan to go fishing in Mexican waters. The process is a bit different from obtaining a normal FMM. You can get your nautical FMM online. For more info, check out this guide from Discover Baja.

Applying for an FMM Online

Mexico offers the option to apply for an FMM tourist permit online. This involves filling out a simple online application form and paying the fee with your Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card. Upon acceptance, you’ll receive an email with your FMM form. You’ll need to print this out and get it stamped at the border when you pass through immigration. You must enter Mexico within 30 days of getting your permit online.

For most travelers, it’s still better to get the FMM on arrival at the border. The reason is that you still need to stop at the border to get your immigration documents stamped, even if you applied online. You can’t just drive through. There is really no benefit to arranging your FMM permit in advance. You might save a couple of minutes waiting in line at the bank window.

The only time applying for an FMM online makes sense is if you’re also applying for a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP) online. In this case, you’ll need to get your FMM online before applying for the TIP. For more info, check out my guide to the Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit.

You can apply for an FMM online here.

When you apply for your FMM online, you receive an email with your approved FMM document within a few minutes. You’ll need to print this document out and bring it with you to immigration to get it stamped and validated.

When applying online, you must use your FMM within 30 days. Otherwise, it expires.

Frequently Asked Questions About the FMM

Can i make multiple entries on an fmm tourist permit.

No. The FMM is a single entry permit. When you fly out of Mexico, you must surrender your FMM at immigration before boarding the plane. At this point, it is invalidated. You’ll have to buy a new one when you return to Mexico. When you re-enter, you’ll fill out a new FMM form and pay for another permit.

When you exit Mexico at the southern border to Guatemala or Belize or any northern border outside of Baja California, you will also have to surrender your FMM when you pass through immigration. At this time, it will be invalidated and you will have to get a new one when you return.

There is one exception where you can use your FMM for multiple entries. You can enter and exit the state of Baja California Norte overland as many times as you like until your FMM permit expires. This is great for people who want to take short trips over the border. The FMM used to be a single-entry permit. In 2015, the INM changed the rules to allow this one exception.

Can I Stay in Mexico for More than 180 Days with an FMM

No. If you plan to stay in Mexico for longer than 180 days, you should apply for a Temporary Resident Visa or Permanent Resident Visa. You must apply for these visas at a Mexican consulate or embassy before your trip. You can’t obtain them in Mexico.

Alternatively, you could leave Mexico before your FMM expires then return and buy a new one for another 180 days. This is often called a border run. To do this, you can travel overland to the US, Guatemala, or Belize and then cross back into Mexico. You could also fly to your home country or a third country, then return to Mexico.

How Long do I Have to Leave Mexico Before Returning for a New FMM?

There is no rule stating how long you must remain outside of Mexico before returning and paying for a new FMM permit. In most cases, you can exit and then re-enter immediately after if you want. It really depends on the immigration official. Most don’t care and allow you to cross right back over.

Some expats have lived in Mexico on an FMM tourist permit for years. They simply make visa runs to the border to get a new permit every 6 months.

With computerized entry and exit and facial recognition technology, it is possible for Mexico to track how much time you spend in the country on an FMM permit. If you exit and re-enter too many times, they could deny you entry at some point if an immigration official decides that you’re spending too much time in Mexico on an FMM.

Recently, Mexico has begun cracking down on people living in the country on FMM permits. They are issuing permits with fewer than 180 days. Some visitors are only getting 10-30 days upon entry. To get 180 days, you may have to provide some supporting documents such as proof that you’ve paid for long-term accommodation.

If you plan to stay in Mexico longer than 180 days or retire or live in Mexico, it’s best to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you are staying in the country legally. You don’t have to worry about being denied entry.

Keep in mind that there is a financial requirement to get a Temporary Resident Visa. You’ll need to prove that you have enough income or assets to support yourself while in Mexico. Currently, you need to show that you have an income of about $2400-$2700 per month or around $45,000 in a savings or investment account.

What Happens if You Overstay an FMM Visitor Permit?

You need to leave Mexico before your FMM visitor’s permit expires (usually 180 days). If you don’t, you will be fined for overstaying. The fine depends on how long you overstayed. Mexico charges on a per-day basis. The maximum fine is around $350 (7000 pesos). As far as I know, the fine is the only punishment. Mexico won’t bar you from re-entering if you overstay.

You can pay the fine at an immigration office or at an international airport. If you’re flying out of Mexico, you should take care of this fine a couple of days before your flight so you don’t risk missing it. Otherwise, you’ll want to show up for your flight a few hours early. The process could take some time.

If you overstayed your FMM by a couple of days, it’s usually not a big deal. You’ll simply pay a small fine and leave. If you overstayed by months, you’ll probably have to answer some questions.

What if you Lose Your FMM Permit?

If you lose your FMM Visitors permit while in Mexico, you need to visit a local immigration office and apply for a replacement before you can leave the country. The process involves filling out some forms and paying a replacement fee.

I don’t know exactly how much the current fee is. I have read reports ranging from $30 and $60 (around 500-1200 pesos). You can find immigration offices in many towns and cities across Mexico as well as in international airports.

If you go to the border without your FMM card, chances are you will be allowed to exit without it but you will have to pay a fee (or bribe.) I have heard that the charge is around $100 (2000 pesos).

If you go to the airport to catch a flight without your FMM, you’ll be sent to the immigration office in the airport to get a replacement. Be sure to leave yourself extra time if you have to do this so you don’t miss your flight.

If you’re planning to exit Mexico overland from the state of Baja California Norte, you’re in luck. You don’t need to bother getting a replacement because Mexico does not check passports when you exit and cross into the United States. You proceed straight to U.S. immigration. When you go to U.S. immigration, they do not look at the FMM.

What if You Kept Your Visitor’s Permit When You Left Mexico?

At some border crossings, there is nowhere to turn in your old FMM permit when you exit. For example, when crossing from Baja California to the U.S., there is no passport control when you exit Mexico. You just drive or walk straight to U.S. immigration. This means you keep your FMM document.

Legally, this is fine. As of 2015, you do not need to turn in your FMM when exiting Baja California overland according to the INM. You can re-use it for multiple entries until it expires then discard it. There is still a note on the back of the FMM that says that you must return the document.

The problem with this situation is that you won’t get an exit stamp to prove that you left Mexico. When you go to re-enter on your next trip, the immigration official checking your passport could question you as to why you don’t have an exit stamp. They could assume you overstayed on your previous visit. I have heard of people being fined in this situation but I have not been able to confirm whether or not this is actually true.

Unfortunately, there really is no solution to this problem. There is no official procedure as to how to go about returning your FMM if you exit Mexico overland at a border where you don’t pass through immigration to exit.

If you’re questioned, you’ll have to explain that you exited at the northern border where FMM forms are not collected and passports are not stamped upon exit. When you enter Baja, nobody will question you. When you fly to Mexico or enter at another part of the country, you could be questioned.

If you kept your FMM when exiting Mexico and have no plans to return before it expires, you can throw it away. If you plan to return to Mexico and enter through one of the Baja California crossings, you can use it again when you re-enter.

For those who are really worried about keeping their FMM and not getting stamped out, you can contact your nearest Mexican consulate, embassy, or INM office to ask them what to do. They may tell you to mail it somewhere. The process is unclear.

What if I Entered Mexico Without Getting an FMM?

It is possible to enter Mexico without going through immigration and getting an FMM. At the U.S. Mexico border, you can drive right across without stopping. Nobody will flag you down unless you look suspicious. You may feel tempted to drive through to avoid paying the FMM fee. There are a number of reasons why you shouldn’t do this.

If you’re caught in Mexico without a valid FMM, most likely you will be temporarily detained and then told to go back to the border to get one. If you made it hundreds of miles from the border, this would be a major hassle. The officer that catches you could also try to solicit a bribe or issue you a fine. If you’re trying to exit Mexico without an FMM, you may have to pay the immigration official a fee/bribe of around $100.

If you are driving your car in Mexico without an FMM, your insurance probably isn’t valid because you technically entered the country illegally. Check your policy. If you’re pulled over, the police could impound your car if they wanted to. It is also important to note that there are regular checkpoints throughout Mexico. At these checkpoints, the officers will ask to see your passport and FMM to make sure you’re in the country legally.

You also will not be able to board a flight in Mexico because an FMM is required. Even for domestic flights. If you were involved in a serious accident or experienced a medical emergency and you need to be evacuated by air to another city, you may experience a delay if you don’t have an FMM.

Of course, it is also the law. You need an FMM to legally be in Mexico as a tourist. It’s always best not to break the law in a foreign country. For these reasons, you should always take the time to get an FMM when visiting Mexico, even if you’re only crossing the border for the day.

Can I renew or extend an FMM?

No. FMM tourist permits can not be extended or renewed in Mexico. You must leave the country before your permit expires or you will be fined based on the number of days that you overstayed.

The only way to extend your stay is to leave the country and then re-enter and get a new FMM. This is officially called ‘leave to remain’. Alternatively, you could leave the country and apply for a temporary residency visa. Either way, you have to leave Mexico before the visitor’s permit expires. It is non-renewable.

Can I Exchange an FMM for a Residency Visa?

No. You must apply for a temporary residency visa or permanent residency visa outside of Mexico at a Mexican embassy or consulate.

There are a couple of exceptions to this. It is possible to exchange your FMM permit for a temporary residency visa in a small number of situations. In order to do this, you must meet a specific set of criteria.

You must be the spouse, child, or parent of a Mexican national or permanent residency visa holder. You must also meet the other requirements for obtaining a temporary residency visa. In addition, you may be able to apply for residency within Mexico if you are seeking political asylum.

Do I Have to Stop at the Border or Can I Get an FMM in Mexico?

Yes, you have to stop at the border to get a Mexican tourist card. You cannot get an FMM anywhere but an official port of entry (land border, seaport, or international airport). If you applied for your FMM online, you still have to stop at the border to get it stamped and validated.

In the past, you could drive across the border and travel into Mexico and get an FMM at an immigration office. This was easier and faster because you didn’t have to deal with stopping at a busy border crossing. Unfortunately, this is no longer possible.

Most border crossings are open 24/7/365 so there is no excuse for not stopping. Check the hours of the border before you plan to arrive just to be sure. At busy border crossings, you can also check the average wait time before you go. You can check border wait times on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website here.

Final Thoughts

The FMM permit makes it easy for U.S. citizens, Canadian citizens, and citizens of many other countries to visit Mexico without arranging a visa in advance. If you’re eligible, you can get your FMM on arrival at the border or airport in just a few minutes. All you need is a valid passport and enough cash to pay the permit fee. The only complication is that the process varies slightly depending on where and how you enter Mexico. Hopefully, this guide clears things up and makes planning your trip to Mexico a bit easier and smoother.

Have you visited Mexico on an FMM visitor’s permit lately? Share your tips and experience in the comments below!

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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.

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What Documents Do I Need for Mexico Travel?

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Passport or PASS Card
Acceptable ID
Mexico Tourist Card
Where You'll Show Documents

Remember to Keep Track of Your ID and Tourist Card

Travel Insurance

If you're a U.S. citizen planning a vacation to Mexico, you'll be happy to hear you don't need much in the way of documentation to cross the border. How you are traveling makes a difference, though. The documents you need to travel to Mexico by car or boat differ from what you need if you are flying. Though be aware that no matter which type of transport you choose, you can not travel to Mexico with a Real ID. Read on to discover just what you need to have with you to cross the southern border.

What documents do I need to fly to Mexico?

To travel between the US and Mexico by air, you must have a valid passport. You cannot fly internationally with a passport card, and you cannot travel to Mexico with a Real ID.

Please be aware that you can no longer use proof of U.S. citizenship, like an embossed birth certificate, with a government-issued photo ID (more on those below) to get into or out of the country. Regardless of your ID choice, you will also need a Mexico tourist card , which you'll be given to fill out on the plane or at the border if you'll be traveling overland.

What documents do I need to travel to Mexico by car or boat?

To travel by land or sea, you can use a passport card or Enhanced Driver's License (residents of some U.S. states can get these) at the border. The documents you need to travel to Mexico by car or boat include:

A passport or
A passport card
Trusted Traveler cards (SENTRI or FAST)
State-issued Enhanced driver's license (when available)
Enhanced Tribal Cards (when available)
U.S. Military ID with military travel orders
U.S. Merchant Mariner credential when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business
Native American Tribal photo ID card
Form I-872 American Indian Card

Outside of a passport, the above documents are valid only for land and sea travel to Mexico. You cannot fly internationally with any ID except a passport.

Tip: It is far cheaper to get a passport at your leisure than to rush a passport just before you need it. If you need to rush a passport application , though, do it yourself—there's no need to pay even more for a passport expediting service.

How do I get a Mexico tourist card?

A Mexico tourist card, also called an FMM, is a government form declaring that you have stated the purpose of your visit to Mexico to be tourism, and it must be carried with you while you are visiting Mexico. Although more than one kind of Mexico visa exists, this is a simple declaration of your intention to vacation in Mexico for no more than 180 days.

It's essentially a standard arrivals card you have to fill in when entering most countries. At immigration, they'll attach a departure card to your passport to hand back when you leave the country. Make sure to fill this out in advance of arriving back at the airport to save time when passing through immigration.

If you are driving to Mexico, you can get a tourist card at or near the border. If you are flying to Mexico, you will get a tourist card on the plane.

Where will I need to show my documents in Mexico?

Whenever you cross the border into Mexico, you will need to show your travel documents.

If you are flying into Mexico, you will need to show your travel documents to the Mexico immigration agents before leaving the airport. You may have to show your travel documents again before picking up your luggage. When you leave Mexico by plane, you will need to show your travel documents before you pass through security and board the plane. You'll be expected to hand in your departure card as you pass through immigration, as well, so make sure not to lose it while you're in the country.

If you are driving into Mexico , you will need to show your identification before crossing the border. You will get a tourist card at or very close to the border, and you'll be expected to carry this with you at all times while you're in the country. If you are driving out of Mexico, you will need to show all of your travel documentation before crossing back into the United States.

You will need to turn your tourist card in when you leave Mexico. And, while it's rare for you to need to produce your ID, if you're driving around the country you may pass occasional checkpoints. The last thing you want is to be taken down to the police station because you can't produce your ID.

Tip: Don't Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a travel essential, so if you're going to be going to Mexico and you're organized enough to be researching which documents you need, there are no excuses for not getting insured.

Suppose something serious happens while in Mexico, you'll need travel insurance. The costs of medical care can often add up to far more than you'd spend on insurance, and if it's so bad that you need to be repatriated to the United States, you could find yourself in seven figures worth of debt. It's not worth taking the risk: get travel insurance.

Travel Insurance Documents You'll Need

You'll want to bring at least one copy of your travel insurance confirmation of coverage when you're traveling to Mexico. Your confirmation should have the insurance company's phone number on it in case you need to reach them, your policy number, and a thorough explanation of your coverage. We recommend bringing a digital copy and at least one physical copy, that way you'll have access to it at all times. It wouldn't hurt to have a digital copy of your policy terms and conditions either, just in case you need to refer back to it.

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Mexican Tourist Cards and How to Get One

A tourist card also called an FMM (“Forma Migratoria Múltiple,” previously referred to as an FMT), is a tourist permit that is required for all foreign citizen travelers to Mexico who will not be engaged in any type of remunerated work. Tourist cards may be valid for up to 180 days and allow the holder to remain in Mexico as a tourist for the allotted time. Be sure to hold on to your tourist card and keep it in a safe place, as you will need to hand it in when you are departing the country. Foreign nationals who will be working in Mexico are required to obtain a work visa from the National Immigration Institute (INM).

Border Zone

In the past, travelers who were remaining within the United States border zone for up to 72 hours did not need a tourist card. (The border zone, comprised of an area roughly 20 km into Mexico from the U.S. border and also included most of Baja California and the Sonora “free zone.”) However, now the tourist card is required for all non-Mexican visitors to the country who will remain for fewer than six months.

Woman walking along street, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico, North America

Tourist Cards

There is a fee of about $24 USD for a tourist card. If you are traveling by air or on a cruise, the fee for your tourist card is included in the cost of your trip, and you will be given the card to fill out. If you are traveling overland you can pick up a tourist card at your point of entry or from a Mexican consulate before your departure. In this case, you will need to make the payment for your tourist card at a bank after your arrival in Mexico.

Mexico’s National Immigration Institute (INM) now allows travelers to apply for a tourist card online up to 7 days before entering Mexico. You can fill in the form and, if traveling by land, pay for the tourist card online. If you’ll be traveling by air, the fee is included in your airplane ticket, so no need to pay again. Just remember that the tourist card must be stamped by an immigration official when you enter Mexico, otherwise, it is not valid. Apply for a tourist card online on the website of Mexico’s National Immigration Institute: online FMM application .

Upon arrival in Mexico, you will present the filled-in tourist card to the immigration official who will stamp it and write in the number of days that you are allowed to stay in the country. The maximum is 180 days or 6 months, but the time actually given is at the discretion of the immigration official (often only 30 to 60 days are granted initially), for longer stays, the tourist card would need to be extended.

You should keep your tourist card in a safe place, for example, tucked into the pages of your passport. Upon leaving the country you must surrender your tourist card to immigration officials. If you do not have your tourist card, or if your tourist card is expired, you may be fined.

Resultado de imagen de gringos en mazatlan"

If You Lose Your Card

If your tourist card is lost or stolen, you will need to pay a fee to get a replacement tourist card at an immigration office, or you may be fined when you’re leaving the country.

Find out what to do if you’ve lost your tourist card .

Extending Your Tourist Card

If you wish to stay in Mexico for longer than the time allotted on your tourist card, you will need to extend it. Under no circumstances is a tourist allowed to stay longer than 180 days; if you want to stay longer you will have to leave and re-enter the country, or apply for a different type of visa.

Find out how to extend your tourist card .

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Mexico Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Mexico vary depending on the traveler’s nationality. The vast majority of foreigners must obtain a visa before entering Mexico. Currently, only 69 countries enjoy visa-exempt status for Mexico.

Whether they need to get a visa or not all visitors entering Mexico by land must obtain and complete an FMM (Forma Migratoria Multiple, or Tourist Card) before they can enter.

Countries with Entry Requirements to Mexico

No matter the country that issued a traveler's passport, all those entering Mexico are required to submit an FMM .

All foreign nationals must be granted a Mexican visa before visiting the country unless they belong to one of the following categories:

They hold a passport issued by one of the 69 countries enjoying visa-free travel to Mexico.
They already have a valid visa for one of the Schengen countries, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, or the United States.
They are permanent residents of one of the Schengen member states, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Japan, Peru, the United Kingdom, or the United States.
They have a valid APEC Business Travel Card (APBTC) with the ‘Mex’ code on the back and come from Australia, Brunei, Chile, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam.

Not all foreigners are eligible to apply for the same visas using the same channels. For example, only citizens of Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine can apply for a Mexican visa online (SAE).

What Documents Are Needed for Entry to Mexico?

The type of documents that are required in order to obtain permission to enter Mexico varies. However, all travelers must complete the Mexico Tourist Card before they can enter Mexico .

Travelers who are not visa-exempt for Mexico also need to obtain a visa in advance of travel. Visa requirements vary on the type of permit one is applying for .

Essential documents for all visas include:

A valid, eligible passport
A visa application form completed in all of its parts as accurately as possible

An electronic travel permit (officially called Sistema de Autorización Electrónica or SAE) is the easiest and quickest way to get permission to enter Mexico . To complete a SAE application, only the above documents are required and can be uploaded in digital format from anywhere in the world thanks to the online system.

Documents required for a Mexico entry permit: offline applications

Depending on the type of visa one is applying for, there are a variety of documents that a prospective visitor may need to submit. The reason for these document requirements is usually to prove the applicant’s plans, motivation to travel, financial capacity, and more.

Find below a list of supporting documentation covering several Mexican visas that can only be obtained offline.

Please note that it is a general list only, and that specific information should be obtained from a Mexican embassy or consulate before starting an application.

Itinerary information including hotel reservations
Travel plans such as a return plane ticket proving the applicant’s intention of remaining in Mexico only temporarily
A recent, passport-sized photograph
Financial information demonstrating the traveler’s ability to support themselves during their time in Mexico (this can be submitted in the form of cash, bank statements, credit cards, etc)
Health information such as evidence of vaccinations and/ or medical insurance cover
Invitation letter from a Mexican citizen or entity
Official business letter stating the reason for the applicant’s travel
Invitation letter from a Mexican institution to attend official events
Invitation letter from an institution part of the National Education System stating the foreigner’s purposes and length of studies in Mexico

Foreign citizens should also note that while the electronic authorization can be paid for online via debit or credit card, most visas require the payment of an application fee in cash directly at the embassy.

Passport Requirements for Mexico

All foreign citizens must hold a valid and eligible passport if they wish to enter the Mexican territory. For all visitors, the passport must:

Be valid for at least 6 months after the intended date of entry
Contain blank pages to receive entry/exit stamps

Travelers crossing into Mexico by land are able to use either a valid passport book or passport card to enter the country.

Those who need a visa to enter Mexico must make sure that their passport data exactly matches the information provided in the visa application form .

Should the applicant’s passport fail to satisfy these criteria, the visa will be denied or canceled.

Please note that the passport provided during the application process and the granted visa are directly linked. Should the passport expire before the travel permit, both will become invalid and the traveler will have to apply again once a new passport is issued.

Foreign nationals will be asked to show their passport in several occasions including:

When applying for the Mexico visa
At the airport (travelers may be refused boarding if they fail to show their passport (and visa, if applicable) together with their plane ticket)
At the immigration check at the Mexican border
At checkpoints across the country

Although not all non-Mexican citizens need a visa, all foreigners must have a valid passport with them as they visit the country.

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Los Cabos Immigration Requirements

All visitors or tourists wishing to enter Mexico through the San Jose del Cabo International Airport must present a valid passport, and the "Obligatory Migratory Form for Tourists, Business Visitors, Transmigrants or Consultants," was initially known as Forma Migratoria Multiple.

This is a permit issued to any foreign person wishing to visit Mexico, although this document is mainly for tourist use.

Expedite your entry

If you are Canadian or have dual citizenship, you must Present a valid passport upon arrival in Mexico.

Canadians who do not have a valid passport will be denied entry to the country and any of its cities. There is no online immigration form from Canada to Mexico.

It is only necessary to present a valid passport and identification.

How to obtain an immigration form in Mexico?

You can purchase a Mexican immigration form from the airlines at the point of entry in Los Cabos or online at the official U.S. Mexican immigration website.

For more information, visit the official Mexican customs and immigration website in San Jose del Cabo .

Mexican Customs Declaration Form

If you are traveling from the U.S., you should know that a passport is a must for your entry to Los Cabos or any other destination in Mexico. You can also use the following documents:

Identification to vote
Citizenship Card
Certificate of Naturalization
SENTRI/NEXUS/Global Entry Card

While a valid passport is not required to enter Mexico, a valid passport is required to return to the United States or Canada.

Customs information in Los Cabos and the rest of Mexico

(FMM) tourist permits will be issued for a maximum of 180 days of stay in Mexico and are personal, including seniors and children.
All travelers wishing to visit Mexico or enter any of its cities must have a passport valid for at least six months as of the date of entry into the country.
The Tourist (Air) Card will be issued free of charge to all tourists who fly with a commercial airline. However, it is important to point out that this card is personal, so if you are traveling with two, three, or more passengers, they must also apply for and receive theirs.
The purpose of the FMM tourist card is to facilitate entry into Mexico; however, it is not a substitute for a visa or any other document. If the country requires it upon your return, immigration officers at the airport may request the visa and/or passport along with a printed copy of your tourist card.

You can also search using these:

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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, mexico entry requirements—for leisure, business or residency.

This guide explains what you need to know about entry requirements when you are visiting Mexico for leisure, for business, or to take up residency here.

Mexico entry requirements for tourists and short term visitors

Mexico visitors permit, fmm.

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 ( Forma Migratoria Multiple ).

For the countries that don’t need a visa , a Mexico Visitor’s Permit (FMM) is issued in place of a visa. Learn more about Mexico’s visitor permit, the FMM .

How long is your Mexico visitor permit valid?

When you enter Mexico as tourist or business visitor, the immigration official at the port of entry will grant you a number of days stay in Mexico and write this on your visitor permit. This will be a maximum of 180 days; but it may be less than 180 days.

Check to see how many days you are granted to determine your exit date.

Learn more about the number of days being granted to people arriving in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit, FMM.

Visitor permits cannot be extended or renewed

The Visitor Permit (FMM) will always expire after the number of days written on the permit: it cannot be extended beyond the number of days the immigration official grants when you arrive in Mexico, even if this is less than the maximum allowance of 180 days; and cannot be renewed. You must leave the country before it expires.

Your Mexico Visitor Permit, FMM

Do I Need A Visa to Visit Mexico

Entry to Mexico: Essential Information for All Travelers

Regardless of whether you come to Mexico for leisure, for business or to take up residency here, take note of the following:

Required documentation

For a summary of the documentation required to enter Mexico, see Documents required for travel and entry to Mexico

Minors traveling to Mexico alone

Minors traveling to Mexico alone, or unaccompanied by at least one parent or their legal guardian: Read Traveling with Minors to Mexico .

Passport validity

The maximum period of time that a visitor/tourist may stay in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit (FMM, see above) is six months.

Therefore we recommend that your passport, regardless of country of origin, should be valid for a minimum period of six months, however long you intend to stay to avoid any potential problems at the port of entry.

Immigration authorities at the port of entry may allow or deny entry of any person into Mexico. If you have a passport that is valid for less than six months and you intend to stay in Mexico for a short period of time —perhaps a vacation— the Immigration Officer might allow you entry, especially if you can show a return air ticket.

Notwithstanding this, we recommend that you and your family members hold passports valid for at least six months from the date you intend to enter Mexico.

For holders of U.S. Passport Cards

U.S. passport cards are less expensive than passport books and can be used by U.S. citizens who cross the border between the United States and Mexico by land or sea. These look like a driver’s license, and are more robust and less bulky than a passport book. You can learn more about Passport Cards on this page of the US State Department web site. If you are a holder of a U.S. Passport Card, please note that this is NOT valid for air travel to Mexico . Passport Cards can only be used to cross the border between the United States and Mexico by land or sea ports. A passport is required for air travel to and from the the United States.

Traveling to Mexico via the United States:

In January 2009 the United States government introduced new rules for travelers entering the country using the Visa Waiver Program (US State Dept). See Also: Travel to Mexico via the USA

Arriving to Mexico by cruise ship

If you are traveling on a cruise ship that visits Mexico, you will be asked to complete a Visitors Permit/FMM (see information above) at your first Mexican port-of-call. This permit will be valid for a maximum of 21 days. Ask your cruise company for details.

Traveling in transit through Mexico

As of February 2004 foreigners passing through one of Mexico’s international airports to a third country no longer require a visa or any migratory documentation, provided that they remain at the airport and depart Mexico within 24 hours of arrival. See Also: Entry Procedure at Mexican Ports

Entry requirements for business visits to Mexico

Mexico welcomes business visitors and makes the immigration procedure for short visits straightforward by means of a special section on the Visitor’s Permit described above.

Business visits to Mexico

If you are traveling on business, or representing a company to conduct business in Mexico, and you hold a passport from a country on Mexico’s “ no visa required list ” you do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. You can, instead, use a visitor’s permit —the same entry permit and procedures used by tourists to enter Mexico (see section above for full details).

If the country you hold a passport for does not appear on the no-visa list , you should check with your nearest local Mexican Consulate for details of visa requirements before you travel to Mexico.

Longer-term business visits to Mexico

If you plan to work or live in Mexico longer periods ( more than 180 days ), you will need to apply for a business visit visa.

This visa enables the visitor to live, work and do business in Mexico, provided that certain criteria are satisfied. You can get more detailed information about long-term living and working permits on Mexperience by connecting to the Immigration Page that contains lots of information and advice about living and working in Mexico. See also: Working in Mexico

Entry requirements for residency in Mexico

People wishing to travel to Mexico to live, work, or retire must meet certain criteria to do so. Mexperience has comprehensive sections of information dedicated to these topics of interest:

Residency visas and immigration

Our guide to Mexico Visas and Immigration page gives an overview of the requirements for temporary and permanent residency in Mexico. Also see the regularly-updated Mexico Immigration FAQs page for the most-commonly asked questions about immigration to Mexico.

Entry Procedure at Mexican Ports

The entry procedure will vary depending on where you arrive in Mexico and whether you arrive as a visitor or as resident. See also: Procedures for Entering and Leaving Mexico

Mexican Customs procedures and allowances

Like all countries, Mexico has policies on what can be brought in to the country without paying duties or taxes.

Your customs allowances when entering Mexico

Allowances are subject to change without notice, but listed below are the principal items followed by some tips about entry to Mexico.

Personal Luggage: including new and used goods for personal use to include clothes, footwear, personal hygiene and beauty items which, according to the form: ‘reasonably respond to the duration of the trip and that due to its quantities may not be used for commercial purposes’;
Two photographic or video cameras and twelve rolls of film or videotapes;
Two mobile phones or pagers;
One used or new laptop; one used or new printer; one projector;
Two used or new items of sports gear;
One CD player or portable music player; one DVD player;
One musical instrument;
Three surfboards; four fishing rods; a pair of skis;
Ten packs of cigarettes (200 cigarettes total), twenty-five cigars OR 200 grams of tobacco (over 18s only);
Vaping imports banned: The commercial import of vaping products was banned in February 2020; however, small quantities for personal use by visitors to the country should not be confiscated (vaping itself is not illegal in Mexico); bringing an ‘excess’ deemed reasonable for personal use may cause your entire supply to be confiscated.
Three liters of liquor AND six liters of wine (if the person is aged over 18 years);
There is a US$300 tax exemption on items you import (in addition to those already listed above) when you enter the country by means or air or maritime transport; the exemption is reduced to US$50 if you travel in by land, except at Easter, Summer Holidays and Christmas time, when the land exemption limit is increased to US$300.

Please Note: Refer to the Mexican Customs web site for full details about customs allowances as these limits are subject to change with little or no notice .

MEXICAN CUSTOMS: TIPS & ADVICE FOR TRAVELERS

Bringing prescription drugs to Mexico: You are allowed to bring prescription drugs into Mexico provided that you have the accompanying documentation which proves a medical need. If you or a member of your family are taking prescription drugs, be sure to take the prescription/doctor’s note with you, which includes the patient’s name and the name of the medication(s) to prove medical need of the drugs you are carrying in case your luggage gets inspected.

Don’t bring firearms or ammunition! A foreign firearms license is not valid in Mexico ; if you own a gun, don’t take it to Mexico with you and don’t bring any ammunition with you either. The only exception is a firearm and ammunition used for hunting purposes; but you will need to apply for a special permit – contact your local Mexican Consulate . Being in possession of lethal knives, firearms of all types, and even a single round of ammunition is a Federal crime in Mexico: caught in possession of a firearm can land you in very serious trouble—even if you have a license for it that was issued in your home country. See Also: Mexico’s Strict Gun Laws

Type and quantity of items : Don’t bring anything that obviously looks like you’re planning to resell goods; for example, several laptop computers. These items will get heavily taxed or confiscated. Items for personal use will be allowed, new or used, but only in quantities that are commensurate with the definition of ‘personal use.’ If you are carrying large quantities of anything, or if the Customs Inspector believes you are trying to commercialize any of the goods you are carrying, then you may be interviewed further.

Drug smuggling: Every year, foreign nationals are arrested and convicted for drug smuggling in Mexico. Don’t attempt to smuggle any narcotics – not even small amounts of ‘soft’ drugs, e.g. cannabis/marijuana. You may be required to present documentary evidence for any powerful prescription drugs you need to carry on your person (i.e. doctor’s prescription, see note above about prescription drugs.) Narcotic offenses (use of, import, export, dealing) are likely to land you in a Mexican prison for many years. Don’t expect your consulate to bail you out because it won’t be able to. 20-25 year prison sentences for drug and serious firearm-related offenses are not uncommon in Mexico.

What you may take home from Mexico

Customs allowances into your home country will depend on where you live.

If you are planning to do a lot of shopping in Mexico, you should check at the information desk at (air)port of departure in your home country for the latest duty-free allowances.

Most goods classed as art and craft work are free of import taxes and you can bring as many home as many as you like, provided the quantities would be considered ‘for personal enjoyment’. Check with your local port/customs authorities for details.

The following items are are typical of duty-free allowances in many countries:

200 Cigarettes;
50 Cigars or 250g of Tobacco;
2 liters of wine;
1 or 2 liters of liquor (depending on country);
60cl of perfume;
In addition to the above: a US dollar or euro amount of goods, ranging from about US$300-$500, depending upon the country. If you go over the monetary limit, duty and tax is usually payable on the whole amount not just the sum above the limit;
Exact rates and amounts vary by country/trading block. Check with the information desk at your home country’s port of departure for the latest details on allowances

Leaving Mexico and Consular Contacts

Leaving mexico.

There are some procedures to follow when you depart Mexico, whether you are a visitor, or resident here:

If you are in Mexico as a tourist/visitor: When you leave Mexico, you will need to show your visitor permit you were issued with when you arrived. See also: Your Mexico Visitors Permit, FMM

If you are resident in Mexico be sure to the immigration desk at the airport or land border to show your residency card and get passport stamped before you leave the country . See also: Procedures for entering and leaving Mexico

Foreign Embassies and Consulates

Foreign nationals may be able to get assistance from their country’s consulate. Read our article about seeking consular assistance in Mexico for further details.

Directory of Mexican Consulates Abroad

Directory of Foreign Consulates in Mexico

Mexico in your inbox

Our free newsletter about Mexico brings you a monthly round-up of recently published stories and opportunities, as well as gems from our archives.

Visa for Mexico

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Mexico?

Do you need a visa to visit Mexico? This article explains who —and who does not— need to apply...

FAQs Visitor Permit

FAQs: Mexico’s Visitor Visas and Visitor Permit, the FMM

These are the most frequently-asked questions we receive in relation to Mexico's visitor visas, and the visitor permit—updated regularly

Time Limits

Time Limits on Mexico Visitor Visas and Residency Permits

Discover answers to common questions about time limits as well as exit/entry rules for Mexico visitor visas and residency...

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Documents Required for Travel and Entry to Mexico

A reminder about the documentation that is required for travel and entry to Mexico whether you are visiting or...

Entry & Exit

Procedures for Entering and Leaving Mexico

There are some straightforward paperwork procedures to engage with when you arrive to, and depart from, Mexico. This...

Volunteering in Mexico

Volunteer helping to release a sea turtle back into the wild

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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...

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Mexico immigration assistance.

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Obtaining Assistance from Your Country’s Consulate in Mexico

Foreign Consulates in Mexico provide a range of support services to their citizens, but there are limitations to the...

Mexican Consulates

Directory and details of Mexican Consulates situated around the world

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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.

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Can You Take a Deck of Cards on a Plane? Your Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can take a deck of cards on a plane, according to TSA guidelines.
Playing cards are great for passing the time on long flights.
Only 26 decks of playing cards were confiscated by TSA in 2019.
Learn some unique card games to keep you entertained.
Pack smart and keep your cards accessible.

You might also like: Can you bring a first aid kit on a plane?

TSA Rules: Can You Bring Cards on a Plane?

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), playing cards are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. This means you can easily bring your favorite deck of cards on your next flight without any issues. As travel expert Johnny Jet says, "Playing cards are a great way to pass the time on a long flight, and luckily they're allowed on planes."

Card Confiscations: A Rare Occurrence

In 2019, TSA officers screened approximately 813 million passengers and found over 4,000 firearms in carry-on bags. However, only 26 decks of playing cards were confiscated. This statistic demonstrates that carrying cards on planes is generally hassle-free, and you shouldn't worry about your deck being taken away.

Unique Card Games to Keep You Entertained

Now that you know you can bring cards on a plane, why not learn some new games to keep you entertained during your flight? Here are a few lesser-known card games to try out:

Pack Smart and Keep Your Cards Accessible

When packing for your flight, make sure to keep your deck of cards easily accessible. This will save you the hassle of digging through your carry-on in search of entertainment. Consider placing them in a small zippered pouch or the front pocket of your carry-on bag.

Kevin's Insider Tips

As an experienced travel journalist, I've spent countless hours on planes and know a thing or two about making flights more enjoyable. Here are some of my insider tips:

Bring a travel-sized card mat or tray to keep cards from sliding around during play.
Invest in a durable, high-quality deck of cards that can withstand frequent use and potential spills.
Practice card games solo or with a travel companion before your flight to make the most of your in-flight entertainment.
Consider downloading card game apps on your phone or tablet as a backup option.
Experiment with different card decks, such as ones featuring unique artwork or themes, to keep things interesting.
If you're flying with children, bring age-appropriate card games to keep them entertained.
Make friends with fellow passengers by inviting them to join in a card game or teaching them a new one.
Learn some card tricks or magic to impress your fellow travelers and pass the time.

Why Card Games are a Travel Essential

Card games are a travel essential for many reasons. They're lightweight, portable, and offer endless entertainment possibilities. Here are some of the benefits of bringing a deck of cards on your travels:

Compact and lightweight: A deck of cards takes up minimal space and adds virtually no weight to your luggage.
Versatile: With just one deck of cards, you can play countless games, suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Social: Card games are a great way to bond with travel companions or make new friends on your journey.
Unplugged entertainment: Playing cards provide a break from screens and help you stay present in the moment.
Budget-friendly: A deck of cards is a low-cost investment that can provide hours of entertainment.

The History of Playing Cards in Air Travel

Playing cards have a long history in air travel. In the early days of commercial aviation, airlines often provided passengers with complimentary decks of cards to keep them entertained during flights. These branded decks often featured the airline's logo or other promotional material, making them collectible items for aviation enthusiasts. Today, while complimentary playing cards are less common, many travelers continue to bring their own decks to pass the time on flights.

1. Can I bring other board games or card games on a plane?

Yes, most board games and card games are allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, always check the TSA guidelines for specific items and any restrictions.

2. Are there any restrictions on the type of playing cards I can bring on a plane?

There are no specific restrictions on the type of playing cards you can bring on a plane. However, avoid bringing any items that could be seen as potentially harmful or offensive.

3. Can I play card games with other passengers on the plane?

Yes, you can play card games with other passengers, as long as you're not disturbing others or breaking any airline rules. Always be mindful of the people around you and the space you have available.

4. Can I bring poker chips or other card game accessories on a plane?

Yes, poker chips and other card game accessories are generally allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, always check the TSA guidelines for specific items and any restrictions.

5. How can I keep my cards in good condition while traveling?

To keep your cards in good condition, consider investing in a sturdy card case or box, and store them in a safe, easily accessible location in your carry-on bag.

6. Can I bring a travel-sized chess or checkers set on a plane?

Yes, travel-sized chess or checkers sets are typically allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, always check the TSA guidelines for specific items and any restrictions.

7. Are there any card games specifically designed for air travel?

While there aren't card games explicitly designed for air travel, many compact and portable card games are well-suited for playing on planes. Look for games with minimal components and straightforward rules for easy in-flight play.

In summary, yes, you can take a deck of cards on a plane without any issues. Just remember to pack smart, keep your cards accessible, and learn some unique card games to make your flight more enjoyable.

Bringing a deck of cards on a plane is not only allowed but also highly recommended for a more enjoyable flight experience. Take advantage of this versatile, lightweight, and social form of entertainment during your next trip. With countless games to learn and play, your flight will be over before you know it! Happy travels!

Also check out: Can you bring binoculars on a plane?

www.tsa.gov

Can You Take a Deck of Cards on a Plane? Your Ultimate Guide

Credit Cards
Best Rewards Cards

Best Rewards Credit Cards Of June 2024

Fact Checked

Updated: May 29, 2024, 5:27pm

It can be challenging to compare rewards credit cards as there are so many varieties of them. In addition to these cards having different earnings rates, their rewards often come in the form of ambiguous points or miles.

Some rewards cards also have earning and redemption rules that make it harder to gauge their true value potential. We’ve cut through the clutter by breaking down the key features of the top rewards credit cards available today to help you find one of the best ones for you.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below.

31 Spending Categories Considered
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Though Chase offers a few cards that earn transferable points, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card balances phenomenal redemptions with a reasonable annual fee, making it my personal favorite.

Why We Like It

This card is equally good for travelers who want to transfer points to travel partners or those who want to book (with a bonus) through Chase Travel℠ to avoid blackout dates and other restrictions.

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Many purchases only earn one point per dollar spent.

Who It’s Best For

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It’s the granddaddy of travel credit cards, but it still earns its reputation as one of the best around with solid bonus categories, strong travel protections, a great set of domestic and international transfer partners and a reasonable annual fee to boot. You can’t go wrong with it as your first travel credit card.

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Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Enjoy beneﬁts such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
Member FDIC

Best Premium Flexible Rewards Card

Capital one venture x rewards credit card.

Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases, 5 miles per dollar on flights and 10 miles per dollar Read More

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Excellent (750 - 850)

Not only are Capital One Rewards valuable, but the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with a slew of upmarket travel benefits that make it worthy of its high-end reputation and a mainstay in my wallet.

Flat-rate rewards on every purchase make this card super straightforward.

Capital One Rewards are worth less than a penny apiece if you want to redeem them as cash back.

Travelers who want premium perks and an easy-to-offset annual fee.

If you’re looking for lofty perks without a lofty annual fee, the Venture X fits the bill. While other cards with elite benefits can run close to $700 a year, the Venture X is nearly half that. And you’ll still get Capital One and Priority Pass airport lounge access for you and your eligible guests, an annual travel credit and solid earnings on everyday purchases.

Annual fee lower than others in its category
Annual travel credit through Capital One Travel and anniversary miles alone could justify the annual fee
Miles are easy to earn and easy to use
Lack of domestic airline and upscale hotel travel partners
Capital One lounge network in its infancy
Lack of hotel status benefits
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

Best Flexible Rewards Card for Travel Protections

Chase sapphire reserve®.

Up to 10x Reward Rate

Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Read More

22.49%-29.49% Variable

I love that the list of included travel insurances on the Chase Sapphire Reserve® puts it head to head with individually paid policies without the separate cost.

The Reserve’s annual travel credit is one of the easiest to use, since it’s automatically applied to qualifying purchases.

To earn the highest rate of rewards on travel, you need to book your trip through Chase Travel℠.

Frequent travelers who want to maximize their reward value on travel redemptions.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is one of the most valuable flexible rewards credit cards thanks to its lucrative bonus categories and easy-to-use travel credit. Cardholders can offset the annual fee and get great value when redeeming Chase Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card, thanks to partnerships with numerous airlines and hotels and its convenient travel booking portal, Chase Travel.

$300 annual travel credit is incredibly flexible
Generous welcome bonus
Get 50% more value when you redeem points for travel through Chase
Points transfer to valuable airline and hotel partners
High annual fee
High variable APR on purchases
Excellent credit recommended
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Best Premium Card for Lounge Access

The platinum card® from american express.

5X Reward Rate

Earn 5 Membership Rewards Points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and on flights booked directly Read More

Earn 80,000 points

See Pay Over Time APR

Good,Excellent (700 - 749)

Travelers get access to a long list of credits and benefits with The Platinum Card® from American Express , including airport lounge access that goes above and beyond Priority Pass so you don’t go crazy on your next connection.

There’s a travel credit or benefit for nearly any scenario.

Many of the statement credit offers have a lot of fine print that can make it more inconvenient to earn your credits.

Frequent travelers who want rich travel and lifestyle perks.

Being an Amex Platinum cardholder grants access to the International Airline Program, which can save you money on first and business-class seats on more than 20 airlines, as well as premium economy tickets for you and up to seven traveling companions. Start your search on the Amex Travel website to find international flights departing or arriving in the U.S. for any of those premium cabins.

High reward potential on flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel
Multiple credits can help justify the fee
Comprehensive airport lounge access
Luxury travel benefits and elite status with Hilton and Marriott with enrollment
Very high annual fee
Maximizing the statement credits takes some work and could be impractical for many
Reward rate outside of travel is sub-par for a premium card
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
$200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
$189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
$695 annual fee.
Terms Apply.

Best for Dining and Groceries

American express® gold card.

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at Read More

Earn 60,000 points

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

If you’re looking for strong rewards when grocery shopping, eating out or ordering in, you can’t beat the American Express® Gold Card . Dining and delivery statement credits caught my attention.

You’ll earn rewards quickly, thanks to a 4x multiplier on eligible purchases.

The annual fee on this card isn’t insignificant.

Foodies and families who spend a lot on dining and groceries.

This card makes it easy to earn Membership Rewards points while doing regular grocery shopping since the card earns bonus points at supermarkets. And for the nights that cardholders don’t want to cook, they can make use of the monthly dining and Uber credits (which can be used on Uber Eats orders).

High rewards earnings possibilities
Points transfer option to many partners
Add up to 5 authorized users for no additional annual fee
Can choose from regular or rose gold versions
No lounge benefits
Limited options to carry a balance
High APR for pay over time feature
High pay over time penalty APR
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
$120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $250.

Best Cash-Back Rewards Cards

Best no-annual-fee cash back card, chase freedom flex℠.

Up to 5% Reward Rate

Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled, 5% on travel purchased through Read More

20.49%-29.24% Variable

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ includes elevated cash back on three categories year-round plus 5% rotating bonus categories each quarter, which makes it a winner by my standards.

The earning rates on the Freedom Flex are generous for a no annual fee credit card.

Quarterly bonus categories require card members to activate the promotion and watch for spending limits.

People who want to maximize rewards on a variety of everyday spending categories throughout the year.

Kudos to Chase for always keeping the rotating categories relevant on the Freedom Flex. From Amazon to PayPal and Starbucks to Walmart, you’re almost guaranteed to find at least one quarter every year (or even several) where the 5 bonus points roll in with almost no effort. Just don’t forget to activate the categories every quarter.

No annual fee
Rotating quarterly categories earn 5% rewards when activated, up to a combined quarterly $1,500 maximum
Travel rewards rate rivals some of the best premium travel cards
Generous rewards rate in several other categories
Travel bookings must be made through Chase Travel℠ to earn 5% cash back
Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49%-29.24%.
No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex℠ card
Keep tabs on your credit health – Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.

Best for Flexible Cash Back

Citi custom cash® card.

5% cash back on up to $500 in purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle. 4% cash Read More

19.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Excellent, Good, Fair

Cardholders automatically earn a generous 5% cash back on their top eligible spending category for hands-off, flexible rewards on the Citi Custom Cash® Card . That’s a relief when your life gets busy.

In addition to cash rewards, this card also offers an introductory APR to new cardholders.

Earnings are limited, despite the high rates, due to a relatively low $500 spending limit on the top eligible spend bonus categories each billing cycle.

People who want bonus rewards that adapt to their spending.

If you’ve always wanted a credit card that adapts to your lifestyle instead of you having to adapt to it, you’ve found what you’re looking for with the Citi Custom Cash. You’ll never have to worry again about making sure you’re earning bonus points at the places you shop the most, because this card will automatically do it for you — even if those places change every month.

No registration required to earn bonus rewards
Cash-back categories are unique categories that other cards may not offer bonus rewards for
Introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers
High balance transfer fee
High foreign transaction fee
Some everyday rewards categories are neglected
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.
No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
No Annual Fee
Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.

Best for Frequent Amazon Shoppers

Up to 5% back

Earn 5% back on purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Read More

Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card

19.49% - 27.49% Variable

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

The benefits and unparalleled rewards on the Prime Visa make it a must-have for Prime members who shop at Amazon as much as I do.

If you prefer, you can choose to receive 0% financing on qualifying Amazon.com purchases instead of earning rewards.

Your rewards rate on Amazon purchases will drop if you ever cancel your Prime membership.

Amazon Prime members.

The card is a no-brainer for Amazon Prime members. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another card that offers such a great rewards rate on so many different types of purchases.

5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases
No spending required for the welcome bonus
No foreign transaction fees
Travel and shopping protections
Requires an Amazon Prime membership
No 0% introductory APR
Low cash back for purchases outside of bonus categories
Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership
Earn unlimited 5% back on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership
Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare)
Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases
No annual credit card fee
No more waiting. Redeem daily rewards at Amazon.com as soon as the next day

Best for Grocery Delivery

Instacart mastercard® *.

Up to 5% Cash Back

Earn 5% cash back on Instacart app and Instacart.com purchases; 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 2% Read More

Instacart credit + 1 free year of Instacart+

20.24% - 28.99% Variable

Customers who buy all their groceries through Instacart can earn bountiful cash back with the Instacart Mastercard® * without the commitment of an annual fee.

It’s rare to earn 5% cash back on grocery purchases on a no-annual-fee card.

The card earns lackluster rewards if you shop in person, which might mean it’s a bad fit for an occasional delivery indulgence.

Frequent Instacart shoppers.

Generous cash-back rate on Instacart orders
Free year of Instacart+ membership
Redeem cash back for any amount
No annual fee or foreign transaction fee
Rate on gas, groceries and streaming is just OK
No elevated earnings on non-Instacart groceries, beyond Chase Travel purchases
Doesn’t offer a 0% introductory APR period
Free year of Instacart+ and a $100 Instacart credit upon approval. Membership auto-renews, terms apply
Earn 5% cash back on Instacart purchases through the app and Instacart.com
Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
Earn 2% cash back on gas, restaurant and select streaming purchases
Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases

Best for Cash Back Match

Discover it® cash back.

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, Read More

Cashback Match™

18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

Excellent/Good

In the first year of card membership, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned on the Discover it® Cash Back for an easy jumpstart to your rewards balance. I love that there are no limits.

You can earn up to 5% cash back on rotating quarterly bonus categories on up to $1,500 in spending per quarter (activation required).

Discover cards aren’t accepted at many international locations, so it is a poor choice for travelers.

Big spenders who want to maximize rewards on various everyday spending categories and all their first-year spending.

The quarterly categories are the highlight of the Discover it® Cash Back. You’ll often find broad options on its rotating list of categories, such as restaurants, drug stores, gas stations and groceries, which makes it easy for almost any household to take advantage of them. Just don’t get tripped up by forgetting to activate the categories at the start of each quarter, because you can’t do it retroactively to earn bonus cash back on your past purchases.

5% cash back on quarterly rotating spending categories throughout the year (activation required)
Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
No minimum cash-back redemption
5% bonus cash-back rate is limited to $1,500 per quarter in spending
Bonus categories must be activated quarterly
Low 1% base reward rate on everything else
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
No annual fee.
Terms and conditions apply.

Best Airline Rewards Cards

Best airline card for rewards, aeroplan® credit card.

Up to 3x Reward Rate

Earn 3x points for each dollar spent on grocery stores, dining at restaurants including takeout and eligible delivery services, and Read More

Earn 70,000 points

21.74% - 28.74% Variable

Even if you don’t fly Air Canada often, the Aeroplan rewards program is top notch. The Aeroplan® Credit Card earns miles at superb rates and I’m impressed it offers preferred award pricing to cardholders.

In addition to earning strong rewards, the Aeroplan card offers tons of benefits while flying—including elite status for new cardholders.

Aeroplan miles might not be an immediate choice for U.S.-based flyers.

Travelers who want to earn award flights with Air Canada.

Chase and Air Canada’s co-branded Aeroplan Credit Card will serve as an excellent companion for frequent flyers of Star Alliance and its carriers from United to Lufthansa as you earn valuable Aeroplan points. Maximize your Aeroplan points and redeem for flights and hotels through an extensive partner network. Enjoy additional points-earning opportunities in key everyday categories.

Excellent rewards earning
Travel benefits including perks for Air Canada flyers
$95 annual fee
Lacks non-travel-related benefits
Earn 70,000 bonus points
Earn 70,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
$95 Annual Fee
Redeem points for both international and domestic flights with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
Fly to another continent and travel the world with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
Earn 3X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and Air Canada directly. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month – up to 1,500 points per month.

Best Card for British Airways Perks

British airways visa signature® card.

Earn 85,000 Avios.

I don’t fly to or through London enough to need this card, but the British Airways Visa Signature® Card bundles great benefits for British Airways flyers, including discounts on paid flights, statement credits toward taxes and fees on eligible rewards flights and the opportunity to earn a Travel Together ticket.

British Airways makes a lot of award seats available, meaning it’s easier to find a redemption and the card perks offset some of the notorious fees.

For an airline card, this one is notably absent in benefits while flying like free checked bags or in-flight food and beverage discounts.

Travelers who want to earn award flights with British Airways and partner airlines.

Those who spend enough to earn the Travel Together Ticket can get 50% off the price of their award ticket when traveling solo or get a second seat on the same flight and cabin for a companion at no additional cost beyond taxes and fees. Travel Together Tickets are now valid on British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus flights and any of their subsidiaries on itineraries from anywhere in the world for both one-way or round-trip flights.

Generous rewards on eligible flights
Potential to earn a companion ticket
Lucrative welcome bonus
No foreign transaction fee
Rewards rate poor outside of Avios-earning airlines
Subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule
No checked baggage or lounge perks
Limited time offer! Earn 85,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
10% off British Airways flights starting in the US when you book through the website provided in your welcome materials.
Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, you’ll earn a Travel Together Ticket good for two years.
Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
Simply tap to pay with your contactless British Airways Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!

Best Midtier U.S. Airline Card

United quest℠ card.

Up to 3X Reward Rate

3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases. 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, select streaming services & all Read More

Earn 60,000 bonus miles

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

Despite the above-average annual fee, the United Quest℠ Card stands out for anniversary flight credits, statement credits toward United purchases and perks while flying that make travel a breeze.

The benefits while flying go beyond the checked bags you’re expecting: The card also offers potential upgrades on award flights.

Since the anniversary mile bonus requires you to make and fly eligible award flights, not all cardholders will maximize this benefit every year.

Travelers who want to earn award flights with United Airlines.

Don’t let the card’s annual fee scare you off. Even if you’re not a frequent flyer, the perks can make this card worth your while, and the rewards rates are better compared to most airline cards.

$125 annual United purchase credit
Earn up to two 5,000-mile award flight credits annually
Two free checked bags for cardholder and a companion traveling on the same reservation
Earn up to 6,000 Premier Qualifying Points annually
Primary auto collision damage waiver for eligible rentals
Checked baggage benefit only applies to one companion
Earnings for general purchases are only 1 mile per dollar
Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after qualifying purchases
Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
Free first and second checked bags – a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) – and priority boarding
Up to a $125 United® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)

Best Hotel Rewards Cards

Best hotel card for earning ihg points, ihg one rewards premier credit card.

Up to 26X Reward Rate

Earn up to 26 points total per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts; 5 points per Read More

Earn 140,000 bonus points

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Anyone who stays at IHG hotels regularly would do well with the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card , which offers an Anniversary Free Night, “fourth night free” perks and oodles of points-earning opportunities. I love this card for its benefits more than the points, though.

The Anniversary Free Night alone—which is easy to use—is worth more than the annual fee, making the other perks feel “free”.

Other travel rewards cards offer better earning rates on travel outside of the IHG umbrella.

Travelers who want to earn free stays at IHG hotels and resorts.

The IHG One Rewards Premier blows all other mid-tier hotel credit cards out of the water with perks alone. You don’t even have to use the card regularly to offset its annual fee every year.

Earn up to 26 points per dollar spent on IHG hotels worldwide
Free night award every account anniversary
Fourth night free on point redemption stays
Automatic Platinum Elite status
Poor earnings for everyday and non-category hotel purchases
Low overall point value
No worthwhile redemption options outside of IHG properties
Earn 140,000 Bonus Points
Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay.
Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®

Best Hotel Card for Earning Hyatt Points

The world of hyatt credit card.

Up to 9X Reward Rate

Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 bonus points per $1 when you use Read More

Up to 60,000 Bonus Points

21.49% - 28.49% variable

I’ve heard stories of how amazing Hyatt status is, and The World of Hyatt Credit Card puts it in reach—plus, it offers a free night certificate annually.

This is one of the few alternate ways to work toward elite status.

Although Hyatt’s footprint is growing, there are still fewer destinations serviced worldwide, which could limit your award options.

Travelers who want to earn free stays at Hyatt hotels and resorts and want a jumpstart toward earning status.

For many Hyatt loyalists, earning Globalist status each year is a priority and this card can help them get there faster by providing five elite night credits annually. Plus the complimentary yearly certificate for a category 1 to 4 Hyatt hotel counts toward elite status too and can offset the card’s annual fee.

Annual free night certificate on cardmember anniversary
Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
High points redemption values
Limited number of properties
No worthwhile redemption options aside from Hyatt properties
Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships

Best Hotel Card for Earning Hilton Points

Hilton honors american express surpass® card.

Up to 12X Reward Rate

Earn 12X Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio; Earn 6X Read More

Earn 130,000 bonus points

20.99%-29.99% Variable

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card wraps up Hilton statement credits, meaningful elite status and a boatload of points at a palatable price.

The elite status offered by most hotel credit cards is mid, but the Surpass lifts you right up to Gold.

Hotel statement credits are provided quarterly, so you’ll need to make multiple purchases over the course of a year to max out this perk.

Who it’s Best For

Travelers who want to earn free stays at Hilton hotels and resorts.

The Hilton Surpass is a great fit for Hilton fans who don’t want to pay a high annual fee to earn points and status with their favorite hotel chain. The card’s complimentary Hilton Gold elite status and Free Night Reward after spending $15,000 on the card in a year are nice perks and the up to $200 in credits for purchases at Hilton properties each year are more than enough to offset the card’s entire annual fee on their own.

Complimentary elite Gold status
Up to $200 back annually on eligible Hilton purchases
4 points per dollar on U.S. online retail purchases
Points have a low redemption value aside from Hilton properties
Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 7/31/2024.
Get up to $200 back each year on eligible Hilton purchases after you use your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors ™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year.
Enjoy complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status. Enrollment in the complimentary Emerald Club® program is required. Terms apply.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
$150 annual fee.

Best Hotel Card for Earning Wyndham Points

Wyndham rewards earner® plus card *.

Up to 6X Reward Rate

Earn 6 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at participating By Wyndham hotels and at gas stations; Earn Read More

100,000 bonus points

20.99% - 29.99% variable

Excellent/Good Credit (700 - 749)

We picked the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card * for its strong earning rate on Wyndham stays and gasoline purchases, but the annual points bonus and room discounts don’t hurt either.

Wyndham Rewards give you lots of options for free stays, especially in North America where they also partner with Vacasa vacation rentals.

Wyndham points expire even if there’s activity on your account, so you can’t hoard points (you shouldn’t anyway).

Travelers who want to earn free stays at Wyndham hotels, motels and resorts.

Wyndham loyalists will enjoy the array of perks and benefits offered by the Wyndham Earner Plus card. By providing complimentary PLATINUM loyalty status, this card is primed to ensure an enhanced experience at Wyndham’s 9,000+ properties.

Automatically receive Wyndham Rewards Platinum elite status
Enjoy extra discounts on local attractions when booking “Go Free” awards
APR can be high, depending on your creditworthiness
Target and Walmart only earn 1 point per dollar spent
Only hotel redemptions offer good value
Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening. Resort fees may apply
Earn 6 points per $1 spent on hotels by Wyndham and gas purchases
Earn 4 points per $1 spent on dining and groceries (excluding Target and Walmart)
Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Receive Wyndham Rewards PLATINUM membership, which includes early check-in, car rental upgrades and more
Receive 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year

Best Hotel Card for Earning Marriott Points

Marriott bonvoy boundless® credit card *.

Earn 6 points for every $1 at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3 points for every $1 spent each year (up Read More

Earn 3 Free Night Awards

Compared to other Marriott cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card * is my favorite because it comes with a Free Night Award every anniversary on top of rewarding you handsomely for Marriott charges.

The annual fee is a steal considering it includes a Free Night Award.

Unbonused spend earns 2 Bonvoy points per dollar spent, which isn’t worth as much as you’d get from a 2% cash-back card.

Travelers who want to earn free stays at Marriott hotels and resorts.

The card’s free award night perk alone makes the card worth a spot in any traveler’s wallet. The option to combine the certificate with up to 15,000 points to get more flexibility for your annual stay is a nice touch.

Free night certificate every year (valued at 35,000 points)
15 Elite Night Credits per year
Automatic Silver Elite status
Stingy earnings structure
Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening
Earn 6 points per dollar on qualifying Marriott Bonvoy hotel stays
Earn 3 points per dollar spent on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on groceries, gas stations, and dining
Earn 2 points per dollar spent on all other purchases
Points don’t expire as long as you make purchases on your credit card every 24 months

Here’s a Summary of the Best Rewards Credit Cards

Overview of the best rewards credit cards of 2024.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has long been one of the most beloved travel rewards cards thanks to its pairing of a reasonable annual fee with strong earnings and travel perks.

Rewards: Earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs), 2 points per dollar on all other travel purchases and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $95

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card lets you access the lucrative Chase Ultimate Rewards® program. Cardholders reap 25% more value from their points when they use them to book travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal . They also receive an additional 10% points bonus on each cardholder anniversary based on their previous year’s spending.

The card also features trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, primary auto rental coverage, trip delay insurance, purchase protection and extended warranties.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with an array of luxury benefits and travel coverages to rival other premium cards, but at a price point that’s best-in-class.

Rewards: Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases, 5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel, 5 miles per dollar on Capital One Entertainment purchases through 12/31/25 and 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars when booking via Capital One Travel.

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

Annual fee: $395 ( rates & fees )

Other benefits and drawbacks: Venture X benefits include a $300 annual travel credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel and 10,000 anniversary bonus points worth $100 in travel. This credit can be used on airfare, hotels or car rentals, but only through the site. Additionally, the card offers access to partner lounges within the Priority Pass and Plaza Premium networks as well as to its growing list of Capital One lounges. The Venture X also comes with a credit of up to $100 for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee.

Unlike other premium travel cards, the Venture X offers authorized user cards for no additional charge. It also provides several additional travel and consumer benefits, including return protection, extended warranty, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, cell phone protection and a primary auto rental collision damage waiver.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® remains one of the top travel credit cards on the market today due to its generous rewards and benefits structure and the ability to gain 50% more value when redeeming points through Chase Travel℠.

Rewards: Earn 5 points per dollar on flights and 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals when purchasing travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3 points per dollar on other travel and dining and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Annual fee: $550

Other benefits and drawbacks: The rewards you earn with the Sapphire Reserve may be transferred 1:1 to many popular airline and hotel partners, potentially providing even more value. You can also redeem rewards for gift cards, cash back or merchandise.

The Sapphire Reserve also includes a Priority Pass Select membership, an annual travel credit worth up to $300, a credit toward Global Entry, NEXUS or TSA PreCheck application and a suite of important travel protections, including baggage delay coverage, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, travel accident insurance and auto rental collision damage waiver.

With its unmatched range of benefits and perks, The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees ) offers a multitude of opportunities for cardholders to make its hefty annual fee worthwhile.

Rewards: Earn 5 Membership Rewards Points per dollar for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 per calendar year, 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and 1 point per dollar on other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases on the card in the first 6 months of card membership.

Annual fee: $695

Other benefits and drawbacks: Other benefits of the Amex Platinum card include access to airport lounges worldwide, complimentary elite status with various hotel and car rental loyalty programs and a generous rewards program that offers points for every dollar spent.

Cardholders also get cellphone protection ¹ and a ton of opportunities to earn statement credits. However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. The Amex Platinum card has a high annual fee, which may not be worth it for those who don’t travel frequently or take advantage of the card’s perks. Additionally, the card is not widely accepted outside of major cities and tourist destinations.

Whether you love to eat out or try out new recipes at home, the American Express® Gold Card (terms apply, see rates & fees ) offers top-tier rewards and benefits for food enthusiasts.

Rewards: Earn 4 Membership Rewards® points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., 4 Membership Rewards® points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1 point per dollar), 3 Membership Rewards® points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express travel and 1 point per dollar on other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first 6 months of card membership.

Annual fee: $250

Other benefits and drawbacks: In addition to great rewards, the card offers a statement credit of up to $10 per month when you use your card for purchases at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations (enrollment required). You’ll also automatically get $10 per month in Uber Cash when you add your card to your Uber account, which you can use for food delivery with Uber Eats or rides with Uber. Uber Cash expires at the end of the month and won’t carry over.

Those two perks alone are enough to cover the majority of the card’s annual fee. Just keep in mind that using food delivery apps like Grubhub and Uber Eats comes with extra costs, including delivery and service fees and higher menu prices, which could offset some of the value you’re getting.

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ charges no annual fee and features rotating 5% bonus categories along with other valuable bonus categories that are fixed.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on dining and drugstores and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers purchase and extended warranty protections, plus travel benefits, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, travel and emergency assistance services and secondary auto rental collision damage coverage . When you pay your phone bill with the Freedom Flex card, you’ll also receive cellphone protection limited to two claims of up to $800 per claim and $1,000 per year. A $50 deductible applies.

One of the central reasons this card remains so powerful is the ability to transfer the points earned on your Freedom Flex to another premium Chase card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card to redeem them for more value through Chase Travel .

With the Citi Custom Cash® Card , you’ll get the rare benefit of a fantastic 5% rewards rate that automatically applies to your top eligible spending category each month.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on purchases in a top eligible spend category up to the first $500 spent each billing cycle, 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025 and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn $200 in cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. The bonus points come in the form of 20,000 ThankYou® Points that can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The card also comes with a 0% introductory APR for 15 months from date of account opening on purchases and from date of first transfer for balance transfers completed within 4 months of account opening. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on creditworthiness. There is also a balance transfer fee of 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.

While the bonus rewards structure offers flexibility, the top eligible spend category is capped at $500 in eligible spending each month.

If you’re an Amazon Prime member and you shop regularly with the online retail giant, the Prime Visa is a clear choice. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better consistent rewards rate on Amazon purchases than what you get with this card.

Rewards: Earn 5% back on purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership, 2% back at gas stations, restaurants and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare), and 1% back on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn a $100 Amazon gift card upon approval with an eligible Prime membership.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Despite being a cash-back card, the Prime Visa offers great value for travelers, including no foreign transaction fees, travel accident insurance, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement and auto rental collision damage waiver.

If you need to pay off an Amazon purchase of $50 or more over time, you can opt for a payment plan with a 0% promotional APR for six months, or 12 months for purchases of $250 or more, 19.49% - 27.49% variable APR thereafter. Just keep in mind that you can’t get promotional financing and cash-back rewards for the same purchase.

If you prefer having your groceries delivered to shopping in person, the Instacart Mastercard® * offers an opportunity to earn great rewards on your Instacart purchases.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on Instacart app and Instacart.com purchases, and on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations and on select streaming services and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn a free year of Instacart+ and a $100 Instacart credit automatically upon approval.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Paired with auto rental collision damage coverage, purchase protection, extended warranty protection, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement and travel accident insurance, you may be tempted to think it’s a travel card. However, if you alternate between grocery shopping through Instacart and in person, be aware there are no increased rewards for in-store grocery store purchases.

The Discover it® Cash Back , like most Discover Cards, matches all the cash back earned at the end of your first year, making your first-year rewards particularly valuable. But even beyond that, the rotating categories allow you to earn elevated cash back on select categories with quarterly enrollment.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter up to a quarterly maximum of $1,500 in spending when activated. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.

Welcome offer: Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year as a cardmember. There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards.

Other benefits and drawbacks: With few additional benefits beyond $0 fraud liability, the ability to freeze spending on the card from a mobile app or online and dark web monitoring to help protect your Social Security number, the Discover it® Cash Back card’s focus is on rotating categories to maximize your rewards potential.

Beware, the Discover it® Cash Back’s rotating categories are capped at a maximum earning potential of $300 cash back per year. You also have to remember to activate your bonus category rewards each quarter, or you won’t earn the higher cash-back rate.

The Aeroplan® Credit Card offers stellar earnings in several everyday spending categories and the ability to use its points for its own Air Canada flights or flights with Star Alliance carriers and other airline partners.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar spent on dining, takeout and eligible delivery services, grocery stores and each dollar spent directly with Air Canada including vacations and cruises and 1 point per dollar for all other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 70,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Aeroplan card includes a free first checked bag benefit and adds access to reduced prices when redeeming points, so you can fly even further. New cardholders receive automatic 25K Status for the remainder of the calendar year plus the following year. It also offers a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or NEXUS fee credit and a comprehensive set of travel insurances, auto rental coverage and purchase protection.

British Airways offers a distance-based award chart, so counterintuitively, the British Airways Visa Signature® Card is going to offer the most outsized value for people who often take shorter flights on British Airways partner airlines, like American Airlines.

Rewards: Earn 3 Avios per dollar on purchases with Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL, 2 Avios per dollar on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel and 1 Avios per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 85,000 Avios after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The British Airways card offers cardholders the ability to earn a Travel Together Ticket every calendar year after making $30,000 in purchases on the card. This ticket is valid for two years when you redeem Avios on British Airways for a companion traveling on the same flight. You can also use it for a 50% discount on the mileage charge when traveling solo. Cardholders also can get 10% off British Airways flights starting in the U.S. when booking through a dedicated website and up to $600 in Reward Flight statement credits when you book a reward flight to London on British Airways and pay taxes, fees and carrier charges with the card.

The United Quest℠ Card outdoes other airline cards just a little bit by offering above-average earning rates on a variety of bonus categories and a high welcome offer.

Rewards: Earn 3 miles per dollar on United® purchases, 2 miles per dollar on dining, select streaming services and all other travel and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Yes, you’ll pay more in annual fees than the average airline card, but United flyers can justify the cost easily. Each year, cardholders can earn a $125 United purchase credit and two 5,000-mile anniversary award flight credits. Here’s the catch: these extras don’t come automatically. You’ll need to make United purchases and redeem awards to qualify—though that should be easy enough if you fly United regularly. While you’re flying, enjoy free checked bags, priority boarding and other perks.

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a solid option for those who stay at IHG properties regularly. It offers oversized rewards on IHG-brand hotel stays, a free annual anniversary night, automatic Platinum Elite status and a fourth-night-free perk on award bookings. For a modest annual fee, the card is well worth it.

Rewards: Earn up to 26 points per dollar spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts, 5 points on travel, gas stations, and restaurants and 3 points on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Annual fee: $99

Other benefits and drawbacks: The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card also offers the ability to earn a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 each calendar year and includes travel and purchase protections like baggage delay insurance and purchase protection.

For those who prefer to stay at a Hyatt-branded property, The World of Hyatt Credit Card can help you earn free nights faster and add value to your stays.

Rewards: Earn 9 points total per dollar spent at Hyatt - 4 bonus points per dollar spent at Hyatt hotels and 5 base points per dollar from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member. Earn 2 bonus points per dollar spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening, plus up to 30,000 more bonus points by earning 2 bonus points per dollar spent in the first 6 months on purchases that normally earn 1 bonus point on up to $15,000 spent.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Hyatt card provides one complimentary Category 1 to 4 hotel night each year after the cardmember anniversary. Plus, you have the ability to earn a second complimentary night after spending $15,000 on the card each year. It also comes with automatic World of Hyatt Discoverist elite status, five elite qualifying night credits each year and the opportunity to earn two additional elite qualifying night credits for every $5,000 spent.

If you travel at least a few times a year and prefer Hilton for your accommodations, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card (terms apply, see rates & fees ) makes it easy to accumulate points with the hotel chain and enjoy special treatment every time you stay.

Rewards: Earn 12 Hilton Honors bonus points per dollar on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio, 6 points on eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations, 4 points on eligible U.S. online retail purchases and 3 points for other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors bonus points plus a Free Night Reward after spending $3,000 in purchases on the card in the first six months of card membership, offer ends 7/31/2024.

Annual fee: $150

Other benefits and drawbacks: Each quarter, you can get up to $50 in statement credits for eligible Hilton purchases. If you spend $15,000 in a calendar year, you’ll also earn a Free Night Reward, which you can use at most Hilton properties around the world.

You’ll also enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold elite status, which comes with perks like food credits and space-available room upgrades. You can even get an upgrade to Diamond status—the rewards program’s highest tier—when you spend $40,000 in a calendar year. Cardholders can also access some special rental car perks by receiving complimentary National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status (enrollment required).

If you regularly take road trips or your hotel budget is on the lower side, the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card * can be your ticket to free nights and great perks.

Rewards: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases made at Hotels by Wyndham as well as on qualifying gas purchases, 4 points on eligible dining and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) and 1 points on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening, resort fees may apply.

Annual fee: $75

Other benefits and drawbacks: Each year, you’ll receive 7,500 bonus points, which is enough for a free night at some of Wyndham’s more affordable properties. You’ll also get a 10% discount on your award stays, making it easier to earn free nights with your everyday spending.

Cardholders also enjoy complimentary Platinum elite status with the hotel rewards program, which comes with perks like early check-in, car rental upgrades with Avis and Budget and a status match with the Caesar Rewards program.

If you prefer Marriott over other hotel brands, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card * offers great value in the form of rewards and perks for a modest annual fee.

Rewards: Earn 6 points per dollar at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3 points per dollar spent each year (up to $6,000) on combined grocery stores, gas stations and dining purchases and 2 points per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Each year, you’ll get a Free Night Award that’s good for a redemption level of up to 35,000 points. You can also receive a complimentary one-year membership to DoorDash DashPass when activated by December 31, 2024.

The card only offers complimentary Silver Elite status, which is the hotel program’s lowest elite status tier. Benefits include late checkout, earning 10% more points on Marriott purchases as well as complimentary Wi-Fi. However, if you spend $35,000 in a calendar year, you can get an upgrade to Gold elite status which offers more value.

Methodology

While there’s no such thing as a single best rewards card, Forbes Advisor evaluated over 200 credit cards to determine the best credit cards for specific scenarios.

We considered:

Annual fees
Welcome offers
Ongoing reward rates
Reward redemption options
Additional cardholder benefits

Forbes Advisor rates cards both as stand-alone products (the card rating on the review) and compared to others in a specific use case (the card rating you see on a specific “Best” list). The rating for each card changes on different “Best” lists according to how a person looking for a card in that category may value certain card features.

For instance, a card that might be considered mediocre on a list of rewards cards could be the top card on a list of rewards cards with no annual fee. That’s because the card might offer limited features compared to other rewards cards, but after we remove cards that charge an annual fee, it’s the best card that remains.

Read more: How Forbes Advisor rates credit cards

Guide to Rewards Credit Cards

What is a rewards credit card, how do i earn rewards, what is a rewards program, types of credit card rewards programs, cash-back rewards, flexible travel rewards, airline miles, hotel points, business rewards, how to choose the best rewards credit card, who should get a rewards card, how to make the most of credit card rewards, best ways to use credit card rewards, rewards credit cards in the news, bottom line, frequently asked questions (faqs).

A rewards credit card can maximize the value of many of your credit card purchases by allowing you to earn rewards in the form of cash back, points or miles when you use the card. Typically, cardholders earn a specific percentage of qualifying spending as cash back or earn a specific number of points with each dollar spent on qualifying purchases. Rewards cards may also offer a welcome bonus that can provide new cardholders extra rewards when they spend a certain amount of money within a set period after opening the card.

How Do Credit Card Rewards Work?

A fee is charged whenever a credit card is used to make a purchase. Usually, this transaction processing fee is paid by the vendor and thus either charged directly to the consumer by the vendor or included in the price of the goods or services purchased.

Credit card networks, card issuers and co-branded partners may each receive a cut of this transaction fee. To incentivize credit card use among qualifying cardholders, credit card issuers provide rewards on qualifying credit card spend and return some of the value of this fee to the purchasing consumer in the form of cash back.

Rewards cards typically allow a cardholder to earn rewards as a percentage of purchases in either cash back or as points or miles per dollar spent. Some rewards credit cards may also offer a welcome bonus which offers extra rewards if a cardholder spends a certain amount of money within the first few months of card ownership.

When vendors mark up all goods and services to include the cost of transaction fees, those who do not pay with credit cards pay this fee as well. In other words, the transaction fees that fund credit card rewards also may drive a higher cost for those not paying with a credit card. If you can’t afford a credit card, you’re paying the same markup as those who can—all so banks, card networks and issuers can take a cut and potentially provide rewards.

Cardholders typically earn rewards by using a card to make eligible purchases. Eligible purchases do not usually include the purchase of cash equivalents such as cash advances, lottery tickets, gift cards or money orders. The rewards you earn are tied to the amount of money you spend with the card. These values are often expressed as a cash-back percentage or as “points per dollar.”

The term “reward program” generally refers to a reward program agreement—a contract often agreed to during the application process for a rewards card. This program document, sometimes called “offer details,” outlines how rewards are earned, redeemed and whether or not rewards expire among other terms.

Pros and Cons of Rewards Credit Cards

Pros of Rewards Credit Cards

Earn cash back, miles or points through normal spending
Many rewards credit cards include a welcome bonus
Rewards cards come in many forms and from multiple issuers
Rewards cards may include additional cardholder benefits

Cons of Rewards Credit Cards

Rewards credit cards may come with annual fees or higher APRs
Some cards may cap earnings on purchase categories
Rewards may expire or be devalued
It may take time or effort to learn how to redeem rewards for the most value

Are Credit Card Rewards Worth It?

Credit card rewards can provide a modest budget boost or help save money on your next vacation. If you can qualify for a rewards card, you can reap extra value from purchases you’re likely already making. Look at your spending and consider your personal time and highest expense categories to determine what kind of rewards card fits you best.

Should I Get a Rewards Credit Card?

Dozens of credit card rewards programs exist, each with unique features and benefits. It can be overwhelming to sift through all the options, but once you know what to look for, it becomes much easier to weigh your choices and decide on the best credit card for you.

While there is not a perfect credit card for everyone, there are many factors to consider when researching the wide variety of card choices available. If you’re applying for your first credit card , here are some additional resources to help you understand what questions to ask and what factors to evaluate while searching for a card:

What is APR? What’s a good APR?
What’s the difference between APR, APY and interest rates?
How can I avoid paying interest on a credit card balance?
How do I decipher my credit card bill?
How does paying my bill work?
Which credit card fees do I need to pay attention to? How can I avoid paying extra credit card fees?
How do I actually apply for a credit card?

Rewards cards are classified in many ways, but two common types include cash-back cards and travel rewards cards . Cash-back cards earn a percentage of eligible purchases as cash back or points that can be redeemed as a statement credit or deposit into a bank account.

Travel rewards cards offer points or miles and can be co-branded with airline or hotel partners to earn travel with loyalty programs. Redemption options for travel rewards cards often involve brand-specific redemptions, such as for stays at hotels or airline tickets.

Depending on the specific cash-back card used, a consumer may earn flat-rate or tiered-rate cash back on select purchases. Earning schemes and structures may involve higher earning rates in certain spending categories such as gas or dining and may also include caps on the amount of rewards earned.

How Does Cash Back Work on Credit Cards?

With cash-back credit cards, cardholders earn cash back for making eligible purchases. Cash-back cards offer significant variety regarding earning structure. Some cards offer a flat cash-back rate on all purchases, while others offer higher rates in individual categories such as restaurants or gas.

Flat Rate Cash-Back Credit Cards

A flat-rate cash back credit card offers one standard rate for all purchases. Cardholders can earn anywhere from 1% to 2% or occasionally more, depending on the offer.

A few examples of flat-rate cash-back cards include:

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card: Earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
American Express Cash Magnet® Card * : Earn 1.5% cash back.
Citi Double Cash® Card: Earn 2% cash back on all purchases—1% when purchases are made and another 1% when they’re paid off.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card * : Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases.

Flat-rate cash-back credit cards are easy to manage because you can expect one rate for every purchase. On the other hand, they tend to offer lower rates than the elevated categories on tiered-rate cards.

Tiered-Rate Cash-Back Credit Cards

Tiered cash-back credit cards typically have various rates for different purchase categories, like travel, dining, gas, grocery or drugstore purchases. Some credit cards will offer better rates for certain types of purchases, while providing a flat rate for all other purchases.

For example, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card earns 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on eligible dining and drugstores and 1.5% on all other purchases, plus an additional 1.5% cash back on the first $20,000 in purchases the first year.

Co-branded store cards can also feature lucrative offers. For example, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi * earns 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 spent annually, 1% thereafter, 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases, 2% cash back on purchases from Costco and Costco.com and 1% cash back on all other purchases. A Costco membership is required to apply. Before applying for a tiered cash-back card, think about which types of purchases you make most frequently.

Rotating Category Cash-Back Credit Cards

A rotating cash-back credit card typically cycles through purchase categories every quarter. Cardholders may be offered a higher than average rate (sometimes as high as 5%) for one type of purchase for a limited time. It might sound enticing, but card issuers can limit or cap how much you can earn or spend. Issuers often don’t disclose the bonus categories in advance.

For example, the Discover it® Cash Back earns 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter up to a quarterly maximum of $1,500 in spending when activated. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.

Rotating rewards might appeal to some, but cardholders sometimes must remember to activate certain categories and your biggest spending may not align with the elevated category that month. Generally, it’s easier to maximize the rewards potential of a flat-rate or tiered-rate cash-back credit card.

How Do I Get Cash Back on Credit Cards?

Many cash-back credit cards offer online redemption options through the card issuer’s website. Check with your card issuer or read the terms and conditions of the rewards program or card agreement to understand exactly how to redeem rewards. Cash back will often be redeemable as a statement credit, credit toward past purchases, check or deposit to a bank account. Not all cards offer every redemption option, so be sure to examine the card agreement carefully before applying. Some cash-back cards require a minimum redemption amount.

A travel rewards credit card earns points or miles on qualifying purchases, which can often be redeemed either in partnership with an airline or hotel loyalty rewards program or with the card issuer’s rewards program for travel, including airline tickets, hotel stays or cruises.

How Do Travel Credit Cards Work?

Travel rewards cards offer similar earning structures to cash-back rewards cards, but earn points or miles instead of cash back. Like cash-back cards, these cards may also offer a welcome bonus for spending a certain amount on the card in a specific period of time following account opening. Travel credit cards typically offer additional benefits such as airline fee credits, hotel or resort rebates, lounge access and more.

How Do I Redeem Travel Rewards?

Travel reward redemptions often come with complex terms and conditions specific to the cardholder agreement. Every card is different, but many flexible travel reward cards feature an online site where redemptions can be made for travel.

Are Travel Rewards Cards Worth It?

For many, travel rewards have become a way of life, and credit cards offer a handy way to unlock travel benefits. Beware of generally higher interest rates and fees with rewards credit cards. It’s important to carefully manage credit card accounts since carrying a balance and racking up interest charges will quickly outweigh any rewards earned. Do the math on your personal spending and consider how you’ll use the benefits before applying for a new card.

Frequent travelers may consider airline credit cards . These cards allow you to use your earned miles or points with an airline’s reward program. Cards like these are co-branded with a specific airline, but issuer-branded cards may offer more flexibility to redeem miles with different airlines. One major consideration with airline cards are the additional benefits: Many cards unlock access to travel lounges, waive checked baggage fees or provide other travel-related perks. If you aren’t sure where to start, Forbes Advisor evaluated the best airline rewards credit cards .

How Do Airline Miles Work?

Airlines offer rewards or frequent flyer programs to encourage brand loyalty from customers. Though traditionally miles were earned for spending with the airline, co-branded credit cards offer the ability to earn airline reward miles as a reward for credit card purchases nearly anywhere. These miles can usually be redeemed toward upgrades, benefits or award ticket purchases.

Each airline loyalty program and each co-branded airline credit card work a little differently. Be sure to read the fine print in the cardholder agreement and terms of use for the rewards program before applying for a credit card as a means of earning more airline miles.

How Do I Earn Airline Miles?

Because each airline miles program functions differently and your travel preferences and needs will vary from the next person’s, the best way to earn miles depends on your situation. For example, if you fly Alaska Airlines exclusively, an Alaska co-branded credit card might make sense for you. But if you fly a different airline each time you travel, a general travel card or set of cards may make more sense.

How Do I Redeem Airline Miles?

Since most airline rewards cards deposit accumulated miles directly into your reward program account, the easiest way to redeem miles is often with the airline. This may vary per program, as each rewards program is different. Some miles may have much better value when transferred to a partner airline, but value is ultimately measured by the specific redemption you make.

How Much Are Airline Miles Worth?

The value of your airline miles depends on the type of mile and the price of any given redemption. For instance, if a flight costs 50,000 miles or $500, you’ll be redeeming your points at 1 cent per mile. If that same flight costs $1,000 or 50,000 miles, the value doubles to 2 cents per mile.

How Do I Buy Airline Miles?

Most major airlines allow customers to buy airline miles online. We advise cardholders to focus on earning bonus miles instead of spending money out of pocket to buy miles. Generally, purchasing miles from an airline is more costly than earning them through purchases.

No matter how tempting it is to buy more miles from an airline, keep your eyes to the skies, looking for rewards opportunities instead.

The exception is if you have an upcoming redemption and are short a few thousand miles or you know that the comparable cash ticket price is higher than the cost of buying miles.

Hotel credit cards provide perks such as elite status, award-free nights and more while also allowing cardholders to earn rewards they can redeem for additional stays. If you’re a loyal patron of a specific brand of hotel, this type of credit card may help you achieve a higher status or provide the occasional discount or award-free stay. If you’re not loyal to any specific hotel, a general travel card with flexible rewards may allow you to transfer points to multiple loyalty program partners or book any hotel you want with your points.

How Do Hotel Points Work?

If you’re loyal to a specific hotel brand, a co-branded credit card can be a great way to earn rewards fast and achieve elite status with a specific hotel’s loyalty program. Just note that you typically will only be able to redeem a hotel’s points for a free award night with the brand. If you don’t have a hotel preference, you may want to consider a travel rewards credit card that allows you to transfer your rewards to multiple loyalty programs or that offers cash back as a redemption method.

How Do I Get Hotel Points?

Hotel loyalty program points can often be accumulated in several ways, including booking a hotel stay directly on the hotel website. But a rewards credit card may be a convenient way to boost points beyond your bookings. The exact ratio of points per dollar earned depends on the specific card and its structured terms. While spending money with your card is the main way you’ll earn these points, being savvy with how you redeem them can maximize the value of your rewards.

How Much Are Hotel Points Worth?

Though the exact value of your hotel points varies based on specific redemptions and hotel brands, most of the time hotel points are worth less than one cent each.

Business credit cards offer plenty of benefits to companies both large and small. The key to finding the best credit card for you is figuring out which perks matter most to your business and determining what you prefer: rewards, cash back or help building credit. If you are looking to open a business rewards credit card, Forbes Advisor maintains an updated list of the best business credit cards .

How Do Business Rewards Work?

A business credit card can help keep your business and personal expenses separate. It also offers a way to track how much you’re spending on your business, especially at tax time. Some small business cards come with a rewards program, and some also offer welcome bonuses.

Reward Programs for Small Businesses

For liability reasons , it’s often important to keep your business finances separate from your personal ones. As a small business grows, it may be time to consider a credit card specifically designed for a small business . A business credit card offers a tool to access the credit you need to grow the operation month-to-month while also earning cash back and other valuable perks.

Credit card rewards are an often-profitable way to earn a little bit extra from the purchases you make on your credit card. Whether you choose cash back, points or miles, rewards can add up over time and help you pay for vacations or everyday expenses. Look at your spending and consider your personal goals to determine what kind of rewards program is the best fit for you. Also consider the negatives of a card. What fees are charged and what risk do you take on with a rewards card?

An annual fee is essentially a fee you pay to have the credit card. The annual fee will vary by card, but the cards charging higher annual fees often grant you additional perks and higher rewards rates that may make the annual fee worth paying.

Sign-Up Bonus

A sign-up bonus, also called a welcome bonus , is an incentive offered by a credit card issuer to encourage new customers to sign up for a credit card. These bonuses can include additional cash back, points or miles for hitting a spending threshold in a certain amount of time after your card approval. Some cards may also offer additional perks, reduced annual fees, introductory APR periods or even merchandise as a sign-up bonus.

0% APR Period

A 0% APR credit card is one offering a limited period introductory 0% APR on either purchases, balance transfers or both. This break from interest during the introductory period on either purchases or balance transfers typically lasts anywhere from six months to nearly two years. With a deferred interest offer, if balances are not paid off by the end of the period, interest will be charged retroactively to the date of the purchase or balance transfer.

Most balance transfers apply a fee for each transfer of $5 to $10 dollars or 3% to 5%, whichever is greater. Make sure you consider the fees when exploring a balance transfer. And if you select a card with only 0% balance transfer APR, you will likely be assessed interest on any new purchases. Carrying a balance typically nullifies your grace period . Read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you don’t end up with surprise fees

Foreign Transaction Fees

A foreign transaction fee is typically 1% to 3% of the amount of a purchase and is charged when you make a purchase in a foreign country or in another currency. Some credit cards do not charge foreign transaction fees, so if you plan to travel internationally and use your card, look for one without the fee.

Find the Best Credit Cards for 2024

No single credit card is the best option for every family, every purchase or every budget. We've picked the best credit cards in a way designed to be the most helpful to the widest variety of readers.

Everyone should get a rewards credit card, assuming your credit is good enough to be approved and you regularly pay your bill in full and on time. Otherwise, you’re leaving rewards on the table with every purchase. A reward of 1% to 2% cash back or 1 to 2 points per dollar spent may not sound like a lot, but it can add up to hundreds of dollars per year.

Maximizing credit card rewards starts with educating yourself about your options and considering what’s the best fit for your spending habits. You may wait until a credit card issuer offers an excellent welcome bonus or focus on building your credit so you can qualify for better cards.

If you spend significantly on eating out and primarily get around by bike, applying for cards with high reward rates on groceries and gas probably wouldn’t be the best move. If you travel only once a year, a co-branded airline card may not make as much sense as a cash-back card you can use for other expenses. Knowing your goals before selecting a rewards program is important.

Many theories about the best value exist when it comes to maximizing redemptions. Generally, cash-back rewards are redeemed at a percentage of the purchase value, so the only major trick to increasing the redemption value is to redeem more often such that your reward value does not deteriorate with inflation.

The best ways to use credit card rewards depend on the credit card rewards system and your personal goals. The most valuable types of credit card rewards tend to be cash back, airline miles, hotel points and flexible rewards points that can be redeemed in a variety of ways.

If you earn airline miles, hotel points, or flexible rewards, the best ways to use your credit card rewards will typically involve travel. Several rewards cards also offer reasonable cash-back redemptions for maximum flexibility.

At the beginning of a quarter, there’s always a lot of rewards cards news. Chase just announced their rotating 5% bonus categories on the Chase Freedom Flex℠ for April through June. Similarly, Discover’s 5% bonus categories also released for the second quarter. They both have excellent options that will coincide with major household spending.

But not all credit card news is good news: the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, a premium travel rewards card , is now losing restaurant privileges through its Priority Pass membership. For some cardholders, that may represent a distinct loss in value.

With so many credit card options to choose from, Forbes Advisor is here to help you make the best choice for you. Earning rewards is a great way to make credit cards more useful, but choosing a rewards card best suited to your spending is important.

We recommend never carrying a balance if it can be avoided. This goal is particularly important with rewards credit cards as APRs are generally higher. Any interest charges on a balance will quickly wipe out the value of any rewards earned. It remains critical to fully understand the terms and conditions of a credit card agreement before applying.

To view rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page . To view rates and fees for American Express® Gold Card please visit this page . To view rates and fees for Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card please visit this page . For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply. ¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

What is the best credit card for rewards?

The best credit card depends on you and your financial needs. Carefully consider your spending habits—do you frequently spend money on gas, groceries, travel or at a particular store? Look for a rewards card or a set of rewards cards that provide you the most return on each dollar you spend, whether it’s cash back for dining purchases or points that can be redeemed for travel, Amazon purchases or more.

How do you redeem credit card rewards?

Redemption options and values vary depending on the type of rewards card you carry and the card issuer or co-brand offering the card. Cash back can often be redeemed as a direct deposit, statement credit or purchase. Points can be redeemed on the card issuer’s website if there is a travel or purchase portal with special offers. Airline miles or hotel points can easily be redeemed on an airline or hotel’s website via your personal loyalty account when booking travel.

How many credit card points can I earn?

Many credit cards have no limit to how many points you can earn, but some impose quarterly or annual earning caps. The card’s terms and conditions may limit how much of your spending will earn higher rewards, especially those with a category bonus.

How do I account for credit card rewards?

While some credit cards allow you to easily see and track your rewards online or in a mobile app, that’s not always the case. With the right information, you can usually figure out exactly how many points a purchase will earn and use that info to maximize your rewards. Learn more about how to track your credit card points and miles .

What credit score do I need to get a rewards credit card?

Better rewards cards in general (including travel credit cards) typically require good to excellent credit , but this isn’t always the case. Credit cards for students and even some secured cards designed for those building or rebuilding credit may offer rewards too.

How much are credit card rewards points worth?

Credit card points vary in value based on the card issuer’s reward program and the type of redemption you choose. Cash back is straightforward, since it’s expressed as a straight percentage, for example 1%. Many credit card rewards points work on the same scale, with 1 point equal to 1 cent. However, some specific reward redemptions may be worth up to 1.5 cents or more. Airline mile cards have rewards usually worth about 1 to 1.5 cents each and hotel rewards are usually on the lower side of 0.5 to 0.8 cents each.

Are credit card rewards taxable?

Whether or not your rewards are taxable depends on how you receive rewards. For example, the IRS often views cash-back rewards as a rebate, not taxable income. Welcome bonuses and bonus points from referrals (especially lucrative ones) can be viewed as taxable income if the amounts pass a certain threshold. Talk to a representative from your credit card company and a tax advisor for more information on your personal situation.

Who pays for credit card rewards?

Issuers primarily pay for their credit cards rewards through merchant transaction fees that are charged every time a card is swiped, in addition to charging interest on carried balances and sometimes levying annual fees. Merchants may compensate for the 1% to 3% more in fees that it costs them to process credit card transactions by raising prices for everyone. This ultimately hurts cash-paying customers the most, who aren’t able to offset these higher prices by earning rewards on their purchases.

Other Credit Cards to be Considered

Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Best Hotel Rewards Credit Cards
The 4 Best Apps To Track Credit Card Rewards
Best Credit Cards For Excellent Credit
Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card Review
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card Review

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: Instacart Mastercard®, Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card, American Express Cash Magnet® Card, Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card, Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi . The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

With more than 50 million redeemed miles under her belt, Becky Pokora is a rewards travel expert. She's been writing about credit cards and reward travel since 2011 with articles on Forbes Advisor, BoardingArea, The Points Guy and more. Her redemptions have helped her travel to more than 50 countries and all seven continents.

COMMENTS

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Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Ultimate Guide

What is a Mexico tourist card?

Are you eligible for a Mexico tourist card?

How to get a Mexico tourist card

Contact information

Email address

Hotel information

Filling out the tourist cards

Country of citizenship

Port of entry

Arrival and departure dates

Name or address of hotel

Contact name

Total number of people traveling to Mexico

Main contact email

Things to consider

Registration form

Coronavirus update

Global Entry

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Privacy Overview

Tourist Card

How to get my Tourist Card?

The FMM for Mexico Explained: How to Get a Tourist Card

Quick Info About the FMM Tourist Card

Important note

What is an FMM Tourist Permit?

Who is Eligible for an FMM Tourist Permit and Who Needs a Visa?

Who Needs an FMM Tourist Permit?

What Documents Do I Need to Get an FMM Tourist Permit?

What Information is Required to fill out the FMM Form?

How Much Does the FMM Tourist Permit Cost

How to Pay for the FMM Tourist Permit

How Long Can You Stay with an FMM Visitor’s Permit?

How to Apply for an FMM Tourist Permit?

Entering by Land: Driving or Walking into Mexico

Arriving in Mexico by Air

Entering Mexico by Sea

Applying for an FMM Online

Frequently Asked Questions About the FMM

Can I Stay in Mexico for More than 180 Days with an FMM

How Long do I Have to Leave Mexico Before Returning for a New FMM?

What Happens if You Overstay an FMM Visitor Permit?

What if you Lose Your FMM Permit?

What if You Kept Your Visitor’s Permit When You Left Mexico?

What if I Entered Mexico Without Getting an FMM?

Can I renew or extend an FMM?

Can I Exchange an FMM for a Residency Visa?

Do I Have to Stop at the Border or Can I Get an FMM in Mexico?

Final Thoughts

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Learn About Your Destination

Travel Advisory August 22, 2023

Embassy Messages

Quick Facts

Embassies and Consulates

Destination Description

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Safety and Security

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Travel and Transportation

For additional travel information

Travel Advisory Levels

External Link

What Documents Do I Need for Mexico Travel?

Remember to Keep Track of Your ID and Tourist Card

What documents do I need to fly to Mexico?

What documents do I need to travel to Mexico by car or boat?

How do I get a Mexico tourist card?

Where will I need to show my documents in Mexico?

Tip: Don't Forget Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance Documents You'll Need

Mexican Tourist Cards and How to Get One

Border Zone

Tourist Cards

If You Lose Your Card

Extending Your Tourist Card

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