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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!

Privacy Overview

Mexican Tourist Cards and How to Get One

Ben Pipe / Getty Images

Who Needs a Mexico Tourist Card?

How to get a tourist card in person, how to apply online, length of validity, what to do if you lose your card, how to extend your tourist card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mexico tourist cards ( Forma Migratoria Multiple, also known as FMT) are a government form declaring that the stated purpose of a visit to Mexico is tourism. Although more than one kind of Mexico visa exists, a Mexico tourist card essentially says the holder has the intention of vacationing in Mexico for no more than 180 days. The form requires minimal information including name, nationality, date of birth, the purpose for visiting, flight details, and the address of the place you'll be staying in Mexico. and address of stay in Mexico.

Travelers can think of it as a visa on arrival, as it functions in the same way, even though it's not technically a visa. Foreign nationals who will be working in Mexico are required to obtain a work visa from the National Immigration Institute (INM).

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.

In the past, travelers who were remaining within the United States border zone for up to 72 hours did not need a tourist card. However, now the tourist card is required for most non-Mexican visitors to the country, including infants, who will remain for fewer than 180 days.

Exceptions are granted, however, to travelers staying in Mexico for fewer than 24 hours. As of August 2022, Cancun International Airport has done away with tourist cards and customs forms for most foreign visitors, including U.S. passport holders. The 180-day rule still applies, however; travelers will instead receive a stamp upon arrival, ensuring that they stay no longer than what's allowed.

If flying into Mexico, passengers will be given a tourist card and instructions for filling it out onboard their plane—the cost of a tourist card (about $25) is included in the fare, so travelers won't need to pay upon arrival. The card is stamped at customs/immigration in the Mexico airport, showing the visitor is in the country legally. Should your flight attendant not hand you a tourist card, you can pick one up at an immigration desk at a Mexico airport.

If you're driving , taking the bus , or walking into Mexico, the tourist card is given at the border inspection station/immigration office after showing your ID or passport proving your U.S. citizenship. Visitors need to go to a bank and pay the card fee, and it will be stamped to show the payment was made. The next step is returning to a border immigration office to have the card stamped again—proof the holder is visiting the country legally.

Tourists can also get a tourist card at a Mexico consular office or Mexico government tourism office in a U.S. city before heading to Mexico.

To ensure a smooth customs process, you may find it easier to complete your immigration online via the Mexico Tourist Card website . You can apply for one within 30 days of your trip; unlike tourist cards that you can get in person, these are free.

Once you've filled out the application, you will receive your card—which consists of an entry form and exit form—via e-mail. You will need to print both; upon arrival in Mexico, you will present them to an immigration official, who will stamp your exit form and write in the number of days that you are allowed to stay in the country. The official will keep the entry form, but you will need to hold onto the exit form for the duration of your trip.

The tourist card is valid for a maximum of 180 days or six months; however, the time actually given is at the discretion of the immigration official. Often, only 30, 60, or 90 days are granted. If you wish to stay in Mexico for longer than the time allotted on your tourist card, you will either need to leave and re-enter the country, extend your card, or apply for a tourist or work visa.

If you lose your Mexico tourist card, or it gets stolen, you will have to pay to replace it, which should be done as soon as possible. Go to the nearest immigration office in the country, or try the immigration office at the nearest airport, to pay a fine (reports vary from $40-$80) and receive a new card. It shouldn't take more than a few hours in total. Bring all relevant documentation, including travel tickets, receipts, and your passport should the officials request proof of length of stay.

Technically, it is possible to be deported from a country without a passport stamp or the proper visa and documents, but reports are rare that this step is taken for travelers who have misplaced their tourist cards. The majority typically pay a fine and are reissued a new card without issue.

If wish to travel around Mexico for a bit longer, and the immigration official cleared you for a stay of fewer than 180 days, you can apply for an extension at the National Institute of Immigration Office ; be sure to bring your passport and proof of income to your appointment. For those planning to stay longer than 180 days, you will need to apply for a tourist visa.

If you are a foreign citizen and are traveling to Mexico for pleasure or short-term business, you will need a tourist card. Exceptions are made to those arriving in Mexico by way of Cancun International Airport.

You can get a Mexican tourist card online, at a Mexico airport (or at a Mexico port of call if arriving by sea), or at your home country's Mexico embassy.

It depends on where you get yours. If you're flying, your airline may provide you with a tourist card, which is included in the cost of your ticket. You can also get a card for free online. If you're applying at an immigration office, however, it will cost you about $25.

U.S. Department of State. "Mexico International Travel Information." Accessed January 12, 2023.

iVisa. "How to Obtain a Mexico Tourist Card Online Quick and Easy." November 24, 2022.

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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!

Update April 12, 2024

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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 through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in most of Mexico, in some states surrogacy is either not legal or is not governed by regulation.
If you decide to pursue parenthood in Mexico via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s citizenship.
Make sure you understand Mexican law, which can vary from state to state and is ambiguous in its treatment of non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents. Mexican courts, for example, may fail to enforce surrogacy agreements between non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents and gestational mothers.
Gestational mothers are normally treated as the child’s legal parent with full parental rights in most states. The gestational mother’s name is typically listed on the Mexican state-issued birth certificate. In Mexico City, the intended parents may be listed on the Mexican birth certificate if they can demonstrate a valid surrogacy agreement was in place regarding the child’s birth.
Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution. Mexican authorities have made arrests stemming from surrogacy cases.

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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Airport Customs: Fill out your form on-line before your trip - Mexico City Forum

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We just finished 5 fantastic days in CDMX (we are now in Guanajuato - my CDMX reviews and report is to come). It might be helpful to share now that MEX airport has greatly improved the arrivals immigration/ customs procedures.

They now have electronic passport scanning kiosks in the immigration area (along with helpful staff to ensure we scanned properly). The machine prints a receipt. We went to an immigration officer desk, she ripped the receipt and gave us a portion (that we must hand in when we check in for our departing flight ).

After that, we simply picked up our bags and exited. There is no longer a station where one pushes a button and the red/ green light determines whether your bags are inspected. I assume that the decision to inspect bags is made behind the scenes at some other juncture.

I am not sure about this, but I think that when we scanned our passports, the information was merged with what I had already filled out on-line. As a result, our entire customs time was about 15 minutes (including waiting for luggage from the plane ).

I am sorry I do not have link at the moment (internet slow at our GTO hotel) - but I think I found the link in the Puerto Vallarta forum. There seem to be many private sites offering to print tourist cards - I used the official Mexico government page (they have an English version).I hope this is helpful.

Here's the link to the official website for the FMM Immigration/Tourist card/form...

https://www.inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/en/solicitud.html

It can be completed online within 30 days of your departure date. One form per traveller. Print it and bring it with you. Perforate or make a hard crease in the paper so the Immigration officer can tear it easily. There is no fee to get or complete the form online.

Here's the link to the official website for the Customs form...

http://www.sat.gob.mx/BienvenidoaMexico/Paginas/default_eng.htm

Under "Declaration online", click "Read more". It can be completed online within 3 days of your departure date. Print it and bring it with you. One form per family living at the same address. There is no fee to get or complete the form online.

When printing the Tourist card, should we print on both sides of the paper or just one? Thanks

I think there was an instruction to print on both sides only in certain circumstances. To be safe, use two sheets. As I mentioned, they did not collect the card - but better safe than sorry.

To answer the other question, this was the main airport, Juarez - aka MEX.

Tripadvisor staff removed this post at the original author's request.

Are there any updates about whether or not to print this double sided? If so, do I have to match the exit stamp on page 2 with the exit side on page one? (This would result in it being upside down). Thanks.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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The Best Ways To Fly to Mexico With Points and Miles [Step-by-Step]

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The Best Ways To Fly to Mexico With Points and Miles [Step-by-Step]

Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles

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Delta skymiles, korean air skypass, other options to fly to mexico, final thoughts.

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Mexico is world-famous for being a colorful country with various landscapes, an incredible culture, delicious food, and impeccable beverages!

Whether you’re into beachside party culture, underwater adventures, natural exploration, or historical museums, Mexico has what you’ll like.

And as one of the closest destinations to the U.S., it’s no wonder why Mexico is one of the easiest, most convenient places to access for those based in North America (not just the U.S.).

Surprisingly, flights to Mexico, particularly leisure destinations like Cancún (CUN), Cozumel (CZM), Puerto Vallarta (PVR), and Cabo (SJD) can get very pricey very quickly, despite some flights being just over an hour-long!

This paves the way for some amazing ways to use points and miles for flights to Mexico, saving you thousands of dollars in the process.

In this complete guide, we’ll show you the best ways to fly to Mexico using points, step-by-step!

Best Programs To Use To Book Flights

Assuming you’re flying from the U.S. to Mexico, you’re in for a short-haul flight. In almost all cases, your best-case scenario is a wide, recliner-style seat on a full-service carrier.

Sure, there are flights on low-cost carriers like Volaris, Frontier , and Spirit , but why settle for that when you can enjoy a more comfortable flight for a few more points?

In general, the 4 best airlines you can book to Mexico are:

United Airlines
American Airlines
Delta Air Lines

All of these airlines more or less offer a similar type of service (except rare widebody aircraft frequencies aboard American Airlines and Aeromexico), so the 2 factors you should use to make your decision are convenience (nonstop vs. connecting flights) and points price .

Chances are that there’s a nonstop flight to Mexico from the international airport near you, so just keep that in mind when searching for flights.

As far as award programs go, we’ve identified numerous programs that offer at least 1 of these benefits:

Rock-bottom region-based pricing (e.g. Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles)
Sweet spot distance-based pricing (e.g. British Airways Executive Club)
Enhanced award availability when redeeming a mileage premium (e.g. United MileagePlus)

So without further ado, here are our best ways to fly to Mexico using points and miles!

At first glance, you might be wondering what Turkish Airlines is doing in a guide on flying to Mexico.

However, Turkish Airlines is a member of the Star Alliance , of which United Airlines is also a member. That means you can use Turkish Airlines miles for flights on United and vice-versa.

Interestingly, Turkish Airlines miles are incredibly valuable because you would pay just 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles for a one-way flight between the U.S. and Mexico aboard United Airlines business class (or 10,000 miles in economy).

Since Turkish Airlines’ award search engine is a bit clunky, we’d recommend following the steps below to search for award space:

If you’re familiar with partner-level award space, you can still use United’s website , but you’ll just need to specifically look for flights with availability in the Business Saver Award column
Visit Turkish Airlines’ website
If you haven’t created an account, click Sign up in the top-right corner
After logging in, you’ll be redirected to the homepage, where you’ll find a search box in the middle of the homepage
Click the checkbox that says Award ticket – Buy a ticket with Miles
Enter your departure and destination airport codes, departure date(s), cabin class, and the number of passengers; click the red search button
If the desired flights don’t show up, call Turkish Airlines at 800-874-8875 to complete the reservation

Here are some amazing, high-value routes you can book:

Chicago (ORD) – Cozumel (CZM) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees
Houston (IAH) – Guadalajara (GDL) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees
Houston (IAH) – Heroica Veracruz (VER) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Cozumel (CZM) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees
Newark (EWR) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees
Newark (EWR) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees
San Francisco (SFO) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees
San Francisco (SFO) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees
Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in United business class for 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles + ~$59 in taxes and fees

Earning Turkish Airlines Miles

At the moment, Turkish Airlines’ frequent flyer program, Miles&Smiles , is only transfer partners with Citi ThankYou Rewards .

Luckily, you can transfer Citi ThankYou Points to Turkish Airlines at a 1:1 ratio. Transfers take around 1 to 2 days to process.

Here are our favorite ways to earn Citi ThankYou Points :

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Earn 20,000 bonus points after you spend $1,500 in purchases with your card within 3 months of account opening; redeemable for $200 in gift cards at thankyou.com
Plus, as a special offer, earn a total of 5 Thank You ® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com through December 31, 2025.*
0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months from date of first transfer and on purchases from date of account opening. After that, the variable APR will be 18.74% – 28.74%, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Earn 2X ThankYou ® Points at Supermarkets and Gas Stations for the first $6,000 per year and then 1X Points thereafter. Plus, earn 1X ThankYou ® Points on All Other Purchases.
The Citi Rewards+ ® Card – the only credit card that automatically rounds up to the nearest 10 points on every purchase – with no cap.
No Annual Fee
APR: 0% intro APR on balance transfers and on purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR of 18.74% - 28.74%.
Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each purchase transaction in US dollars
No Annual Fee Cards

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!

The Citi Double Cash ® Card has long been one of the top cash-back credit cards on the market, and the card now has the ability to earn Citi ThankYou Points!

This means that cardholders of the Double Cash card will now earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Cash back is earned in the form of ThankYou Points . This means each billing cycle, you will earn 1 ThankYou point per $1 spent on purchases and an additional ThankYou point for every $1 paid on your purchase balance as long as there is a corresponding balance in your Purchase Tracker.

Citi has turned the Double Cash card into a top choice for those who are looking for an everyday, no-fuss credit card.

Uncapped 2% for every $1 spent (1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay)
Flexible redemption options
No bonus categories
3% foreign transaction fees
Bonus Offer: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou ® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Citi Double Cash ® Card Travel Portal Limited Time Offer: Earn a total of 5 ThankYou Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rental, and attractions, excluding air travel, when booked through the Citi Travel SM portal on ThankYou.com or by calling 1-800-Thankyou and saying “Travel.” Offer is valid through 11:59 PM Eastern Time (ET) 12/31/2024.
APR: 0% Intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers, then 19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase
Cash Back Credit Cards

Earn big on purchases in your top eligible spend category, up to the first $500 each billing cycle, with no annual fee!

The Citi Custom Cash ® Card is inventive when it comes to cash-back credit cards. Instead of earning a set amount of cash-back on predetermined bonus categories, the Citi Custom Cash card earns 5% cash-back on your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle, without an annual fee.

Thanks to that unique perk, you’ll never need to worry about whether you’re using the right card for the right purchase, as your Citi Custom Cash card will always pay you 5% back on whichever category you end up spending the most on each month.

5% cash-back (on up to $500 each billing cycle) from your largest purchase category, including restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs, and live entertainment
No annual fee
Your 5% category is limited to $500 in spend ($25 in cash-back) each month
Not particularly rewarding for any purchases outside of your top 5% cash-back category
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 via the 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.
Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash ® Card account per person.
APR: 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%.
Foreign Transaction Fees: 3%

Hot Tip: Need a hotel too? Check out these Mexico hotels to book with points including options in popular spots like Los Cabos , Puerto Vallarta , and Cancun .

United’s own frequent flyer program, MileagePlus , enjoys several advantages over other programs; namely, because of its dynamic award pricing system, only a small fraction of flights are bookable with partner awards.

On the other hand, United makes many times more flights available to those redeeming United miles.

We recommend using United MileagePlus if you’d like to have the easiest time searching for flights , thanks to the seamless online search engine, the abundance of availability (albeit probably more expensive mileage-wise), and the ease of earning United miles.

Remember, United uses variable award pricing, so you’ll notice mileage prices all over the board. In some cases, these flights are bookable for as little as 30,000 miles — on other dates, you’ll see prices as high as 90,000+ miles! To get around this, just adjust your flight dates (if possible).

Here’s how we would recommend booking a United flight to Mexico using United miles:

Visit United’s website
On the homepage, you’ll see a search box
Choose Roundtrip or One-way
Check off the box that says Book with miles
Enter the origin and destination cities
Select your departure date
Choose the number of travelers
Toggle the cabin class (business class)
Click Find flights
Your flight results will populate; choose the dates and flights that work the best for you and complete the booking by entering the traveler information and a credit card for taxes and fees

Here are some amazing nonstop routes you can book on United in business/first class:

Chicago (ORD) – Monterrey (MTY) one-way in United business class from 30,000 United miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Houston (IAH) – León (BJX) one-way in United business class from 30,000 United miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Ixtapa (ZIH) one-way in United business class from 32,500 United miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Newark (EWR) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in United business class from 30,000 United miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
San Francisco (SFO) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in United business class from 30,000 United miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees

Earning United MileagePlus Miles

Earning United miles is easy. In general, the 2 best ways to earn United miles are either via Chase Ultimate Rewards since the program is a Chase airline partner , or directly from United’s co-branded credit cards . Bilt Rewards is another United transfer partner.

Generally, it’s much easier to earn Chase points quickly ; once your points are accumulated, you can transfer them at a 1:1 ratio to United, which process almost instantly!

Alternatively, you can make purchases on co-branded United cards, though you’ll probably rack up points slower.

Lastly, United is a transfer partner with Marriott Bonvoy at a 3:1.1 ratio. If you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to United, you’ll earn a bonus of 5,500 miles for a total of 27,500 United miles earned.

Recommended Chase Cards (Personal)

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance . With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
$95 annual fee
No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
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 SM .
Enjoy beneﬁts such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel SM , 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 SM . 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
APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
Credit Cards

Chase Ultimate Rewards

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
$550 annual fee
Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
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 SM .
$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 SM 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 SM . 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 TM Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

If you’re a business owner, there are a number of Chase business cards to choose from.

Recommended United Cards

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.

You should consider the United℠ Explorer Card , because this card does all that and more!

2x miles per $1 on United purchases, dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays
1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee
Does not earn transferable rewards
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United ® purchases
Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck ® or NEXUS fee credit
25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
Airline Credit Cards

United MileagePlus Frequent Flyer Program

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

The United Club℠ Infinite Card is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.

United frequent flyers will find that the United Club Infinite card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.

4x miles per $1 on United purchases
2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
$525 annual fee
Earn 80,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases
Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United ® purchases
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining
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 Premier Access ® travel services
10% United Economy Saver Award discount within the continental U.S. and Canada
Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

The newest addition to United’s lineup of cards is the United Quest℠ Card . With it, you can bolster your United MileagePlus miles, thanks to the bonus categories, while enjoying the card’s many perks designed to help save you money on each United flight.

With an annual fee that falls between the United℠ Explorer Card and United Club℠ Infinite Card , the United Quest card makes for a fantastic card option for United frequent flyers.

3x miles per $1 on United purchases
2x miles per $1 spent on travel, dining, and select streaming services
Does not offer airport lounge access
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
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)

The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.

The United Gateway℠ Card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without wanting to pay a credit card annual fee. Plus, the card offers other solid benefits like a 25% back on United inflight purchases, purchase protection, and rental car insurance.

2x miles per $1 on United purchases
2x miles per $1 at gas stations and on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, taxicabs, train tickets, tolls, and mass transit
If you are a frequent United flyer, other cards offer more perks
It does not earn transferable rewards
Earn 20,000 bonus miles
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United ® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United ® purchases
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent at gas stations, on local transit and commuting
25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
APR: 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months; after that, 21.99% - 28.99% Variable

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

The United Club℠ Business Card is a premium card option for dedicated United loyalists seeking a card that offers complimentary United Club access, helps them earn and retain status, and doesn’t skip on the benefits.

From free checked bags to upgrades on award tickets and the ability to earn Premier qualifying points, there is plenty to the United Club Business card that United flyers are sure to love.

2x miles per $1 spent on United purchases
1.5x miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
$450 annual fee
Earning rate for United purchases is poor compared to other United cards
Earn 50,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
Earn 2x miles on United purchases
Earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases
Employee cards at no additional cost
United Club membership — up to a $650 value per year. Relax in comfort while waiting for your flight with complimentary beverages, snacks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and more
Free first and second checked bags for you and a companion, save up to $320 per round-trip
25% back on United inflight purchases
No foreign transaction fees
APR: 21.99%–28.99% Variable
Business Credit Cards

Our favorite frequent flyer program for United flights, particularly for Amex Membership Rewards loyalists, is Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer .

Most known for being the only loyalty program you can use to book Singapore Suites and Singapore Airlines’ long-haul business class , KrisFlyer is incredibly useful for flights on United.

Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer miles can also be redeemed for Alaska Airlines flights, but the premium cabin redemption rates aren’t as attractive, which is why we aren’t discussing Alaska Airlines redemptions.

Just like with Turkish Airlines, you’ll need to first locate partner-level availability. Follow these steps to set yourself up for success:

Search for availability on the Air Canada or LifeMiles websites; alternatively, you can visit United’s website and perform a search for Business Saver Award tickets
Call Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer at 312-843-5333
Feed the agent the flight information, including the airport codes, flight date(s), flight numbers, number of travelers, and cabin class
The agent should be able to see partner-level availability and confirm your ticket
Redeem your KrisFlyer miles, complete the reservation, and pay for any taxes and fees using a credit card

KrisFlyer charges 19,500 miles one-way in economy and 39,000 miles in business (round-trip is simply double the price).

Here are some fantastic routes you can book using KrisFlyer miles on United Airlines business class:

Chicago (ORD) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in United business class for 39,000 KrisFlyer miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Houston (IAH) – Oaxaca (OAX) one-way in United business class for 39,000 KrisFlyer miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Manzanillo (ZLO) one-way in United business class for 39,000 KrisFlyer miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Newark (EWR) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in United business class for 39,000 KrisFlyer miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
San Francisco (SFO) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in United business class for 39,000 KrisFlyer miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in United business class for 39,000 KrisFlyer miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees

Earning Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Miles

Earning KrisFlyer miles is made easy by the numerous transfer partners available.

Singapore is an Amex transfer partner , Chase transfer partner, Citi transfer partners, and even Brex points at a 1:1 ratio. These transfers usually take 1 business day.

Our favorite transfer partner to leverage with this redemption is Amex Membership Rewards , simply because it’s so easy to earn tons of Amex points on everyday purchases.

You can also transfer Capital One miles at a 1:1 ratio and Marriott Bonvoy points at a 3:1 ratio with a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred.

Recommended Amex Cards

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
$695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card ® , 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.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card ® . Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
$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.
$300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
$189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card ® . Learn more.
$100 Global Entry Credit: 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 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, 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.
$300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card ® . An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. 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.
APR: See Pay Over Time APR

American Express Membership Rewards

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

The American Express ® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

4x points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; and 1x thereafter
$250 annual fee (see rates and fees )
No lounge access
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.

See our list of recommended Amex business credit cards if you’re a business owner.

American Airlines, just like United, has plenty of ways to fly nonstop to Mexico. And although a couple of cities are serviced by both United and American Airlines, you’ll notice that each of them more or less have their own “territory.”

For example, United has a stronghold in San Francisco (SFO) while American Airlines has incredible power in Dallas (DFW).

So in this section, we’ll show you our favorite way to redeem points for American Airlines flights to Mexico: British Airways Executive Club .

Overall, using British Airways miles (known as BA Avios) is generally attractive for shorter-haul flights and exorbitant for long-haul flights.

Luckily, this falls into the short-haul category! British Airways only has access to American Airlines’ partner-level award space, so you wouldn’t want to search on American Airlines’ website as a general rule.

Here’s how American Airlines flights can be booked using British Airways Avios:

Visit British Airways’ website
Click Log in in the top-right corner and enter your British Airways Executive Club information
Once you’ve been logged in and get redirected to the homepage, hover over the Book button in the top ribbon and click Book a flight with Avios
Enter your departure and destination cities, travel dates, cabin class, and the number of passengers; click Get flights
Choose the flight you’d like to book and click Continue
Confirm the ticket by redeeming your Avios, entering the traveler information, and using a credit card to pay for taxes and fees

If you can follow these steps, you could potentially get some incredible value regardless of which cabin class you end up booking. Here are some of our favorite routes you can book using BA Avios:

Boston (BOS) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in American Airlines business class for 22,000 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Dallas (DFW) – Acapulco (ACA) one-way in American Airlines business class for 16,500 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Dallas (DFW) – Chihuahua (CUU) one-way in American Airlines business class for 15,000 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in American Airlines business class for 12,500 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Miami (MIA) – Cozumel (CZM) one-way in American Airlines business class for 12,500 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Miami (MIA) – Mérida (MID) one-way in American Airlines business class for 16,500 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees
New York City (JFK) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in American Airlines business class for 22,000 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Phoenix (PHX) – Hermosillo (HMO) one-way in American Airlines business class for 12,500 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Phoenix (PHX) – Mazatlán (MZT) one-way in American Airlines business class for 16,500 BA Avios + ~$35 in taxes and fees

Earning British Airways Avios

We are big fans of British Airways Avios due to the outsized value you can get, particularly for shorter flights.

British Airways Avios can generally be earned through transfer partners or directly via the co-branded British Airways card .

Currently, British Airways Executive Club is transfer partners with Chase Ultimate Rewards (1:1), American Express Membership Rewards (1:1), Capital One Miles (1:1), and Marriott Bonvoy (3:1 with a 5,000-mile bonus after transferring 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points).

In nearly all cases, British Airways Avios transfers should be processed almost instantly. Transfers from Marriott Bonvoy take around 3 business days.

Hot Tip: If you happen to have Iberia Avios or Aer Lingus Avios, you can actually transfer them at a 1:1 ratio to British Airways Avios, too!

Recommended British Airways Card

This card is great for British Airways frequent flyers, and traveling couples will find great value in the Travel Together Ticket.

The British Airways Visa Signature ® Card is a stellar option for travelers who regularly travel with the airline. From all of the Avios the card helps you earn, to a 10% discount off cash tickets, and the award flight statement credits, you can get tons of value out of the card each year.

3x Avios per $1 on British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL purchases
2x Avios per $1 on hotel accommodations purchased directly through hotels
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!

American Airlines 777 Flagship Business Class rear facing seat

American Airlines AAdvantage is best utilized if you want to book an American Airlines flight but can’t locate any partner-level award space.

With AAdvantage miles, you can access a greater award inventory, but you might have to pay higher mileage prices. This is a great alternative if you have a bunch of American Airlines miles sitting around that you’d like to utilize.

To redeem AAdvantage miles for an American Airlines flight to Mexico, follow these steps:

Visit American Airlines’ website
Click Round trip or One way
Click the box that says Redeem miles
Choose your origin and destination airports
Select the number of passengers and the departure and/or return dates
Click Search
Find the desired flights you’d like to book and use your AA miles to confirm your ticket

This straightforward process is probably the easiest way to book an American Airlines flight to Mexico. Here are some great routes to consider booking:

Chicago (ORD) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Dallas (DFW) – La Paz (LAP) one-way in American Airlines business class from 23,500 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Dallas (DFW) – Mazatlán (MZT) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in American Airlines business class from 22,500 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Phoenix (PHX) – Ixtapa (ZIH) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Phoenix (PHX) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Miami (MIA) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Miami (MIA) – Monterrey (MTY) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
New York City (JFK) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Philadelphia (PHL) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees

Earning American Airlines AAdvantage Miles

AAdvantage miles are relatively easy to earn directly , thanks to co-branded products from Citi and Barclays .

However, since American Airlines’ only transfer partners are Marriott Bonvoy at a 3:1 ratio and Bilt Rewards it’ll be a bit more difficult to earn AAdvantage miles on your daily spending.

Hot Tip: If you’re looking for a widebody business class product on American Airlines flights to Mexico, you might have some luck looking at Dallas (DFW) to Cancún (CUN).

Delta offers one of the best in-flight products available, and it’s generally regarded higher than United and American, so if you happen to live near a Delta hub, you’ll want to pay attention to this section.

Delta SkyMiles , just like United and American, offers a variable award pricing system for its own flights.

So if you’re performing a search and notice drastically different prices than what’s quoted here, you should consider shopping around nearby dates.

To book Delta flights to Mexico using Delta SkyMiles, follow these steps:

Visit Delta’s website
At the top banner of the page, you’ll see a search ribbon
Enter your destination and origin airports
Choose Round Trip , One Way , or Multi-City
Check off the box that says Shop with Miles
Under Best Fares For , click First Class
Click the red arrow button to perform the search
Your search results will populate in a week-long view
Click your desired date and choose Continue
Find your favorite flight option, enter your traveler information, redeem your SkyMiles, and pay for taxes and fees using a credit card to complete the booking

Delta’s flights to Mexico are concentrated in its hub airports of Atlanta (ATL), Los Angeles (LAX), New York City (JFK), Salt Lake City (SLC), and Seattle (SEA).

Here are some terrific flight redemptions you can make:

Atlanta (ATL) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in Delta first class from 37,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Atlanta (ATL) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in Delta first class from 28,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Atlanta (ATL) – Monterrey (MTY) one-way in Delta first class from 20,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Atlanta (ATL) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in Delta first class from 37,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Atlanta (ATL) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in Delta first class from 54,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Boston (BOS) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in Delta first class from 54,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in Delta first class from 29,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in Delta first class from 20,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in Delta first class from 29,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in Delta first class from 29,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
New York City (JFK) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in Delta first class from 35,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
New York City (JFK) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in Delta first class from 29,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
New York City (JFK) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in Delta first class from 62,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Salt Lake City (SLC) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in Delta first class from 43,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Salt Lake City (SLC) – Guadalajara (GDL) one-way in Delta first class from 22,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Salt Lake City (SLC) – Mexico City (MEX) one-way in Delta first class from 29,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Salt Lake City (SLC) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in Delta first class from 28,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Seattle (SEA) – Cancún (CUN) one-way in Delta first class from 20,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Seattle (SEA) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in Delta first class from 18,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees
Seattle (SEA) – San José del Cabo (SJD) one-way in Delta first class from 17,000 Delta SkyMiles + ~$36 in taxes and fees

Earning Delta SkyMiles

Delta SkyMiles are ridiculously easy to earn . With a wide variety of co-branded credit cards issued by American Express, you can accumulate Delta miles and enjoy certain perks, complimentary with your credit card.

Even better, Delta is also 1:1 transfer partners with American Express Membership Rewards and transfers are almost instant.

Lastly, Delta is a 3:1 transfer partner with Marriott Bonvoy. Transfers to Delta process within 1 business day.

Our guide offers a deep dive into the many Delta credit cards available.

The very last way we suggest booking flights to Mexico with points and miles is with the Korean Air SKYPASS frequent flyer program.

Korean Air is a SkyTeam airline , which means you can book flights on Delta and the flag carrier of Mexico: Aeromexico.

Aeromexico focuses on flights to Mexico City (MEX) and Guadalajara (GDL), so you generally won’t see leisure routes represented in Aeromexico’s network.

If you are willing to book round-trip tickets, Korean Air SKYPASS offers attractive redemption prices. For a round-trip ticket in business class, you’ll spend 45,000 Korean Air miles (25,000 miles in economy).

There are 2 ways to book Aeromexico flights using Korean Air miles — online or over the phone. In general, we find the agents at SKYPASS to be very competent; sadly, the online search engine isn’t always the most reliable.

Here is the recommended plan of action to book Aeromexico flights using SKYPASS miles:

Find partner availability on Delta’s website
Write down the flight numbers, dates, and times
Call Korean Air SKYPASS at 800-438-5000
Request to make an award booking with the representative, and provide the travel information
Pay for taxes and fees and confirm the ticket by using SKYPASS miles

Here are most (if not all) of Aeromexico’s nonstop routes to the U.S., which are fantastic redemptions you can make using Korean Air miles:

Austin (AUS) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Chicago (ORD) – Guadalajara (GDL) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Chicago (ORD) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Dallas (DFW) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Denver (DEN) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Houston (IAH) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Las Vegas (LAS) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Guadalajara (GDL) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Los Angeles (LAX) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Miami (MIA) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
New York City (JFK) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Orlando (MCO) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
San Antonio (SAT) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
San Francisco (SFO) – Guadalajara (GDL) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
San Francisco (SFO) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees
Seattle (SEA) – Mexico City (MEX) round-trip in Aeromexico business class for 45,000 Korean Air miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees

Earning Korean Air SKYPASS Miles

Earning Korean Air miles isn’t as straightforward as the other options listed above, but that should give you an idea of how valuable they can be!

The only transfer partner is Marriott Bonvoy and points transfer at a 3:1 ratio.

Sure, there are co-branded cards from U.S. Bank, but we don’t find these cards to be as rewarding as Marriott credit cards.

We provide an in-depth analysis of the various Marriott credit cards available.

Hot Tip: Aeromexico’s lie-flat seats can generally only be found on select frequencies on the New York (JFK) – Mexico City (MEX) route, and once in a while, Los Angeles (LAX) – Mexico City (MEX).

There is a mind-boggling variety of other ways to fly to Mexico using points, but what we’ve done is show you our favorites.

Between using Turkish Airlines miles for United flights, BA Avios for American Airlines flights, and Delta SkyMiles for Delta flights, we’ve pretty much got all our bases covered.

However, there are other frequent flyer programs like Air Canada Aeroplan , Qantas Frequent Flyer , Air France/KLM Flying Blue , as well as Etihad Guest , though they generally don’t have favorable award charts for flights between the U.S. and Mexico.

Well, there you have it!

If you’re flying on United to Mexico, we like redeeming miles from Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles (Citi transfer partner), United MileagePlus (Chase transfer partner), or Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer (Amex transfer partner).

If you’re flying on American Airlines to Mexico, we like redeeming British Airways Avios (Chase, Amex, and Capital One transfer partner) and American Airlines AAdvantage miles (Marriott transfer partner).

If you’re flying on Delta to Mexico, it’s hard to beat Delta SkyMiles on pricing and availability.

Lastly, if you want to try out Aeromexico, the best deal is to redeem Korean Air SKYPASS miles.

We hope you’ve found this guide of the best ways to fly to Mexico using points and miles useful!

The information regarding the United Club℠ Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Citi ® / AAdvantage ® Platinum Select ® World Elite™ Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the CitiBusiness ® / AAdvantage ® Platinum Select ® Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

How many air miles do you need to go to mexico.

To fly in first/business class to Mexico, you can spend as little as 12,500 British Airways Avios on a short American Airlines flight. Alternatively, you can also use 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles for a United business/first class flight or even as little as 18,000 Delta SkyMiles for a Delta first class flight.

What is the best airline to fly to Mexico?

If you want a more comfortable flight, we recommend choosing a full-service carrier, such as Delta, American, United, or Aeromexico. All of these airlines can be booked using points!

Who flies to Cancún?

Virtually all of the U.S. carriers, plus a few Mexican airlines like Aeromexico and Volaris, fly to Cancún. Some U.S. airlines include American, Delta, United, and even Alaska Airlines.

How many points does it take to fly to Mexico with Alaska?

You can spend as little as 10,000 Alaska Mileage Plan miles on a main cabin ticket for a trip less than 1,400 miles in length, as long as the award space is available. You can also spend as little as 30,000 Alaska Mileage Plan miles for a first class flight, but the key will be finding award space.

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Mexico’s Visitor Tax: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

Welcome to Visitax Gob Mx, your number one source for information about Mexico’s visitor tax . As a tourist visiting Mexico, you may be required to pay an additional tax that goes towards the development of local infrastructure and services. Our team is dedicated to providing you with all the necessary information and guidance to make sure you comply with this regulation. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on Mexico’s visitor tax!

Are you planning to visit Mexico soon? If so, it is important to know about the Mexico Visitor Tax or Visitax tourist tax . This tax is levied on all tourists entering Mexico and covers various services provided to visitors during their stay in the country such as tourist infrastructure, public services, and cultural promotion. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Mexico Visitor Tax.

What is the Mexico Visitor Tax?

Mexico Visitor Tax, also known as Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun , is a tax levied by the Mexican government on all tourists who enter the country by air or sea. This tax is included in the ticket price of your airline or cruise and is paid by your travel operator. The tax is calculated based on the length of your stay in Mexico and the destination you are visiting.

How much is the Mexico Visitor Tax?

The Visitax Gob Mx tax rate varies depending on the destination and length of stay. For example, if you are staying in Cancun for less than 24 hours, then you do not have to pay the tax. However, for stays longer than 24 hours, the tax is $32.00 USD per person. This tax must be paid at the airport upon arrival in Mexico or through your travel operator.

How is the Mexico Visitor Tax used?

The funds raised from the Mexico Visitor Tax are used to improve the tourist infrastructure, public services, and cultural promotion in Mexico. These funds are also used to maintain the natural beauty of Mexico’s many beaches, parks, and other tourist attractions.

Why is the Mexico Visitor Tax important?

The Mexico Visitor Tax helps to ensure that tourists have a safe and enjoyable stay in Mexico. The funds raised from this tax are used to provide better infrastructure, public services, and cultural promotion, which make for a more hospitable and welcoming environment for tourists.

In conclusion, if you are planning your next vacation to Mexico, it is important to know about the Mexico Visitor Tax. This tax is a small contribution that goes a long way in maintaining and improving the tourist infrastructure, public services, and cultural promotion in Mexico. So, the next time you visit Mexico, make sure you budget for this important tax.

Understanding Mexico Visitor Tax: A Guide to Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun

Understanding Mexico Visitor Tax: A Guide to Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun is an informative article that provides detailed information about the Visitax tourist tax in Cancun. The article explains the purpose of the tax, how it works, and who is required to pay it. It also outlines the different ways visitors can pay the tax and what they need to do if they want to claim a refund. The article is an essential read for anyone traveling to Cancun who wants to avoid any confusion or issues related to the Visitax tourist tax. Overall, this guide is a valuable resource for all visitors to Cancun who want to ensure that they are fully prepared for their trip and have a stress-free experience.

Preguntas frecuentes

What is the visitax tourist tax cancun and how does it affect travelers to mexico.

Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun is a new tax implemented by the Mexican government for travelers visiting Cancun and other tourist destinations in the Quintana Roo region. The tax was introduced on April 1, 2021, and applies to both foreign and domestic visitors aged 15 and over.

The tax amount is (approximately $39 USD) per person and can be paid online or at kiosks located at airports, hotels, bus stations, and other tourist spots. Travelers can also pay the tax in advance through the Visitax website.

This tax does not affect travelers who are staying at an all-inclusive resort or those who are only transiting through Cancun’s airport without leaving the transit area.

It’s important for travelers to be aware of this tax and factor it into their travel budget when planning a trip to Cancun or other parts of Quintana Roo. Failure to pay the tax could result in a fine or delay at the airport.

Can the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun be paid online or must it be paid in person upon arrival?

The Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun can be paid online or in person upon arrival. However, it is recommended to pay the tax online before traveling to Cancun in order to save time and avoid long lines at the airport. The tax can be paid on the Visitax website using a credit card, and a digital receipt will be provided that can be presented at the airport. It’s important to note that the tax is mandatory for all visitors over the age of 18 entering the state of Quintana Roo, which includes popular destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Are there any exemptions or discounts available for certain groups, such as children or senior citizens, when it comes to the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun?

As of now, there are no exemptions or discounts available for any specific groups when it comes to the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun. Every person who arrives in Cancun will have to pay the tax regardless of age or other factors. The current rate is $10 USD or its equivalent in pesos per person and must be paid before departure from Cancun.

Will the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun be applied to all forms of travel to Mexico, including air and sea travel?

Yes , the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun will be applied to all forms of travel to Mexico, including air and sea travel. It is a tax that applies to all foreign tourists visiting the state of Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun, Cozumel, and other popular destinations in the area. The tax will be collected upon arrival, either by airlines or at immigration checkpoints.

How will the revenue collected from the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun be used to benefit tourism in Cancun and Mexico as a whole?

The revenue collected from the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun will be used to benefit tourism in Cancun and Mexico as a whole in several ways. Firstly, it will be used to fund projects aimed at improving the infrastructure and services in tourist areas, such as the construction of new transportation systems and the enhancement of public spaces. Secondly, the revenue will go towards the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage sites, including museums and historical landmarks. Additionally, the funds will be used to support the development of sustainable tourism, which aims to minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment and local communities. Finally, the revenue collected from Visitax will also contribute to Mexico’s general budget, which can be allocated to a wide range of public services, including education and healthcare, benefiting both tourists and locals alike.

What are the penalties for not paying the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun, and how can travelers avoid these penalties?

The penalties for not paying the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun can range from fines to being denied boarding on flights leaving Cancun. Travelers who do not pay the tax could face a fine of up to 3,000 Mexican pesos (about $150 USD) per person, plus interest charges. In addition, airlines may refuse to allow passengers who have not paid the tax to board their flights.

To avoid these penalties, travelers should be sure to pay the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun before they arrive in Cancun. The easiest way to pay is online through the Visitax website. The tax is currently (about $39 USD) per person and can be paid using a credit or debit card. Once paid, travelers will receive a receipt that they can present at the airport as proof of payment. It’s important to note that the tax only needs to be paid once per visit, regardless of how long you stay in Cancun.

Are there any plans to increase the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun in the future, and if so, what factors will be considered in determining the new rate?

As of now, there are no published plans to increase the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun in the near future. However, the government of Quintana Roo, where Cancun is located, has stated that any future increases in the tax rate will be based on factors such as inflation and the need for additional revenue to fund tourism-related infrastructure and services. It’s important to note that the Visitax tourist tax is subject to change at any time by the government, so travelers should always be aware of the current rate when planning their trip to Cancun or other destinations in the area.

In conclusion, the implementation of the Visitax Tourist Tax in Cancun, Mexico has become an important topic for travelers and tourism authorities. As a creator of content , it is essential to inform tourists about this new tax and its impact on their travel budget. Although this tax is a way to generate revenue for local infrastructure and tourism promotion, visitors must be aware of the additional cost and plan their vacations accordingly. Overall, the Visitax Tourist Tax in Cancun serves as a reminder that responsible tourism includes respecting and contributing to the local economy.

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Visitax Cancun y Visitax Mexico ® es un sitio web privado desarrollado por Academia Digital ® y no está vinculado o puede estar asociado con ninguna agencia gubernamental ( visitax gob mx ). Visitaxgob.mx ayuda a los viajeros a pagar el impuesto estatal al turismo de Quintana Roo . – Todos Los Derechos Reservados ©2023

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

When you are arriving in or departing from Mexico, there are some straightforward paperwork procedures that you will need to engage with.

Specific entry and exit procedures exist for foreign visitors, foreigners with resident visas and resident cards, as well as Mexican nationals and naturalized foreigners.

This article describes the procedures you need to engage with when you arrive to, and leave from, Mexico.

Foreign visitors to Mexico

If you hold a passport issued by one of the many countries on Mexico’s “ no visa required ” list,* you don’t need to apply for a visa to visit Mexico. You can, instead, complete a Visitor’s Permit, also known as a FMM , at your port of entry.

There is a ~US$25 fee for the permit, which is usually included in your airfare’s “fees and taxes” if you fly in to Mexico; if you drive-in to Mexico, the fee is waived if you depart within 7 days of your arrival date. The visitor’s permit is valid for stays up to 180 days.

Paper FMM forms are being phased out and it’s likely that the FMM will be stamped into your passport instead.

However, if you are given a paper FMM when you entered Mexico, don’t lose the half of the form that is handed back to you at immigration as you’ll need it to exit the country.

If you lose the permit; or keep the permit when you leave; or over-stay the number of days limit written on the permit , you’ll face some additional procedures: see this article for details about those situations.

Automated lanes for TOURISTS entering Mexico

Airports in Mexico City and Cancún have automated kiosk lanes where TOURISTS may register their entry to Mexico by scanning their passport on a machine. The machine will give you a receipt with a QR code that you must scan with your smartphone to get a digital version of your FMM. You’ll need to do this before you leave Mexico.

You can only use these automated lanes if you are a passport holder of the US, Canada, Japan, UK and some other European countries; you are over 18; and you are not traveling with minors. See this government page for more details .

Foreigners with a resident visa sticker in their passport

If you are arriving in Mexico with a resident visa stamp (sticker) in your passport provided by a Mexican Consulate abroad, you might need to fill out the Visitor’s Visa on arrival (see blue box above about phasing out of paper FMM forms).

Show the immigration officer the page in your passport with the residency visa stamp and double-check that the officer checks the box on the form that reads “Canje” (exchange) NOT “ Vistante .” (If the officer admits you as a visitor/tourist, this will cause problems when you attend the immigration office to exchange your resident visa stamp for a residency card.)

If you don’t have to complete the paper FMM form at your port of entry, the official will place a stamp in your passport, instead, and mark ‘Canje’ to indicate that you need to exchange your visa for a residency card. You then have 30 days to attend the immigration office and exchange your resident visa stamp for a residency card .

Foreign residents with resident cards

Foreign residents who are in possession of a Residente Temporal or Residente Permanente card (or one of the old FM3 or FM2 residency permits) need to present their passport and resident card to the Immigration Officer at the port of exit (e.g. airport or border crossing) before they depart.

You must use your residency card to exit and re-enter the country if you are legally resident in Mexico.

If you have lost or damaged your residency card , you need to apply for a replacement.

Some airports no longer issuing Exit Stamps

Readers have told us that some airports (Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara) are no longer issuing Exit Stamps to holders of residency cards. However, other airports (Mexico City) continue to issue Exit Stamps.

We recommend that if you hold a residency card and leave Mexico you continue to attend an INM office or kiosk at the exit port and ask for an Exit Stamp. You might be told that it’s no longer required.

There has been no official notice of a change of policy, but we will keep this page updated with new information as it becomes available. [January 2024]

Paper FMM forms being phased out

Until recently, residents always needed to complete a paper form (FMM) , which is used by the government to record statistics. Depending on what port you exit from, this may no longer be required and officer will simply stamp your passport. See also: Phasing out of paper FMM forms .

Returning to Mexico as a legal resident

When you return, you must present the immigration official with your resident card and the exit FMM form’s date-stamped copy issued to you at exit, or the exit stamp that was placed in your passport.

Note: If you re-enter Mexico as a tourist (Visitor) when you have residency in Mexico, you at are risk of losing your legal residency status.

Lost/missing FMM form: If you were given a paper copy of the FMM and lose the half that was handed to you when you left Mexico, you’ll need to re-complete a FMM when you return to Mexico and explain to the immigration official that you lost the half that was given to you when you departed.

Lost passport with exit stamp: If you had a stamp in your passport when you left Mexico and you lose that passport, explain this to the officer when you return to Mexico. If you update your passport, take the previous (cancelled) passport with the stamp in it to show the immigration officer.

Expired residency card: If you hold a temporary residency card, be sure to check its expiry date. If you leave Mexico with an expired card, it might be confiscated at the port of exit. If you are outside of Mexico when it expires, you have a limited time frame to return to Mexico to get it renewed. See this article for details .

Mexico is phasing out paper versions of the FMM

The paper versions of the FMM are being gradually phased out and replaced with a stamp in your passport.

Read this article for further details .

Mexican nationals and naturalized foreigners

If you are in possession of Mexican passport, you will need to complete a form before you exit the country known as the Formato Estadístico para Mexicanos (FEM). The government uses this to record statistics of Mexican nationals traveling abroad.

Lost visitor/tourist permit, lost residency card

If you are visiting Mexico as a visitor/tourist and you lose your visitor’s permit, you will need to attend a local immigration office (in a town or city or at the airport) to apply for a replacement; there is a fee of around US$40 involved—the local immigration office will advise you of the current replacement fee.

Lost passport with exit stamp: If you had a stamp placed in your passport when you arrived in Mexico and you lose that passport, visit the local immigration office to explain this and to get guidance.

Updated passport: If you had a stamp placed in your passport when you arrived in Mexico and you update your passport while you are in Mexico, take the previous (cancelled) passport with the stamp in it to show the immigration officer. If you don’t have the cancelled passport visit your immigration office for guidance.

Tourist permit replacement process: You will be required to undertake some paperwork and to pay the fee. This process can take up to an entire day of your time. Take good care of your visitor’s permit and, in the event of its loss, we recommend you allow a whole day in your schedule to secure a replacement.

Lost residency cards: If you are resident in Mexico and lose your residency card, learn about how to apply for a replacement residency card in Mexico .

*If you are a passport holder of a country that is not listed on the “no visa required” list, read this article for further information and advice about applying for a visa before you travel to Mexico.

Further information

Here is some further information you may find helpful:

For a summary of the documentation required to enter Mexico, see Documents required for travel and entry to Mexico
Many people don’t need to pre-apply for a visa to visit Mexico, but some do. Read Do I need a visa to visit Mexico? for details.
You can get full details about immigration procedures on your arrival in Mexico on our comprehensive guide to Mexico Entry Requirements .

Obtaining legal residency in Mexico

For information about long-term residency, including permits for living, retirement, and working in Mexico, read this article about typical routes to obtaining residency in Mexico and download a copy of our comprehensive Mexico Immigration Guide (eBook) .

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.

22 Comments

Dear Mexperience,

I am an American holding a Residencia Permanente. I live part time in Mexico. Could you tell me the Pros and Cons of obtaining Dual Citizenship? Thank you very much.

Hi Robert, See this article for details: https://www.mexperience.com/becoming-a-naturalized-mexican/

My husband and I have decided not to exchange our temporary residency cards for permanent residency cards. This is mainly due to our advanced age (81 and 72) and the fact that we only stay in Mexico a maximum of 4-5 months per year. We are currently in Mexico and our cards expire 3 weeks before we return to Canada. Do we need permission to leave the country?? We like to avoid visiting a busy INM office during a pandemic. Your advice is very much appreciated.

Hello Maryanne,

You can leave Mexico with an expired Temporary Residency card, however you will need to pay a fine at the airtport. (Note that you’ll have to go to the bank to pay the fine, so build-in extra time for that on your departure date.) The fine varies depending on circumstances and is a maximum of $8,000 Mexican pesos.

If you want to avoid the fine, you need to leave Mexico with a non-expired residency card, or if it’s expired, you need to enter into a renewal procedure.

You can find out more about expired permits here: https://www.mexperience.com/expired-mexico-resident-permit/

Traveling to Cancun in late February, 2021. My passport expires in late July, 2021. Is that sufficient or should I renew? Thanks

Hi Elizabeth

We recommend your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Admision to Mexico depends on the official at the border. If your passport does not have 6 months of valid time left, and you can provide evidence of your departure before the passport expiry date, the official may allow you in.

See the blue information box on this page for more details: https://www.mexperience.com/mexico-essentials/mexico-entry-requirements/#ReqTourists

So, if you have Schengen visa, do you still need FMM filled out ?

Hi Ana, all visitors arriving in Mexico need to complete a FMM, regardless of whether they have a Schengen visa.

My brother in law is a permanent resident of the USA and living in houston. What does he need to travel By plane into mexico City and back?

Hello, I entered mexico in texas at the pharr bridge. But when i got to the other side, there were no people. I had to stop at a lift gate arm, where it seemed my picture was taken by a machine, and then the gate arm lifted and I drove on through. I kept expecting to be stopped to have my passport stamped and pay my vehicle deposit and get my forma de immigration. But there was noone there and no where to stop and no signs. Before I knew it, I was in mexico driving down the highway on my way to oaxaca amd chiapas Was there somewhere I was supposed to go? I was trying to follow the law and procedures, but somehow i dont think I did. Am I breaking the law? What comsequences can I expect? What shoukd I do? Thank you

If your vehicle has no TIP https://www.mexperience.com/temporary-import-permit-tip-vehicles-mexico/

And you don’t have a FMM https://www.mexperience.com/your-mexican-tourist-permit-fmm/

And you have driven past the ‘free zone’ then you and your vehicle are not legally present in Mexico.

You need to drive your vehicle out of Mexico and get yourself a FMM and and TIP (see links above).

We have airline tickets leaving out of Tijuana and my sons passport will not be here in time will he be able to still get the FFM permit with only a drivers license and Birth Certificate? We’re US citizens

Hello Deann, your son will need a passport to enter Mexico, and to board a flight. You can find further information here: https://www.mexperience.com/documents-required-for-travel-and-entry-to-mexico/

I am hoping to get some clarification on whether a felon from the U.S. is able to travel to Cabo. I see conflicting opinions on this so maybe you are able to give me accurate information. Are criminal records from the United States checked upon entry at the airport?

Hi Ann, You can find the answer to that question on our Immigration FAQs page here: https://www.mexperience.com/mexico-immigration-visas-faqs/

My name is Julita . Holding philippine passport. I am legally married to a mexican but his living in US..we want to live in mexico what is the best for me to do, first i need a visa . How to apply . Please i need your help. Thank you

Our Mexico Immigration Guide (free eBook download) contains detailed information about the requirements and procedures as well as the criteria: https://www.mexperience.com/ebook/mexico-immigration-guide/

If you’d like assistance with your application, consider our Immigration Assistance service; our associate can provide consulting to talk about your individual situation, suggest the best approach for your application, and also provide practical assistance as you make your way through the process–details here: https://www.mexperience.com/lifestyle/living-in-mexico/relocation-consulting-request/

Hello Mexperience. I’m in the process of buying a property in CDMX. Can I fly into Mexico to take care of things related to this purchase between Aug 1 to 9? Also, I have dual citizenship. Which is the most recommended way for traveling, as Mexican or as American? I have both passports. Thank you and look forward for some info. Regards.

Hello Jaime, There are no restrictions when you fly to Mexico, but check with the airlines for schedules and and policies they have in place. You can enter Mexico with your US or Mexican passport. There are no restrictions on American passport holders entering Mexico by plane.

Can you drive to/from Mexico without passport if you have a permanent resident card in the US?

Hi Erik, according to the current rules you need either a passport (air/land) or passport card (land only) to enter Mexico. You can find more details on this Mexperience article: https://www.mexperience.com/documents-required-for-travel-and-entry-to-mexico/

This article shares advice about what to do when you forget to give back your FMM (Visitor Permit): https://www.mexperience.com/blog/your-mexican-tourist-permit-fmm/

Comments are closed.

Documentation

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...

Visitor Permit

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Mexico’s immigration service has begun to phase out use of paper versions of the FMM—the multi-purpose visitor permits and...

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 Temporary and Permanent Resident Cards

Rights & Obligations When You Have Legal Residency in Mexico

When you hold temporary or permanent legal residency in Mexico, you also have certain rights and obligations. This article...

Visa Exchange

Exchanging a Mexico Residency Visa for a Card

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Replacing Your Lost or Damaged Mexico Residency Card

If you discover that your Mexico residency card is lost, or it becomes damaged beyond use, you'll need to...

Traveling with Minors to Mexico

Travel advisory about minors entering and leaving Mexico when they are traveling alone or without parents or a legal...

Volunteer helping to release a sea turtle back into the wild

Volunteering in Mexico

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How Much Do You Need to Fly to Earn American Airlines AAdvantage Gold Status?

IMAGES

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What Is a Mexican Tourist Card and How Do I Get One?
What Is a Mexican Tourist Card and How Do I Get One?
Mexico Tourist Card 101 (and how to get one online)
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International travel − Travel information − American Airlines
International travel doesn't have to be tricky - just follow these steps to help you prepare for your trip. We recommend you: Check if your destination has travel restrictions and entry requirements. Come prepared with travel documents and required paperwork. Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure time.
Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Ultimate Guide
The Mexico tourist card aka Official Entry Immigration Form ... 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. ... if you were flying on United Airlines flight 125 your flight number would look like "UA125." ...
What Is a Mexican Tourist Card and How Do I Get One?
If flying into Mexico, passengers will be given a tourist card and instructions for filling it out onboard their plane—the cost of a tourist card (about $25) is included in the fare, so travelers won't need to pay upon arrival. The card is stamped at customs/immigration in the Mexico airport, showing the visitor is in the country legally.
Mexico Tourist Card
Foreign citizens traveling to Mexico are issued an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM) also known as Tourist Card. The online registration process is FREE, very convenient, straightforward, and to complete the process all you need is your passport and travel information. THE TOURIST CARD IS PER PERSON INCLUDING CHILDREN AND DIPLOMATIC ...
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.
Learn About Your Mexico Visitors Permit, FMM
If you arrive in Mexico by land, you will need to get a visitors permit at the port of entry; If you fly to Mexico, air crews on international flights might hand-out the visitor permit forms before the flight lands; although note that paper forms are being phased out;; Paper forms might be available at some Mexican airports, near the immigration desks, otherwise the immigration official will ...
PDF Tourist Card Instructions
Mexico on D ecember 30th you w ill have to w ait until N ovember 30th to apply for your tour ist car d. 4. Date of departure C lick on the calendar and select the date you leave fr om Mexico 5. Airline Name Wr ite dow n the name of the air line that your ar e flying to Mexico, for
Mexico International Travel Information
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.
Official Cancun Airport Tourist Card Information for passengers
If you are visiting Mexico you need a Tourist Card which is an Entry Immigration Form that details information about your visit to Mexico. The Tourist Card is per person regardless of age and how long you will stay in Mexico. The information you provide in the Tourist Card is kept by the Mexican Immigration Authority as an official record of ...
FAQ
FAQs. What is a Tourist Card and why I need one? If you are visiting Mexico you need a Tourist Card which is an Entry Immigration Form that details information about your visit to Mexico. The Tourist Card is per person regardless of age and how long you will stay in Mexico. The information provided in the Tourist Card is kept by the Mexican ...
Requirements for the Mexico Tourist Card
The Mexico Tourist Card is required for all foreigners entering Mexico. It simply tells the Mexican government who is in the country and what their travel plans are while they are there. It helps them keep everyone in the country safe and secure. Therefore, if you are planning to travel, you must fill out the Mexican Tourist Card. The Mexico ...
Cancun, Mexico (CUN)
Address. Cancun International Airport Carretera Cancun-Chetumal KM 22 Cancun, Q. Roo, Mexico. Airport website opens external site in a new window. Ticket counters. Terminal 3 This location does not accept cash or checks.
Documents Required for Travel and Entry to Mexico
Arrivals to Mexico by air. If you are visiting Mexico and arriving by airplane, you must carry a current passport. Note that Passport Cards are not valid for air travel. We also recommend that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Mexico. If your passport is expired the airlines will not allow you to ...
Airport Customs: Fill out your form on-line before your trip
There seem to be many private sites offering to print tourist cards - I used the official Mexico government page (they have an English version).I hope this is helpful. ... I don't know which terminal is was, but it was an American Airlines flight. Report inappropriate content . kcbedo. Shawnee, Kansas. Level Contributor . 67 posts. 1 review. 3 ...
Best Ways To Fly to Mexico With Points & Miles [Step-by-Step]
Los Angeles (LAX) - Mexico City (MEX) one-way in American Airlines business class from 22,500 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees. Los Angeles (LAX) - Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in American Airlines business class from 20,000 AAdvantage miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees.
American Airlines®
American Airlines flights. Flights to Mexico. United States to Mexico. Find American Airlines flights from United States to Mexico. Enjoy an exceptional travel experience at an affordable price. Book your trip today!
The 7 Best Ways to Fly to Mexico Using Points and Miles
Every point from the Preferred Card is worth 1.25 cents toward travel, while you get 1.5 cents apiece from the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Here's a quick example of a nonstop flight from Austin (AUS) to Cancún (CUN) for $226.56. ... If you're flying on a short nonstop flight to Mexico on either American Airlines or Alaska Airlines, you'll find ...
Mexico's Visitor Tax: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers
Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun is a new tax implemented by the Mexican government for travelers visiting Cancun and other tourist destinations in the Quintana Roo region. The tax was introduced on April 1, 2021, and applies to both foreign and domestic visitors aged 15 and over. The tax amount is (approximately $39 USD) per person and can be paid online or at kiosks located at airports, hotels ...
Procedures for Entering and Leaving Mexico
Lost visitor/tourist permit, lost residency card. If you are visiting Mexico as a visitor/tourist and you lose your visitor's permit, you will need to attend a local immigration office (in a town or city or at the airport) to apply for a replacement; there is a fee of around US$40 involved—the local immigration office will advise you of the ...
Requirements for visiting Mexico as a tourist (FMM, "tourist card
REQUIREMENTS: Citizens and permanent, legal residents of the US and Canada: As January 8th 2007 all US and Canadian citizens will need a passport for their Mexico visit; if a USA resident, your resident (so-called "Green Card" in US) card and passport will be required. (A drivers license and birth certificate are no longer valid forms of identification for a visit to Mexico when travelling by ...
Customs
CUSTOMS FORM. When you arrive to Mexico you will need to complete a "Customs Form." Normally you will get this form in the plane on your way to Mexico. The Customs Form is ONE per family, so you just need to complete ONE form for everybody that is traveling together and LIVE together. The images below are actual images of a Customs Form ...
How to get a refund of the Mexican Tourism tax on your Mexico flights
Some airlines make it easier than others to get a refund. Normally, they ask for proof of residency. Each time I've submitted a picture of my Mexico Permanent Resident card (front and back), and that's all the information they've needed. American Airlines. American has a page on their website where you can request a refund. You can also ...
How Much Do You Need to Fly to Earn American Airlines AAdvantage ...
American Airlines' loyalty program, AAdvantage, has four tiers of elite status. The first level is known as AAdvantage Gold, and even though it's the airline's entry-level elite status, it has ...
American Airlines
Business programs Gift cards Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines. American Airlines credit card Trip insurance Link opens in new window.