Mexico Entry Policy - ETA, FMM and More

Processing Steps

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Mexico provides visa-free access for eligible visitors from over 60 countries, such as the United States, Canada, EU member states, and Japan, permitting a stay of up to 180 days for tourism, business, or transit. Our expert staff has curated this up-to-date entry policy for your convenience. The Mexico Tourist Card for air travelers has been abolished, so only a valid passport is required for visa-free travelers, simplifying the entry process.

Entering with the Sistema de Autorización Electrónica

The Mexico ETA visa or Sistema de Autorización Electrónica, is an electronic authorization system designed for citizens of Turkey, Russia, and Ukraine who wish to visit Mexico for short-term stays. The SAE allows eligible travelers to obtain electronic authorization online, which grants them entry to Mexico for tourism, business, or transit purposes. This system simplifies the process and eliminates the need for a traditional visa, making it more convenient for travelers from eligible countries.

Natvisa provides an easy to use form for the ETA for eligible travelers!

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Citizens of Ukraine are eligible for the ETA.

Who Needs a Visa to Mexico?

Citizens from certain countries require a visa to enter Mexico. This includes, but is not limited to, travelers from countries such as India, China, and South Africa.

However, citizens from many countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Japan, and New Zealand, do not need a visa for short visits (usually up to 180 days) for tourism or business.

Additionally, foreign travelers who hold a valid permanent resident card from Canada, Chile, Colombia, Japan, Peru, the United States, the United Kingdom, or any Schengen Area country are exempt from needing a visa to enter Mexico, regardless of their nationality.

Passport Validity

When entering Mexico, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. Mexico does not enforce the six-month validity rule that many other countries do. However, it’s always a good practice to travel with a passport that has at least six months of validity remaining to avoid any unforeseen issues, especially if your travel plans include visiting other countries that may have stricter passport validity requirements.

Upon Arrival 

We have simplified the arrival process so you know what to expect once you get to Mexico.

• Flight Arrival: Upon landing at a Mexican airport, disembark the aircraft and proceed to the immigration area.

• eFMM Kiosk: Most airports have switched to the electronic version of the FMM. This means you do not have to get the online version of the tourist card (FMM). Its all done at the airport upon arrival.

• Immigration Check: Present your passport to the Immigration officer.

• Customs Declaration: Complete a customs declaration form if required. Here, you might be asked about the purpose of your visit and the items you are bringing into the country

• Baggage Claim: After clearing immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect any checked luggage.

• Customs Inspection: Go through customs where your luggage may be scanned or manually inspected. You may be randomly selected for a more thorough search.

• Exiting the Airport: Once you clear customs, you can exit the airport. Here, you’ll find transportation options like taxis, buses, or rental car services to reach your final destination.

• Currency Exchange and SIM Cards: If needed, use services at the airport for currency exchange or purchasing a local SIM card for your phone.

Tourist Card for Land

The Mexico Tourist Card, known as the "Forma Migratoria Múltiple" (FMM), is an essential travel document for most visitors entering Mexico by land. This is the traditional version of the FMM that must be completed online.

The FMM, issued by Mexico’s National Immigration Institute (INM), functions as an official record of a traveler’s entry and exit from the country. It’s important to note that while the FMM is not a visa, it is a mandatory requirement alongside a valid passport for gaining entry into Mexico.

Entering Mexico by Air

We are going to breakdown Mexico’s popular international airports and the area thei serve.

Mexico popular International airports:

• Mexico City International Airport (Benito Juarez International Airport) - MEX: The busiest airport in Mexico, located in the capital city.
• Cancun International Airport - CUN: A major gateway to the Mexican Caribbean, especially popular among tourists visiting beach resorts.
• Guadalajara International Airport (Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport) - GDL: The main airport of Mexico’s second-largest city, serving the Jalisco region.
• Monterrey International Airport (General Mariano Escobedo International Airport) - MTY: Serving the industrial and business center of Monterrey in Northern Mexico.
• Los Cabos International Airport - SJD: Located in San José del Cabo, serving the Los Cabos area, which includes Cabo San Lucas.
• Puerto Vallarta International Airport (Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport) - PVR: Serving the popular beach resort city of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast.
• Tijuana International Airport (General Abelardo L. Rodríguez International Airport) - TIJ: Located near the U.S.-Mexico border, it is one of the busiest airports for cross-border flights.
• Cancun International Airport - CUN: Serving the popular tourist destination of Cancun and the surrounding Riviera Maya.

Entering Mexico by Sea

Mexico, renowned for its enchanting cruises and captivating Caribbean destinations, boasts several well-known seaports. Below is a list of these ports:

Popular ports in Mexico for cruise ships include:

• Port of Cozumel: A top destination in the Caribbean Sea, known for its snorkeling and diving sites.
• Port of Cabo San Lucas: Situated at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, famous for its beaches and water sports.
• Port of Puerto Vallarta: Located on the Pacific Coast, known for its beaches, water activities, and vibrant cultural scene.
• Port of Mazatlan: On the Pacific Coast, offering a blend of historical sites and beach activities.
• Port of Ensenada: Near the U.S. border on the Pacific Coast, a gateway to Mexico’s wine country.
• Port of Mahahual (Costa Maya): A newer port on the Caribbean coast, close to Mayan archaeological sites and eco-parks.
• Port of Playa del Carmen: A ferry port on the Caribbean, serving as a point of access to Cozumel and known for its nightlife and beaches.
• Port of Progreso: Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, serving as a gateway to historical sites like Chichen Itza and Merida.

Entering Mexico by Land

The country’s northern and southern land borders with the United States, Belize, and Guatemala provide various checkpoints for easy land crossings, facilitating seamless North and Central American road trips.

Leaving Mexico

When departing from Mexico via an international airport, travelers typically follow these standard procedures:

• Checking in for your flight
• Security screening
• Going through passport control

After security, you wait in the departure lounge until your flight is ready for boarding. It’s important to note that during this process, you may be subject to random searches by airport security or the military police.

While not everyone is searched, it’s a routine part of international travel, and cooperating fully with airport authorities will help ensure a smooth departure from Mexico.

Do I need a visa to enter Mexico as a tourist?

It depends on the visitor’s nationality. Citizens of certain countries do not require a visa and can enter Mexico with a Tourist Card. Other nationalities require a visa

What are the basic requirements for entry into Mexico?

To enter Mexico, foreigners need a valid passport with 6 months validity, a completed FMM (online, embassy, or upon arrival), a return/onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. Some nationalities require a pre-approved visa. Entry requirements may change due to health/safety concerns.

Which nationalities require a visa to visit Mexico?

Nationalities requiring a visa for Mexico include, but are not limited to, countries like China, India, Russia, and South Africa. Visa-exempt travelers include citizens of the US, Canada, Japan, EU nations, and others. Always verify visa requirements before planning a Mexican trip.

Can I extend my FMM if I want to stay in Mexico longer than 180 days?

Travelers cannot extend an FMM beyond 180 days. If they wish to stay in Mexico longer, they must apply for a different type of visa, such as a temporary resident visa, before their FMM expires. Consult the nearest Mexican consulate for guidance.

What documents do I need to submit when applying for a Mexican tourist visa?

To apply for a Mexican tourist visa, submit a completed application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photo, proof of sufficient funds, travel itinerary or invitation letter, visa application fee, and any additional documents required by the consulate.

How long does it take to process a Mexican tourist visa application?

The processing time for a Mexican tourist visa application varies, typically taking 2-15 business days. It may be longer during peak travel seasons or due to individual circumstances. It’s recommended to apply well in advance of their planned trip.

Can I apply for a Mexican tourist visa on arrival, or must I obtain it in advance?

Visa-exempt travelers can obtain an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) upon arrival. However, if their nationality requires a visa, they must apply for and obtain it in advance from a Mexican embassy or consulate before traveling to Mexico.

Is it necessary to have a return ticket when applying for a Mexican tourist visa?

Yes, having a return or onward ticket is necessary when applying for a Mexican tourist visa. It demonstrates their intent to leave Mexico within the visa’s validity period and provides evidence of their travel plans to immigration authorities.

What are the consequences of overstaying my FMM in Mexico?

Overstaying the FMM validity in Mexico can result in penalties, including fines, deportation, or being barred from re-entering Mexico for a certain period. It’s essential to leave Mexico before traveler’s FMM expires to avoid these negative consequences.

Can I change my tourist visa to a different type of visa while in Mexico?

Generally, travelers cannot change a tourist visa to another visa type while in Mexico. They must leave the country, apply for the appropriate visa at a Mexican consulate, and re-enter Mexico with the new visa once it’s granted.

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