Is a visa necessary for traveling to Mexico?

Mexico boasts a lively culture and friendly locals, making it a favorite destination for travelers.

Dealing with tourist visas, permits, and bureaucracy can be intimidating in a foreign land, particularly one known for its red tape. But don’t worry! Here’s everything you need to know about entering Mexico.

Which travelers can visit Mexico without a visa?

Nationals from the US, Canada, EU, Israel, Japan, and many other countries are among those who can enter Mexico as tourists without needing a visa.

This applies to any traveler, irrespective of their nationality, who holds a valid visa or is a permanent resident of the US (including H1-B visa holders), Canada, the UK, or any country within the Schengen Area or Pacific Alliance.

Regardless of visas, all international visitors are required to have a passport valid for at least six months and a completed Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), which is Mexico’s tourist card or stamp.

How can I obtain an FMM?

The physical version of the FMM is being gradually replaced by a passport stamp throughout Mexico. However, if needed, FMM forms can be found at border crossings, international airports, and ports; if you're flying into Mexico, the form will be handed out on your flight. Additionally, the FMM form can be filled out online, printed, and presented to immigration officials.

The fee for processing an FMM is US$28, payable at borders and ports, or it may be included in your airline ticket under “fees and surcharges.”

When you arrive in Mexico, immigration officials will stamp your FMM or passport, indicating how many days you are allowed to stay. While they can authorize up to 180 days, they often grant fewer. Be sure to request the number of days needed for your trip!

Upon departing Mexico, you must return your FMM if you received a paper version. Keep it safe; losing it could result in a US$40 fine.

Entering Mexico by land has slightly different requirements:

• Visitors staying less than seven days can obtain FMMs at no charge.

• FMMs are not necessary for those staying under 72 hours in the 'Zona Libre' or 'Free Zone'—the areas located 20 to 26 km (12 to 16 miles) south of the US border.

• If you enter through the Zona Libre but plan to travel outside of it, make sure to request an FMM form when crossing the border. Forgetting to do so may lead to issues on your return, requiring payment for the FMM. If you leave Mexico from beyond the Zona Libre, you might incur a fine for not having an FMM.

Travelers who need a visa

Citizens from China, India, Russia, and South Africa, among others, are required to obtain a tourist visa to enter Mexico. Along with a valid passport, the following documents must be submitted in person at the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate:

• Completed visa application form

• A recent color passport photo

• Evidence of ties to your home country (e.g., a letter confirming employment or full-time enrollment in studies)

• Proof of financial stability (e.g., three months' worth of bank statements or investment documentation)

• Approximately US$51 fee (payable in cash or via bank transfer)

To apply for a tourist visa at Mexican embassies and consulates, appointments must be scheduled online with the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores. During the appointment, your submitted documents will be reviewed, biometric data will be collected (photo and fingerprints), and a consular agent will conduct an interview.

Once granted, a tourist visa is valid for up to 180 days. When entering Mexico, travelers with tourist visas must also possess an FMM.

Is it possible to prolong my stay in Mexico?

Many visitors naturally wish to extend their visas to explore more of Mexico. The process for doing so will depend on the specifics of your visit.

If your FMM is valid for less than 180 days, you can apply for an extension at an immigration office. Make sure to request this well before your FMM expires! Required documents include a valid passport, the current FMM, a valid tourist visa (if applicable), and proof of adequate funds for your intended stay in Mexico.

If your FMM is issued for the full 180 days, you will need to exit Mexico and re-enter to obtain a new FMM. Many travelers choose to visit a nearby country for a couple of days before coming back.

Travelers holding tourist visas should apply for an extension or a new visa at an immigration office. Be sure to initiate this process well before your visa expires, as paperwork can take some time to complete.

Is it possible to go on a working holiday in Mexico?

Mexico provides a working holiday visa known as 'Visa Temporal – Vacaciones y Trabajo,” which allows certain foreign nationals to work in Mexico for up to 180 days. Eligible applicants include citizens aged 18 to 30 from Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, New Zealand, Peru, and South Korea.

Extensions are not allowed, and this visa cannot be changed into a work visa. To apply for this visa, make an appointment at the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate through the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores website.