Chat With Us 
When selecting travel insurance for your visit to the U.S., understanding the differences between.
Explore More Travel Requirements to Mexico: Essential Documents and Guidelines for 2025
Are you planning a trip to Mexico from the United States? Whether you travel by air or land, you must meet specific travel requirements. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.
Entry and Exit Requirements for Mexico
- U.S. tourists traveling by air must have a valid passport book. A passport card is not sufficient for air travel.
- Travelers entering by land may use either a passport book or a passport card.
- If you plan to travel beyond the border zone (about 20 km into Mexico), you must obtain an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Múltiple or FMM) from the National Migration Institute (INM). This permit is also required if you stay in Mexico for more than 72 hours, even within the border area. This is one of the most essential travel requirements for Mexico
- INM can grant tourist stays of up to 180 days but may approve a shorter period at their discretion. Travelers should confirm the duration specified on their FMM.
- Mexican immigration officials may ask you to present your passport and entry permit at any time. Failure to provide these may result in detention if:
- You cannot prove your legal status in Mexico.
- You do not have a passport.
- You have overstayed your authorized stay.
What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Mexico by Air?
To travel to Mexico by air, you will typically need the following documents:
- A valid passport: You will need a valid passport for at least six months after your planned departure date.
- Mexican Tourist Card (FMM): Also known as a Forma Migratoria Multiple, it is a document issued by the Mexican Immigration Authority that grants you the right to visit Mexico for a period of up to 180 days. You can obtain this card by completing an online application before your trip or at the Mexican airport upon arrival.
- Flight tickets: You must show proof of your airline tickets to Mexico at check-in and when you arrive in Mexico.
- Other requirements: Depending on the type of visit, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a letter of invitation or proof of financial support.
What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Mexico by Car?
Here are the documents one must carry if one travels by car from the US to Mexico.
- Passport: You’ll need a valid passport to enter Mexico. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Mexico.
- Vehicle registration: You’ll need to bring the original vehicle registration or title to prove ownership of the car you’ll be driving. If you’re still paying off the car, you’ll need a letter from your lender authorizing you to take the vehicle out of the US.
- Temporary vehicle importation permit: If you plan to drive beyond the border zone, you must obtain a temporary permit.
- Driver’s license: You’ll need a valid driver’s license to drive in Mexico. It’s also a good idea to carry an international driving permit.
Specific Requirements for Traveling to Mexico for Certain Nationalities:
- For Venezuelan Citizens: A valid visa and return ticket are necessary.
- For Colombian Citizens: Complete an electronic precheck with personal and immigration details. After this, you’ll receive a QR code and the FFM form via email. Make sure to print and present these at the airport of departure. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.
- For Peruvian Citizens: Stay updated with the latest recommendations for travel to Mexico.
DNR Payment:
Foreign travelers need to pay the DNR tax, also known as the Right of Visitor, without permission to undertake lucrative activities. However, Mexicans living abroad can present specific accreditation documents to be exempted from this tax, such as a citizen identification card, certified birth certificate, consular registration, etc.
About vehicle permits and checkpoints to Mexico from the US
Tourists can face multiple immigration checkpoints inside Mexico, including in popular tourist areas far from the border.
- Travelers driving a U.S.-registered vehicle beyond the border zone must obtain a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP) through Banjercito.
- A refundable deposit is required when obtaining the permit, which will be returned when the vehicle leaves Mexico.
- Certain regions, including Baja California, Baja California Sur, and parts of Sonora, are designated as hassle-free zones, meaning travelers do not need a TIP within these areas.
- Mexican authorities may seize vehicles if:
- They lack a valid TIP when required.
- They are driven by a Mexican national rather than a U.S. resident without proper documentation.
About goods and customs in Mexico for travelers from the US
As per requirements for travel to Mexico, travelers should be aware that:
- The government can deny entry to foreigners if they have been charged with or convicted of a severe crime in Mexico or elsewhere.
- US citizens bringing in goods beyond their personal effects worth $300 or more must declare those goods with Mexican customs, or they have the risk of getting them confiscated.
- Mexican customs authorities can seize vehicles carrying goods without declaration or sufficient funds to pay duty fees.
Here are a few Insurance plans that cover your medical expenses while traveling to Mexico.
1. Visitor Secure
Visitor secure is a Fixed Limited Coverage insurance plan with sub-limits for each claim with coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
2. Atlas International
Atlas International is a comprehensive medical insurance plan that covers the acute onset of pre-existing conditions when treatment is obtained in the first 24 hours.
3. Kidnap and Ransom Insurance
Visitor Guard® offers Petersen International Underwriters’ Kidnap and Ransom Insurance that covers people traveling to Mexico.
The plan covers individuals and organizations against the financial and reputational risks of kidnapping, extortion, and wrongful detention. This type of insurance can provide various services, including crisis management, negotiation, ransom payment, and legal and medical expenses coverage.
It can be precious for individuals or organizations operating in high-risk areas or engaging in high-profile activities.
About travel insurance for people visiting Mexico from the US
While Mexico does not require travel insurance to enter the country, it is highly recommended. Many travelers, buy insurance to cover them from medical mishaps during the trip. A travel insurance plan lets you enjoy a vacation without any stress. Accidents and sicknesses can occur at any time, forcing you to rush to the nearest emergency room or get hospitalized.
A comprehensive insurance plan typically covers
- inpatient and outpatient hospital stay
s, and medical emergencies, - prescriptions and drugs, doctor’s visits, urgent care,
- emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation,
- COVID-19 treatment,
- acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and more.
- Some plans also offer trip-related benefits like trip interruption, baggage loss, etc.
Depending on the nature of the trip and the length of your stay, you can choose a plan that suits you the best.
General travel tips for visitors to Mexico from the US
- In Mexico, you can dial 078 from any phone to find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.
- US citizens must present a valid passport when entering Mexican territory by any means of transportation. There are no exceptions for minors. If you stay less than 72 hours (about three days) within the border area, you do not require an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM).
- US citizens who travel as tourists beyond the “border zone” or enter by air must complete an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM).
- If you are coming to Mexico for business trips, you must complete and submit an FM-N form, allowing for business, not employment, in the country.
- Travelers can bring up to $500 worth of merchandise to Mexico without paying duty when traveling by air and $300 by land.
- Tourists can obtain Mexican pesos at exchange houses, banks, and ATMs through international credit cards.
Impact of a New Government on Travel and Documentation
With recent changes in government, travel policies and entry requirements may evolve. Possible changes could include:
- Stricter visa and entry permit regulations.
- Revised customs duties and taxation on imported goods.
- New border security measures affecting wait times and documentation checks.
- Health and safety mandates, including COVID-19-related requirements.
It is advisable to stay updated by checking with the Mexican Embassy or Consulate before your trip.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience to Mexico. Safe travels!To know more about Mexico travel insurance, contact Visitor Guard®.
Category:
Recent posts
When it comes to choosing the right travel insurance, especially for visitors to the.
Explore More
Planning a trip to the United States in 2025? Whether you are coming for.
Explore More