The allure of Mexico is undeniable. With picture-perfect beaches, mouthwatering tacos, colorful colonial towns, and idyllic underground swimming holes known as cenotes, more Americans travel to Mexico than any other country. Whether you wish to relax at an all-inclusive resort or head off on a shoestring backpacking adventure, America’s neighbor to the south offers something for everyone. There are options for many different interests and budgets, which is one of the reasons Mexico remains a popular destination.
While no visa is needed for Americans to enter Mexico, like other visa-free travelers, they are required to obtain a visitor’s permit known as an FMM (Forma Migratoria Multiple). This form can be downloaded and printed from the internet or filled out at the immigration office at the port of entry in Mexico. It costs around $43, though it’s free for stays under 7 days. It requires information such as your name, birthday, flight or vessel number, and your primary address in Mexico, so be sure to have these details handy. The permit is good for up to 180 days, though the number is at the discretion of the immigration official.
Visitors are required to keep the FMM with them at all times, or face penalties or even deportation. However, the rules governing the FFM have begun to change, and visitors will now no longer need paper copies in a handful of select cities. That said, while immigration authorities were often lax about FMMs for Americans crossing the overland border, they’ve begun to strictly enforce the rule at certain points of entry, leading to long wait times to get into the country.
Staying up to date with confusing rules that are always changing
Other rules to be aware of when traveling to Mexico
Thinking of driving to Mexico? The process is pretty straightforward, as long as you remain within the border zone. If you plan on taking your car deeper into the country, things get a bit more complicated, as you’ll need a temporary import permit, which you can apply for online at least a week before your trip.
To procure the permit, you’ll have to submit a number of documents, including the car’s registration and bill of sale, along with tax and a deposit of up to $400. Most rental cars can also be taken into the country, though most companies require additional insurance and sometimes limit how far south you can go.
Like traveling to any other country, make sure that you have some blank pages in your passport, and that there are more than six months left before it expires. Keep it and any other documents handy when traveling through immigration and answer any questions truthfully and politely. While Mexico overall is a terrific, safe place to visit, get the most out of your trip by avoiding these common mistakes.
