PASSPORT & VISAS
Mexico requires visitors to carry three items:
1. Photo I.D. (such as a Driver's License)
2. Valid Proof of Citizenship
3. Tourist Cards
Proof of Citizenship
U.S. Citizens
Passports: U.S. citizens may present a passport, even if it has
expired within the last five years. Canceled passports are not
acceptable.
Original Birth Certificate: Hospital copies of birth certificates are
not valid as proof of citizenship. The certificate must have an
official stamp from the state of birth. A notarized copy of the
official document is also acceptable. Married women with a different
last name should carry a marriage license or notarized affidavit with
their married name.
Notarized Affidavit of Citizenship: Mexico accepts the notarized
affidavit of citizenship. However, it is not recommended due to
possible problems with U.S. Immigration upon return.
U.S. Naturalization Papers: An original certificate or laminated card
is acceptable. Photocopies are not valid.
Canadian Citizens
Canadian versions of the above documents are acceptable; notarized
affidavits must be executed in Canada.
Other Nationalities
Contact the Mexican Consulate or airlines serving Mexico for details.
These regulations change periodically. At a minimum, foreign citizens
will need a valid passport. Some nationalities are required to obtain
a consular visa from the Mexican Consulate.
Student Visas and Business Visas
Contact the Mexican Consulate in your area.
Minors
Any person under 18 years of age is considered a minor. Very strict
regulations govern travel by minors into Mexico.
If traveling alone, the minor must have a notarized consent form
signed by both parents.
If traveling with only one parent, the minor must have a notarized
letter of consent signed by the parent not traveling.
If traveling with only one parent and the other parent is deceased or
the child has only one legal parent, a notarized statement must be
obtained as proof.
Airlines will also require the name, address and phone of the person
meeting the unaccompanied minor upon arrival in Mexico.
Tourist Card
The Mexican government provides tourists cards free of charge to
visitors. The tourist card is "permission" from the Mexican government
to visit the country. Although sometimes difficult to acquire in large
quantities, airlines always have an abundant supply upon check-in.
When you arrive in Mexico, your first stop will be Mexican
Immigration. Mexican Immigration will inspect your proof of
citizenship and validate your tourist card. The inspector will give
you a blue copy - don't lose it! The copy must be returned upon
departure.
Write down your tourist card number and keep it with your travel
documents. If the card is lost, having the number will help greatly.
Be sure to keep your tourist card and travel documents in a secure
place.
Tourist cards can be validated for up to 180 days. |
