mexico tourist card vs fmm

The FMM for Mexico Explained: How to Get a Tourist Card

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: January 19, 2024

Categories Mexico , Visas and Borders

Home » Mexico » The FMM for Mexico Explained: How to Get a Tourist Card

Mexico offers visa-free entry to those who hold passports from countries on its no visa required list. Instead of a Mexican visa, visitors must obtain an FMM tourist permit (Forma Migratoria Múltiple). This document allows you to stay in Mexico for the purpose of tourism or business for up to 180 days. The FMM currently costs 685 pesos or $38. If you’re staying for less than 7 days, it’s free. To get an FMM, you need a valid passport or passport card. This guide explains everything you need to know about the FMM for Mexico. I’ll explain what the FMM tourist card is, how to apply, the travel documents you’ll need, where it is issued, costs, eligibility, validity, and more.

I’ve also made this YouTube video that outlines the main points of the article.

The FMM Tourist Permit for Mexico Explained

Quick Info About the FMM Tourist Card

Cost- $687 pesos (about $38). Free for stays of 7 days or less
Validity- Up to 180 days. The number of days you’re granted will be written on the form.
Issued on arrival at the point of entry or online . The Mexico FMM is available at land borders, international airports, and most seaports.
Eligibility- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, European Schengen Area Countries, Japan, South Korea, and more. If your country is on this list , you’re eligible.
How to apply- Fill out the form with basic travel info. You will receive the form at the port of entry.
Required documents- A valid passport or passport card
Issued by INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración), a Mexican government agency

Important note

The Mexican government is currently phasing out the paper version of the FMM permit. It is being replaced with a passport stamp. Currently, some ports of entry still use the paper form. Some have transitioned to the stamp. The rules are all still the same. The eligibility, validity, and cost haven’t changed. If you’re given a paper form on arrival, fill it out as normal. If you don’t receive a paper form, the Mexican authorities will stamp your passport instead. I’ll update this article as additional information about this change comes out.

Table of Contents

What is the FMM Visitor’s Permit?
Eligibility and Who Needs an FMM
Required Documents
FMM Validity
How to Get an FMM

What is an FMM Tourist Permit?

The FMM Tourist Permit (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) is a travel document that allows those who are eligible to enter Mexico without a visa.

The FMM Visitor’s Permit allows you to stay in Mexico for up to 180 days. During that time, you can participate in tourism activities, do business, transit through the country, study, volunteer, or live anywhere in Mexico.

You are not allowed to be employed, work, or earn money in Mexico while visiting on an FMM permit. If you plan to work and earn money in Mexico, you will need to apply for a temporary resident visa and work permit.

The FMM is issued by the INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración), a Mexican government agency. You can obtain an FMM permit on arrival at the port of entry. All you need is a valid passport. Mexico also offers online FMM applications as well. You simply fill out the application form, print it out, and bring it with you to get stamped by immigration authorities when you arrive.

The FMM is also referred to as the Mexico tourist card. It is also sometimes called a Mexico tourist visa, even though it is not technically a visa.

Who is Eligible for an FMM Tourist Permit and Who Needs a Visa?

FMM tourist permits are available for visitors from countries on this list. If the country that issued your passport is on that list, you don’t require a visa to visit Mexico. The list includes the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Schengen area countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, most Latin American and Caribbean countries as well as many others. If your country is on the list, you only need an FMM permit to visit Mexico. You do not need a Mexican tourist visa.

In addition, to be eligible for an FMM you must be visiting Mexico only for purposes of tourism, business, volunteering, or studying. Your trip must last 180 days or less. If you plan to visit for another purpose or for a longer duration, you’ll need to apply for a Mexico visa in advance.

Regardless of your citizenship or residency, you are also eligible for an FMM tourist permit if you hold a valid permanent residency visa or a multi-entry visitor visa for the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, or a European Schengen Area country.

You are not eligible for an FMM if you are a citizen of one of these countries. If the country that issued your passport is on this list and you do not have a valid visa to one of the above-listed countries, you need to arrange a visa in advance to enter Mexico.

You can apply for a visa at your nearest Mexican consulate or embassy. For more info on the application process, check out this Mexican government website.

If you plan to travel to Mexico for longer than 180 days or if you plan to work, study, invest, or get married in Mexico, you need to arrange a visa in advance, regardless of your citizenship. The most common type of visa for these types of trips is a temporary residency permit. There are several classes of temporary residency permits available for different types of trips. For example, some allow you to work and earn money while others don’t. For more info, check out my guide here.

If you already hold a temporary or permanent residency visa for Mexico, you do not need an FMM permit. You can present your residency visa at the port of entry instead.

Who Needs an FMM Tourist Permit?

Everyone entering Mexico for the purposes of tourism, business, studying, or volunteering needs an FMM tourist permit. Only temporary resident visa holders, permanent residency visa holders, and Mexican citizens can enter Mexico without an FMM permit.

Children under 2 years of age do not need to pay for an FMM. They will need a valid passport.

Before October 2015, there was an unofficial ‘free zone’ near the Mexican border where an FMM was not required if you were staying for 72 hours or less. This was never part of Mexico’s official immigration law but it was widely accepted.

Now, all foreign nationals entering Mexico needs an FMM unless they have a valid Mexican residency visa. Even if you’re only crossing the border to spend the day in Tijuana and staying near the border, you still need to stop and get an FMM.

Ideally, you should carry your passport and FMM permit with you when you’re out and about so you can present them if you’re stopped by the police or at a security checkpoint. Checkpoints are set throughout the country where you must present your FMM and passport to prove that you’re in the country legally.

While walking around cities I don’t like to carry my passport. I always worry about it getting lost or stolen. While in transit, I always keep my passport handy just in case.

What Documents Do I Need to Get an FMM Tourist Permit?

A valid passport. If you’re crossing the border by land or sea, you can use a passport book or passport card. If you’re flying in, you need a passport book. It must be valid when you enter and must remain valid for as long as you plan to stay in Mexico. Your passport must also have at least one blank page for a stamp. For more info, check out my guide: Do I Need a Passport to go to Mexico?
A completed FMM form. You get the form at the port of entry. If you’re flying to Mexico, a flight attendant may hand you the form during the flight. If you’re applying for your permit online, you fill the form out online. You’ll receive an acceptance email that you must print and bring with you to get stamped at the Mexican border.
594 Pesos (about $30) in cash. You pay this at the border upon entry or exit depending on where you enter. It’s best to bring pesos. Dollars may be accepted.

What Information is Required to fill out the FMM Form?

The FMM form requires basic travel information including:

Date of birth
Residency and nationality
Passport number
Purpose of your trip- tourism or business
Entry date and date that you plan to leave Mexico
How you’re entering- by air, sea, or land
Your destination in Mexico
The name and address of the place that you plan to stay in Mexico
Your signature

If you enter by air, you may get a slightly different form that asks for the flight number and airline that you arrived on.

How Much Does the FMM Tourist Permit Cost

If you’re staying in Mexico for less than 7 days, the FMM tourist permit is free.

If you’re staying in Mexico between 7 and 180 days, there is a 594 peso (about $30) fee for the FMM tourist permit.

You pay this fee in cash at a Banjercito bank window at the border. At some borders, you pay the immigration official who checks your passport directly.

How to Pay for the FMM Tourist Permit

Most borders accept payment in pesos or US dollars. You’ll get a more favorable rate if you pay in pesos. Some borders only accept pesos. It’s best to carry pesos just in case.

If you arrange your FMM permit online, you can pay the fee with a credit card or debit card. They accept Visa and Mastercard.

Some smaller land border crossings don’t have the facilities to accept the FMM fee. In this case, you will pay when you exit Mexico. You can also pay the fee at immigration offices that are located in cities and towns throughout Mexico as well as in all international airports.

After you pay your FMM fee, the banker gives you a receipt. You bring the receipt to the immigration official. They stamp the receipt, tear the FMM form in half, and hand your half back. You must keep the receipt as proof that you paid. If you lose it, you will have to pay the fee again when you exit Mexico because there is no proof that you have paid.

When you arrive by air or cruise ship, the FMM fee is often included in the price of your ticket. Check with your airline or cruise line before you travel so you don’t pay twice. Usually, the FMM will be listed in the ‘fees and taxes’ section of your ticket.

If you find that you’ve already paid for an FMM, carry a copy of your ticket with you for proof. When the Mexican authorities try to charge you again when you exit, you can show them that you have already paid. If you can’t prove that you’ve paid, you’ll be charged again.

How Long Can You Stay with an FMM Visitor’s Permit?

The FMM Visitor’s Permit is valid for up to 180 days (about 6 months) from the date that you entered Mexico. The number of days you get is up to the immigration agent issuing you the permit.

Sometimes the Mexican immigration authorities will ask you how many days you plan to stay in Mexico and then grant you that many days on your FMM. For example, if you indicate that you plan to stay in Mexico for 2 weeks, you may only be granted 2 weeks on your FMM. This means you can only stay in Mexico for 2 weeks. I recommend you always request 180 days. That way, you can stay longer if your plans change.

Your passport cannot expire before you plan to exit Mexico. For example, your passport must have at least 180 days of validity if you want an FMM that is valid for 180 days. Mexico does not require that your passport have 6 months of validity to enter, like most other countries. If your passport has 1 month of validity but you want to travel to Mexico for 1 week, you can.

When you pass through immigration, the official who checks your passport and FMM form will write the number of days you can stay on the visitor’s permit. It’s up to you to calculate the correct exit date so you don’t accidentally overstay. For example, if you enter Mexico on January 1, and are granted 180 days, you must exit Mexico by June 30. It’s important to remember that 180 days isn’t exactly 6 months because some months are longer than others. You must leave before the permit’s expiration date or you will be fined.

There are several cases where Mexican officials may grant you fewer than 180 days. For example, when entering Mexico on a cruise ship you often only get 21 days. When transiting through Mexico, you may only get 30 days. If you indicate on the FMM application that you only plan to stay for 2 weeks, the immigration official might only grant you two weeks. If you want the full 180 days, you can always ask. Usually, you’ll get it.

Caution: Do not tamper with the FMM form. I have read stories of travelers changing the date on their FMM to give themselves more days. Don’t do this. Your FMM form has a serial number that is recorded when you enter Mexico. The number of days you are granted is stored. You could get in trouble if you’re caught tampering with your FMM.

How to Apply for an FMM Tourist Permit?

You get the FMM Visitor’s Permit at the port of entry. This could be a land border, airport, or seaport. The process varies slightly depending on where and how you enter Mexico. In this section, I’ll outline the process of obtaining an FMM at each type of port of entry. I’ll also outline how to get the FMM online.

Entering by Land: Driving or Walking into Mexico

When driving across the border, you will need to park your car and go into the immigration and customs office (INM and Aduana) to get your FMM tourist permit.

While driving across the border, look for a sign pointing you to the ‘something to declare’ area. There will be parking available here. The immigration office is generally nearby. If you don’t see this area, you can ask around for immigration (inmigración in Spanish.) Alternatively, you can just drive across the border into Mexico, find a place to park near the border, and walk to the immigration building.

If you’re walking into Mexico, you can proceed directly to the immigration desk. There is no exit procedure for the U.S. There will be signs pointing you toward immigration and a path to follow. If you’re unsure, just walk toward Mexico and follow the crowd.

Once you find the immigration desk, you will be handed an FMM form to fill out. The forms are available in the immigration building. Be sure to bring a pen with you.

At some borders, an immigration officer may fill the FMM form out for you. In this case, they will ask you a few questions about your trip and copy your personal information from your passport.

After filling out the FMM form, hand it to the immigration official along with your passport. They will look over the form and run your passport through their computer.

The immigration official may ask you a few additional questions about your trip such as, how long are you going to stay in Mexico? Where are you staying? Do you have accommodation booked? What is your final destination in Mexico? What is the purpose of your trip? Where are you going? etc.

At most land borders, you pay your FMM fee when you enter the country if you’re staying longer than 7 days. After an immigration officer inspects your completed FMM form and your passport, you will take the FMM form to a Banjercito bank window near the immigration desk and pay the fee. The cashier will hand you a receipt. Next, you take your receipt back to the immigration official along with your passport. They will stamp your receipt and FMM form and the receipt. After that, you can proceed to customs and into Mexico.

Some small land border crossings do not have payment facilities. If you enter through one of these borders, you will pay your FMM fee when you exit Mexico. You can also pay the fee at an immigration office in Mexico or at all international airports.

Be sure to keep your FMM receipt. When you exit Mexico, you’ll have to prove that you’ve already paid for the FMM permit. If you can’t prove it, you will be charged again.

If you’re driving to Mexico, you’ll need to buy temporary car insurance. I recommend Baja Bound Mexican Insurance . They offer reasonable prices and friendly service. Click the link to get a free quote in just a couple of minutes.

Arriving in Mexico by Air

On most flights, a flight attendant will hand out FMM forms to everyone who needs one. You should fill it out before you land so you’re ready to go through immigration when you arrive. If you don’t get an FMM form on the plane, you can get one at immigration when you land. They will be sitting around on a table or someone will be standing around handing them out.

Once you land, follow the signs to immigration. You’ll present your passport and completed FMM form to an immigration official and they will stamp you into Mexico.

Mexican airports do not collect FMM fees from inbound passengers. This is because pretty much every airline includes the FMM fee in the price of the ticket. If you’re flying into Mexico, chances are you’ve already paid for an FMM.

Make sure you keep a copy of your ticket with proof that you have paid the FMM fee. This will usually be outlined in the ‘taxes and fees’ section of your ticket. If you can’t prove you’ve already paid, you will be charged a second time when you exit Mexico.

Tip: Once you get your FMM, place it in your passport. If you’re traveling long-term and you’re afraid you’ll lose it, consider stapling it or taping it to a page in your passport. You can do the same with your receipt.

Entering Mexico by Sea

If you’re entering Mexico on a cruise ship or your own boat, you can get an FMM at the first port of call. You’ll simply fill out the FMM form at the port and pay the fee. The process is basically the same as arriving overland.

If you’re arriving on your own boat, you should double-check to make sure the port where you plan to enter Mexico offers FMMs. You won’t have to worry about this if you’re arriving on a cruise ship. Cruise ships only dock at major ports.

If you’re bringing your own boat to Mexico, you also need to get a temporary vehicle importation permit (TIP) for the boat. You need to arrange this before you enter Mexican waters. You can’t get this document in Mexico.

If you’re entering Mexican waters but don’t plan to go to land, you’ll need a nautical Sportfishing FMM visitor’s permit. This document is also required if you plan to go fishing in Mexican waters. The process is a bit different from obtaining a normal FMM. You can get your nautical FMM online. For more info, check out this guide from Discover Baja.

Applying for an FMM Online

Mexico offers the option to apply for an FMM tourist permit online. This involves filling out a simple online application form and paying the fee with your Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card. Upon acceptance, you’ll receive an email with your FMM form. You’ll need to print this out and get it stamped at the border when you pass through immigration. You must enter Mexico within 30 days of getting your permit online.

For most travelers, it’s still better to get the FMM on arrival at the border. The reason is that you still need to stop at the border to get your immigration documents stamped, even if you applied online. You can’t just drive through. There is really no benefit to arranging your FMM permit in advance. You might save a couple of minutes waiting in line at the bank window.

The only time applying for an FMM online makes sense is if you’re also applying for a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP) online. In this case, you’ll need to get your FMM online before applying for the TIP. For more info, check out my guide to the Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit.

You can apply for an FMM online here.

When you apply for your FMM online, you receive an email with your approved FMM document within a few minutes. You’ll need to print this document out and bring it with you to immigration to get it stamped and validated.

When applying online, you must use your FMM within 30 days. Otherwise, it expires.

Frequently Asked Questions About the FMM

Can i make multiple entries on an fmm tourist permit.

No. The FMM is a single entry permit. When you fly out of Mexico, you must surrender your FMM at immigration before boarding the plane. At this point, it is invalidated. You’ll have to buy a new one when you return to Mexico. When you re-enter, you’ll fill out a new FMM form and pay for another permit.

When you exit Mexico at the southern border to Guatemala or Belize or any northern border outside of Baja California, you will also have to surrender your FMM when you pass through immigration. At this time, it will be invalidated and you will have to get a new one when you return.

There is one exception where you can use your FMM for multiple entries. You can enter and exit the state of Baja California Norte overland as many times as you like until your FMM permit expires. This is great for people who want to take short trips over the border. The FMM used to be a single-entry permit. In 2015, the INM changed the rules to allow this one exception.

Can I Stay in Mexico for More than 180 Days with an FMM

No. If you plan to stay in Mexico for longer than 180 days, you should apply for a Temporary Resident Visa or Permanent Resident Visa. You must apply for these visas at a Mexican consulate or embassy before your trip. You can’t obtain them in Mexico.

Alternatively, you could leave Mexico before your FMM expires then return and buy a new one for another 180 days. This is often called a border run. To do this, you can travel overland to the US, Guatemala, or Belize and then cross back into Mexico. You could also fly to your home country or a third country, then return to Mexico.

How Long do I Have to Leave Mexico Before Returning for a New FMM?

There is no rule stating how long you must remain outside of Mexico before returning and paying for a new FMM permit. In most cases, you can exit and then re-enter immediately after if you want. It really depends on the immigration official. Most don’t care and allow you to cross right back over.

Some expats have lived in Mexico on an FMM tourist permit for years. They simply make visa runs to the border to get a new permit every 6 months.

With computerized entry and exit and facial recognition technology, it is possible for Mexico to track how much time you spend in the country on an FMM permit. If you exit and re-enter too many times, they could deny you entry at some point if an immigration official decides that you’re spending too much time in Mexico on an FMM.

Recently, Mexico has begun cracking down on people living in the country on FMM permits. They are issuing permits with fewer than 180 days. Some visitors are only getting 10-30 days upon entry. To get 180 days, you may have to provide some supporting documents such as proof that you’ve paid for long-term accommodation.

If you plan to stay in Mexico longer than 180 days or retire or live in Mexico, it’s best to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you are staying in the country legally. You don’t have to worry about being denied entry.

Keep in mind that there is a financial requirement to get a Temporary Resident Visa. You’ll need to prove that you have enough income or assets to support yourself while in Mexico. Currently, you need to show that you have an income of about $2400-$2700 per month or around $45,000 in a savings or investment account.

What Happens if You Overstay an FMM Visitor Permit?

You need to leave Mexico before your FMM visitor’s permit expires (usually 180 days). If you don’t, you will be fined for overstaying. The fine depends on how long you overstayed. Mexico charges on a per-day basis. The maximum fine is around $350 (7000 pesos). As far as I know, the fine is the only punishment. Mexico won’t bar you from re-entering if you overstay.

You can pay the fine at an immigration office or at an international airport. If you’re flying out of Mexico, you should take care of this fine a couple of days before your flight so you don’t risk missing it. Otherwise, you’ll want to show up for your flight a few hours early. The process could take some time.

If you overstayed your FMM by a couple of days, it’s usually not a big deal. You’ll simply pay a small fine and leave. If you overstayed by months, you’ll probably have to answer some questions.

What if you Lose Your FMM Permit?

If you lose your FMM Visitors permit while in Mexico, you need to visit a local immigration office and apply for a replacement before you can leave the country. The process involves filling out some forms and paying a replacement fee.

I don’t know exactly how much the current fee is. I have read reports ranging from $30 and $60 (around 500-1200 pesos). You can find immigration offices in many towns and cities across Mexico as well as in international airports.

If you go to the border without your FMM card, chances are you will be allowed to exit without it but you will have to pay a fee (or bribe.) I have heard that the charge is around $100 (2000 pesos).

If you go to the airport to catch a flight without your FMM, you’ll be sent to the immigration office in the airport to get a replacement. Be sure to leave yourself extra time if you have to do this so you don’t miss your flight.

If you’re planning to exit Mexico overland from the state of Baja California Norte, you’re in luck. You don’t need to bother getting a replacement because Mexico does not check passports when you exit and cross into the United States. You proceed straight to U.S. immigration. When you go to U.S. immigration, they do not look at the FMM.

What if You Kept Your Visitor’s Permit When You Left Mexico?

At some border crossings, there is nowhere to turn in your old FMM permit when you exit. For example, when crossing from Baja California to the U.S., there is no passport control when you exit Mexico. You just drive or walk straight to U.S. immigration. This means you keep your FMM document.

Legally, this is fine. As of 2015, you do not need to turn in your FMM when exiting Baja California overland according to the INM. You can re-use it for multiple entries until it expires then discard it. There is still a note on the back of the FMM that says that you must return the document.

The problem with this situation is that you won’t get an exit stamp to prove that you left Mexico. When you go to re-enter on your next trip, the immigration official checking your passport could question you as to why you don’t have an exit stamp. They could assume you overstayed on your previous visit. I have heard of people being fined in this situation but I have not been able to confirm whether or not this is actually true.

Unfortunately, there really is no solution to this problem. There is no official procedure as to how to go about returning your FMM if you exit Mexico overland at a border where you don’t pass through immigration to exit.

If you’re questioned, you’ll have to explain that you exited at the northern border where FMM forms are not collected and passports are not stamped upon exit. When you enter Baja, nobody will question you. When you fly to Mexico or enter at another part of the country, you could be questioned.

If you kept your FMM when exiting Mexico and have no plans to return before it expires, you can throw it away. If you plan to return to Mexico and enter through one of the Baja California crossings, you can use it again when you re-enter.

For those who are really worried about keeping their FMM and not getting stamped out, you can contact your nearest Mexican consulate, embassy, or INM office to ask them what to do. They may tell you to mail it somewhere. The process is unclear.

What if I Entered Mexico Without Getting an FMM?

It is possible to enter Mexico without going through immigration and getting an FMM. At the U.S. Mexico border, you can drive right across without stopping. Nobody will flag you down unless you look suspicious. You may feel tempted to drive through to avoid paying the FMM fee. There are a number of reasons why you shouldn’t do this.

If you’re caught in Mexico without a valid FMM, most likely you will be temporarily detained and then told to go back to the border to get one. If you made it hundreds of miles from the border, this would be a major hassle. The officer that catches you could also try to solicit a bribe or issue you a fine. If you’re trying to exit Mexico without an FMM, you may have to pay the immigration official a fee/bribe of around $100.

If you are driving your car in Mexico without an FMM, your insurance probably isn’t valid because you technically entered the country illegally. Check your policy. If you’re pulled over, the police could impound your car if they wanted to. It is also important to note that there are regular checkpoints throughout Mexico. At these checkpoints, the officers will ask to see your passport and FMM to make sure you’re in the country legally.

You also will not be able to board a flight in Mexico because an FMM is required. Even for domestic flights. If you were involved in a serious accident or experienced a medical emergency and you need to be evacuated by air to another city, you may experience a delay if you don’t have an FMM.

Of course, it is also the law. You need an FMM to legally be in Mexico as a tourist. It’s always best not to break the law in a foreign country. For these reasons, you should always take the time to get an FMM when visiting Mexico, even if you’re only crossing the border for the day.

Can I renew or extend an FMM?

No. FMM tourist permits can not be extended or renewed in Mexico. You must leave the country before your permit expires or you will be fined based on the number of days that you overstayed.

The only way to extend your stay is to leave the country and then re-enter and get a new FMM. This is officially called ‘leave to remain’. Alternatively, you could leave the country and apply for a temporary residency visa. Either way, you have to leave Mexico before the visitor’s permit expires. It is non-renewable.

Can I Exchange an FMM for a Residency Visa?

No. You must apply for a temporary residency visa or permanent residency visa outside of Mexico at a Mexican embassy or consulate.

There are a couple of exceptions to this. It is possible to exchange your FMM permit for a temporary residency visa in a small number of situations. In order to do this, you must meet a specific set of criteria.

You must be the spouse, child, or parent of a Mexican national or permanent residency visa holder. You must also meet the other requirements for obtaining a temporary residency visa. In addition, you may be able to apply for residency within Mexico if you are seeking political asylum.

Do I Have to Stop at the Border or Can I Get an FMM in Mexico?

Yes, you have to stop at the border to get a Mexican tourist card. You cannot get an FMM anywhere but an official port of entry (land border, seaport, or international airport). If you applied for your FMM online, you still have to stop at the border to get it stamped and validated.

In the past, you could drive across the border and travel into Mexico and get an FMM at an immigration office. This was easier and faster because you didn’t have to deal with stopping at a busy border crossing. Unfortunately, this is no longer possible.

Most border crossings are open 24/7/365 so there is no excuse for not stopping. Check the hours of the border before you plan to arrive just to be sure. At busy border crossings, you can also check the average wait time before you go. You can check border wait times on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website here.

Final Thoughts

The FMM permit makes it easy for U.S. citizens, Canadian citizens, and citizens of many other countries to visit Mexico without arranging a visa in advance. If you’re eligible, you can get your FMM on arrival at the border or airport in just a few minutes. All you need is a valid passport and enough cash to pay the permit fee. The only complication is that the process varies slightly depending on where and how you enter Mexico. Hopefully, this guide clears things up and makes planning your trip to Mexico a bit easier and smoother.

Have you visited Mexico on an FMM visitor’s permit lately? Share your tips and experience in the comments below!

Requirements for entering Mexico as a tourist

To enter Mexico as a tourist, it's necessary to meet certain requirements, such as obtaining Mexico's Tourist Card (FMM) if traveling by land. The following subsections detail the requirements for entering Mexico as a tourist, the difference between a visa and the FMM, visa and FMM exemptions, and what happens if you do not have the FMM when arriving in Mexico by land.

Visa vs. Tourist Card

Although some countries have visa exemption agreements with Mexico, most tourists need authorization to enter the country. Tourists traveling by land require Mexico's Tourist Card (FMM), while tourists entering by air can obtain an FMM at the entry point or a visa at a Mexican embassy or consulate.

Visa and Tourist Card Exemptions

There are some countries whose citizens are exempt from obtaining a visa to enter Mexico, but they still need the Mexico's Tourist Card to enter the country. Citizens from the United States and Canada can obtain the Tourist Card at the entry point or border , while other citizens will need to apply online or at a Mexican embassy or consulate.

What happens if you don't have the Tourist Card upon arriving in Mexico by land?

Tourists entering Mexico by land from the United States and Canada need to obtain Mexico's Tourist Card moments before crossing the border. If a tourist arrives at the border without the Tourist Card, they will have to go back to the United States or Canada to get the FMM at the entry point . Therefore, it's crucial to obtain the Tourist Card before traveling to avoid any issues at the border.

What is Mexico's Tourist Card (FMM)?

Mexico's Tourist Card, also known as FMM, is a mandatory requirement for all foreigners visiting Mexico for tourism, business, or leisure, as long as they enter the country by land. The FMM is not a visa, but travelers from visa-exempt countries still need to get an FMM. This card can only be used to visit Mexico for business, tourism, and leisure purposes; it does not grant the holder the right to work or seek employment in the country.

Who needs it and for how long is it valid?

Mexico's Tourist Card (FMM) is required for all foreigners visiting Mexico by land. US and Canadian citizens can get the Tourist Card at the border or the entry port. The FMM is valid for up to 180 days from its date of issuance.

How to fill out the FMM form online?

The FMM form can be completed online before traveling to Mexico, and it's a straightforward process with basic questions about the trip itself and personal information. Among the questions to be answered are details about accommodation and travel plans, personal information like the traveler's full name and passport, as well as the flight number and the visitor's arrival date in Mexico. Finally, the Tourist Card fee must be paid.

Where can you obtain Mexico's Tourist Card?

The Tourist Card can be obtained online or in person, in the case of US and Canadian citizens, at the border or the entry port. Online, the visitor can fill out a simple application and make the corresponding payment. Otherwise, the traveler must go to an immigration inspection window at the border or entry port to receive the Tourist Card. It's essential to note that the card costs about USD 25, and the loss of it must be replaced.

What information is needed to fill out the FMM form?

Travel Details, Accommodation, and Emergency Contact

To complete the online form for Mexico's Tourist Card or FMM, it is necessary to provide basic details of the trip, such as the arrival date, entry city, and the duration of the stay in Mexico. It is also necessary to provide the address of the accommodation where you will be staying in Mexico and a name and phone number for an emergency contact. It's crucial to ensure the information provided is correct to avoid problems at the border. In addition, it is wise to have a printed copy of this information in case it is requested upon arrival in Mexico.

Personal Information, Passport, and Flight

Another set of information necessary to complete the FMM form is the traveler's personal information, including the full name, date of birth, country of origin, and passport number. In addition, return flight information must be provided, including the flight number and the dates of arrival and departure from Mexico. It's vital that this information is correct and matches the passport and flight tickets' details. Any discrepancy can delay or prevent entry into Mexico.

Payment and Confirmation of the FMM Online

Finally, to complete the FMM application online, the corresponding payment needs to be made. The current cost of the FMM is around USD 25, and it can be paid with a credit or debit card. After completing the payment, a confirmation number will be received, which should be presented upon arrival in Mexico. It is important to ensure the form has been correctly completed and payment has been made before traveling to Mexico to avoid problems at the border. Furthermore, it's recommended to print a copy of the FMM form and payment confirmation to carry with you during the trip.

How to obtain and fill out an FMM at the entry port to Mexico?

Upon arriving in Mexico by land, the FMM can be obtained at the entry port. US and Canadian citizens can also acquire it at the border. It's important to carry necessary documents such as the passport, return flight ticket/bus ticket, or hotel reservation. It is also necessary to pay the corresponding fee for the FMM, which is usually around USD 25.

Waiting Time and Tips to Expedite the Process

The waiting time to complete the FMM obtaining process can vary depending on the season and time of day. Generally, it tends to be very crowded, and long lines can form. To expedite the process, it's advisable to approach less crowded immigration booths and have all documents well prepared.

Tips to expedite the process:

Approach less crowded immigration booths.
Have all necessary documents well prepared before arriving.
Pay the corresponding FMM fee in advance to avoid having to do it on-site.

Obtaining an FMM for another person

It is possible to obtain an FMM for another person if you have the necessary documents and written authorization from the interested person. In addition, the legal representative must have an official photo ID, such as a passport or a governmental identification.

Documents needed to obtain an FMM on behalf of another person:

Legal representative's personal documents: passport or governmental ID with photo.
Personal documents of the person interested in obtaining the FMM.
Written authorization from the person interested in obtaining the FMM.

It's important to remember that the Tourist Card of Mexico (FMM) is a mandatory requirement for all foreigners traveling to Mexico for tourism, business, or leisure if they arrive by land. The FMM can be obtained online or in person and is valid for a maximum of 180 days. It's recommended to have all necessary documents well prepared to expedite the process at the entry port and avoid problems at the border.

Handy Tips When Visiting Mexico with a Tourist Card

Types of Accommodation and Traveler Recommendations

Mexico offers many types of accommodation for all kinds of travelers, from luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts to hostels and guesthouses. It's recommended to research the options available in the area you're visiting and choose the accommodation that best suits your needs and personal preferences . Travelers can also consult reviews and ratings from other visitors online and through mobile apps to make an informed decision.

Luxury Hotels and All-inclusive Resorts

Luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts in Mexico are ideal for those travelers looking for a high-end vacation experience. These establishments usually offer a wide range of services and high-quality amenities such as restaurants, bars, spas, evening entertainment, and water sports. Some of the most popular luxury hotels are located in Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, and the Riviera Maya.

Hostels and Guesthouses

Hostels and guesthouses are a fantastic option for those travelers looking for a more budget-friendly and culture-focused experience. These establishments usually offer shared or private rooms, and may include breakfast and access to a shared kitchen. Hostels and guesthouses can be found in most cities and towns in Mexico and are an excellent way to meet other travelers.

Currency Exchange and Car Rental in Mexico

Before traveling to Mexico, it's recommended to exchange currency in your home country for Mexican pesos. Banks, exchange houses, and ATMs are safe and reliable places to exchange currency. It's also important to note that many local stores and establishments only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry enough cash. If you plan to drive in Mexico, you can rent a car online or through a travel agency. It's important to note that roads may be in poor condition and traffic in big cities like Mexico City can be hectic.

General Recommendations and Online Tourist Guide

Mexico is a safe and welcoming country for tourists, but travelers are advised to take certain precautions to avoid problematic situations . It should be noted that some urban areas can be dangerous, especially at night, and it's important to keep valuable items such as mobile phones and cameras safe. For more information about places of interest, cultural events, and tourist attractions in Mexico, you can consult online tourist guides, travel blogs, and official tourism websites. It's also recommended to ask locals for recommendations on places to visit, restaurants, and popular activities in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mexico's Tourist Card (FMM)

What happens if I lose my Tourist Card or forget to carry it?

It's very important to carry the FMM during your entire trip in Mexico, as authorities can ask for it at any time. If you lose the card or forget to carry it, you must request a new one. The cost of the FMM is around 533 Mexican pesos (about 25 dollars) and must be paid again. It's recommended to have a backup copy of the card, in case of loss.

Can I work in Mexico with the Tourist Card?

No, the FMM does not grant the right to work or seek employment in Mexico. The card can only be used to carry out tourist, business, or recreational activities. If you wish to work in Mexico, you need to apply for a work visa.

What happens if I stay longer than the Tourist Card allows?

If you stay in Mexico longer than the FMM allows, you will be in an irregular immigration situation and could face penalties and fines. It's possible to request an extension of stay from the National Migration Institute (INM), but it's important to do so before the card expires. If you haven't requested the extension before the expiration date, you must leave Mexico on the date indicated on the FMM.

Longer Stays and Working in Mexico: Applying for a Mexican Visa If you need to stay in Mexico longer than allowed by the Tourist Card, or if you wish to work in the country, you can apply for the corresponding Mexican visa. The requirements and processes vary depending on the type of visa and the length of stay so it's important to thoroughly research and start the application process well in advance.

Si quieres conocer otros artículos parecidos a What is Mexico's Tourist Card or FMM and how to obtain it? puedes visitar la categoría Entry Requirements .

Visiting Mexico with a Criminal Record: What You Need to Know
Documents Required to Visit Mexico on a Cruise Ship

Notas relacionadas con este tema:

How to Extend Your Visa and FMM in Mexico to Prolong Your Stay

México: Entry Requirements for Chinese Citizens

Entry Requirements for Russian Citizens to Mexico

Digital Nomad Visa for Mexico: An Opportunity to Live at Low Cost in the Country

Entry Requirements for British Citizens to Mexico

México: Entry Requirements for American Citizens

Este sitio web utiliza cookies para asegurar que tengas una mejor experiencia al navegar por él. Leer más Leer más.

Mexican Tourist Cards and How to Get One

Ben Pipe / Getty Images

Who Needs a Mexico Tourist Card?

How to get a tourist card in person, how to apply online, length of validity, what to do if you lose your card, how to extend your tourist card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mexico tourist cards ( Forma Migratoria Multiple, also known as FMT) are a government form declaring that the stated purpose of a visit to Mexico is tourism. Although more than one kind of Mexico visa exists, a Mexico tourist card essentially says the holder has the intention of vacationing in Mexico for no more than 180 days. The form requires minimal information including name, nationality, date of birth, the purpose for visiting, flight details, and the address of the place you'll be staying in Mexico. and address of stay in Mexico.

Travelers can think of it as a visa on arrival, as it functions in the same way, even though it's not technically a visa. Foreign nationals who will be working in Mexico are required to obtain a work visa from the National Immigration Institute (INM).

Be sure to hold on to your tourist card and keep it in a safe place, as you will need to hand it in when you are departing the country.

In the past, travelers who were remaining within the United States border zone for up to 72 hours did not need a tourist card. However, now the tourist card is required for most non-Mexican visitors to the country, including infants, who will remain for fewer than 180 days.

Exceptions are granted, however, to travelers staying in Mexico for fewer than 24 hours. As of August 2022, Cancun International Airport has done away with tourist cards and customs forms for most foreign visitors, including U.S. passport holders. The 180-day rule still applies, however; travelers will instead receive a stamp upon arrival, ensuring that they stay no longer than what's allowed.

If flying into Mexico, passengers will be given a tourist card and instructions for filling it out onboard their plane—the cost of a tourist card (about $25) is included in the fare, so travelers won't need to pay upon arrival. The card is stamped at customs/immigration in the Mexico airport, showing the visitor is in the country legally. Should your flight attendant not hand you a tourist card, you can pick one up at an immigration desk at a Mexico airport.

If you're driving , taking the bus , or walking into Mexico, the tourist card is given at the border inspection station/immigration office after showing your ID or passport proving your U.S. citizenship. Visitors need to go to a bank and pay the card fee, and it will be stamped to show the payment was made. The next step is returning to a border immigration office to have the card stamped again—proof the holder is visiting the country legally.

Tourists can also get a tourist card at a Mexico consular office or Mexico government tourism office in a U.S. city before heading to Mexico.

To ensure a smooth customs process, you may find it easier to complete your immigration online via the Mexico Tourist Card website . You can apply for one within 30 days of your trip; unlike tourist cards that you can get in person, these are free.

Once you've filled out the application, you will receive your card—which consists of an entry form and exit form—via e-mail. You will need to print both; upon arrival in Mexico, you will present them to an immigration official, who will stamp your exit form and write in the number of days that you are allowed to stay in the country. The official will keep the entry form, but you will need to hold onto the exit form for the duration of your trip.

The tourist card is valid for a maximum of 180 days or six months; however, the time actually given is at the discretion of the immigration official. Often, only 30, 60, or 90 days are granted. If you wish to stay in Mexico for longer than the time allotted on your tourist card, you will either need to leave and re-enter the country, extend your card, or apply for a tourist or work visa.

If you lose your Mexico tourist card, or it gets stolen, you will have to pay to replace it, which should be done as soon as possible. Go to the nearest immigration office in the country, or try the immigration office at the nearest airport, to pay a fine (reports vary from $40-$80) and receive a new card. It shouldn't take more than a few hours in total. Bring all relevant documentation, including travel tickets, receipts, and your passport should the officials request proof of length of stay.

Technically, it is possible to be deported from a country without a passport stamp or the proper visa and documents, but reports are rare that this step is taken for travelers who have misplaced their tourist cards. The majority typically pay a fine and are reissued a new card without issue.

If wish to travel around Mexico for a bit longer, and the immigration official cleared you for a stay of fewer than 180 days, you can apply for an extension at the National Institute of Immigration Office ; be sure to bring your passport and proof of income to your appointment. For those planning to stay longer than 180 days, you will need to apply for a tourist visa.

If you are a foreign citizen and are traveling to Mexico for pleasure or short-term business, you will need a tourist card. Exceptions are made to those arriving in Mexico by way of Cancun International Airport.

You can get a Mexican tourist card online, at a Mexico airport (or at a Mexico port of call if arriving by sea), or at your home country's Mexico embassy.

It depends on where you get yours. If you're flying, your airline may provide you with a tourist card, which is included in the cost of your ticket. You can also get a card for free online. If you're applying at an immigration office, however, it will cost you about $25.

U.S. Department of State. "Mexico International Travel Information." Accessed January 12, 2023.

iVisa. "How to Obtain a Mexico Tourist Card Online Quick and Easy." November 24, 2022.

What Documents Do I Need for Mexico Travel?

Driving in Mexico: What You Need to Know

Los Cabos International Airport Guide

Visa Requirements for Italy

How to Cross the Border From San Diego to Tijuana, Mexico

Visa Requirements for Vietnam

Vital Information for the First-Time Visitor to Thailand

Visa Requirements for Sweden

Visa Requirements for Hong Kong

Visa Requirements for Greece

Visa Requirements for Macao

Visa Requirements for Germany

Visa Requirements for Finland

Visa Requirements for France

Entry Requirements for Central America

Visa Requirements for Brazil

You can also search using these:

Discover Mexico A-Z

News & Offers
Mexico Guides
Mexico Features
Free eBooks

Free Guides

Travel Experiences

Trip planning, travel destinations, destination highlights, mexico lifestyles, living & lifestyle, lifestyle planning, real estate, healthcare & wellbeing, leisure assistance, lifestyle assistance, insurance coverages, property assistance, about mexperience, mexico essentials, discover more, faqs: mexico’s visitor visas and visitor permit, the fmm.

These are the most frequently-asked questions we receive in relation to Mexico's visitor visas, and the visitor permit—updated regularly

This article contains a list of the most frequently asked questions and answers regarding matters related to Mexico’s visitor visas, and the visitor permit, the ‘Forma Migratoria Multiple,’ or FMM

FAQs about Mexico visitor visas and the FMM

Do i need a visa to visit mexico.

Whether you need to apply for a visa before you arrive in Mexico depends on what country’s passport you hold, or other criteria. This article: Do I need a visa to visit Mexico describes the details.

If I normally require a visa to visit Mexico, but I have a visa to visit or live in the USA, do I need to apply for a separate visa to visit Mexico?

If the country you are a passport holder of is on Mexico’s ‘visa required’ list , and the United States of America has granted you a visitor’s visa or a residency visa — and that visa is current (not expired)— you can visit Mexico without the need to apply for a separate visa. You can find further details on this article .

How long can I remain in Mexico with a visitor’s permit (FMM)?

If you enter Mexico as tourist or business visitor, then the immigration official at the port of entry will grant you a maximum number of days to stay in Mexico when you arrive; this number of days will be written on the visitor’s permit for your reference and will not exceed 180 days .

If the official writes a number less than 180 days then your stay in Mexico will be limited accordingly; the FMM cannot be extended . In all cases, the visitor’s permit will always expire after the number of days written on the permit : it cannot be extended or renewed and you must leave the country before it expires. You can find further details about this permit on our article Your Mexican Tourist Permit, FMM

Mexico is phasing out paper versions of the FMM

The paper versions of the FMM are being gradually phased out and replaced with a stamp in your passport.

Read this article for further details .

How long do I have to remain outside of Mexico before I can return using a new Visitor permit (FMM)?

There is no time limit on how long you must remain outside of Mexico before returning under the auspice of a new visitor permit. (You could leave and return the same day.)

However, if you continually leave and re-enter in Mexico using a visitor permit, you will have your intentions questioned by an immigration official when you re-enter. You can find further details about this permit on our article Your Mexican Tourist Permit, FMM

How do I replace a lost/stolen visitor permit (FMM)?

You can find the answer to this question on our article Your Mexican Tourist Permit, FMM

What do I do if I overstay on my visitor permit (FMM)?

If i have a previous criminal record, will this prevent me entering mexico.

Whether you arrive in Mexico and complete a FMM (visitor permit) or have visa sticker in your passport issued by a Mexican consulate, permission to enter Mexico is always determined by the Immigration Officer at the port of entry.

There is no way for Mexico to determine whether a person has a prior criminal record unless a foreign state has shared that information with Mexico beforehand. (Mexico’s immigration system might alert border officials about ‘wanted’ criminals and other high-risk individuals who attempt to enter Mexico.)

Mexican consulates usually advise that people with a criminal record contact their own country’s authority and ask whether any background information has been shared with other countries. If you have any doubts, we suggest you contact your nearest Mexican consulate for advice.

What visa do I need to get married in Mexico? Are same-sex marriages allowed in Mexico? Will my Mexican marriage certificate be valid in my home country?

You can find answers to all these questions on our Guide to Getting Married in Mexico .

I took my tourist visa (FMM) home with me because there was no one to give it to when I drove out of Mexico. What do I do?

If you were given a paper version of the Visitor Permit, and you took this home with you, you can find the answer to this question on our article Your Mexican Tourist Permit, FMM . Note that paper versions of the permit are being phased out and substituted for a stamp in your passport, so this issue is becoming less relevant.

Can I exchange my Visitor’s Visa (FMM) for a Residency Permit?

In a small number of specific circumstances you can exchange a visitor permit for residency permit in Mexico, but most people cannot exchange a visitor permit (FMM) for a residency permit.

If you are currently in Mexico and decide that you want to apply for legal residency here, you will most likely need to leave Mexico and apply via a Mexican consulate abroad. See our article about routes to applying for residency in Mexico for more details.

Learn more about residency in Mexico

Mexperience publishes information and resources to help you learn about how to apply for and obtain legal residency in Mexico:

Learn about the principal routes to obtaining legal residency
Here are the latest financial criteria required to qualify for residency in Mexico
Compare the difference between Temporary and Permanent residency
Find the latest residency-related fees charged by Mexico’s government
Our free Mexico Immigration Guide encapsulates essential information about visas and residency permits for Mexico.

Mexico in your inbox

Our free newsletter about Mexico brings you a monthly round-up of recently published stories and opportunities, as well as gems from our archives.

Visas & Immigration

Mexico Visas & Immigration

Guides and articles about Mexican visas, legal residency, and immigration

Visitor Visa (FMM)

Learn About Your Mexico Visitors Permit, FMM

Mexico offers visitor permits for visits and short business trips lasting 180 days or less to passport holders on...

Paper Version

Mexico Phasing Out Use of Paper Visitor Permits (FMM)

Mexico’s immigration service has begun to phase out use of paper versions of the FMM—the multi-purpose visitor permits and...

Changes to Time Allowed in Mexico Using a Visitor Permit

The way visitors are admitted to Mexico is changing in regard to the amount of time granted to stay...

Documentation

Documents Required for Travel and Entry to Mexico

A reminder about the documentation that is required for travel and entry to Mexico whether you are visiting or...

Entering & Leaving

Procedures for Entering and Leaving Mexico

There are some straightforward paperwork procedures to engage with when you arrive to, and depart from, Mexico. This...

Volunteering

Volunteer helping to release a sea turtle back into the wild

Volunteering in Mexico

This article explains what you need to know about visas if you plan to undertake some volunteer work in...

Time Allowed

Time Limits on Mexico Visitor Visas and Residency Permits

Discover answers to common questions about time limits as well as exit/entry rules for Mexico visitor visas and residency...

Routes to Residency

Principal Routes to Obtaining Legal Residency in Mexico

This article describes principal routes foreigners take to apply for legal residency in Mexico, with references to additional information...

Immigration eBook

Signposts to Mexico City and other destinations

Mexico Immigration Guide 2024 — Continually Updated

Complete and continuously-updated guide about about Mexico immigration, including visas, rules, applications, and procedures for legal residency in Mexico

Please SAVE the PDF for your personal use.

Download again

My File Downloaded - Close this box

UponArriving

Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Ultimate Guide

If you’ve ever travelled to Mexico then you know that in order to get access into the country you will have to fill out and submit a “Mexico tourist card.”

The problem is not every airline will issue you one of these cards while you are on the plane and so in many cases you will have to wait until you arrive at the airport to fill it out.

Some Mexican airports, especially the popular ones such as Cancun, can receive an overwhelming amount of tourists hopping off flights which means that you will be trying to beat the crowds while filling out your Mexico tourist card.

That can be quite a stressful experience but luckily you can avoid some of that stress by taking care of your immigration card ahead of time.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about filling out this form including how to do it and also give you some other tips.

Table of Contents

What is a Mexico tourist card?

The Mexico tourist card aka Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM) is an immigration form that must be filled out prior to your entry in Mexico.

It’s a form that you will submit to immigration once you arrive at the airport and is required for every person including children.

It is recommended to fill out the form and register online in order to make it more convenient for yourself when you are making your way through immigration at the airport.

Update: this form is no longer needed for US tourist visits to Cancun.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

Are you eligible for a Mexico tourist card?

The first question that you need to answer is are you actually eligible for a Mexico tourist card?

If the following situations apply to you then the answer is yes.

You are a foreign citizen traveling to Mexico
You have a valid passport
You will travel to Mexico in less than 30 days
You will not stay in Mexico more than 180 days
You are traveling to Mexico for pleasure, vacation, or recreational purposes
You are NOT going to Mexico to seek employment

So if you are a standard American heading to Mexico for a nice week long vacation then you will fall into the category of being eligible for a Mexico tourist card.

I think the most important factor to consider is that you need to be traveling in less than 30 days in order to fill out the form and register.

Related: How to Easily Get to Tulum Mexico (for Cheap)

How to get a Mexico tourist card

You can now fill out your immigration form online via a very convenient and straightforward process.

Here is what you will need to fill out your form completely:

Contact information

Flight information.

Address or name of the hotel you were staying at

Email address

This will be basic information like your name and address.

For the form, you will need to provide your passport number along with dates such as the issue date and expiration date.

When filling out your passport details, Make sure that you have at least six months of valid time on your passport when visiting Mexico, regardless of how long you plan to stay in the country.

If your passport expires in under six months, you will have to fill out a manual form once you arrive at the airport. Also, according to some reports it’s possible that you may be denied entry into the country.

To be 100% on the safe side I would advise for your passport to have at least six months of eligibility left.

You will need to provide your flight number and airline.

This can be found on your boarding pass or when you check your itinerary via the airline’s website or app.

Look for a number that has two letters in front of it and then numbers following after that.

For example, if you were flying on United Airlines flight 125 your flight number would look like “UA125.”

When you input your details, typically you will input the airline separate from the number.

So using that UA125 example above, You would input your details as follows.

Airline: United Airlines
Number: 125

Hotel information

Many people often arrive at the airport with no idea about the address of the hotel and some people don’t even know the name of the hotel.

By filling out this form ahead of time you can avoid any confusion at the airport.

While it is not necessarily required to input the full address of your hotel and you could simply include the name, since you are filling this out ahead of time you might as well input all of the relevant information regarding the address.

It’s also always a great idea to have the address of your hotel saved somewhere in your phone or on a piece of paper just in case you need to reference that while traveling.

Your tourist card will be emailed to you so make sure that you have a working email address.

Tip: Sometimes there will be issues with the email system so it is recommended that you download and print the tourist card as soon as you have that option.

Finally, you will need to print off your tourist card. Make sure that your printer is working well so that you can avoid any issues with legibility.

Filling out the tourist cards

You can find a link to register for the Mexico tourist card here.

The first part of the process is filling out some basic information which I will break down below.

The form that you will be filling out will look like this:

Country of citizenship

This will be the country of your passport.

Port of entry

You will be able to select from a drop-down menu of different airports.

You should be able to find your airport on the menu if it is one of the major airports but if you are flying into a smaller city then you may have to just select “other.”

Here are the airports you will find:

Acapulco International Airport
Cancun International Airport
Cozumel International Airport
Guadalajara International Airport
Huatulco International Airport
Los Cabos International Airport
Manzanillo International Airport
Mazatlan International Airport
Merida International Airport
Mexico City International Airport
Puerto Vallarta International Airport
Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa Airport

Note that some airports may refuse to accept your online tourist card and might require you to submit a manual card. This might be more common at smaller airports.

Arrival and departure dates

You will need to select your arrival and departure dates which are the dates that you will actually be entering and leaving the country.

The dates should line up with your airline’s itinerary if you are flying.

Name or address of hotel

As stated above, supply your name or preferably the address of your hotel. You can likely just copy and paste the address from something like Google Maps.

Contact name

Simply input your name.

Total number of people traveling to Mexico

You will need to select the total number of individuals traveling to Mexico including yourself. This number should include all children and also infants.

Main contact email

Make sure you input a valid email address.

Simply enter in your postal or ZIP Code.

Things to consider

After you submit your details, there will be a confirmation page that goes over some of the key points of consideration.

Here is a summary of these points:

Every individual must fill out an individual tourist card
The cards are free for all passengers traveling by air with a major commercial airline
You can only apply for a tourist card within 30 days of your arrival to Mexico
Your passport must be valid for 180 days to apply for a card online otherwise she will have to fill it out manually when you arrive
The information on your application must exactly match the information on your passport
The flight information that you will input is only for your arrival flight
Sometimes there are issues with the email systems so you should download and print your card when given the option
After you download the first card you finish you will have the option to begin a new application
You can print your tourist card in color or black-and-white
You will print out two pages and do not cut or alter the forms in any way
On rare occasions, an immigration officer may not accept a tourist card and may require you to fill out a manual form.

In addition to the points above, be sure to retain the portion of the card that the immigration officer returns to you.

In many cases, you will need to show this stub when you depart the country. If you lose this then you might be delayed at the airport when departing and you might even get fined.

Finally, you will have to fill out a customs form when you arrive regardless of if you have already filled out your tourist card.

Related: Cabo vs Cancun: Which is Better for You?

Registration form

After you input your preliminary details you can then proceed to the next stage of registration. You will need to input some of the same details you already did but this is the final step to register.

You will begin by selecting the type of travel you are doing which could be air or land.

After you select your type of travel (let’s say you selected air) you will then need to input more details.

Tip: if you will be making multiple land crossings into Mexico you should consider applying for SENTRI ).

Once again, you will need to fill out the point of entry, which is the airport you are arriving to, your travel dates, airline name, and flight number.

You will then need to input your personal information which would include your name surname (which is your last name), gender, date of birth, nationality, and country of birth.

Then you will need to fill in the details regarding your identification document which in most cases will likely be your passport.

Select the type of document that you have and then enter in your document number which would be your passport number, country of issue which will be the US for a lot of readers, date of issue, and expiration date.

Keep in mind that the format for your dates is date, month, year.

Then we need to input your place of residence which would be the US and your current home address.

Next you will select the reason of your trip.

Then select the state and address that you will be staying at which would be the hotel.

Finally, provide your email address and submit the verification code.

Once you have finished processing your form, you can download and print it out and bring it along with you on your flight. It should also arrive in your email inbox.

Coronavirus update

Due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, you may encounter additional requirements when entering the country. For example, you may be required to complete a health questionnaire.

In addition to contact and trouble information, it will ask you questions such as “have you been in contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus?”

It will also inquire about potential symptoms such as temperatures, coughing, headaches, and difficulty breathing.

Global Entry

If you would like to expedite your entry back into the US when traveling from an international destination, you should highly consider getting Global Entry.

It will allow you to bypass the main immigration line which can often be very long and you can also get expedited entry through customs as well.

If you have the right credit card, you can get it for free and it will be good for five years.

Obtaining a Mexico tourist card is a great idea because it will make your travels much more convenient when arriving at the airport.

It is easy to fill out the form and register and so I would strongly recommend anybody traveling to Mexico to go ahead and complete the registration online.

You might also be interested in the following article:

Is Cabo, Mexico Safe?

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

Unfortunately, it isn’t as easy as you claim….or at least not in my case. I’m planning on flying into the Queretaro International Airport…but that isn’t offered in the Point of Entry drop down box….yes, I initially put in Other, but then it proceeds to the next page and again asks for Point of Entry where “Other” is not offered, nor is Queretaro International Airport. I see that Ing. Fernando Espinoza Gutiérrez Airport is offered as a selection, but as per Wikipedia…

“Ing. Fernando Espinoza Gutiérrez Airport (IATA: formerly QRO, ICAO: formerly MMQT) was located in Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico. This airport was inaugurated in 1955.[2] Due to the construction of the new Querétaro International Airport in 2004, the airport is no longer used. The buildings and land that formed the airport are now government buildings, and were donated to the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro.”

…so what’s a guy to do??? So frustrating and this is only my first step on this journey…it’s not looking promising!!

I would like to be FULLY ready and prepared when we travel to Cancun next week. How do I know which forms/webistes are true and safe to submit. Is there a place I can print out a blank hard copy of a form and fill it out manually? Is it safe to submit it online? In the past, we have always been given the forms on the plane and had them filled out when we landed. We have had 3 trips canceled because of COVID so I know things have changed. Now facing possible cancellation again next week. Thank you in advance for any help to make our trip go smoothly. Also, this was a very good and informative webiste. Thank you!!!

Thanks, not all sights (even the government one) mentions “within 30 days” I was trying to fill out the application but it wouldn’t accept my arrival date. I’m just trying to get as much done as I can now to alleviate anxiety later… but I’ll wait a few more days to apply!

Privacy Overview

Login / New Account

Password requirements:.

Password must not have spaces.
Password must be between 6-20 characters
Passwords Match

Mexican Tourist Cards (FMM)

Mexican tourist cards (fmm) 2024.

Updated March 29, 2023

Tourist Card (FMM) Facts:

The FMM is a document issued by Mexico's INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración)
Casually called a tourist card or tourist "visa" although it is not officially a visa
Issued to U.S., Canadian and other nationalities for vacation or visitor purposes
Easily obtained at an INM office at the border or online. (If you get an FMM online, it is still required to stop at an INM office at the border for the official entry stamp. If applicable, you will also need to have a copy of your payment receipt.).
Requires a valid passport or passport card
The stamped FMM is valid for land travel throughout Mexico
Cost: $717.00 Pesos (appx U.S. $43) per person; FREE if the trip is 7 days or less and you cross by land
May be issued for up to 180 days

Traveling through San Ysidro/El Chaparral? See where to get a tourist card at the El Chaparral border crossing (San Ysidro/Tijuana).

Visit the online FMM application or read more on how to get an FMM online now.

FAQs about Tourist Cards (FMM):

What is the general procedure to get a tourist card (fmm).

Fill out a tourist card (FMM) form at the immigration office (INM) and walk to the nearby bank and pay for the tourist card
Or fill out the online tourist card (FMM) application and pay online with a Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card. Your online tourist card (FMM) will be ready to print within minutes. After printing your FMM form, it must be stamped by INM within 30 days to be valid
Whether buying the tourist card at an INM office or online, visit the INM office to get your tourist card (FMM) stamped/validated

When I drive across the border, will I be stopped to get an FMM?

What is a tourist card (fmm), what type of documentation do i need to obtain a tourist card (fmm), what information is asked on the tourist card (fmm) form.

Nationality
Date of birth
Passport number
Purpose of trip
How you are entering Mexico: air, sea, land

When is a tourist card (FMM) free?

How much does a tourist card (fmm) cost, is it possible to enter and exit baja multiple times with the same tourist card (fmm), what if i lose my tourist card (fmm), does the tourist card (fmm) have to be returned to inm, how do i obtain a tourist card (fmm).

Keep in mind that if you obtain your tourist card before crossing the border, you will still have to stop at the Mexican immigration office at the border to document your entry date and to have your tourist card stamped by immigration officials. Tourist cards are no longer available at Mexican Consulates.

Who may obtain a tourist card (FMM)?

For citizens of other countries view the INM's list of Countries and Regions That Require and Do Not Require a Visa To Travel to Mexico - but DO require an FMM.

Visit INM's website in Spanish for the most updated information: Countries That Require a Visa and Countries That Do Not Require a Visa.

When is a tourist card (FMM) required?

Previously it was believed there was a tourist zone/72 hour exemption, but this was never actually part of Mexican immigration law according to federal delegate Rudolfo Figueroa from INM (Mexican Immigration).

It is important to note that in Baja, even though you may take your vehicle to the end of the peninsula without a vehicle permit (see vehicle importation regulations ) you are required to have a tourist card (FMM) in order to travel anywhere in the state.

Have used different times with different vehicles and each time was very simple - each time we have ... e had to use extra days and was made simple - way easier then when we stopped the first time after crossing boarder and purchasing! Our agent is the greatest - she’s the best!

I called Baja Bound and Rigo from customer service was the most helpful person I've ever spoken to! ... ! If you get a chance to speak to Rigo from the call center customer support you will fully understand every part of your policy! He was very kind and helpful!! 11 out of 10 experience!

Easy to get an insurance policy. Felt safter having it even though we didn't need it. Follow the ... speed limits, and wear your seat belts is all I've ever heard to stay safe and away from the Police. Happy Trails!

Mexican Adventures

Exploring Mexico: A Comprehensive Guide to Mexican Tourist Form and Travel Requirements

A Mexican Tourist Form, also known as FMM, is a mandatory immigration document for tourists visiting Mexico. It grants a temporary stay for up to 180 days and must be obtained before entry. The form requires basic personal and travel information, and can be obtained online or at designated ports of entry.

How to Fill Out the Mexican Tourist Form: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the purpose and importance of the mexican tourist form, common mistakes to avoid when completing the mexican tourist form, what documentation is required to complete the mexican tourist form, important tips for efficiently completing the mexican tourist form, mexican tourist form vs. visa: what’s the difference and which one do i need, how long does it take to process the mexican tourist form, what happens if i make a mistake on the mexican tourist form, how to retrieve a lost or misplaced mexican tourist form, understanding the consequences of providing false information on the mexican tourist form.

To fill out the Mexican Tourist Form, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Start by obtaining the Mexican Tourist Form, also known as the FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple), either online before your trip or at the point of entry in Mexico.

2. On the first section of the form, you will find personal information. Fill in your full name as it appears on your passport. Make sure to write it exactly as it is displayed, including any middle names or initials.

3. Next, provide your nationality, gender, date of birth, and country of birth. Ensure all the details are accurate.

4. Indicate your marital status by checking the appropriate box. Options usually include single, married, divorced, or widowed.

5. Proceed by stating your occupation. Write your current job title or field of work.

6. Specify your address. Fill in the place where you currently reside or your permanent address. This can be your home address, hotel, or any other place you’re staying in Mexico.

7. In the next section, which pertains to your trip to Mexico, provide information about your arrival and departure. Write the date and time of your arrival and departure from the country.

8. Sign and date the form at the designated spaces to certify the accuracy of the information provided.

9. Finally, detach the bottom portion of the form, which acts as your entry permit, and keep it safe. This document will be checked by Mexican immigration authorities upon departure.

Remember to complete the form in legible handwriting, using capital letters, and avoid any errors or crossings out to prevent delays or complications during your entry or exit from Mexico.

The purpose of the Mexican Tourist Form is to collect important information from tourists entering Mexico for various reasons, such as tourism, business, or medical purposes. It serves as a legal document that helps Mexican authorities keep a record of visitors and ensures their safety and security during their stay in the country.

The importance of the Mexican Tourist Form lies in several factors. Firstly, it allows the Mexican government to track the number and origins of tourists entering the country, which is valuable for tourism statistics, planning, and decision-making. This data helps in the development of tourist infrastructure and caters to the needs of tourists from different countries.

Secondly, the form provides crucial information about the purpose and duration of a visitor’s stay, as well as their accommodation details. This helps Mexican authorities ensure that tourists are abiding by immigration laws and regulations. It also aids in monitoring any potential risks or threats associated with certain tourists or their activities.

Furthermore, the Mexican Tourist Form collects vital contact information, including emergency contacts, which can be used to assist tourists in case of any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies during their stay. This ensures the safety and well-being of tourists and helps provide adequate support if needed.

In summary, understanding the purpose and importance of the Mexican Tourist Form allows both tourists and the Mexican government to ensure a smooth and safe experience for visitors, while also contributing to the development and growth of Mexico’s tourism sector.

Some common mistakes to avoid when completing the Mexican Tourist Form include:

1. Providing incorrect or incomplete personal information: It is important to ensure that all the information provided on the form is accurate and complete, including full name, passport details, and contact information. Any mistakes or omissions can lead to delays or complications at the immigration checkpoint.

2. Using outdated or incorrect forms: Make sure to use the most up-to-date version of the Mexican Tourist Form, as older versions may have different requirements or fields. The latest form can usually be found on the official website of the Mexican embassy or consulate.

3. Failing to sign and date the form: It is essential to thoroughly read the form and sign and date it in the designated spaces. Neglecting this step can result in the form being considered invalid, causing unnecessary complications upon arrival in Mexico.

4. Providing incorrect travel details: Ensure that the travel dates, flight numbers, and other itinerary-related information provided on the form matches the actual travel plans. Any discrepancies might raise questions and could lead to delays or further questioning by immigration authorities.

5. Neglecting to declare items or improper customs documentation: If you are carrying any items that require declaration or have specific customs requirements, make sure to comply with the regulations and provide accurate details on the form. Failure to do so can result in penalties or confiscation of goods.

6. Not keeping a copy of the form: Always keep a copy of the completed Mexican Tourist Form for your own records. This can be helpful in case of any issues or disputes during your visit.

7. Waiting until the last minute: Avoid filling out the form at the last minute right before your trip. Take the time to carefully review and complete the form in advance, ensuring that all the necessary information is provided accurately.

Remember to do thorough research, check official sources, and double-check all details to prevent any mistakes that could potentially disrupt your trip to Mexico.

To complete the Mexican Tourist Form, the following documentation is generally required:

1. Passport: A valid passport is necessary. Ensure that the passport has at least six months of validity remaining.

2. Travel itinerary: Provide details of your travel plans, including the purpose of the visit, duration of stay, and accommodation information. This includes hotel reservations, flight tickets, or any other relevant travel documents.

3. Personal information: Fill in personal details such as your full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and occupation.

4. Contact information: Provide your current address, phone number, and email address.

5. Proof of financial means: Some visitors may be required to show proof of financial means to cover their stay in Mexico. This can include bank statements, a credit card, or traveler’s checks.

6. Health information: In certain cases, a health declaration or medical insurance might be requested. It is advisable to check the specific requirements for your situation.

Note that the requirements may vary depending on the purpose and duration of your visit, and it is always recommended to check the most up-to-date information on the official website of the Mexican immigration authorities or consult with the Mexican embassy/consulate in your country.

1. Begin by gathering all the required information: Before starting the form, make sure you have all the necessary details handy. This includes your passport information, flight details, hotel address, and contact information .

2. Check for the latest version of the form: To avoid any complications, always make sure you are using the most up-to-date version of the Mexican tourist form. This can usually be found on the official Mexican government or immigration website.

3. Fill out the form accurately and legibly: Take your time to carefully fill out the form, ensuring that all information provided is accurate and legible. Mistakes or unclear handwriting may lead to delays or issues upon arrival in Mexico.

4. Double-check all entries: Once you have completed the form, review all the information entered to ensure its accuracy. Mistakes in passport numbers or flight details, for example, can cause unnecessary complications.

5. Be mindful of the time frame: The Mexican tourist form usually needs to be completed within 30 days prior to your arrival in Mexico. Don’t leave it until the last minute to avoid any unnecessary stress or inconveniences.

6. Keep a printed and digital copy: After completing the form, it’s essential to have both a printed copy and a digital backup (such as a screenshot or PDF) for easy access. This will come in handy if you need to present the form at immigration checkpoints or if any issues arise.

7. Have all necessary supporting documents: Along with the completed tourist form, make sure to carry any supporting documents that may be required, such as hotel reservations, return flight tickets, or travel insurance. These may be requested upon arrival in Mexico.

8. Stay updated on entry requirements: Entry requirements and regulations may change from time to time, so it’s crucial to stay informed about any updates or changes in procedures. Check the official Mexican government or embassy websites for the latest information.

9. Seek assistance if needed: If you have any doubts or issues while completing the Mexican tourist form, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Reach out to the Mexican embassy or contact a reliable travel agency for guidance and support.

10. Be prepared for customs and border control: Finally, familiarize yourself with the Mexican customs and border control procedures. Have your completed tourist form, passport, and supporting documents readily available for inspection to ensure a smooth entry into the country.

The Mexican Tourist Form and Visa serve different purposes and depend on your nationality and the duration of your stay in Mexico. The Mexican Tourist Form, also known as Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM), is a document that allows tourists to enter Mexico for a maximum of 180 days (6 months) for tourism purposes without a visa. The FMM can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or border crossing, and you need to keep it with you during your stay and surrender it when leaving the country.

On the other hand, a visa is required for certain nationalities intending to stay in Mexico for more than 180 days or for purposes other than tourism, such as work or study. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, there are different types of visas like work visa, student visa, etc., each with its own set of requirements and application process.

To determine which one you need, you should consider the purpose and duration of your stay in Mexico, as well as your nationality. Check the Mexican consulate or embassy in your country for specific requirements regarding visas or consult with a professional immigration lawyer if you are unsure.

The processing time for the Mexican Tourist Form can vary. It typically takes a few minutes to complete the online form and receive the approval via email. However, it is recommended to allow at least 24-72 hours for processing by the Mexican authorities, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays.

If you make a mistake on the Mexican Tourist Form, it is important to correct it as soon as possible. You can inform the immigration officer upon your arrival in Mexico or seek assistance from the immigration officials at the airport or border crossing. They will guide you on how to rectify the mistake. In most cases, minor errors can be easily corrected, but if the mistake is significant or affects important details such as your name or passport number, it is advisable to consult with the immigration authorities for proper guidance and clarification. It is always better to be proactive and ensure accurate information on official documents to avoid any unnecessary complications during your stay in Mexico.

If you have lost or misplaced a Mexican tourist form, you can follow these steps to retrieve it:

1. Remain calm: Losing a tourist form can be stressful, but it’s important to stay calm and approach the situation with a clear mind.

2. Retrace your steps: Think back to the last time you remember having the form and try to retrace your steps. Check your pockets, bags, and belongings thoroughly.

3. Contact the airline or transportation provider: If you lost the tourist form while traveling, contact the airline or transportation provider you used. They may have a lost and found department where you can inquire about your missing form.

4. Visit the Mexican embassy or consulate: Visit the Mexican embassy or consulate nearest to your location. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to replace a lost tourist form. Bring any identification and travel documents with you.

5. File a police report: If you suspect the form was stolen or lost due to a criminal act, file a police report. This can serve as documentation for any future legal or insurance purposes.

6. Complete a new tourist form: If all attempts to retrieve the lost form fail, you may need to complete a new tourist form. Ensure that the information you provide is accurate and matches your travel plans. This can usually be done online or at the airport upon arrival in Mexico.

Remember, it is important to inform the relevant authorities whenever you lose any travel documents to protect yourself and prevent any potential misuse of your personal information.

Providing false information on the Mexican Tourist Form can have serious consequences. Firstly, it is important to note that providing false information is considered a crime in Mexico and is subject to legal repercussions. If caught, individuals may face fines, imprisonment, or even deportation.

Moreover, providing false information can lead to complications and difficulties during your stay in Mexico. For instance, if the information on your form conflicts with your travel documents or identification, you may face delays, questioning, or even denial of entry at the Mexican border.

Additionally, false information can jeopardize your safety and well-being. In case of emergencies or urgent situations, it is crucial for authorities to have accurate information to provide necessary assistance. Providing false details may hinder their ability to reach out or locate you promptly, potentially putting you in a vulnerable position.

Furthermore, falsifying information on the Mexican Tourist Form can damage your reputation and credibility. If discovered, it may result in travel restrictions or difficulties when applying for visas or traveling to other countries in the future.

Ultimately, understanding the consequences of providing false information on the Mexican Tourist Form is vital in order to comply with the law, ensure a smooth travel experience, and avoid any potential legal or personal repercussions.

Certainly, here’s the HTML code for a simple table:

Discover the Enchanting Allure of Santa Rosa New Mexico – A Hidden Gem of Natural Beauty and Rich Cultural Heritage

Privacy Policy
Terms And Conditions

Tourist Card MX

Apply here for your mexico tourist card (fmm).

Not everyone needs a Mexican visa to enter the country. In fact, over 60 countries around the world have agreements in place that allow their citizens to travel to Mexico visa-free for short periods of time.

However, many short-term stayers must complete an FMM ( Forma Migratoria Multiple) prior to crossing a Mexican land border. This applies to most people regardless of whether they travel to Mexico for tourism, business, or other reasons.

The FMM is also known by many as Mexico tourist card or (incorrectly) Mexico tourist fee. This page contains information regarding the Mexican tourist card requirements, who needs it, and how to obtain it.

What Is the Mexico FMM or Tourist Card?

The Forma Migratoria Multiple or Mexico tourist card is a legal requirement for visitors entering the country by land. It establishes and proves that a foreigner's entry in Mexico is lawful. It also states the number of days that its holder is allowed to spend.

The FMM is a slip of paper separate from the traveler’s passport and, if applicable, visa. It comprises 2 parts. If validated at the border, one part is given to the visitor. The other remains in the records of Mexican authorities.

Upon leaving the country, foreign citizens are asked to provide document check officials with their passport and tourist card. It is therefore essential to keep the FMM safe for the entirety of the stay in Mexico. Should an FMM holder lose their tourist card, they are advised to get in touch with the Mexican immigration authorities as soon as possible.

The Mexico tourist card is granted for a maximum of 180 days and cannot be extended. It also ceases to be valid once the holder leaves Mexico, meaning that. It’s a single-entry card . If you decide to return to Mexico, you’ll need to obtain a new FMM.

The FMM is not necessary for those who decide to stay in the country long-term (more than 6 months). Therefore, people on permanent or temporary residency don’t need a Mexico tourist card.

How to Apply for an FMM

You can apply for the Mexico Tourist Card online . Many decide to apply online to avoid long queues at the border. You also avoid having to carry cash for the tourist card fee.

The online application can be completed in less than an hour. The FMM online requirements are the same as those for travelers who apply in person .

You can submit supporting documents in digital format. You pay the fee by credit or debit card via a secure portal.

You also need to submit an active email address. This is where you’ll receive the approved FMM and all notifications and communications regarding the application.

After receiving the Mexico Tourist Card via email, you should print it out ready to present at the border.

At the immigration desk, Mexican officials will validate the FMM . Upon reaching the border, please present the Mexican authorities with:

The completed, printed out FMM
A passport that is valid for 6 months or more
A valid Mexican visa (if applicable)
The Mexico tourist card fee (only if you have not already applied and paid for the FMM online)

Note : Those who request the card in person must provide Mexican officials with the exact Mexico tourist card fee in cash upon arrival.

Information Required on the FMM Form for Mexico

Applicants are asked to provide the following information in the online FMM form :

Personal details such as name and date of birth
Contact details including telephone number, home and email address
Passport information
Travel details, including the purpose of the visit and the intended port of entry into Mexico

It is extremely important to fill out all the form with accurate information . Incorrect or missing information may result in delays.

Note : You must carry the same passport you use during the application process to the Mexican border.

The vast majority of applicants receive their Mexico tourist card immediately via email. Although mandatory, the FMM is not a visa. Therefore, it requires a shorter verification process.

Travelers who urgently need to obtain the Mexico FMM can now select an express processing option when paying the online fee. This ensures that the tourist card is processed and approved within an hour.

Remember, the FMM does not guarantee entry into Mexico. It should not be considered as a replacement for a valid visa. If you need to apply for a visa to be let into Mexico, you will need to apply for that separately.

Frequently Asked Questions about FMM

Do i need a tourist card to go to mexico.

The majority of visitors need a tourist card (FMM) to enter the country by land for a short stay , regardless of visa status. This means that you may need an FMM whether you are also required to get a Mexican visa or not.

What should I do if my Mexico tourist card is lost or stolen?

If the FMM document is lost or stolen, you should replace it. If the Immigration Forms are stolen before you arrive at the Mexican border, you can use the online application system to obtain a replacement .

If this happens in Mexico itself, you should report the theft or loss to the police. The police report will be needed as part of the replacement FMM application at Mexico’s National Institute of Immigration (INM).

Is losing a Mexico tourist card the same as losing a Mexico visa?

If you lose your Mexico Tourist Card, we highly recommended replacing the document as you would a Mexican visa . This is because it is required by all foreign nationals both for entering and leaving Mexico by land or sea. It must be replaced in order to avoid a fine when departing.

Can I renew or extend a Mexico tourist card?

No, you cannot renew or extend a Mexico tourist card . Once it expires, you need to apply for a new one and pay the relative fee again. Once outside the country, you can request a new FMM immediately. You do not have to wait for a specific amount of time.

How much is the processing time for FMM Tourist Card?

If the application has been completed fully and correctly, you will have the approved FMM in minutes. In some cases, the processing time may be longer. However, you can select the express processing option to get an FMM in an hour.

What can I do if I don’t receive the FMM by email?

If you notice that the tourist card for Mexico takes longer than expected to arrive, please check your email spam/junk folder.

How Long Can I Stay in Mexico for?

The amount of time visitors can spend in Mexico depends on the type of visa they hold.

Visitor visas can remain valid for up to 6 months , however, tourists are usually granted stays of 30, 60, or 90 days.

If a visitor knows that they intend to stay for a long period of time , they should mention it to the Mexican border authorities upon arrival, before having their passport stamped. This may result in the officer asking for further details of the visitor’s travel plans.

Work visa validity usually depends on the contract of employment one has signed to go to Mexico. Normally, temporary resident visas for Mexico can be renewed for up to 4 years.

Student visas also depend on the length of the course/degree one wants to take in Mexico.

What happens if I overstay an FMM?

Overstaying a permit or visa is never a good idea. Overstayers with the FMM must pay a fine before they can leave Mexico. The fine is calculated according to the number of days that have passed since the Mexico tourist card has expired.

Related News

Visitax Mexico: the Tourism Tax for Quintana Roo

Visitax Mexico: Tourism Tax for Quintana Roo

Crossing the U.S. – Mexico Border by Car

Digital Nomad Visa for Mexico: Everything You Need to Know

Forma Migratoria Múltiple

Multiple Immigration Form (FMM)

General conditions.

The FMM applicant shall hold a valid and current passport or card passport (Tarjeta Pasaporte) in accordance with the international law regulations; in case the country of citizenship requires it, the passport must have a valid unexpired visa.

The applicant is aware that the card passport (Tarjeta Pasaporte) can only be used in the border crossings by land and for visiting the border zone; it might not be used to travel to the territory of the Mexican Republic or used for international air trips.

The applicant shall complete the information needed in the request of the FMM, as appears in his/her passport.

The applicant accepts under oath, that the information and documents provided are true; therefore, the applicant acknowledges herein that if any false information is provided, he/she could be subject to penalties in accordance with the applicable legal regulation.

Conditions of the Forma Migratoria Múltiple obtained by electronic means

The Forma Migratoria Múltiple can be obtained by electronic means through the Institute website, the foreigners, who enter to the country by land, can obtain it through the facilities aimed for the international transit of persons.

The applicant agrees that the status condition of stay that he/she shall obtain, by means of the information provided, only be as visitor without permission to work.

The applicant acknowledges herein that the FMM has a maximum validity of 180 calendar days and shall be valid for one entry only.

The applicant acknowledges herein that the validity term of the FMM shall start upon the migratory stamp is fixed, provided with, he/she should comply with the requirements to enter Mexico.

The applicant shall print and bring the FMM to the facility aimed for the international transit of persons where he/she wishes to enter through.

The applicant acknowledges herein that the fees paid to obtain the condition of stay, is not a guarantee to enter Mexico.

The applicant shall produce a valid and current passport or card passport (Tarjeta Pasaporte), as well as the FMM shall be produced at the time his/her enter is requested.

I have read and agree to the terms and conditions above.

Aviso de Privacidad Simplificado Registro para los procesos de Internación y Salidas del Territorio Nacional Mexicano

El Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM) a través de las Direcciones Generales de Control y Verificación Migratoria, Administración, así como Tecnologías de la Información y Comunicaciones, respectivamente es el responsable de los datos personales que sean recabados como parte de su registro en los procesos de internación y salidas del territorio nacional mexicano, con la finalidad de revisar se cumplan con los requisitos establecidos en la Ley de Migración y ordenamientos aplicables, comprobando la veracidad y congruencia de lo manifestado para su paso a territorio nacional con la documentación de los mismos, ejerciendo la facultad de autorizar o no el ingreso a la República Mexicana y la obtención de un tiempo y/o condición de estancia a su favor; documentar el flujo de entradas y salidas al país de los nacionales y extranjeros; generar el control migratorio por los lugares destinados al tránsito internacional de personas por tierra, mar y aire; hacer más ágil la internación a México; generar estadísticas; realizar el cobro de derechos que por los servicios migratorios se deriven y garantizar el tránsito y la estancia de los extranjeros en el mismo, así como la preservación de la soberanía y de la seguridad de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos. Los datos personales que nos proporcione, serán protegidos conforme a lo dispuesto por la Ley General de Protección de Datos Personales en Posesión de Sujetos Obligados, y demás normatividad que resulte aplicable.

El aviso de privacidad integral lo podrá consultar en la página institucional, dentro del apartado de Protección de Datos Personales, o bien, en la siguiente liga: http://www.inm.gob.mx/static/transparencia/pdf/avisos/Aviso_de_Privacidad_Internacion_y_Salidas.pdf .

Important: To generate your request disable pop-up blocker browser and check to have installed Acrobat Reader. It is essential that has an email account.

Error in input data! Please check the information captured.

Check the information registered

Entry Information

Personal information, identification document, place of residence, trip information, father, mother or guardian information, notification.

Is the provided information correct?

To generate your request disable pop-up blocker browser and check to have installed Acrobat Reader.

Multiple Immigration Form saved correctly.

¡important.

For your application, you need to make payment. Said payment must be made in the Portal de Servicios del Instituto Nacional de Migración (https://www.inm.gob.mx/spublic/portal/inmex.html). It is important to keep the following information to be able to reference your payment:

Immigration Form:

Document number:

Surname(s):

Nationality:

For more information, we suggest you carefully read the material available in the section on “Ayuda del Portal”.

Note: In order to generate the payment in the INM service portal, it is necessary to have an active account and the passport that you will register in your application.

Cancun Tourism
Cancun Hotels
Cancun Bed and Breakfast
Cancun Vacation Rentals
Flights to Cancun
Cancun Restaurants
Things to Do in Cancun
Cancun Travel Forum
Cancun Photos
All Cancun Hotels
Cancun Hotel Deals
Last Minute Hotels in Cancun
Things to Do
Restaurants
Vacation Rentals
Travel Stories
Rental Cars
Add a Place
Travel Forum
Travelers' Choice
Help Center

FMM and Tourist Card - the same thing? - Cancun Forum

Mexico
Yucatan Peninsula
Quintana Roo
Cancun

FMM and Tourist Card - the same thing?

United States Forums
Europe Forums
Canada Forums
Asia Forums
Central America Forums
Africa Forums
Caribbean Forums
Mexico Forums
South Pacific Forums
South America Forums
Middle East Forums
Honeymoons and Romance
Business Travel
Train Travel
Traveling With Disabilities
Tripadvisor Support
Solo Travel
Bargain Travel
Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
Quintana Roo forums
Cancun forum

My understanding is that it’s the same thing, it’s just more modern way and both are accepted. I would rather fill out online and have everything ready. Can you please confirm?

The reason why I want to nail down on it because I have my parents flying with me who are from overseas and we heard that some people were denied entry because they didn’t have form filled out in advance and their airline didn’t give them in the airplane . Of course, it sounds ridiculous for us in NA but we heard those stories… Any harm in filling it out online? I guess if we do have it printed, there will be no need to do double with Tourist Card in the plane ….. Do I have it all correct? Thank you so much.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

Trident - you might want to read this - https://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowTopic-g659488-i11442-k13017352-What_to_expect_when_you_land_at_the_Cancun_Airport-Riviera_Maya_Yucatan_Peninsula.html

It gives a detailed breakdown of the arrivals process (including info about the FMM/Tourist card and the Customs form).

Feel free to ask questions if, after reading that thread, you're not sure of anything.

Which country issued your parents' passports? Certain citizens may require a visa - https://www.inm.gob.mx/gobmx/word/index.php/paises-requieren-visa-para-mexico/

Thank you for additional tip. Yep, they would require visa but here is the catch if you have valid visa to Canada or US, you don't need visa to Mexico even if your citizenship country is required....

So, if we all: 2 adults, 2 kids and 2 grandparents have one residential address, do we fill out only 1 form for all of us? Or it's 1 form per family, meaning 1 form for my family and another form for my parents?

Thank you so much for sharing. I read it all and I do have a question.

"Immigration (Tourist Visa) form: One per person. This cannot be completed and printed until you are within 30 days of your arrival in Mexico and 6 months (another topic) left on your passport. I recommend only using (for free) the official, Mexican government website : https:/…solicitud.html"

What is meant under 6 month (another topic) left on passport? We actually have less than 6 month left, does it mean that we cannot fill out the form online?

However, this raises another thing. Mexico does NOT require that you have six months left on your passport but some AIRLINES do.. So I would very strongly suggest that you contact your airline to see what their rules are. If they require six months validity on your passport, you will not be allowed to board the plane . (And yes, I appreciate how completely absurd it is that the rules of an airline can trump the rules of the country you're travelling to.)

Now, as for the Customs form, my understanding is that it's one per "household", up to four persons. So, if your parents reside with you and your party consists of you, your spouse and your parents, then you would complete just one form. However, if you're travelling with your spouse, your two children and your parents, you will need to complete two forms - you, your spouse and your children on one form, your parents on another. If you parents don't live at the same address as you, then they need to complete their own form regardless.

Hope that helps!

Regarding the Customs form...

If you complete the on-line form, you enter the total number of passengers (6 in your case), and enter only one name (head of household). Although the form doesn't request it, some visitors have been asked to write their passport number, flight number and the date at the bottom of the page.

If you complete the form handed out on the plane , it's the same -- only one name and number of family members travelling with you.

Thank you so much HolaGata and MisterB266. You are very kind in taking your time and explaining everything.

Out of 6 of us, only 6 passport is short of 180 days. I guess I will still go ahead and fill out all 6 online and if they stop us, I will re-fill in the airport 1 additional one for that 6th person.

As to immigration card, will fill out just in case too. One per household I guess since we all live in 1 household but there are 3 different lastnames. Does it change anything? Perhaps 1 per each lastname? Or the address is the determining factor here?

Are they using the same electrical plugs as in Canada or one needs to bring a converter? ( a last minute question from my dad).... :)

Trident - for some reason, I thought you were from the US. You might want to amend your Trip Advisor profile to reflect that you're in Canada as this is sometimes relevant.

Re: Westjet - my last few trips with them to Mexico have clearly stated on the paperwork that six months validity on passports is NOT required, so you should be good there.

Re: the online FMM form - I think you'll find that will not be able to complete it for the person(s) with the passports that expire within six months. If you get any sort of error or "unable to complete" message online, that will likely be why.

Plugs and voltage are the same as Canada. I always travel with a multi-outlet extension cord because I find that there are rarely enough conveniently located plugs for all my electronics. My extension cord happens to be surge protected too; the power supply in Mexico can be a bit erratic and I don't want anything getting fried! By plugging all my electronics into one cord, everything is in one place and it's therefore quite unlikely that I will forget anything (or its charger cord) when it's time to come home.

Re: FMM Immigration (or tourist) card/form...

Only the person with less than 180 days validity on the passport will not be able to complete the FMM form on-line. If you try it, you'll get a message saying you can't proceed.

Re: Customs form...

Yes, one form per household, but the form says one family travelling together, so in your case, you can do one form for the 6 travellers (not one form each).

The last names don't matter because you don't have to enter them. Nor do you have to enter your home address.

The electrical system here is the same as Canada -- same lpugs, same outlets, same voltage (or near enough) -- no adapters or converters required. Some people like to bring extension cords with a surge protector, but I've never found it necessary. Some older buildings have outlets without the ground socket, so I carry an adapter to use a 3-pin grounded plug in a 2-pin ungrounded outlet.

Hyatt Vivid Grand Island Cancun 9:07 pm
Resort Recommendations for Third Annual Girls trip 4:37 pm
GR Solaris vs GR Caribe 2:42 pm
Is Cancun airport always so terrible? 12:23 pm
Starting to Second Guess Myself 11:23 am
Cancun Weather 27th to the 7th April 11:17 am
Paradisus Cancun or Paradisus Playa Del Carmen? 11:08 am
I’m not paying Visitax, have you? 10:25 am
Excursions 9:54 am
Best family friendly AI on a budget 9:29 am
Vegetarian today
Airfare to Cancun yesterday
Cenote only? yesterday
Transpo around Cancun yesterday
THE best all inclusive ?? 16 replies
Secrets The Vine Cancun 254 replies
Best Time of Year to Visit Cancun...?? 14 replies
New RIU Palace Peninsula 469 replies
Party resorts for 20-30 years old? 26 replies
December weather? 11 replies
cancun airport transfers 11 replies
Best time of the year to go Mexico?? 18 replies
How is the weather in Cancun in August? 7 replies
Best All Adult Singles All Inclusive Resorts in Cancun? 19 replies

Cancun Hotels and Places to Stay

Safety, Advice, Tips, and Hurricanes -
Maps of Area Resorts
Cancun Restaurant Trip Advisor Listing and Ratings
Dollars or Pesos: What should I use?
Weather: What will it be like in ...
Bus, Taxi or Private Driver: Getting around Cancun
Private/public ground transfer options:
Online Tourist Card
Airport Arrival, immigration limits,and hotel tranportation
Best way to get to Isla and what to do
Replacing a lost immigration form (tourist card)
Avoid immigration jail. Verify your FMM visit duration.
AA Meetings in Cancun and Nearby
Departure Tax: Do I have to pay to leave Cancun?
Travelling to Cancun/Riviera Maya with a criminal record
WEATHER & June thru November - Hurricane Season Information
How Do I Go by Bus from Cancun to Merida

Cross Border Coverage

Mexican Auto Insurance for American and Canadian Plated Cars, RV's, ATV's, Campers, Watercraft and more

Mexican FMM – Your Tourist Card for Visiting the Country

Like most countries, Mexico has a visa process for visitors. The tourist visa begins with a 7 day option and runs all the way to 180 days. You average fly-in trip lasts for less than a week and that 7-day option is very common. Drivers tend to stay a little longer, especially when exploring Baja and areas well beyond the border.

The Mexican FMM stands for Forma Migratoria Multiple (multiple immigration form) and it’s the tourist visa card you must carry in your passport. They are moving to a stamp version as well so the cards may not exist for much longer. Regardless, you must leave the country before your allotted time expires.

The one exception to needing an FMM applies to short term stays within the “Free Zone” at the border. If you visit along the border and leave within 72-hours, a tourist visa is not needed for Mexico. You must still carry a valid passport however.

Getting Your Mexico Tourist Card Online, In-Flight or at the Land Border

You can get this document in a number of different ways. Choosing largely depends on your mode of travel. Air vs land borders are slightly different. The primary options are:

FMM Online – You can easily grab the permit online but we don’t recommend this route. You will still need to have it stamped at the border to validate your trip. You also have zero flexibility if something arises where you need to change dates. If you are dead set on securing an FMM online – visit this website to complete the process. You simply fill out the info, pay, print and present at the border.

At the Airport – Millions of Americans, Canadians and foreign residents fly to Mexico each year. Typically, the airline staff will pass out Mexico tourist cards during the flight. You can quickly complete the information (name, passport number, dates, etc.) so it’s ready to present. This happens in immigration after landing. If you don’t receive the form in-flight, they have them at the immigration lines. Again, this process is moving towards a stamp system so you may not need the form at all in the future.

At the Mexico Land Border – Many people visit Mexico by crossing a land border. If you walk across or drive across, an FMM is completed at the Mexican Aduana located directly at the border crossing. It’s the same process and card as the airport. Fill out your information on the card, ask for a specific number of days and pay the fee.

You might also secure an FMM visa for Mexico at a consulate but it’s really not necessary. We also want to note that the determination of the number of days is not guaranteed. You can request any number up to 180 days but they can also issue a lower number than desired. It’s not exceedingly common but keep this in mind when planning a trip.

Common Mexico Tourist Card Questions:

We hear some recurring questions about the Mexico tourist cards. While the process is pretty straightforward, it’s important to understand the rules and limitations. Read on to answer your most pressing questions and the ones we often hear from visitors.

How much does an FMM Cost?

Costs are always subject to change but in 2003, you will pay $25 USD for the FMM when flying. The cost is attached to surcharges on your airplane ticket so you won’t need to pay anything after landing. At land borders, the 7 day visa has no cost and everything over that time allotment will cost $25 USD.

Do I need a Cancun tourist card specifically?

Among the most popular destinations, some visitors are under the impression there is a separate card specific to Cancun. Your Mexican FMM is good for the entire country and nothing additional is needed to visit Cancun. Again, you will secure the tourist card at immigration after your flight lands.

What happens to the FMM when I leave Mexico?

As the country changes to a passport stamp system, things will be easier. For those with physical tourist cards, the airline will collect them when departing. At the land border, you can return the card at the Aduana before exiting. If you have a Temporary Import Permit for a vehicle in Mexico, you will need to cancel it in-person. Do these at the same time. If you accidentally forget to return the document, this can be done at a consulate or any border station. With the new passport stamp system, the physical document will no longer be required however.

What if I stay longer than my tourist visa?

Do not overstay your visa! If you stay longer than allowed, you are technically prohibited from leaving without paying a fine. Visit an immigration office to handle the situation and leave the country after paying the fine and clearing the way.

Can I add days to my existing Mexican FMM?

There are no extensions or ways to re-issue without leaving the country. Fly, drive or walk across a border before your FMM expires. You can return on a new tourist card without a waiting period however. This means you have the ability to leave, cancel the existing card and return the next day while obtaining a new card. Keep in mind, constant returns can set off red flags and potentially limit your ability to obtain the higher limits of time.

Wrapping Up

If you have any questions before crossing a land border, get in touch anytime. In addition to your Mexican FMM, you will need Mexican car insurance (when driving), a temporary import permit and a passport. Otherwise, you are all set to visit Mexico!

5-Minute Quote

It’s easy. Enter some basic information about yourself and your vehicle, get a quote and purchase without leaving the page.

Join Our Newsletter and Download Your Free Checklist for Driving in Mexico

Get a Quote
Information
Auto / Truck / SUV / VAN
UTV / Buggy / ATV
Drivers License
Homeowner's Insurance
Travel Guide
HDI Seguros Mexico

Mexico Tourist Cards (FMM)

A FMM or (Forma Migratoria Multiple) is a document allowing any citizen of any country with a passport entry into Mexico. A stamped FMM is required and mandatory for each traveler and all foreign tourists that enter Mexico.
The FMM document is essentially an Entry Immigration Form that details information about your visit to Mexico. The form will obtain your name, nationality, DOB, purpose of visit, destination, and point of entry.
The requirement for obtaining an FMM is you must have a valid passport or passport card.
To obtain a FMM you have 2 options. Option 1: Simply stop at the immigration office (INM) at any border crossing and fill out the paperwork. Option 2: Fill out the online tourist card (FMM) application and pay online and print it out. If you choose to get it online you still must stop at the border within 30 days and have it stamped.
An FMM is free if you are traveling 7 days or less. More than 7 days the cost is $30.00. You can obtain a FMM for up to 180 days.
You do not have to return the FMM when you cross back into the US and for Baja Norte only you can use the same FMM for multiple entries into Mexico.
If you lose your FMM you simply stop at the border and get a new one. They will not be able to retrieve a card purchased or obtained in the past.

FAQ's about Mexican Tourist Cards (FMM):

Will they ask me for a FMM when I cross the border into Mexico?

When driving across the border, Mexican border officials will not ask for FMM's and they will not remind you to obtain one. When you cross by car it is up to you to stop at the border and get your FMM. If you are walking across the border they will ask you for your FMM and getting one will be part of the crossing process. At airports they will also ask you for your FMM and getting one is part of the check-in process. Obtaining an FMM is legally required and there have been reports of checkpoints in Mexico requesting to see them.

Can my FMM be renewed or extended?

They do not renew or extend a visitors visas (FMM). Once your current FMM expires you simply get a new one. Each FMM will have a start and finish date for you to follow.

What is the process of getting a FMM at the border?

All border crossings have an JNM office for obtaining your FMM. You simply park and walk into the office and there will be a desk with agents ready to assist you. They will have you fill out the FMM application and they will check your passport and stamp your card. If you are staying longer than 7 days you will be charged a fee.

Does not having a FMM mean my auto insurance is invalid?

It is important to realize that not all insurance carriers are the same. Our top rated carrier HDI Seguros has informed us that they would never deny a claim or not back a policy if a customer failed to get an FMM. With that being said that does not mean a different Mexican insurance carrier would not use the lack of FMM against you to not pay you on a claim. We highly encourage all of our customers to follow the Mexican laws and get your FMM online or in person at the border.

What if I lose my tourist visa card?

If you lose your FMM don't panic. Simply visit the nearest Mexican INM office and get a new one. If you are asked for it during your travels let the Mexican official requesting it know that it was lost. Mexican officials understand accidents do happen.

Isn't there free zones or areas close to the border where a FMM is not required?

There are no longer any free zones. A stamped visitors visa (FMM) is required and mandatory for each traveler and all foreign tourists that enter Mexico.

Does everyone in my car need a FMM or just the driver?

Each individual crossing the border will need to obtain their own FMM. Each individual will also need to provide their passport. If you do not have a valid passport you will not be able to get a FMM and you could be denied entry into Mexico.

How long is my visitors visa good for?

The paid FMM is valid for up to 180 days and you can enter and exit multiple times. You never have to return your FMM. When it expires you can simply throw it away. The free FMM is valid for 7 days. When you get your FMM in person the Mexican agent at the border or airport will ask you how many days you will be in Mexico and where you are going. Usually the agent will give you the # of days you request to cover your trip. There are reports that 180 day permits are not given out automatically unless you can show you will be in Mexico for that duration.

Do I also need a FMM when I fly?

A FMM is mandatory when flying to Mexico. The airline will provide you with a FMM to insure you can travel with no interruption. Just like driving across you will need to provide a valid passport in order to get the permit.

I see many websites to buy a FMM online. Are they safe?

Be aware there are many fake websites online that claim they are providing FMM's. There are many reports of people paying these fake sites and having their money taken. There is only one site we recommend for this transaction. If you are concerned about fraud simply get your FMM in person at any border crossing. Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) Online

Plan your trip with peace of mind

Call us now to purchase your travel policy or purchase online..

Mexico Tourist Card Multiple Immigration Form - FMM

3 easy steps to apply for mexico tourist card/fmm:, what is fmm (forma migratoria múltiple) or tourist card.

FMM/Tourist card for Mexico is a travel document issued by the government to all tourists or foreigners wishing to come to Mexico.

Visitors must fill out an official entry immigration form (FMM) prior to their arrival. The Tourist Card is valid per person, regardless of age or length of stay in Mexico. The Mexican Immigration Authority keeps the information you submit on the Tourist Card as an official record of your visit to Mexico, allowing you to enjoy your stay and exit the country safely and easily.

Tourist Card Mexico Requirements

You are a foreign national visiting Mexico
You have a valid passport
You will set off for Mexico within 30 days
Your stay in Mexico will not exceed 180 days
The purpose of your visit to Mexico is pleasure, entertainment, and/or vacation
You’re not heading to Mexico to look for work

You DO NOT need a visa for Mexico if you are a citizen of the Schengen Region, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Japan, or if you have a valid visa or permanent residency permit for any of these countries. When visiting Mexico, however, you will still require a FMM document. See the list below of countries whose nationals require the FMM document for Mexico:

List of countries

South America

What do you need for an online FMM/Tourist card

Applicant’s contact information
Your passport information. Keep in mind that your passport should be applicable for at least six months from the date you enter Mexico
Your address or Hotel name in Mexico
Arrival and departure flight details
Your email address for receiving the Tourist Card
A printer to print the Tourist Card

How to apply for a FMM document

The online registration process is very efficient and straightforward. All you need for the online registration process is your passport, flights information, the address or name of the hotel where you will be staying, and a printer to print your Official Entry Tourist Card.

For your FMM to be valid, you will be attended by a federal immigration agent who will stamp your printed electronic FMM and authorize your entry into the national territory at the point of admission you chose . From that moment, you have 180 days to transit and visit Mexico. The page of entry (the first page from FMM) will be taken from a federal immigration agent.
Remember that you must keep the part that corresponds to the exit registration (the second page from FMM) in which the immigration entry stamp is recorded since it is evidence of your regular stay in the country and will be required when leaving Mexico.

Sonia Diaz Mexico

Tourist Card – FMM
Temporary Residency
Permanent Residency
Other Visas
Benefits of Residency
Citizenship
Moving Household Goods
What Can I Bring?
Moving Pets
Temporary Import Permit
Nationalizing Vehicles
Buying Vehicles in Mexico
Insurance, License & Registration
Border Crossings
Mexico City and Puebla No Circula
Private Health Insurance
Emergency Preparation
Employee Benefits
Employee Contracts
Termination Pay
Buying, Taxes, Heating / Cooling, Propane
Rental Income
Selling Real Estate
Capital Gains
Magical San Miguel de Allende
Tropical Puerto Vallarta
Mexico’s Smoking Laws
Phone Calls to / from Mexico
Dying in Mexico
Did You Know?
Official ID Numbers
ABOUT SONIA
OUR SERVICES
OUR LOCATIONS

Tourist Card – FMM

The Mexican government requires that your passport be valid during the entirety of your trip and it is not required to be valid for six months.

A tourist card is a “Forma Migratoria Multiple” (FMM) and one is not required for those under the age of two. It is required for everyone else, including the “Free Zones”, unless you are a Mexican citizen. It allows one to enter Mexico, one time, for up to 180 days but sometimes for shorter periods. The back of the form confirms it is for one entry; however, in Baja California it may be used for multiple entries. The cost is 717 pesos.

Time as a Tourist

Many tourists are not being granted 180 days and in some cases as little as a week. Therefore, I suggest tourists have a brief, concise note written in Spanish. At the airport in Mexico give it to Immigration staff when you land. And, I would present it before providing your passport.

State that you understand the number of days is at their discretion but you would like to be granted X number of days and why. And, if you have reserved accommodations state where and for when. And, if you have a return flight state when you is the date of your departure. Keep it very brief and concise.

There is an electronic FMME . It is available here . Complete the application form. Print the FMM and keep it with you to be validated where you enter Mexico. However, I do not recommend obtaining a FMM on-line. Reasons are:

1. Some web sites are fraudulent and charge as much as $200 extra.

2. A FMM is included in your airfare.

3. At airports FMM’s are no longer used.

4. At the border the FMM requires a person to stop anyways and to have it date stamped.

FMM tourist cards at the borde r continue. It is very important to keep the stamped portion of the FMM that corresponds to the record of entry, as this is proof of your legal entry into Mexico. It will be required when you leave the country.

Prior to your FMM expiration you return to the border. It is impossible to extend or renew a FMM tourist card from within Mexico.

At some Immigration offices there is a temporary program called regularization . Financials are not required. Your time as a tourist must be expired. You are required to prove entry into Mexico prior to 2022 and one way to do so is with a stamp in your passport. There are 3 Immigration fees. You will be issued a 4-year Temporary Resident visa.

If your time as a tourist does expire while in Mexico, and you are flying out, please go to Immigration at the airport and pay for another period of time as a tourist prior to boarding your plane. Cost is currently 687 pesos. This is not a way to extend your time as a tourist in Mexico.

In Mexico, as a tourist, you must carry both your passport and

original FMM tourist card when issued, or
show stamp in your passport indicating when you entered Mexico, or
printout from an airport scanner indicating when you entered Mexico and by when you must leave.

FMM Requirements When Entering Mexico

When a tourist or temporary or permanent resident card holder enters Mexico at a border crossing you will normally be issued a FMM.

2. When a tourist enters Mexico at airports with passport scanners (currently Mexico City and Cancun) the photo indicates what you will be issued. You are to retain this receipt for when you leave Mexico. Those who are temporary or permanent residents must not use these scanners or you will be a tourist with a need to start your residency process over at a Mexican consulate.

3. When a tourist enters Mexico at an airport with no passport scanner , normally you will have a stamp in your passport and in that stamp will be written the date you entered and the date by when you must leave Mexico. And, in this example the number is 180.

4. When entering Mexico with a pre-approved Temporary or Permanent resident from a Mexican consulate , you have 6 months to enter Mexico. A pre-approval is for ONLY one entry, meaning you must finalize the process once you enter Mexico or you will need to start over at a consulate. When you enter Mexico, please show your passport and pre-approved visa. When entering at a border crossing , you will be issued a FMM marked CANJE, the number 30 and your pre-approved visa from the consulate will be date stamped. When entering at an airport , you will have a date stamp in your passport and written “CANJE” and “30“ as per the photo. The 30 means you have 30 days to start your visa process in Mexico at an Immigration office. But you must start your process in Mexico prior to the pre-approved visa expiration date.

For those entering at an airport with no FMM and only date stamp, the word CANJE and the number 30 in your passport, you must scan the QR code and print out the FMM. Or, you may also access the FMM portal here . Once you have uploaded a photo of your passport and you confirmed the information is correct, select “Ingresos” and click the small ORANGE CIRCLE with a check mark. Next, select “Descargar” for the download icon. You will not be able to process your pre-approved visa at Immigration in Mexico without a FMM that has been printed and presented to INM staff. You may only download it once so please do not lose the FMM you printed. For clients, I will do this for you.

5. When a Temporary or Permanent resident leaves Mexico your passport may be stamped with date and written is your visa status and the word “SALIDA”. And, as a TR or PR, when entering Mexico, your passport may be stamped with date, visa status and the word “ENTRADA”. As a TR or PR, the number of days will be blank. You may also find that there are no longer separate lines for citizens and non-citizens.

It will now be easier for Immigration to quickly see when were your last entries in to Mexico. This will limit or reduce a quick turn around for those who repeatedly and consecutively enter Mexico while seeking 180 days each time.

6. Printing a FMM

When entering Mexico, if the number of days allowed to be in Mexico as stamped on your passport or on your FMM are not clear or should you wish to confirm how many days have been issued, there is a QR code to check. Please, register first and then input your information. If your name is hyphenated, please leave out the hyphen and use a space.

All foreign visitors, regardless of their nationality, traveling to Mexico for tourism, business or in transit to another destination, are exempt from presenting a Mexican visa as long as they have a valid passport issued by any the following countries: Canada, Japan, the United States of America, the United Kingdom or any of the countries comprising the Schengen Area.

Mexico Tourist Visa Exemptions

If you are a Permanent Resident of the following countries : Canada, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, any of the countries of the Schengen Area, and any of the countries members of the “Pacific Alliance”, you do not need a visa to enter Mexico for tourism, business or transit purposes. All individuals in this category are required to present their valid and unexpired resident card along with their passports. Both documents must be valid during your entire stay in Mexico.

If you have a valid and unexpired visa for the following countries: Canada, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and any of the countries of the Schengen Area, you do not need a visa to enter Mexico for tourism, business or transit purposes. All individuals in this category are required to present their valid and unexpired visa along with their passports. Both documents must be valid during your entire stay in Mexico.

If you have a passport issued by one of the following countries , you do not need a visa to visit Mexico for tourism or business purposes for up to 180 days. You may also transit in Mexico without a visa for up to 30 days.

Tourist Visa Requirements

There are people who come to Mexico who must have a Mexican tourist visa to enter Mexico. This is the same as a Mexican Citizen to enter the US. These include countries such as Russia, Philipines China, Vietnam, Thailand, etc.

Foreigners entering Mexico coming from a country that requires a tourist visa from a Mexican consulate to enter Mexico to transit through an International airport in Mexico to go on to another country, must have a valid visa.

In other words, those coming from a country that requires a Mexican tourist visa to enter Mexico, who have an onward flight and are changing planes in Mexico, must have a valid tourist visa.

EXPATS IN MEXICO
THE MOVE TO MEXICO BIBLE
MEXICO CLASSIFIEDS
SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE

OUR BEST-SELLING BOOK

Mexico is an incredible country with many unique living experiences to choose from. Our best-selling guide helps make your move to Mexico a little bit easier. Read More

EMAIL: SONIA

DID YOU KNOW?

There are many things in Mexico that aren’t like back home. Different laws, different procedures for banking, and many different ways of thinking. We’ll look at “Did You Know?” topics on this page. I bet you didn’t know at least some of them. Read More

IMAGES

How to Get a Mexico FMM Tourist Card • Off Path Travels
Tourist Card
How to Get a Mexico FMM Tourist Card • Off Path Travels
Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Apply Online!
Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Ultimate Guide
Mexico Tourist Card and How to Get One

VIDEO

World Vs World Part 23 #geography #country #countries
Se incendia el Vaso Regulador 'El Cristo', en límites de Naucalpan y CdMx
latest job vacancies in dehradun || dehradun classified jobs || Dated: 25 Feb, 2024 #dehradunjob
3-17-24
Alarming Rise of Credit Card Debt in America!
Discover The Real North Sikkim Ep.3IlPoint Zero Yumesamdong🏔️🏔️ll⁠ @Travel-Lock

COMMENTS

The FMM for Mexico Explained: How to Get a Tourist Card
Mexico offers visa-free entry to those who hold passports from countries on its no visa required list. Instead of a Mexican visa, visitors must obtain an FMM tourist permit (Forma Migratoria Múltiple). This document allows you to stay in Mexico for the purpose of tourism or business for up to 180 days. The FMM currently costs 685 pesos or $38.
Learn About Your Mexico Visitors Permit, FMM
There, show the immigration official your resident card and complete the FMM they will give you. Keep the larger half of the stamped FMM safe until your return. When you return, you don't fill-out a new FMM, but instead present the half of the FMM they gave you when you left Mexico, along with your resident card to the immigration official.
Mexico Tourist Card for Land Arrivals
Tourist Card vs. FMM Card. The tourist card and the FMM card are the same document. There is absolutely no difference between the two. Some people call the document by a different name that is all. The FMM is the official name of the card, which stands for Forma Migratoria Multiple. Both names refer to the same document.
What is Mexico's Tourist Card or FMM and how to obtain it?
Visa vs. Tourist Card. Although some countries have visa exemption agreements with Mexico, most tourists need authorization to enter the country. Tourists traveling by land require Mexico's Tourist Card (FMM), while tourists entering by air can obtain an FMM at the entry point or a visa at a Mexican embassy or consulate.
What Is a Mexican Tourist Card and How Do I Get One?
If flying into Mexico, passengers will be given a tourist card and instructions for filling it out onboard their plane—the cost of a tourist card (about $25) is included in the fare, so travelers won't need to pay upon arrival. The card is stamped at customs/immigration in the Mexico airport, showing the visitor is in the country legally.
FAQs: Mexico's Visitor Visas and Visitor Permit, the FMM
If the official writes a number less than 180 days then your stay in Mexico will be limited accordingly; the FMM cannot be extended . In all cases, the visitor's permit will always expire after the number of days written on the permit: it cannot be extended or renewed and you must leave the country before it expires.
Demystifying the Mexico Immigration Card: Everything You Need to Know
A Mexico Immigration Card, also known as a FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple), is a document that foreign visitors must fill out and obtain upon arrival in Mexico. It is a tourist card that allows visitors to enter Mexico legally and stay in the country for a specific period of time.
Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Ultimate Guide
The Mexico tourist card aka Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM) is an immigration form that must be filled out prior to your entry in Mexico. It's a form that you will submit to immigration once you arrive at the airport and is required for every person including children. It is recommended to fill out the form and register online in order ...
How to Get a Mexico FMM Tourist Card • Off Path Travels
It varies depending on your method of entry, but to get an FMM tourist card for Mexico, you'll need the following: Passport (valid for the next 180 days) Completed immigration form (FMM) You may also be asked to show proof of tourist-related activities, such as hotel reservations, return flight, or tour itinerary.
Mexico Tourist Visa
A Mexico Tourist Card can be issued for a maximum of 180 days but it is the immigration officers at the point of entry who decides the number of days you are given. They can give you an FMM for 30, 60, or 90 days as opposed to the full 180. You must leave the country before the Mexico Tourist Card expires.
Mexican Tourist Cards (FMM) 2024
Tourist Card (FMM) Facts: The FMM is a document issued by Mexico's INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración) Casually called a tourist card or tourist "visa" although it is not officially a visa. Issued to U.S., Canadian and other nationalities for vacation or visitor purposes. Easily obtained at an INM office at the border or online.
Mexico Tourist Card
Foreign citizens traveling to Mexico are issued an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM) also known as Tourist Card. The online registration process is FREE, very convenient, straightforward, and to complete the process all you need is your passport and travel information. THE TOURIST CARD IS PER PERSON INCLUDING CHILDREN AND DIPLOMATIC PERSONNEL.
Exploring Mexico: A Comprehensive Guide to Mexican Tourist Form and
A Mexican Tourist Form, also known as FMM, is a mandatory immigration document for tourists visiting Mexico. It grants a temporary stay for up to 180 days and must be obtained before entry. The form requires basic personal and travel information, and can be obtained online or at designated ports of entry. Contents.
Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Information
Should an FMM holder lose their tourist card, they are advised to get in touch with the Mexican immigration authorities as soon as possible. The Mexico tourist card is granted for a maximum of 180 days and cannot be extended. It also ceases to be valid once the holder leaves Mexico, meaning that. It's a single-entry card. If you decide to ...
Instituto Nacional de Migración
The applicant acknowledges herein that the fees paid to obtain the condition of stay, is not a guarantee to enter Mexico. The applicant shall produce a valid and current passport or card passport (Tarjeta Pasaporte), as well as the FMM shall be produced at the time his/her enter is requested. I have read and agree to the terms and conditions above.
FMM and Tourist Card
Trident - one of the requirements of the online FMM form is that you have 180 days of validity left on your passport. If you don't have this, then you will have to fill out the hard copy of the form - either on the plane or when you land at Cancun. However, this raises another thing.
Mexican FMM
Getting Your Mexico Tourist Card Online, In-Flight or at the Land Border. You can get this document in a number of different ways. Choosing largely depends on your mode of travel. Air vs land borders are slightly different. The primary options are: FMM Online - You can easily grab the permit online but we don't recommend this route. You ...
Mexico Tourist Cards (FMM)
To obtain a FMM you have 2 options. Option 1: Simply stop at the immigration office (INM) at any border crossing and fill out the paperwork. Option 2: Fill out the online tourist card (FMM) application and pay online and print it out. If you choose to get it online you still must stop at the border within 30 days and have it stamped.
How to Get the Mexico FMM Form (Forma Migratoria Multiple)
The Mexico FMM Form is a paper foreign nationals must acquire if they travel to Mexico. The National Immigration Institute approves and provides this Tourist card with the objective of tourism. Visitors may procure the FMM Form either when they reach Mexico or they can get it online. The FMM Form cannot be used in place of a visa; hence ...
Tourist Card Mexico
FMM/Tourist card for Mexico is a travel document issued by the government to all tourists or foreigners wishing to come to Mexico. Visitors must fill out an official entry immigration form (FMM) prior to their arrival. The Tourist Card is valid per person, regardless of age or length of stay in Mexico. The Mexican Immigration Authority keeps ...
Tourist Card
A tourist card is a "Forma Migratoria Multiple" (FMM) and one is not required for those under the age of two. It is required for everyone else, including the "Free Zones", unless you are a Mexican citizen. It allows one to enter Mexico, one time, for up to 180 days but sometimes for shorter periods. The back of the form confirms it is ...
Tourist FMM Card Online vs. In plane : r/cancun
It's free online. Be aware that the online form needs to be printed in color on both sides and even then some immigration officers will not accept it and send you to the back of the line to fill one out. Just bring a pen and fill out the one they provide on the airplane. It's free to fill out online too.