Entry Procedures

Entry rules depend on your nationality, so always confirm the latest requirements with an official Mexican source or your nearest consulate before you travel. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for tourism for a set period, while others need a visa in advance. On arrival you complete an immigration process and receive an entry authorisation. Rules change, so never rely on old information.

You generally need a passport valid for the duration of your stay, and many airlines and officials prefer at least six months' validity. Ensure it has blank pages and is undamaged. Requirements can differ by nationality and route, so check the exact passport validity rule with an official Mexican source or your airline before you fly, and renew early if your passport is close to expiry.

Besides your passport, officials may ask for proof of onward or return travel, accommodation details and evidence of sufficient funds. Complete any immigration form required and keep the entry document you are given until departure. Requirements vary by nationality, so verify the current list with an official Mexican source. Have digital and paper copies of your bookings ready at the border.

You must declare cash and equivalent monetary instruments above the legal threshold, commonly the equivalent of about USD 10,000 per traveller. This is a declaration requirement, not a limit, but failing to declare can lead to fines or seizure. Thresholds and rules can change, so check the current customs declaration limit with an official Mexican source and complete the form honestly on arrival.

Travellers get a personal duty-free allowance for personal effects and a limited value of goods, plus set limits on items such as alcohol and tobacco for adults. Above the allowance you pay duty. On arrival you may go through a random red-light or green-light customs check. Allowances change, so confirm the current personal exemption and item limits with an official Mexican customs source before you shop.

No vaccines are generally required to enter Mexico for most travellers, but routine vaccinations should be up to date and hepatitis A and typhoid are commonly recommended. Depending on your itinerary, other jabs may be advised. If you are arriving from a country with yellow fever risk, proof of vaccination can be required. Check the latest health advice with an official source and see a travel clinic well before departure.

On arrival you pass through immigration where an officer checks your passport and reason for travel. Mexico has been moving from the paper FMM tourist card towards a passport stamp at many airports, though procedures can differ by entry point. The officer sets how long you may stay, so check the stamp or record carefully. Keep any entry document safe, as you may need it when you leave.

Fill in any forms accurately, have your onward ticket and first-night address ready, and keep passport copies separate from the original. Note the number of days granted on entry and do not overstay. Immigration officers may ask simple questions about your trip. Peak arrivals at big airports can mean long queues, so allow time. Confirm all current entry rules with an official Mexican source before you fly.