Mexico Tourist Entry Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide to FMM (Multiple Immigration Form)
Introduction
Mexico’s immigration policies require most foreign visitors to obtain an entry permit known as the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM). This document governs legal entry for tourism and business activities. Below is an authoritative guide to FMM regulations, exemptions, and compliance requirements.
Visa Exemptions Beyond Passport Nationality
While passport holders from visa-exempt countries may enter freely, Mexico also grants entry without visas to:
- Permanent residents of Canada, the U.S., Japan, the U.K./Northern Ireland, Schengen Area countries, or Pacific Alliance nations (Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru).
- Holders of valid visitor visas issued by Canada, the U.S., Japan, the U.K./Northern Ireland, or Schengen Area countries.
Visitors under these categories may stay up to 180 days for leisure or business, contingent on FMM approval.
FMM Application Process
Air Travel
- Paper FMM forms are being phased out. Most airlines no longer distribute them; instead:
- Immigration officers at airports may issue a passport stamp that serves as the FMM.
- Retain any provided paper form until departure.
Land Border Crossings
- Obtain FMM forms at entry points or pre-apply online via INM Portal.
- Print, complete, and present the form to immigration officers for validation.
Cruise/Sea Travel
- Acquire FMM at the first Mexican port of call.
FMM Fees & Validity
Cost Structure
- Air travelers: Fee (~$30–40 USD) typically included in airline taxes.
- Land travelers: Free if exiting Mexico within 7 days; otherwise, standard fee applies.
Stay Duration
- Immigration officers determine permitted stay (up to 180 days). Handwritten expiration dates on FMMs are final and non-extendable.
- Note: Mexico is transitioning to shorter stays based on travel purpose. Verify dates upon entry.
Compliance & Penalties
FMM Retention
- Paper FMM: Keep the stamped lower half until departure.
- Passport Stamp: Functions as FMM; no physical document needed.
Departure Requirements
- Air travel: Surrender paper FMM or present stamped passport to airline staff.
- Land exits: Voluntarily submit FMM to border officials. Failure may affect future entries.
Overstaying
- Daily fines apply for逾期居留. Settle penalties at immigration offices or airports before departure.
Key Restrictions & Considerations
No Extensions or Renewals
- FMMs cannot be extended. Exit and reapply for a new permit.
Re-entry Policies
- No official “cooling-off period” exists, but frequent back-to-back entries may prompt scrutiny. Long-term visitors risk being directed to apply for residency.
Lost/Damaged FMM
- Replace at local immigration offices or airports for $40–60 USD. Allocate extra time for processing before flights.
Online FMM Applications
- Exclusive to land entries: Pre-apply via the INM portal. Print and present at borders.
Legal Consequences of FMM Tampering
Altering handwritten dates risks severe penalties. Each FMM has a unique serial number linked to digital records. Fraudulent edits are detectable during exit checks.
Converting FMM to Residency
Only permissible under exceptional circumstances (e.g., family emergencies). Most applicants must pursue residency visas via Mexican consulates abroad.
Disclaimer: Regulations may change. Consult Mexico’s National Immigration Institute (INM) for updates.