Mexico
General visa requirements for travelling to Mexico. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.
Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.
Tourist visa (Tourist Entry - Visa-Free (up to 180 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Fee
- 983 MXN FMM fee (~$54 USD), free for stays 7 days or less
- Validity
- Multiple entry through end date of permit
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Citizens of 65+ countries can enter Mexico visa-free for tourism, business, correspondence, study or medical treatment for up to 180 days. All visitors must obtain an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) tourist card, which is increasingly processed digitally at airports. The FMM fee is 983 MXN (~$54 USD) as of 2026, free for stays of 7 days or less.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Available to citizens of visa-exempt countries including all EU/EEA countries, North America (US, Canada), select countries in Central/South America, Asia-Pacific, and others.
Eligible countries: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holy See, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea (Republic of), Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Marshall Islands, Micronesia (Federated States of), Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay
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Purpose of visit
Valid for tourism, business, correspondence, study, or medical treatment purposes only. No remunerative activities permitted.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
How to apply
-
Document gathering
Prepare valid passport with at least 6 months validity and proof of onward/return travel.
-
Online application
Complete FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) online or receive digital version at airport immigration.
-
Fee payment
Pay FMM fee of 983 MXN (~$54 USD) at airport or border, or online. Free for stays of 7 days or less.
Tourist visa (Tourist Electronic Authorization (SAE) - Brazil, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
e-Visa
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Processing time
- Instant to 24 hours
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- 30 days from date of issue
- Entry
- Single entry
Citizens of Brazil, Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine can obtain free electronic authorization (SAE - Sistema de Autorización Electrónica) to enter Mexico by air for tourism, business, or transit. The authorization is valid for 30 days from issuance and allows single entry with a stay up to 180 days. Not valid for land or sea entry, or travel on non-participating airlines. Brazil's SAE was reintroduced in February 2026 ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Only available to citizens of Brazil, Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine.
Eligible countries: Brazil, Russian Federation, Turkey, Ukraine
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for tourism, business, or transit purposes. Must arrive by air on participating airlines.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Travel itinerary
Provide an itinerary showing travel dates, destinations and planned accommodation.
Must include addresses: No; Must include dates: Yes
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete the SAE application online at the official INM website with passport details, travel itinerary, and security questions.
-
Processing wait
Wait for electronic authorization approval (typically instant to 24 hours).
-
Document gathering
Print authorization confirmation and bring with passport when traveling.
Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic Visa - Visa-Free (up to 90-180 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Fee
- Free
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Holders of diplomatic or various categories of service passports (official, service, special, consular) from visa-exempt countries may travel to Mexico without a visa for up to 90 days (180 days for Japan and the United States). Additionally, holders of diplomatic passports from Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Brazil, China, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Holy See, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mongolia, Morocco, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Serbia, Suriname, Thailand, Tunisia, Venezuela, Vietnam, and holders of diplomatic passports of Azerbaijan, Benin, Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Honduras, Kuwait, South Africa, Tajikistan, Turkey and Ukraine may travel to Mexico without a visa for up to 90 days.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Available to holders of diplomatic or official/service passports from designated countries.
Eligible countries: Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Brazil, China, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Guyana, Holy See, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Morocco, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Russian Federation, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Serbia, South Africa, Suriname, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United States of America, Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of), Viet Nam
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for diplomatic missions, official government business, and related activities.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
How to apply
-
Document gathering
Prepare valid diplomatic or official passport with at least 6 months validity.
Business visa (Business Visa (FMVC) - up to 30 days)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- 2 days to 3 weeks
- Fee
- $51-56 USD visa application fee
- Entry
- Multiple entry
The FMVC is designed for business travelers entering Mexico for up to 30 days for limited business activities including business meetings, training programs, commercial and industrial repairs, consulting, marketing, and participation in trade exhibits. This visa is for those whose countries are not visa-exempt or who need formal business visa documentation.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for business meetings, conferences, training sessions, internal audits, equipment installation, or providing temporary services to a client, local affiliate, or branch office.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm (or 2x2 inches), color, white background, front view, no eyeglasses
-
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, proof of income tax returns; Minimum amount: Not specified
-
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: Yes; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: No
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
-
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Letter from employer or host company in Mexico explaining purpose of visit, duration, and nature of business activities
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Business Visa Application Form; Form url: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx
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Travel itinerary
Provide an itinerary showing travel dates, destinations and planned accommodation.
Must include addresses: Yes; Must include dates: Yes
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete the business visa application form online through the Mexican consulate website.
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Appointment booking
Schedule an in-person appointment at the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate.
-
Document gathering
Prepare all required documents: passport, application form, photo, invitation letter from Mexican company, employment letter, proof of funds, travel itinerary, and flight tickets.
-
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee of $51-56 USD at the consulate.
-
Interview
Attend in-person interview at the consulate where documents will be reviewed and interview conducted.
-
Processing wait
Wait for visa processing (typically 2 days to 3 weeks).
-
Visa collection
Collect passport with business visa from the consulate.
Tourist visa (Tourist Entry - Visa Waiver (with valid US/CA/UK/Schengen/Japan visa))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Fee
- 983 MXN FMM fee (~$54 USD), free for stays 7 days or less
- Entry
- Multiple entry
All foreign visitors, regardless of nationality, are exempt from presenting a Mexican visa if they hold a valid visa issued by the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, or any Schengen Area country. This applies for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
Eligibility
-
Visa history
Must hold a valid visa from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, or any Schengen Area country.
Required history: Valid visa from US, CA, UK, JP, or Schengen countries
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for tourism, business, or transit purposes. No remunerative activities permitted.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Previous visa copies
Must include rejections: No; Years back: 0
How to apply
-
Document gathering
Prepare valid passport with at least 6 months validity and valid visa from US, Canada, UK, Japan, or Schengen country.
-
Online application
Complete FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) online or receive digital version at airport immigration.
-
Fee payment
Pay FMM fee of 983 MXN (~$54 USD) at airport or border. Free for stays of 7 days or less.
Medical visa (Medical Treatment Temporary Resident Visa (over 180 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 1460 days
- Processing time
- 2 days to 3 weeks
- Fee
- $56 USD visa fee + 11,141 MXN resident card fee (~$643 USD total)
- Validity
- 1-4 years depending on treatment duration
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For medical treatment requiring stays longer than 180 days, a temporary resident visa is required. Applicants must provide documentation from Mexican medical facilities. After arrival, must apply to INM for resident card within 30 days. Short-term foreign visitors are not eligible for public healthcare in Mexico and must have private coverage or pay directly.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for receiving extended medical treatment requiring stays over 180 days at Mexican healthcare facilities.
-
Financial
Must demonstrate financial ability to cover extended medical treatment costs and living expenses in Mexico.
Minimum funds: Sufficient for treatment duration and living costs
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Health
Must have documentation from recognized Mexican medical facility confirming need for extended treatment.
Required vaccinations: As recommended by physician; visit doctor at least 1 month before travel
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm (or 2x2 inches), color, white background, front view, no eyeglasses
-
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, insurance coverage documentation, financial sponsor letters; Minimum amount: Sufficient to cover extended treatment and living costs
-
Travel insurance
Coverage area: International coverage including Mexico; Minimum coverage: Coverage for medical treatment in Mexico
-
Medical certificate
Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.
Required tests: Letter from Mexican hospital or medical facility detailing treatment plan and expected duration; Validity months: 3
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Temporary Resident Visa Application Form - Medical; Form url: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete temporary resident visa application through Mexican consulate website with medical purpose indicated.
-
Appointment booking
Schedule in-person appointment at Mexican embassy or consulate.
-
Document gathering
Prepare passport, application form, photo, letter from Mexican medical facility, proof of funds, travel insurance documentation.
-
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee of $56 USD at consulate.
-
Interview
Attend interview at consulate where medical documentation and financial capacity will be reviewed.
-
Processing wait
Wait for visa processing (typically 2 days to 3 weeks).
-
Visa collection
Collect passport with temporary resident visa.
-
Document submission
Within 30 days of arrival in Mexico, apply to INM for temporary resident card.
Work / Immigration visa (Permanent Resident Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 2-4 weeks
- Fee
- $56 USD visa fee + 22,282 MXN resident card fee (~$1,286 USD total)
- Validity
- Indefinite (no renewal required)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Permanent residency allows foreigners to live in Mexico indefinitely without renewal requirements. Applicants must be retired or prove family ties with Mexican citizens or permanent residents. Financial requirements significantly increased in 2026. The permanent resident card fee doubled from previous years. Work authorization is included with permanent residency.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Must demonstrate monthly pension income of over $7,322 USD OR investments/bank accounts with average balance of $107,000 USD during the previous year OR proof of receiving at least 300 days' worth of Mexican minimum wage from pension or retirement source.
Minimum funds: $7,322 USD monthly pension OR $107,000 USD savings
-
Employment
Must be retired OR have family ties with Mexican citizens or permanent visa holders. Retirees must provide pension documentation.
Required status: Retired with pension OR family member of Mexican citizen/permanent resident
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm (or 2x2 inches), color, white background, front view, no eyeglasses
-
Bank statement
Minimum balance: $107,000 USD average balance; Months required: 12
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Permanent Resident Visa Application Form; Form url: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete the permanent resident visa application form online through the Mexican consulate website.
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Appointment booking
Schedule an in-person appointment at the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate in home country.
-
Document gathering
Prepare all required documents: passport, application form, photo, bank statements for 12 months showing average balance of $107,000 USD OR pension documentation showing $7,322 USD monthly income, OR proof of family ties with Mexican citizens.
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Fee payment
Pay visa application fee of $56 USD at the consulate.
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Interview
Attend in-person interview at the consulate where documents will be reviewed and financial qualification assessed.
-
Processing wait
Wait for visa processing (typically 2-4 weeks).
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Visa collection
Collect passport with permanent resident visa from the consulate.
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Document submission
Within 30 days of arrival in Mexico, apply to the National Migration Institute (INM) to convert visa into permanent resident card.
Transit visa (Transit - Visa-Free (up to 24 hours in international zone))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 1 days
- Fee
- Free
- Entry
- Single entry
Most passengers transiting through Mexican airports do not need a visa if their layover is under 24 hours and they remain in the international transit area. However, citizens of non-visa-exempt countries must obtain a visa if more than 24 hours elapse between flights, regardless of whether they leave the airport. Valid visa from US, Canada, UK, Japan, or Schengen country exempts all nationalities from transit visa requirements.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Valid only for airport transit remaining in international zone. Layover must be under 24 hours. Cannot leave airport.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 0; Validity months: 6
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No
How to apply
-
Document gathering
Prepare valid passport and confirmed onward flight ticket showing layover under 24 hours.
Transit visa (Transit Visa (for layovers >24 hours or leaving airport))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 3 days
- Processing time
- 2 days to 3 weeks
- Fee
- $51-56 USD
- Entry
- Single entry
Citizens of non-visa-exempt countries need a transit visa if their layover exceeds 24 hours or if they plan to leave the airport. Travelers with valid visas from US, Canada, UK, Japan, or Schengen countries are exempt from this requirement regardless of nationality.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for transit through Mexico with layover exceeding 24 hours or when leaving the airport during layover.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm (or 2x2 inches), color, white background, front view, no eyeglasses
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Transit Visa Application Form; Form url: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete the transit visa application form through the Mexican consulate website.
-
Appointment booking
Schedule appointment at Mexican embassy or consulate.
-
Document gathering
Prepare passport, application form, photo, and confirmed flight tickets showing transit itinerary.
-
Fee payment
Pay transit visa fee of $51-56 USD at the consulate.
-
Interview
Attend interview at consulate if required.
-
Processing wait
Wait for visa processing.
-
Visa collection
Collect passport with transit visa.
Journalist visa (Journalist Temporary Resident Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 1460 days
- Processing time
- 2-4 weeks
- Fee
- $56 USD visa fee + 11,141 MXN resident card fee (~$643 USD total)
- Validity
- 1-4 years
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Journalists working in Mexico require a Temporary Resident permit that allows work activities. Mexico updated visa issuance guidelines in 2025 to include digital procedures with QR codes and electronic visas. Journalists must provide credentials and assignment documentation from media organizations.
Eligibility
-
Employment
Must be employed by a recognized media organization or working as freelance journalist with assignment documentation.
Required status: Employed journalist or freelancer with assignment credentials
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for journalism work, media reporting, documentary production, and related professional activities in Mexico.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm (or 2x2 inches), color, white background, front view, no eyeglasses
-
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Temporary Resident Visa Application Form - Journalist; Form url: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx
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Professional license
Accepted licenses: Press credentials, journalist accreditation, media organization ID; Must be translated: No
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete temporary resident visa application for journalist activity through Mexican consulate website.
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Appointment booking
Schedule in-person appointment at Mexican embassy or consulate.
-
Document gathering
Prepare passport, application form, photo, employment letter from media organization, press credentials, assignment details.
-
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee of $56 USD at consulate.
-
Interview
Attend interview at consulate where journalism credentials and assignment will be reviewed.
-
Processing wait
Wait for visa processing (typically 2-4 weeks).
-
Visa collection
Collect passport with temporary resident visa (may be digital/QR code as of 2026).
-
Document submission
Within 30 days of arrival in Mexico, apply to INM for temporary resident card with work authorization.
Work / Immigration visa (Work/Immigration Temporary Resident Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 1460 days
- Processing time
- 2-4 weeks
- Fee
- $56 USD visa fee + 11,141 MXN resident card fee + 4,341 MXN work permit (~$893 USD total)
- Validity
- 1-4 years, renewable
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Foreign nationals working in Mexico or staying longer than 180 days must obtain a Temporary Resident Visa and then apply for a Temporary Resident Card with work authorization from INM. Temporary resident status can be maintained for up to 4 continuous years. 2026 saw significant increases in fees (100% increase) and tighter financial qualification criteria. Financial requirements: approximately $5,250 USD monthly income for 6 months OR $92,000 USD in savings for 12 months.
Eligibility
-
Financial
Must demonstrate monthly income of approximately $5,250 USD for 6 consecutive months OR savings/investments of approximately $92,000 USD for 12 consecutive months. Requirements updated in 2026 with stricter criteria.
Minimum funds: $5,250 USD monthly income OR $92,000 USD savings
-
Employment
Must have a job offer from a Mexican employer or demonstrate ability to work remotely. Work authorization must be obtained separately from INM after securing residency.
Required status: Job offer from Mexican employer or remote work capability with financial proof
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for employment in Mexico, remote work, or other temporary residence purposes with financial qualification.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm (or 2x2 inches), color, white background, front view, no eyeglasses
-
Bank statement
Minimum balance: Not specified; Months required: 6
-
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Temporary Resident Visa Application Form; Form url: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx
-
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete the temporary resident visa application form online through the Mexican consulate website.
-
Appointment booking
Schedule an in-person appointment at the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate.
-
Document gathering
Prepare all required documents: passport, application form, photo, employment letter or work contract, bank statements for 6-12 months, proof of income/savings meeting financial requirements.
-
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee of $56 USD at the consulate.
-
Interview
Attend in-person interview at the consulate where documents will be reviewed and financial qualification assessed.
-
Processing wait
Wait for visa processing (typically 2-4 weeks).
-
Visa collection
Collect passport with temporary resident visa from the consulate.
-
Document submission
Within 30 days of arrival in Mexico, apply to the National Migration Institute (INM) for the temporary resident card.
Student visa (Student Temporary Resident Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 1460 days
- Processing time
- 2 days to 3 weeks
- Fee
- $56 USD visa fee + 11,141-22,282 MXN resident card fee (~$643-1,286 USD)
- Validity
- 1-4 years (duration of study program)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Foreign nationals studying in Mexico for longer than 180 days must obtain a Student Temporary Resident Visa. After arrival in Mexico, students must apply to the National Migration Institute (INM) within 30 days for a resident card. Students cannot work or engage in any remunerative activity while on a student visa. The temporary resident card fee ranges from 3,000-7,000 MXN depending on the number of years issued.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Must be enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Mexico for a program lasting more than 180 days. No employment or remunerative activities permitted.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm (or 2x2 inches), color, white background, front view, no eyeglasses
-
Travel insurance
Coverage area: International coverage including Mexico; Minimum coverage: Not specified
-
Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Student Temporary Resident Visa Application Form; Form url: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete the student visa application form online through the Mexican consulate website.
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Appointment booking
Schedule an in-person appointment at the consular office closest to your place of residence.
-
Document gathering
Prepare all required documents: valid passport, application form, photo, original admission letter from Mexican institution, proof of medical insurance with international coverage.
-
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee of $56 USD at the consulate.
-
Interview
Attend in-person interview at the consulate where documents will be reviewed.
-
Processing wait
Wait for visa processing (typically 2 days to 3 weeks).
-
Visa collection
Collect passport with student temporary resident visa from the consulate.
-
Document submission
Within 30 days of arrival in Mexico, apply to the National Migration Institute (INM) for the temporary resident card.
Medical visa (Medical Treatment Visa (under 180 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Fee
- $51-56 USD visa fee (if visa-required nationality) + 983 MXN FMM fee
- Entry
- Single entry
No visa is needed for medical treatment stays under 180 days for tourism or medical travel. Visa-exempt nationals can enter with just an FMM. Non-visa-exempt nationals must apply for a tourist visa with medical purpose documentation. Most hospitals do not accept U.S. health insurance including Medicare. Travel medical insurance with emergency coverage is essential. Mexican health providers usually require payment before providing care or releasing from hospital.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for receiving medical treatment, health procedures, or consultations at Mexican healthcare facilities for stays under 180 days.
-
Financial
Must demonstrate financial ability to cover medical treatment costs. Most hospitals require upfront payment and do not accept foreign health insurance.
Minimum funds: Sufficient funds to cover treatment costs and stay
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, proof of financial means to cover medical treatment; Minimum amount: Not specified - must demonstrate ability to cover treatment costs
-
Travel insurance
Coverage area: International coverage including Mexico; Minimum coverage: Emergency medical coverage recommended
-
Medical certificate
Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.
Required tests: Proof of medical appointment or hospital admission in Mexico; Validity months: 3
How to apply
-
Document gathering
Prepare valid passport, proof of medical appointment/hospital admission in Mexico, evidence of financial means to cover treatment, travel medical insurance documentation.
-
Online application
If from visa-required country, apply for tourist visa at Mexican consulate. If visa-exempt, complete FMM online or at airport.
-
Fee payment
Pay applicable visa fee (if required) at consulate and FMM fee of 983 MXN at border/airport.
Tourist visa (Tourist Consular Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Processing time
- 2 days to 3 weeks, depending on nationality
- Fee
- $51-56 USD visa application fee + 983 MXN FMM fee
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry or SAE must apply for a tourist visa at a Mexican embassy or consulate. This includes citizens of Afghanistan, China, India, Nigeria, Vietnam, and approximately 48 other countries. Mexico published updated digital visa guidelines in 2025, allowing for QR code visas and electronic visas to replace paper stickers.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Available to citizens of approximately 48 countries that are not visa-exempt, including Afghanistan, China, India, Nigeria, Vietnam, and others.
-
Purpose of visit
Valid for tourism, business, correspondence, study, or medical treatment purposes. No remunerative activities permitted.
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm (or 2x2 inches), color, white background, front view, no eyeglasses
-
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, proof of economic solvency; Minimum amount: Not specified
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
-
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Tourist Visa Application Form; Form url: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx
-
Proof of ties
Provide evidence that you have reasons to leave before the permitted stay ends, such as work, study, family or property ties.
Accepted evidence types: Employment letter, property ownership, family ties, business ownership
How to apply
-
Online application
Complete the visa application form online through the Mexican consulate website.
-
Appointment booking
Schedule an in-person interview appointment at the nearest Mexican embassy or consulate through the online booking system.
-
Document gathering
Prepare all required documents: valid passport, completed application form, photo, proof of funds, proof of ties to home country, travel itinerary.
-
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee of $51-56 USD (varies slightly by consulate) at the consulate.
-
Interview
Attend in-person interview at the consulate where documents will be reviewed, biometric data collected (photo and fingerprints), and interview conducted by consular officer.
-
Biometrics
Biometric data (photo and fingerprints) collected during the interview appointment.
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Processing wait
Wait for visa processing (typically 2 days to 3 weeks depending on nationality).
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Visa collection
Collect passport with visa (may be QR code visa or electronic visa as of 2026) from the consulate.