Planning a trip south of the border and wondering do you need a visa to go to Mexico? As flight prices hit record lows and remote work policies make extended stays more appealing, many Americans find themselves scrambling to understand Mexico’s entry requirements.
While Mexico remains one of the most accessible international destinations for U.S. travelers, confusion about visas and tourist permits can make vacation planning a headache. Before you book that beachfront resort, here’s what you need to know.
Do you need a visa to go to Mexico?
If you visit Mexico for more than 180 days, then you’ll need a Temporary Resident Visa. A valid passport book will do the trick for shorter stays—but heads up! Flying in with a U.S. passport card might get you turned away at the gate. A passport book, not card, is what Mexico wants to stamp.
U.S. citizens who arrive by air must fill out an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM), usually handed out by the airlines or at the Mexican airport you fly into.
If you enter by land and go beyond the “border zone” (approximately 12 miles into Mexico from the U.S. border), you must also fill out the FMM.
If you’re staying less than 72 hours within the Baja Peninsula border area, you’re off the hook and don’t have to fill out the FMM. More details on crossing the U.S. – Mexico border by land can be found on the State Department website.
What are the Mexican entry requirements for U.S. citizens?
When it comes to Mexico’s entry requirements, most U.S. citizens can breathe easy. While you don’t need a visa for tourism, you’ll need to obtain and fill out the FMM. This simple document and a valid passport are your ticket to exploring Mexico’s sun-soaked beaches, vibrant cities, and ancient ruins.
What if you have a green card?
Do you need a visa to go to Mexico if you have a green card? You don’t. But you will need to present a valid and unexpired Resident Card along with your passport.
Both these documents must be valid during your entire stay in Mexico.
Visiting Mexico on business
Do you need a visa to go to Mexico from the U.S. if you’re doing business? You don’t need a visa. But you will need to fill out a Nonimmigrant Business Permit (FMN form).
You can get an FMN form at the port of entry or your nearest Mexican consulate.
What are the other Mexican visas Americans can apply for?
Thinking about an extended Mexican trip? In that case, U.S. citizens can snag a Temporary Resident Visa for stays over 180 days but under four years. Retired and over 62? You can upgrade to a Permanent Residence Visa. Students, don’t worry—there’s a visa for you, too, based on how long you’re hitting the books.
All visas are issued in person. Walk-ins aren’t permitted. Book your appointment here.
The 5 best places to visit in Mexico
If you’re itching for a Mexican adventure beyond the usual hotspots, you’re in for a treat. Here are some of our favorite spots where vibrant culture, incredible food, and breathtaking landscapes come together for an unforgettable journey.
Mexico City
Ancient pyramids share streets with cutting-edge art galleries in Mexico’s spirited capital city. Mexico City is a feast for all the senses, with mouthwatering street tacos competing with Michelin-starred restaurants and colorful markets buzzing beneath skyscrapers. With year-round spring-like weather, no time is a bad time to go.
San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende isn’t just a pretty face – though its stunning neo-Gothic church, the Parroquia, could fool you. This UNESCO World Heritage gem seduces visitors with its art galleries tucked in colonial mansions, a vibing central square, and rooftop restaurants.
The best part? It’s safe, walkable, and a new favorite of American expats.
Tulum
This boho-chic beach town masters the art of barefoot luxury amid ancient Mayan ruins and turquoise Caribbean waters. Bucketlist items to tick off in Tulum include plunging into a cenote (underground swimming hole), seeking out a mezcal bar and finding your perfect stretch of powder-white sand.
Oaxaca
A cultural powerhouse dishing up Mexico’s most exciting food scene, you can feast like royalty for pocket change in Oaxaca. In this magical mountain city, you’ll want to shop for intricate textiles woven by local artisans and join the perpetual festival atmosphere in the Zócalo.
Loreto
Warning: we’re about to expose one of Baja’s best-kept secrets. Loreto delivers all the laid-back Baja adventures you’ve been dreaming of – without the spring break party scene.
If world-class sport fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving in what Jacques Cousteau dubbed “the world’s aquarium,” is your jam, get to this colonial town before the influencers do.
The foregoing article was last updated on the 17th of February 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
