Tourist Entry (FMM)
Most visitors enter Mexico on the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), commonly called a "tourist visa" though it's technically a permit. The FMM allows stays up to 180 days but officers may grant less.
Key Points
- Not guaranteed 180 days: Immigration officers decide your stay length at entry. Some receive only 7-30 days.
- Cannot work: Any paid work, including remote work for foreign employers, technically violates the FMM.
- Cannot be extended: Unlike some countries, Mexico doesn't allow tourist permit extensions.
- Must keep original: Losing your FMM can result in fines at departure.
INM has increased scrutiny of "perpetual tourists" - people doing visa runs to reset their 180 days. Multiple entries with full stays may result in shorter permits or denied entry.
Visa Requirements by Nationality
| Countries | Visa Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA, Canada, EU, UK, Australia | No | FMM on arrival, up to 180 days |
| Brazil, Argentina, Chile | No | FMM on arrival, up to 180 days |
| China, India, Russia | Yes, unless... | Exempt with valid US, Canada, Japan, UK, or Schengen visa |
| Most African nations | Yes | Must apply at Mexican consulate |
Entry Requirements
Documents Needed
- Valid passport (6+ months recommended)
- Completed FMM form (paper or electronic)
- Return/onward ticket (may be requested)
- Proof of funds (may be requested)
- Hotel reservation or address in Mexico (may be requested)
💡 Tip: Officers at Cancun airport are known for stricter questioning. Have hotel bookings and return flights ready to show if asked.
Electronic FMM
Mexico now offers electronic FMM for air travelers. You can complete it online before arrival at INM's website. This speeds up arrival but is not required - paper forms are still available at airports.
Visa Runs & Border Crossings
Leaving Mexico to reset your tourist days is called a "visa run." While legal, INM is increasingly skeptical of this practice.
Common Destinations
- Belize: Popular from Quintana Roo, but requires yellow fever certificate from some countries
- Guatemala: Accessible from southern Mexico, longer stay options
- USA: Land crossings at Tijuana, Nogales, etc. Requires US visa for most nationalities
After multiple visa runs, you may receive only 7-30 days on re-entry. Some people are denied entry entirely. There's no official rule - it's at officer discretion.
Common Issues
Denied Entry
INM can deny entry without explanation. Common triggers include:
- Multiple recent entries with full 180-day stays
- No return ticket or proof of onward travel
- Insufficient funds or no proof of accommodation
- Previous overstays or violations
- Appearing to intend to work
Lost FMM
If you lose your FMM, you must visit an INM office before departure. Expect a fine of approximately 600-700 MXN and delays at the airport.