With all the political rhetoric floating around, many Americans are under the impression that visa requirements for travel to Mexico have changed. To clear up any confusion, we spoke with Alvaro Santana from Santana & Associates, a trusted immigration lawyer in Puerto Vallarta. Here’s what he had to say about the current regulations and what travelers should know.
Q: Have there been any official changes to visa requirements for Americans traveling to Mexico?
A: No, nothing has officially changed. Any American can still enter Mexico without a visa for tourism purposes. However, they must register with the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), which is now primarily electronic.
Q: What is the process for getting an FMM now?
A: When you arrive in Mexico, you will go through one of two entry processes:
Traditional Immigration Checkpoint – If you go directly to an immigration agent, they will stamp your passport and register your entry in the system. The FMM will be available in PDF format.
Electronic Entry System – Some airports now have automated electronic kiosks. If you use one of these, your passport will not be stamped. Instead, you will receive a printed ticket as proof of entry. You must have this ticket to leave the country, so store it someplace safe.
Q: So, does this mean Americans can’t enter Mexico?
A: Not at all. There’s been some misinformation spreading, but nothing prevents Americans from entering Mexico for tourism under the existing rules. The only change is that some airports now process entries electronically.
Q: What should temporary and permanent residents of Mexico be aware of?
A: This is very important—temporary and permanent residents should avoid using the electronic entry system at the airport. If they do, the system will register them as tourists instead of residents. This can cause serious issues, including the loss of their residency status.
If you are a resident, you must always go through the traditional immigration line and present your residency card to an immigration officer.
Q: What should travelers do to ensure a smooth entry?
A: Here are the key takeaways:
- Tourists: You can enter Mexico as usual. If you use an immigration officer, you’ll get a passport stamp; if you use an electronic kiosk, you’ll get a printed ticket instead.
- Temporary & Permanent Residents: DO NOT use the electronic kiosks—always go to an immigration agent and present your residency card to avoid being marked as a tourist.
Final Thoughts
Despite the noise around immigration policies, nothing has changed for American travelers entering Mexico. However, residents must be mindful of how they check in to avoid unnecessary complications.
For any legal questions or concerns regarding immigration, Alvaro Santana and his team at Santana & Associates are trusted resources in Puerto Vallarta. If you’re planning a move or have questions about your residency status, it’s always best to consult a professional.
Do you have questions about traveling or living in Puerto Vallarta? Then, please email us at info@pveverything.com
