I have my U.S. passport, but to visit Mexico, do I need a visa?

Question

Im a U.S. citizen, and Im 18

Answer 1

The answer is a little complicated since you don't say where in Mexico you are going.  In no case do you need to apply for a visa prior to entering Mexico.  If you travel by air, you will be given what they call a "Tourist Card" (an FMT) when you go through the immigration check at the airport.

If you cross the border on foot or by car into Mexico, it's a bit different.  Technically, if you will be in Mexico for more than 72 hours or are going further into Mexico than what that particular state calls its "Tourist Zone", then you should stop at the immigration office when you cross the border and get the FMT.  There's a small charge for it (around $20, I believe), and it's valid for 6 months.

The tricky part is where the "Tourist Zone" ends because it's different in different Mexican states. Baja California's tourist zone goes down pretty far, a good 100 miles or so, I believe.  I'm not sure how far it goes in Sonora or Chihuahua.

Also, many people don't get FMTs even if they're staying more than 72 hours because the chance of getting asked for it are pretty slim.  However, if you get caught without one, you'll end up having to pay more than the original fee.  

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Answer 2

Stick with Charlie's answer, he's right. Technically a "tourist card" (or FMT) is a visa, but who's splitting hairs. But to split hairs just for fun, here's a few more details: 1) they are stamping passports more and more, which could be useful if you lose your visa 2) you can request 180 days but will normally get up to 90 which you can then extend to 180 at an immigration office, for a fee of course. it all depends on the mood of the officer 3) visas do not depend on where you are going in the country - mexico is mexico.

Answer 3

yes, even if you didn't have a passport, you need a visa

Answer 4

Hi

If you are planning to go to mexico for vacations you just need your passport. Mexico ask for visa to students or work.

greetings

Answer 5

Yes, you do need a visa.  When you go through customs on the Mexican side whether it is at the airport or the border.  You will need to talk to one of their immigration officers.  It depends on how far into Mexico you will be going.  They will give you a temporary FMT -- that is a tourist visa.  You can request it for up to 6 months.  If you have any more questions feel free to email me.  I just got back two weeks ago.  And I am going across again this Thursday.

Answer 6

If you have a passport, your visa will be stamped by a Mexican Customs agent once you are allowed into the country. You don't need a visa NOW, just your passport.

Answer 7

Yes, make sure you have your visa with you to get into Mexico, and especially to get back into the US.

Answer 8

You are golden with your passport.  No VISA is needed. Have fun!

Answer 9

The first answerer seems to tjhink you need a Mexican visa to get back into the U.S....a visa from another country has absolutely nothing to do with getting back into the U.S.  All you need to go to Mexico is your passport.  You get a "tourist card" on the airplane or at the border good for up to 180 days....that serves as your "visa."  They do not  stamp your passport..at least they have never stamped mine.