Moving to Mexico and I'd like to know what to expect at the border crosing?

Question

I'll be driving my way there so I'd like to know what to expect when it comes to what documents are required and how the ordeal generally goes. Like I said, I'm not visiting, I'm moving there permanently so I'm not sure how that affects what documents I'll need. Also, has anyone had an experience with having your car searched, how does that go? Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

I am an American living in mexico, came here 2 1/2 years ago.  I believe it is FAR better to apply for and get an FM# visa at the nearest mexican consulate in the u.s. BEFORE you come to Mexico.  You will need a car permit, which you can get at the mexican consulate ( better) or just after you cross the border.  See 1st 2 websites for list of mexican consulates and  car permit info.  You will need mexican car insurance.  See 3rd website for my favorite.  If you are going only to Sonora or Baja, you do not need the car permit, but you must have it for anylace else.  Pack your car well, make a list of what is in each box, bag, or suitcase...number each container and put te number on each list so you know what is where.  only about every 10th car is randomly searched.  If they happen to want to serch yours, don't act like it bothers you at al,l and do offer the list to "help" them...often, disarms them and they just glance at it and say ok.   Do not bring brand new things...if you have new items, remove tags and packages and mess them up a bit so they do not look new. You need a passport...not for land travel NOw, but because they will be required next summer and you should not "move" toMexico without one...as you will need it for when you go back to visit.Also, EVERYONE...landlords, immigration, bank...here will want to see your passport and visa.  if i can help you in any way, just emailme.

Answer 2

Depends on how much stuff you're bringing. You don't have to declare that you're moving there unless you're driving a U Haul with all your worldly goods. Eventually you will need a tourist visa and later an FM3 as a permanent resident.

Answer 3

It all depends on where you cross.  I myself live in Mexico currently, I moved here 5 years ago, but nothing has changed at the border.  I would suggest you cross in Pharr/Brownsville/McAllen.  It is a small crossing so everything is usually fairly painless.  I would also suggest crossing as early as possible as there will be less people and you will have more time to get your visa and declare anything.  To cross all you need is your passport, because even if you are moving it is the same if you are just visiting.  They will give you a 90 day visa and then once you get to your destination you will need to apply for an FM3, depending on where you are going I can tell you where the best place would be to apply for this.  besides that you don't really need any documents.  But of course since you are moving permanently then you need to bring your birth certificate, and any other official documents, because all of those are used to get your FM3.  As well your car will be searched wherever you cross but unless you have something you shouldn't don't worry about it.  you will have to go through 2 checkpoints.  One at the US Mexico Border and another farther into Mexico, about 10-20 kilometers depending. There they x-ray your car and you get a red light or green light and then you are free to go.  If you are bringing down things for a move then you don't have to really declare anything because they are personal items.  just make sure nothing is new and still in the box or they will make you pay tax on it.  Let me know where you will be going and I can help with more processes once you arrive there.