Here you will find important information
for permits and documents, as well as tips for
traveling to and living and working in Mexico
US Passport Required
for Travel To Mexico
The Mexican government does not require a passport for U.S. citizens
visiting Mexico as tourists, yet you will need to present one to go
back to the United States. From January 2007,
U.S. citizens will need a valid passport to travel Mexico. The
specific requirements are subject to change - for the latest
information check the
Department of State website. You may also review the information
regarding
obtaining and/or renewing a passport.
top
Tourism:
Documents required for
entry:
1. Valid Passport for at least
6 months
2. FMT or
Visitor/Business Visitors Card
3. Customs Declaration Form
What you can expect upon Arriving in Mexico.
Arriving by Air or
driving into
Mexico you will be issued a Tourist
card/FMT like a Visa, it is your permission to be in the country. It
will be stamped displaying the amount of time you are permitted to
stay in Mexico. You are legally allowed as a visitor to stay for up
to 180 days. Yet the time you are actually given may vary depending
on your port of entry. Make sure to request the maximum 180 days if
you need it. This permit may also be extended by visiting a local
INM (Instituto
Nacional de Migracion) office located in most major cities.
Mexico has a tourist fee they charge visitors. If you are either
staying in Mexico longer than 72 hours or traveling past the Border
Zone you will need to pay the 190 peso Tourist Card fee (roughly $20
US dollars).
If you are arriving by airline or cruise, your Tourist Card fee will
be charged in the cost of your package or fare, and they will give
you your tourist card to fill out for Customs when you land.
You must carry your visitor's card with you at all times, yet be sure to
transport it safely, or make a copy of it when you arrive, as
you are required to turn it in upon your departure and if it is lost
or stolen you are required to pay a fee, usually double and it can
be a major procedure to replace it before being allowed to leave the
country. Mexican immigration officials will not be entertained or
amused by your stories of it being lost or destroyed in your
swimming trunks pocket while bathing in the ocean at one of their
many
beaches . They have probably heard it all.
Remember the law is the law and it is strictly applied.
Immigration will not take money for the card, you must go to a bank
(there is usually one next to Customs). You can also pay the fee at
any bank in Mexico, where upon they will stamp your Tourist Card
paid. You must then go back to immigration, have them stamp
your card as valid.
Arriving by air and once you have made it through
immigrations, you will then proceed to collect your luggage. There
are usually baggage carts near or around the carousels for about
$1-$3 dollars for you to transport it yourself through customs.
You will then proceed to customs, please
have your customs declaration form in hand when you approach the
customs agents, where you are required to press the button on a
traffic light. If the light appears green you are permitted to
proceed outside where there are taxis, buses and other forms of
transportation available to your final destination. If your
visit involves one of our
vacation rentals,
we will be waiting to
transport you to your accommodations. If the light appears red
then your bags will be inspected, sometimes casually, sometimes
thoroughly...either way it will obviously cause a delay.
Customs Allowances into Mexico
New and used goods for personal use, e.g.
clothes, personal hygiene products, footwear
20 Packs of Cigarettes
50 Cigars or 200 grams of tobacco
3 Liters of alcoholic beverages (wine, spirits, etc)
Up to 12 rolls of film
Up to 20 music CDs
A Laptop computer
Any sporting equipment (e.g. golf clubs, scuba gear, bike) for
personal use
Don't bring anything that
appears that you are planning to sell. These items will get
heavily taxed or confiscated.
Warning!
No narcotics of any kind or in any amount.
Firearms and dangerous knives are illegal in
Mexico. You may be required to present documentary evidence for any
powerful prescription drugs you need to carry on your person, like
the actual doctor's prescription.
A foreign firearms license is not valid in Mexico. The only
exception is a firearm used for hunting purposes, only allowable
with a special permit; contact your
local Mexican consulate.
Narcotic offences are likely to
land you in a Mexican prison. Any amount of time spent here is not
to be considered a vacation. Your consulate will not be able
to bail you out and 25-30 years is common for drug and firearm
offenses.
Money Exchange:
You do not need to worry regarding changing your native
currency to pesos immediately at the airport. US dollars are
accepted at most places in Mexico as well as pesos. It is suggested
you exchange your native currency for pesos at a
Mexican bank where
the exchange rate is best, yet you may often find a line causing
some delay. Or you can exchange your money at a local Casa de Cambio
(house of change), either the bank or the Casa de Cambios will
usually offer a better exchange rate than at the airport.
top
Airlines
(click on the name for main website)
Local Numbers 221-1325
Puerto Vallarta Airport
221-1240
Aeromexico
221-1043
Mexicana
221-1350
Alaska
Airlines
221-1333
America
West
221-1799
American Airlines
221-1025
Continental
Public Transportation
Buses
The public buses in Puerto Vallarta run daily from 5:00 am until
11:30 pm
Destinations are marked on the windshield in white.
Fares:
4.50 pesos in town
10 pesos in Nuevo Vallarta
18 pesos in El Ancloste
$5 to
Mismaloya and Boca de Tomatlan Taxi
Taxi fares in most of Mexico, but especially in PV, are
set by the local union and all taxis are zoned based. To be sure you
are not being overcharged, ask what the fare is before getting in
the taxi. If you feel it sounds like to much, ask to see the rate
card which each of them should carry.
The fare is for the taxi and not per person. Try to have adequate
change so you can give them exactly what the rate is. Tipping is not
required and is to be handled for what it is...a gratuity, doing it
and the amount is totally up to you. A higher rate for night fares
is not authorized by the union.
Water
We have all heard about the horror stories regarding the
consumption of water in Mexico. You need not suffer from any ill
effects as long as you stay aware and use caution.
Most of the hotels and restaurants in Vallarta have their own water
purification systems. Otherwise they use bottled water to clean and
prepare the food and to make ice. They do not serve a glass of water
as you are accustomed to in the US and you probably would be better
off not requesting one.
You can always ask first how the food is prepared and the ice is
made. If you do not trust the response, then don't eat the food, and
certainly "don't drink the water", as a simple salad rinsed
under tap water can ruin a good part of your vacation. If you do
find you were caught unaware...seek the appropriate medical
assistance. Despite whether they have purification
systems or not, it would be best to use caution and keep your mouth
closed in the shower, and be sure to keep a bottle of water close to
the bathroom sink where you will be brushing your teeth. Do not
rinse your toothbrush in the running water. You can soak it in a
glass with some bottled water and a little bit of peroxide to get it
really clean. Small children can be instructed to hum a tune while
showering rather than boldly singing aloud. Humming keeps their
mouths closed so no water can enter. Be sure to explain to them
clearly why you are requesting this.
Police in PV
Police in Puerto Vallarta both men and women wearing white
uniforms and black caps or whit pith helmets are special, bi-lingual
Tourist Police. To call them dial 060 Permits:
Ask Gringo Experts for Help with any of the following
Non Immigrant: For those of you not seeking
permanent
residence in
Puerto Vallarta or other areas of Mexico
1. Vacations, fill out the
FMT form provided by the
airlines you are traveling with or at any port of entry.
2. Work, an annually renewable visitors permit, if you are
planning on living in Mexico for less 5 years.
3. Other, depends on the activity such as:
Students:
A non immigrant permit, which will allow you to live and study
in Mexico can be granted by your
consulate.
Artist and Sports:
You may apply for an immigration permit and each case is
considered individually at the digression of the Ministry of
Interior
Distinguished Visitors:
VIP's, Heads of State, Royalty and persons on individuals on
official business, these are special permits issued for up to 6
months. Immigrant Planning to Make a Living:
When you want to permanently
live and
work in Mexico
Immigrant Not Planning to Make a Living: When you want to
purchase property and/or permanently live in Mexico, but not work.
1. If you are age 50+ and can prove a $1500 minimum monthly income
or equivalent funds.
2. If you are under the age of 50 you need to contact the Mexican
consulate and be able to prove a permanent steady income inline with
their regulations and will be required to state your intention for
living there. You may be granted an FM3 convertible to an FM2 in
five years.
Residency: For persons wishing
to reside beyond 180 days or retire in Mexico.
Immigrant Permits: If you wish to live in Mexico short or long term.
Applications accepted at
Mexican consulates.
Full resident status does not require you to give up your natural
citizenship. Full resident status enables you to the same rights as
a Mexican National except for the right to vote. You are permitted
to live, work, claim state benefits and pay taxes.
Work Permits / FM3 may
prohibit you from working in certain industries.
Work Permit / FM3: Yes,
foreigners can
legally work in Mexico, for any length of time,
provided they obtain the required permission from the Mexican
Immigrations Office. Permits are obtained from the Mexican
Government and are issued to people who are sponsored by companies
in Mexico (or foreign companies with Mexican operations /
subsidiaries), or by people with specific skills required in Mexico.
You can enter Mexico to work for a foreign company provided that you
do not receive any remuneration directly from a Mexican company or
subsidiary. What kind of work can I do?
You can set up a small business like a bar or a restaurant. Sell
consulting services, either in business development, and especially
in IT and Internet related fields.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a popular work placement.
You will need to hold the TEFL certificate (as a minimum) and with
it, you'll have a chance to work in one of the many private schools
and language centers based in Mexico. Learning English is an
absolute requirement for Mexicans who want a professional
qualification. Most private schools teach at least half of their
lessons (including math and sciences) in English.
You may also take part in community and social projects. By doing
so, you can assist the local people by sharing your knowledge
and experience and talents.
Sales & Purchasing Agents, Importers, Exporters,
for attending board or director's meetings of Mexican companies, to
conduct business that will require notarial certification, and for
persons participating in any legal or court proceedings or
appointments to American consulates in Mexico.
Technicians and Engineers, who intend to repair,
maintain, or install machinery; train or advise personnel; or to
take tools or machinery into Mexico.
Nationalization: if
you wish to review the information regarding becoming a naturalized
citizen please click on the following link for information,
addresses and forms.
http://www.inami.gob.mx
Certain documents and fees are required.
top
Mexican Consulates in the US
Arizona
Douglas
1201 F Avenue, Douglas, Arizona 85607
Tel: (520) 364-3142
Fax: (520) 364-1379
Nogales
571 N. Grand Ave., Nogales, Arizona 85621
Tel: (520) 287-2521
Fax: (520) 287-3175
Phoenix
1990 W. Camelback, Suite 110, Phoenix, Arizona 85015
Tel: (602) 242-7398 * Fax: 242-2957
Tucson
553 S. Stone Ave., Tucson, Arizona 85701
Tel: (520) 882-5595
Fax: (520) 882-8959
California
Calexico
331 W. Second St., Calexico, California 92231
Tel: (760) 357-3863 * Fax: (760) 357-6284
Fresno
2409 Merced St., Fresno, California 93721
Tel: (559) 233-3065 * Fax: (559) 233-4219
Los Angeles
2401 W. Sixth St., Los Angeles, California 90057
Tel: (213) 351-6800 * Fax: (213) 389-9249
Oxnard
201 E. Fourth St., Suite 206-A, Oxnard, California 93030
Tel: (805) 483-4684 * Fax: (805) 385-3527
Sacramento
1010 8th St., Sacramento, California 95814
Tel: (916) 441-3287 * Fax: (916) 441-3176
San Bernadino
532 North D St., San Bernadino, California 92401
Tel: (909) 889-9837 * Fax: (909) 889-8285
San Diego
1549 India St., San Diego, California 92101
Tel: (619) 231-8414 * Fax: (619) 231-4802
San Francisco
532 Folsom St., San Francisco, California 94105
Tel: (415) 354-1700 * Fax: (415) 495-3971
San Jose
540 North First St., San Jose, California 95112
Tel: (408) 294-3414 * Fax: (408) 294-4506
Santa Ana
828 N. Broadway St., Santa Ana, California 92701-3424
Tel: (714) 835-3069 * Fax: (714) 835-3472
Colorado
Denver
48 Steele St., Denver, Colorado 80206
Tel: (303) 331-1110 * Fax: (303) 331-1872
District of Columbia
Washington (Embassy of Mexico)
1911 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C., 20006
Tel: (202) 736-1000 * Fax: (202) 234-4498
Florida
Miami
5975 Sunset Dr., South Miami, Florida 33143
Tel: (786) 268-4900 * Fax: (786) 268-4895
Orlando
100 W. Washington St., Orlando, Florida 32801
Tel: (407) 422-0514 * Fax: (407) 422-9633
Georgia
Atlanta
2600 Apple Valley Rd, Atlanta, Georgia 30319
Tel: (404) 266-2233 * Fax: (404) 266-2302
Illinois
Chicago
300 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd Fl., Chicago, IL 60651
Tel: (312) 855-1380 * Fax: (312) 855-9257
Louisiana
New Orleans
World Trade Center Building
2 Canal St., Suite 840, New Orleans, LA 70115
Tel: (504) 522-3596 * Fax: (504) 525-2332
Massachusetts
Boston
20 Park Plaza, Suite 506, Boston, MA 02116
Tel: (617) 426-4181 * Fax: (617) 695-1957
Michigan
Detroit
645 Griswold Ave. Suite 1700, Detroit, MI 48226
Tel: (313) 964-4515 * Fax: (313) 964-4522
Missouri
Kansas City
1600 Baltimore, Suite 100, Kansas City, MO 64108
Tel: (816) 556-0800 * Fax: (816) 556-0900
Nebraska
Omaha
3552 Dodge St., Omaha, NE 68131
Tel: (402) 595-1841-44 * Fax: (402) 595-1845
New Mexico
Albuquerque
1610 4th Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
Tel: (505) 247-4177 * Fax: (505) 842-9490
New York
New York
27 East 39th. St., New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 217-6400 * Fax: (212) 217-6493
North Carolina
Charlotte
P.O. Box 19627, Charlotte, NC 28219
Tel: (704) 394-2190
Raleigh
336 E. Six Forks Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609
Tel: (919) 754-0046 * Fax: (919) 754-1729
Oregon
Portland
1234 S.W. Morrison, Portland, OR 97205
Tel: (503) 274-1450 * Fax: (503) 274-1540
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
111 S. Independence Mall E, Suite 310
Bourse Building, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Tel: (215) 922-3834 * Fax: (215) 923-7281
Texas
Austin
200 E. Sixth St., Suite 200, Austin, Texas 78701
Tel: (512) 478-2866 * Fax: (512) 478-8008
Brownsville
724 E. Elizabeth St., Brownsville, Texas 78520
Tel: (956) 542-4431 * Fax: (956) 542-7267
Corpus Christi
800 N. Shoreline Blvd. Suite 410, North Tower
Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
Tel: (512) 882-3375 * Fax: (512) 882-9324
Dallas
8855 N Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75247
Tel: (214) 630-7341 * Fax: (214) 630-3511
Del Rio
300 E. Losoya, Del Rio, Texas 78841
Tel: (830) 775-2352 * Fax: (830) 774-6497
Eagle Pass
140 Adams St., Eagle Pass, Texas 78852
Tel: (830) 773-9255 * Fax: (830) 773-9397
El Paso
910 E. San Antonio St., El Paso, Texas 79901
Tel: (915) 533-3644 * Fax: (915) 532-7163
Houston
4507 San Jacinto St., Houston, Texas 77004
Tel: (713) 271-6800 * Fax: (713) 271-3201
Laredo
1612 Farragut St., Laredo, Texas 78040
Tel: (956) 723-6369 * Fax: (956) 723-1741
McAllen
600 S. Broadway Ave., McAllen, Texas 78501
Tel: (956) 686-0243 * Fax: (956) 686-4901
McAllen
511 W. Ohio, Suite 121, Midland, Texas 79701
Tel: (915) 687-2334 * Fax: (915) 687-3952
San Antonio
127 Navarro St., San Antonio, Texas 78205
Tel: (210) 271-9728 * Fax: (210) 227-7518
Utah
Salt Lake City
230 West 400 South, 2nd Floor, Salt Lake City, Utah 84047
Tel: (801) 521-8502 * Fax: (801) 521-0534
Washington
Seattle
2132 Third Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
Tel: (206) 448-3526 * Fax: (206) 448-4771
Mexico Consulates Canada
British Columbia
Vancouver
710-1177 West Hastings St., Vancouver, B.C. V6E 2K3
Tel: (604) 684-1859 * Fax: (604) 684-2485
Ontario
Ottawa (Embassy of Mexico)
45 O'Connor Suite 1500, Ottawa, Ont. K1P 1A4
Tel: (613) 233 8988 * Fax: (613) 235 9123
Toronto
199 Bay St., Suite 4440, Commerce Court West
Toronto, Ont. M5L 1E9
Tel: (416) 368-1847 * Fax: (416) 368-8141
Quebec
Montreal
2000 Mansfield St. Suite 1015, Montreal, Que. H3A 2Z7
Tel: (514) 288-2502 * Fax: (514) 288-8287
top
The information provided here
is intended to be a general guide only. It is suggested you
seek professional advice or contact your local Mexican Consulate
regarding the absolute current details and information and documents
for traveling, living and working in Mexico. |