How to Get a Mexican Tourist Visa (FMM): Requirements, Cost & 180-Day Rule

Most nationalities do NOT need a visa to visit Mexico, just the FMM tourist card (861 pesos, ~$50 USD) which allows stays up to 180 days. Your passport only needs to be valid during your stay (6-month rule does NOT apply to Mexico). Citizens of the US, Canada, UK, EU, and 40+ other countries are visa-exempt. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Playa del Carmen and Mexico legally.

THE MEXICAN TOURIST CARD (FMM)

The Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM), or Mexican Tourist Card, is required for all visitors to Mexico except Mexican citizens and children under two years old. This card allows you to enter Mexico for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

KEY INFORMATION ABOUT THE FMM:

• Cost: 861 pesos (approximately $50 USD)
• Duration: Up to 180 days, though actual duration varies by port of entry
• Important: The FMM is for ONE entry only
• Your passport must be valid during your entire stay (6-month validity is NOT required)

DURATION VARIES BY AIRPORT

note that while the maximum stay is 180 days, some airports grant shorter periods. For example, León and Querétaro airports sometimes issue FMMs for as little as one week. Always check your entry documentation carefully.

PASSPORT VALIDITY REQUIREMENTS

One common misconception is that your passport must be valid for six months. This is NOT true for Mexico. Your passport only needs to be valid for the duration of your stay. This is a significant difference from many other countries.

WHO NEEDS A MEXICAN TOURIST VISA?

Most nationalities do NOT need to apply for a Mexican tourist visa in advance. Citizens of the following countries are visa-exempt:

• Canada, USA, Japan, UK
• All Schengen Area countries
• Argentina, Australia, South Korea
• Plus 40+ additional nations

CITIZENS REQUIRING A MEXICAN E-VISA

However, citizens of certain countries must obtain a Mexican E-Visa online before traveling by air. These countries include:

• Russia
• Philippines
• China
• Vietnam
• Thailand

E-Visas are only available for air travel and must be obtained online at the official Mexican immigration portal.

IMPORTANT RULES FOR YOUR STAY

1. Keep Your FMM: Always carry your stamped FMM portion as proof of legal entry into Mexico.
2. Carry Documentation: You must carry either your original FMM, a passport stamp showing your entry date, or a printout from an airport scanner.
3. No Extensions in Mexico: You CANNOT extend your tourist status while in Mexico. If your time expires, you must leave or pay for additional time at the airport.
4. Renewal Cost: If you need to renew while in Mexico, the cost is 687 pesos (airport payment only).

ENTERING MEXICO AT DIFFERENT POINTS

The process varies depending on where you enter:

AT BORDER CROSSINGS

You will typically receive a printed FMM that needs to be date-stamped.

AT MAJOR AIRPORTS (Mexico City, Cancún)

Many airports now use passport scanners instead of issuing physical FMMs. You'll receive a receipt to keep.

AT SMALLER AIRPORTS

You'll receive a stamp in your passport showing your entry and departure dates.

WITH A PRE-APPROVED RESIDENT VISA

If you have a pre-approved temporary or permanent resident visa from a Mexican consulate, you have 6 months to enter Mexico. You'll receive an FMM marked "CANJE" with 30 days to start your residency process.

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID

• Don't obtain your FMM online from third-party websites, many charge excessive fees ($200+)
• Don't lose your FMM, you'll need it when leaving Mexico
• Don't assume your passport needs 6 months validity
• Don't overstay your tourist status, immigration takes this seriously

PLANNING YOUR MEXICO TRIP

Living and traveling in Playa del Carmen and throughout Mexico has taught me that preparation is key. Make sure you:

1. Check your passport validity before traveling
2. Know your entry point to understand which process applies
3. Keep all immigration documents safe during your stay
4. Plan your departure before your FMM expires

Mexico welcomes millions of tourists and expats yearly, and the visa process is generally straightforward when you understand the requirements. Whether you're coming for a short beach vacation or considering becoming a long-term expat, having the correct documentation ensures peace of mind.

For the most current information, visit the official Mexican immigration website (INM) or consult with your nearest Mexican consulate.

Related Mexico Visa & Legal Guides

• Mexico Cell Phone Registration Requirement
• Visitax Scam Alert
• Mexican Residency Benefits

Need help with immigration or legal services in Mexico? Browse professional and legal services or list your immigration service on ExpatsList.