SERVICES TO NON-MEXICANS

Services to non-Mexicans

If you are granted a Mexican visa you will be able to travel to Mexico, It does not guarantee entry to the country.
At the point of entry, Mexican immigration authorities may ask you some questions to confirm the reason you are traveling, the length of your stay in Mexico, and how you are financing your trip. The following questions are few examples of what you may be asked:

Why you traveling to Mexico? What activities will you be engaging in?
Where are you staying?
Do you have any acquaintances in the country?
How will you cover your expenses?
How long will you be staying in Mexico?
If you are on a work visa, who or what company is hiring you? What activities will you be engaging in within the company?
If you are on a student visa, what program are you enrolled in? Which is the host institution?
How will you leave the county?

As in all countries, Mexican immigration authorities will verify the authenticity of all the documents you present and the truthfulness of the information you provide. They will also confirm that no outright restriction exists.

The reasons for your trip must match your visa type.

Everyone visiting or living in Mexico has rights which must be respected. Foreigners have the right to contact their embassy or consulate.
In a accordance with article 60 of the Reglamento de la Ley de Migración. Published at the Diario Oficial de la Federación on September 28, 2012.

VISA

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO UNITES STATES AND CANADIAN CITIZENS

U.S. and Canadian Citizens with valid passports do not require a Mexican visa for leisure, tourism or business stays up to 90 days or up to 30 days for transit to third countries.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO FOREIGNERS IN THE UNITED STATES.

All foreigners who hold their valid passport along with a valid U.S. Visa and wish to travel to Mexico on transit or for tourism or business, do not require a Mexican Visa if they arrive from a United States inbound flight.

Permanent Residents of the US, Canada, Japan, Great Britain the Schengen Space and/or holder of ABTC cards issued by APEC, are neither required to have Mexican Visas for the purposes listed above. Valid passport and proof of residency in such countries must be shown at the port of entry.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO FOREIGN PASSENGERS IN TOURISM CRUISES.

All foreigners, regardless of their nationality, who intend to visit Mexico through maritime ports as passengers in tourism cruises, do not require a Mexican Visa.

There is a new immigration law being implemented by Mexico’s National Migration Institute. For updated information, please contact our Visa section at Esta dirección de correo electrónico está siendo protegida contra los robots de spam. Necesita tener JavaScript habilitado para poder verlo.

WHAT IS A MEXICAN VISA?

It’s the document issued by a Mexican Consulate that deems its holder eligible to request permission to enter Mexico for a set period of time and activity. Hence, the possession of a Mexican visa does no guarantee admission into the country. Granting entrance is an exclusive faculty of Migration Officers at the ports of entry.

WHAT TYPES OF VISA CAN I OBTAIN IN THE CONSULATE?

Depending on the applicant’s intent in national territory, a visa under any of the following categories might be issued:

Visitor Visa for stays up to 180 days.
Temporary Resident Visa for stays exceeding 180 days and up to 4 years.
Permanent Resident Visa for the purpose of permanent residence.
Non-Ordinary Visa for diplomats and official representatives.

Download the application form here.

FOR SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS OR INFORMATION ABOUT OTHER VISA CATEGORIES AND/OR TO SCHERDULE AND APPOINTMENT FOR A MEXICAN VISA, PLEASE CONTACT OUR VISA SECTION AT:

Esta dirección de correo electrónico está siendo protegida contra los robots de spam. Necesita tener JavaScript habilitado para poder verlo..

Household

For holders of Mexican Non-Immigrant or Immigrant status wishing to take their household items into Mexico. The detailed list of your household effects must be certified by the Consulate prior to import before Mexican Customs. A six months period is allowed from the date of the abovementioned Status granting to take your household into Mexico.

Requirements:

Apply in person from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
Valid passport and four copies of pages containing personal information, photograph, expiration date/extensions and special endorsements.
Original Non-Immigrant or Immigrant Card/Visa and four copies.
Written Request addressed to the Consulate of México in Boise
Typed itemized list of your household effects in Spanish, with four photocopies. Such must specify:

1) The United States address indicating time of residence.

2) New address in Mexico.

3) Description of all articles, including those contained in boxes. All electronics and electrical appliances must indicate brand, model and serial numbers.

Response time: Five business days after approval.

IMPORTANT: THE CERTIFICATE OF HOUSEHOLD ITEMS IS GRANTED ONCE IN A LIFETIME PER FAMILY. CONSULAR OFFICERS MAY REQUEST ADDITIONAL INFORMATION DURING INTERVIEW. INITIAL APPLICATION DOES NOT GUARANTEE IMMEDIATE APPROVAL.

: Publicado: 21 Enero 2014

Requirements:

Apply in person from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
Valid passport and four copies of pages containing personal information, photograph, expiration date/extensions and special endorsements.
Original Non-Immigrant or Immigrant Card/Visa and four copies.
Written Request addressed to the Consulate of México in Boise
Typed itemized list of your household effects in Spanish, with four photocopies. Such must specify:

1) The United States address indicating time of residence.

2) New address in Mexico.

3) Description of all articles, including those contained in boxes. All electronics and electrical appliances must indicate brand, model and serial numbers.

Cover the $190.00 Fee.

Response time: Five business days after approval.

: Publicado: 15 Febrero 2011

📌 IMPORTANT NOTICE - APPOINTMENT SYSTEM CHANGE

Starting in 2026, all new visa appointments will only be scheduled through the "Mi Consulado" portal.

If you already have an appointment scheduled in Calendly, it will be honored and respected. Only new appointments will be scheduled through Mi Consulado.

Appointment System: www.miconsulado.sre.gob.mx

WHAT IS A MEXICAN VISA?

It is a document issued by a Mexican Consulate that authorizes the holder to request permission to enter Mexico for a specified period and activity. Possession of a visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Authorization to enter is the exclusive responsibility of Immigration Officers at ports of entry.

Important Information Before Traveling:

If you are granted a Mexican visa, you will be able to travel to Mexico, but this does not guarantee entry into the country.
At the point of entry, Mexican immigration authorities may ask questions to confirm the purpose of your trip, duration of stay, and financing.
The purpose of your trip must match the type of visa requested.
Immigration authorities will verify the authenticity of all documents and the truthfulness of the information provided.
The visa is valid for 6 months and allows only one entry to Mexico. You must travel to Mexico before the visa expires.

Visa Exemptions - Citizens Who Do NOT Require a Mexican Visa:

U.S. and Canadian Citizens: With a valid passport, do NOT require a visa for tourism, business, or transit up to 90 days (U.S.) or 30 days (transit).
Permanent Residents of U.S., Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, and Schengen Area countries: Do NOT require a Mexican visa with a valid passport and proof of residency.
APEC Business Travel Card Holders: Do NOT require a visa for tourism or unpaid activities.
Cruise Ship Passengers: Do NOT require a visa if only visiting Mexican ports on the same cruise.
Valid Visas from U.S., Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, or Schengen Area: If you have a valid (NOT expired) visa from these countries in your passport, you do NOT need a Mexican visa for tourism, business, or transit up to 180 days.

Note: If your U.S. visa expired but you have legal status documents (I-797A, Advance Parole, I-20, DS-2019), you MUST apply for a Mexican visa.

TYPES OF VISAS YOU CAN REQUEST

👤 VISITOR VISA (Up to 180 days) +

Applicable to foreign nationals who intend to enter Mexico as a visitor without permission to engage in paid activities for a period of up to 180 days.

General Requirements:

Valid and current passport or travel document, original
One color passport-size photograph (front view, white background, no eyeglasses)
For non-U.S. citizens: Document proving legal residence in the U.S.
$56.00 USD (CASH ONLY) - Non-refundable if application is not approved
Documents proving any of the following:
- Family or employment ties (arraigo)
- Economic solvency
- Invitation from a public or private institution
- Humanitarian cause
- Scientific research or educational purposes

How to Schedule an Appointment:

Once you meet the requirements, schedule your appointment through the "Mi Consulado" portal at www.miconsulado.sre.gob.mx

Important: A visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Immigration authorities at the port of entry make the final decision.

🏠 TEMPORARY RESIDENT VISA (More than 180 days, up to 4 years) +

Applicable to foreign nationals who intend to enter Mexico as temporary residents to stay for more than 180 days and up to 4 years. This type of visa allows you to work in Mexico if your salary is paid from abroad.

Main Requirements:

Valid and current passport or travel document, original
One color passport-size photograph (front view, white background, no eyeglasses)
For non-U.S. citizens: Document proving legal residence in the U.S.
$56.00 USD (CASH ONLY) - Non-refundable if application is not approved
Original bank letter with applicant's account information, average balance, and bank details
Proof of economic solvency (12 months of statements OR 6 months of income). Choose one option:
- Option A: Investment or savings accounts with minimum average balance of $75,000.00 USD (print summary page only each month)
- Option B: Employment or pension with net monthly income greater than $4,400.00 USD for the last 6 months (printed statements showing payroll deposits)
- Option C: Public deed of real property in Mexico with value exceeding $597,694.45 USD (original and copy)

With Marriage/Common-law Partner as Temporary Resident:

Original marriage certificate or cohabitation document in original and copy
Valid temporary resident visa of spouse in original and copy
Proof of economic solvency (add $1,400.00 USD for each dependent)

For Dependents/Children:

Birth certificate in original and copy
$56.00 USD for each dependent (CASH ONLY)
Proof of economic solvency (add $1,400.00 USD for each dependent)

Important - Financial Documentation:

For investment/savings accounts: Print only the summary page showing final balance and account holder information
For employment/pension income: Print statements clearly showing payroll or pension deposits with employer or paying entity information

Process and Next Steps:

The interview must be attended in person (not remotely). A photograph will be taken during the biometric phase
Dress Code: Access will NOT be permitted with sandals, shorts, sweatpants, or similar casual/athletic clothing
The visa is typically issued the same day as the interview, but may take 2-10 business days
Once in Mexico, you have 30 days to go to an INM office and exchange the visa for a Temporary Resident Card (2-4 weeks processing)
Temporary residency is valid for 1 to 4 years

How to Schedule an Appointment:

You may send a copy of documents by email for an initial review (does not guarantee approval). Once you meet all requirements, schedule your appointment through the "Mi Consulado" portal at www.miconsulado.sre.gob.mx

Important: A visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Immigration authorities at the port of entry make the final decision.

🔑 PERMANENT RESIDENT VISA (Retirees and Pensioners) +

Applicable to foreign nationals who intend to enter Mexico as permanent residents. This category is specifically designed for retired or pensioned individuals. Due to this requirement, applicants will be asked to provide an official document, such as a Social Security Benefit Verification Letter.

Main Requirements:

Valid and current passport or travel document, original
One color passport-size photograph (front view, white background, no eyeglasses)
For non-U.S. citizens: Document proving legal residence in the U.S.
$56.00 USD (CASH ONLY) - Non-refundable if application is not approved
Original bank letter with applicant's account information, average balance, and bank details
Proof of economic solvency (12 months of statements OR 6 months of pension). Choose one option:
- Option A: Investment or savings accounts with minimum average balance of $299,000.00 USD (print summary page only each month)
- Option B: Pension income with net monthly amount greater than $7,400.00 USD for the last 6 months (monthly printed statements showing pension source)

With Marriage/Common-law Partner as Permanent Resident:

Important: If you marry someone who is already a permanent resident, your spouse will receive TEMPORARY RESIDENT status for 2 years. After that, they can apply for permanent resident status if the relationship continues.

Original marriage certificate or cohabitation document in original and copy
Valid permanent resident visa of spouse in original and copy
Proof of economic solvency (add $1,400.00 USD for each dependent)

For Dependents/Children:

Birth certificate in original and copy
$56.00 USD for each dependent (CASH ONLY)
Marriage certificate or cohabitation document in original and copy (of parent/guardian with permanent resident)
Proof of economic solvency (add $1,400.00 USD for each dependent)

Important - Financial Documentation:

For investment/savings accounts: Print only the summary page showing final balance and account holder information
For pension: Print monthly statements (6 months) clearly showing pension deposits and paying entity

Process and Next Steps:

The interview must be attended in person (not remotely). A photograph will be taken during the biometric phase
Dress Code: Access will NOT be permitted with sandals, shorts, sweatpants, or similar casual/athletic clothing
The visa is typically issued the same day as the interview, but may take 2-10 business days
Once in Mexico, you have 30 days to go to an INM office and exchange the visa for a Permanent Resident Card (2-4 weeks processing)

How to Schedule an Appointment:

Important: A visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Immigration authorities at the port of entry make the final decision.

🎓 TEMPORARY RESIDENT STUDENT VISA +

Applicable to foreign nationals who intend to enter Mexico as temporary resident students. Those with this status may request authorization from INM to engage in paid activities.

Requirements:

Valid and current passport or travel document, original
One color passport-size photograph (front view, white background, no eyeglasses)
For non-U.S. citizens: Document proving legal residence in the U.S.
$56.00 USD (CASH ONLY) - Non-refundable if application is not approved
Documents proving:
- Enrollment in a Mexican educational institution (letter from institution or acceptance document), OR
- International legal instrument for people mobility
Proof of economic solvency (can be from applicant, parents, guardian, or educational institution):
- Scholarship certificate from the educational institution, OR
- Bank or financial documents proving financing

Important - Applicants Under 25 Years Old:

If the applicant is under 25 years old, economic solvency can be proven by parents or guardians.

Process and Next Steps:

The interview must be attended in person (not remotely)
Dress Code: Access will NOT be permitted with sandals, shorts, sweatpants, or similar casual/athletic clothing
The visa is typically issued the same day as the interview, but may take 2-10 business days
Once in Mexico, you have 30 days to go to an INM office and exchange the visa for a Temporary Resident Student Card

How to Schedule an Appointment:

Once you meet all requirements, schedule your appointment through the "Mi Consulado" portal at www.miconsulado.sre.gob.mx

Important: A visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Immigration authorities at the port of entry make the final decision.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 FAMILY UNITY VISA (Family members of Mexicans or residents) +

Applicable to spouses, common-law partners, and dependents of Mexican citizens or foreign nationals who are temporary or permanent residents in Mexico. Also applies to family members of diplomatic or consular officials.

For Spouse/Partner of Temporary Resident:

Valid and current passport or travel document, original
One color passport-size photograph (front view, white background, no eyeglasses)
For non-U.S. citizens: Document proving legal residence in the U.S.
$56.00 USD (CASH ONLY) - Non-refundable if application is not approved
Original marriage certificate or document proving cohabitation in original and copy
Valid temporary resident visa of spouse in original and copy
Proof of economic solvency of spouse to support dependents (add $1,400.00 USD for each dependent)

For Minor Children of Temporary Resident:

Valid and current passport or travel document, original
One color passport-size photograph (front view, white background, no eyeglasses)
For non-U.S. citizens: Document proving legal residence in the U.S. (I-797, I-20, Advance Parole, etc.)
$56.00 USD (CASH ONLY) - Non-refundable if application is not approved
Birth certificate in original and copy
Proof of economic solvency of parent/resident to support dependents (add $1,400.00 USD for each dependent)

For Spouse/Partner of Permanent Resident:

Important: If you marry someone who is already a permanent resident, you will receive TEMPORARY RESIDENT status for 2 years. After that, you can apply for permanent resident status if the relationship continues.

Valid and current passport or travel document, original
One color passport-size photograph (front view, white background, no eyeglasses)
For non-U.S. citizens: Document proving legal residence in the U.S.
$56.00 USD (CASH ONLY) - Non-refundable if application is not approved
Original marriage certificate or document proving cohabitation in original and copy
Valid permanent resident visa of spouse in original and copy
Proof of economic solvency of spouse to support dependents (add $1,400.00 USD for each dependent)

For Minor Children of Permanent Resident:

Valid and current passport or travel document, original
One color passport-size photograph (front view, white background, no eyeglasses)
For non-U.S. citizens: Document proving legal residence in the U.S.
$56.00 USD (CASH ONLY) - Non-refundable if application is not approved
Birth certificate in original and copy
Original marriage certificate or document proving cohabitation of parent with permanent resident, in original and copy
Proof of economic solvency of parent/resident to support dependents (add $1,400.00 USD for each dependent)

Important - Documentation:

Marriage, birth, death certificates, or court documents from countries outside the U.S. and Mexico must have an apostille seal
Documents in languages other than English or Spanish must have official translation and notarization
If minors apply without both parents present, a notarized authorization from the absent parent with copy of valid ID is required, or original custody documents
For Spouse/Partner of Mexican national : Document proving Mexican nationality (the Mexican national spouse must be presented at the time of application)
Mexican birth certificate of the Mexican son, in original and copy. Document proving Mexican nationality (Son´s Mexican passport).

How to Schedule an Appointment:

Once you meet all requirements, schedule your appointment through the "Mi Consulado" portal at www.miconsulado.sre.gob.mx. If applying as a family or couple, only ONE appointment is required.

Important: A visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Immigration authorities at the port of entry make the final decision.

CERTIFICATE OF HOUSEHOLD ITEMS LIST

🏡 Certificate of Household Items List — $195.00 USD +

For holders of a temporary resident, temporary student, or permanent resident visa or card who wish to import their household goods to Mexico duty-free. The certificate is issued at the nearest Mexican Consulate.

What Can Be Included?

Furniture, linens, and clothing
Books, scientific and art works (not collections for exhibitions or galleries)
Electronic appliances (brand, model, and serial number required)

What Is NOT Considered Household Goods?

Goods used for commercial or industrial activities abroad
Vehicles

Required Documents:

Temporary or Permanent Resident visa issued by a Consular Office, or Temporary/Permanent Resident Card issued by INM
Valid passport
Typed letter addressed to the Consulate stating your current address in the U.S. and complete address in Mexico (4 original signed copies)
Typed list in Spanish of all household goods: quantity, description, and for electronics — brand, model, and serial number (4 original signed copies)
$195.00 USD consular fee

Import Time Window:

Up to 3 months before your entry into or departure from Mexico
Up to 6 months after your arrival in or departure from Mexico

Customs Broker (Required):

You must hire a customs broker to bring your goods into Mexico. You can contact the following associations for a broker at your port of entry:

CAAAREM — Tel. 011 52 (55) 3300 7500 — www.caaarem.mx
CLAA — Tel. 011 52 (55) 1107 8515 — www.claa.org.mx
Online Directory — tuagenteaduanal.mx

Important for Temporary Residents: The import is temporary and valid only while your immigration card remains valid. You must keep your immigration status updated in Mexico, notify customs authorities of any change of address, and return your household goods to the U.S. when you leave Mexico. Mexican customs will also require a copy of your Migratory Form (FMM) or your Temporary/Permanent Resident Card.

How to Schedule an Appointment:

Contact the Consulate to schedule your appointment:

Email: Esta dirección de correo electrónico está siendo protegida contra los robots de spam. Necesita tener JavaScript habilitado para poder verlo.

Phone: (208) 343-6228 ext. 210 / 208

IMPORTANT INFORMATION BEFORE SCHEDULING YOUR APPOINTMENT

📋 Application Form:

Download the visa application form here

🕐 When Will You Travel to Mexico?

Do NOT book flights or reserve accommodations before obtaining your visa
The visa is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance
You must travel to Mexico before the visa expires

📝 Once You Arrive in Mexico:

You must complete the Digital Multiple Migratory Form (FMMD) at www.inm.gob.mx
You have 60 days to download the FMMD after processing (you can save it on your mobile device)
Do NOT use the Autonomous Migration Filters (E-GATES)
You have 30 days to go to an INM office and exchange the visa for the Resident Card (if applicable)

✉️ Questions or Additional Information:

For specific questions about your visa type or if you need information about other categories, contact the Visa Department at:

Email: Esta dirección de correo electrónico está siendo protegida contra los robots de spam. Necesita tener JavaScript habilitado para poder verlo.

Phone: (208) 954-8843 ext.206

Privacy Notice

In accordance with the Federal Law for the Protection of Personal Data in the Possession of Individuals, the Mexican Consulate provides the following privacy notice. The Secretary of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the use and protection of your personal data. View the Complete Privacy Notice here.

: Publicado: 03 Febrero 2011