When traveling on a cruise to Mexico on a closed loop, or round trip cruise, visa documentation is not required, according to the U.S. Department of State (DOS) website. However, the cruise line Royal Caribbean International's website suggests that cruise line passengers carry a valid or expired passport when cruising to Mexico. Passport visa pages are not stamped as part of a round trip cruise from the United States to Mexico. If you are not staying in Mexico for more than three days, there is no need to apply for a visa or tourist card.
For cruise line passengers who may be staying in Mexico for over 72 hours, or 3 days, a special type of visa, called a tourist card is required, notes the DOS. Tourist cards are available at Mexico consulates, at the United States/Mexico border and Mexico tourism offices. After filling out the tourist card application and paying the associated fee, you are issued your tourist card. Be sure to keep the card in a safe place, as Mexican Immigration officers will request the card when you leave the country. If you lose the card, a valid exit visa may have to be obtained.
While no visa is required, persons who are citizens of both the United States and Mexico who are traveling to Mexico on a cruise should carry proof of citizenship for both countries, according to the DOS. In addition, when entering and exiting Mexico, persons with dual citizenship must identify themselves as citizens of Mexico.
Non-U.S. citizens holding a valid United States visa do not have to obtain a Mexico visa before entering the country, according to the DOS. Royal Caribbean International notes that non-U.S. citizens who are cruising from the United States to Mexico will need a valid passport and possibly a visa. Non-U.S. citizens living in the United States should carry a copy of their Alien Registration Card as well.
