U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico for a stay of 72 hours or less and who plan to remain in the "border zone" (a 20 to 30km radius of the U.S./Mexican border) do not require any special travel documents unless they are arriving by air. Travelers who arrive by air to Mexico, and those who plan to venture beyond the "border zone" are required to have a tourist card known as an FM-T.
FM-T or tourist cards are available for a fee at Mexican consulates and most Mexican points of entry. Travelers found outside of the "border zone" without an FM-T card could face penalties and fines by Mexican customs agents.
For travelers who wish to bring a vehicle into the country to points beyond the "border zone," a temporary import permit is required. Proof of citizenship, vehicle ownership, insurance and other documentation will be required along with a processing fee. You will also need a surety bond to ensure that the vehicle will return to the U.S. within a specified time frame. Travelers with a credit card will be asked to give their credit card information to have on file. For those who do not have a credit card, a cash deposit ranging between $200 and $400 will be required before a permit is issued. These permits are available at Mexican entry points as well as Mexican consulates within the U.S.
People who are traveling to Mexico to conduct business will be required to file form FM-N with the Mexican consulate regarding their intentions while in the country. Once a permit is issued, it is valid for 30 days.
If a traveler plans to be in Mexico for longer than 180 days, a visa and a U.S. passport are required. Visas may be obtained by filing the appropriate documents with the nearest Mexican consulate.
