A passport and a copy must be submitted with the FM3 application. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the FM3 application date.
If the FM3 application is being filed from within Mexico, it must be accompanied by a copy of the applicant's FMM Tourist Visa.
Financial statements showing at least $1,000 of monthly income must be provided. It must be signed by an accountant, a financial manager or a bank manager. Add three months' bank statements to show at least $1,000 in deposits monthly.
If applicable, a marriage license must be notarized and submitted with an "apostille," an official translation and verification of the notary signature. In Mexico, the "apostille" must be in Spanish. The secretary of state office in each Mexican state can provide detailed instructions for obtaining the document.
A birth certificate must also be accompanied by an "apostille". Check with the secretary of state's office for recommended issuers of such documents.
You must include proof of residency. That can include a deed, lease, utility bill or a letter from a friend stating that you have permission to reside in a specific residence in Mexico.
Six passport photographs must accompany the visa application.
Submit four right-profile photographs of your face so that your ear is visible. The photos must be the same size as your passport photos.
The fee is 2010 was about $135, cash only. The fee may vary, so ask at your consulate or local Immigration Office if you are within Mexico.
Contact the Mexican Consulate in your area for an appointment to submit the FM3 package. Applications must be submitted in person at the arranged time.
A decision on the FM3 visa will take at least 24 hours. The consulate will contact you with its decision.
Once the FM3 visa is approved, you may bring an automobile into the country. Every year when you renew your visa, your automobile permit can be renewed. The FM3 also grants you permission to bring household items into the country without paying duties.
