The Mexico Electronic Authorisation System (SAE) is an online approval issued to eligible travellers before departure for their short-term visit to Mexico for approved purposes.
Who Can Apply for Mexico SAE?
The Mexico SAE is available to nationals of Brazil, Russia, and Turkey who are travelling to Mexico by air, provided they meet the entry requirements set by immigration authorities.
Requirements for Mexico SAE
Before applying, applicants for the Mexico SAE must make sure that:
Airline Participation
Confirm that your airline is part of the SAE program before booking your flight.
Passport Bio Scan
Have a scan of the bio page ready before you apply. Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Mexico.
Note: Brazilian nationals must also submit a recent digital photo as part of the SAE application.
Mexico SAE Validity and Stay Details
Following are the validity and stay duration details, you must use the Mexico SAE within its validity period:
- Entry Type: Allows only a single entry into the country.
- Validity: Valid for 180 days from the date of issuance.
- Stay Duration: You may be allowed to stay for up to 180 days after arrival in Mexico.
Note: The permitted length of stay is determined by immigration officers upon arrival, based on the purpose of your visit.
What should I do if I am entering Mexico by land rather than by air?
If you are entering Mexico by land, the SAE does not apply. Instead, you must obtain the appropriate visa through the relevant channel and complete the online application for the Mexico Land Card. The card serves as your entry record and is issued by Mexican immigration authorities.
How to Apply for Mexico SAE?
Follow these easy steps to apply for your Mexico SAE before travel:
Fill out the Application
Select your nationality, choose “SAE - Electronic Authorisation” as your entry document, then fill out the required passport and travel details.
Review & Upload Documents:
Carefully review all the entered details, then upload the required documents based on your nationality.
Fee Payment:
Pay the applicable fee by using any accepted payment method to submit your application.
Receive the Authorisation:
After approval, your Mexico SAE will be emailed to you. Print it out and carry it for travel.
Processing Times & Fees for Mexico SAE
While applying for the Mexico SAE, applicants can choose from the following processing options:
- Normal Processing: 1 - 2 Days
- Rush Processing: 6 - 12 Hours
- Super-Rush Processing: 1 Hour
The overall cost of the Mexico SAE depends on several factors. Applicants can use the Mexico SAE fee calculator to calculate the exact cost for their nationality.
Important Rules When Travelling with SAE
The Mexico SAE allows eligible travellers to travel without a visa, but certain conditions must be followed during your trip:
- It cannot be used for work or any paid activity in Mexico.
- Approval of Mexico SAE does not guarantee entry into the country.
FAQs
Yes. Each child must have their own Mexico SAE to enter Mexico.
Airline staff may verify your approved Mexico SAE. Keep a printed copy ready for inspection.
Yes. Officers may ask about your travel purpose, planned stay, accommodation, finances, and departure arrangements.
No, SAE is not valid if you’re entering Mexico by sea. Travellers arriving by sea must comply with the entry requirements set by the Mexican Consular Section.
Content Disclaimer: This information was last updated in September 2026. Travellers should confirm the latest requirements with the relevant authorities, embassies and airlines before making travel arrangements.