Who needs a Mexico Land Card?

Travellers entering Mexico by land are typically required to obtain a Mexico Land Card. Visitors holding a valid Mexico visa may still be required to obtain an FMM, depending on their mode of entry.

Note: Mexican citizens are exempt from obtaining a Mexico Land Card (FMM).

Mexico Land Card Validity and Stay

The Mexico Land Card is a temporary document issued to foreign visitors for single entry only. Travellers must obtain a new Land Card for each land entry into Mexico.

It is valid for up to 180 calendar days (about 6 months) from the date of entry into Mexico, and the immigration authorities determine the duration of stay at the time of entry. The authorised period is recorded at the port of entry and must be respected.

How to extend the Mexico Land Card?

To extend the Mexico Land Card, also known as a tourist card, foreign nationals must follow the appropriate procedures based on their specific situation. Here are the general steps:

• Check the Mexico Card's current validity to determine whether a renewal or extension is necessary.
• Visit the nearest National Immigration Institute (INM) office before your current authorised period expires.
• Present a valid passport, the original Mexico Card, and any other required supporting documents.
• Submit the extension application and pay the applicable fees. However, payment of the fee does not guarantee approval.
• It is advisable to complete this process a few days before the card's expiration date to avoid any issues.
• Wait for the application to be processed and for the new Mexico Card to be issued, as processing times may vary.

Note: It is recommended to check with the nearest INM office to determine the specific requirements and procedures for renewing or extending the Mexico Land Card.

What are the consequences of not having a Mexico Land Card?

Not having a valid Land Card while visiting Mexico as a tourist can result in serious consequences, as mentioned below.

• Denial of entry: If you arrive at the Mexican border without a valid Tourist Card, you may be denied entry.
• Fines: If you are caught without a valid Tourist Card while in Mexico, you may be subject to fines and penalties by the Mexican immigration authorities.

The Mexico Land Card must be kept in a safe place and presented to immigration officials upon departure. If the Land Card is lost or stolen, the traveller must obtain a new one before leaving Mexico.

What are the differences between a Mexico Visa and a Mexico Land Card?

For land entry, Mexico uses the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) as the visitor entry form, and the FMM does not replace a visa when one is legally required.

Purpose: While a Mexico Visa is for specific purposes like work, study, or residency, the Tourist Card (FMM) is generally required for entry by land, regardless of your purpose.

Duration: The duration of a Mexico Visa varies by purpose of visit, ranging from a few months to several years. In contrast, the land card or FMM is typically valid for up to 180 days for tourism purposes.

Application process: Obtaining a Mexican visa is generally more complex and time-consuming than obtaining a Mexican land card (FMM). The applicant needs to visit a Mexican embassy to obtain a visa. However, the Mexico Tourist card can also be applied for online.

Cost: A Mexico Visa typically costs more than a tourist card (FMM). The fee for a Mexican visa can vary depending on the type and duration of the visa being applied for.

Note: Requirements and procedures for obtaining a Mexican visa, a tourist card, or an FMM may vary depending on the visitor's nationality and purpose of travel. It's recommended to consult with official sources, such as the Mexican embassy or consulate in your country, for the latest information and requirements.

Where can I get the Mexico Land Card?

Visitors can apply online for Mexico Land Card. The process is simple and quick. It is advisable to submit the application a few days before your expected travel date. This will allow ample time to process the application and ensure that the tourist card is available upon entry to Mexico.

How can I obtain an FMM if arriving in Mexico by plane?
If you’re entering by plane, the immigration authority allows you to download the Digital FMM (FMMd) during your authorised stay. A QR code may be provided at immigration for scanning and downloading your digital FMM. Many airports are replacing older paper systems with digital ones.

What is the fee for the Mexico Land Card?

The cost of the Mexico Land Card is based on your nationality. However, it's important to note that fees and regulations may change over time, so it's always best to check for the latest information.