Mexico SAE for Short-term Visits

Woman Taking Pictures In Oaxaca City

Travellers from eligible countries planning a short visit to Mexico can apply online for the Mexico SAE (Electronic Travel Authorisation) without visiting an embassy.

Who Is Eligible for a Mexico SAE?

Citizens of Brazil, Russia, and Turkey can apply for the Mexico SAE before travelling.

Applicants should also note that:

  • The Mexico SAE is only valid for arrival in Mexico by air.
  • The airline used for travel must be part of the Mexico SAE programme.

Documents Needed for the Mexico SAE

The following are the requirements for the Mexico SAE application:

  • PASSPORT BIO PAGE: A clean, scanned copy of the applicant’s passport bio page.

Important Note: Brazilian nationals applying for the Mexico SAE must also provide a recent digital photograph of the applicant along with a scan of the passport bio page.

For complete details on the documents needed, Mexico SAE applicants should check the Mexico SAE requirements before travelling. 

Types of Permitted Short-Term Visits

  1. Tourism: You can use the Mexico SAE for travel purposes such as holidays, sightseeing, and general leisure visits in Mexico.
  2. Business Visits (Unpaid): It permits short business visits for activities such as meetings and conferences but does not allow paid employment.
  3. Transit: This option is only for travellers passing through Mexico on their way to another country. 
  4. Other Permitted Visits: Other short-term visits permitted under Mexico’s entry rules include education, training and voluntary work. 

Stay Duration & Validity of Mexico SAE

  • Entry Type: Allows for a single entry into the country.
  • Validity: It is valid for up to 180 days from the date of issuance.
  • Duration of Stay: Permits stay from 30 to 180 days, subject to the immigration decision.

How to Apply

Start Your Application

Fill out the SAE application form with correct details. Then, select an appropriate reason for the trip.

Upload the Required Documents

Provide clear scans of all the required documents.

Pay the Application Fee

Pay the required Mexico SAE fee using any available payment method to submit your application for processing.

Receive the Authorisation

Receive the approved SAE via email. Print it out and carry it during your travel to Mexico.

Processing Speeds and Fees for Mexico SAE

The total Mexico SAE fee depends on the applicant’s nationality and selected processing time. Use the Mexico SAE fee calculator to check the exact cost before applying.

Processing Speed for Mexico SAE

Normal Processing

1 - 2 Days

For those who apply well in advance.

Rush Processing

6 - 12 Hours

A quicker option for upcoming departures.

Super Rush Processing

1 Hour

Best option for urgent travel needs.

Note: The processing times mentioned above are estimates. Delays may happen if the application details are incorrect or if additional documents are requested from the applicant.

Content Disclaimer: This content was updated in July 2026. Travellers should confirm the latest rules with official sources before departure.