Passport and Entry Requirements for Traveling to Mexico

All U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico by air must possess a valid passport book with at least six months of remaining validity. If you are entering by land or sea, you may use a passport card, but a passport book is highly recommended to avoid complications.

1. Check your passport expiration date. Ensure your passport expiration date is at least 6 months beyond your planned date of departure from Mexico. Mexican immigration officials strictly enforce the '6-month rule' for entry.
2. Verify blank pages. Ensure you have at least two completely blank visa pages for the entry and exit stamps. If your passport is full, you must renew it before your trip.
3. Complete your FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple). Most airports now use digital kiosks to issue your entry permit. If you receive a paper slip, keep it in a safe place, as you are required to present it upon departure from the country.
4. Confirm your airline's requirements. Double-check with your specific airline before heading to the airport. They often have stricter document verification systems than the immigration officers themselves.

Can I travel to Mexico with just a birth certificate?

No. A birth certificate is not an acceptable travel document for international air travel to Mexico.

What happens if I lose my passport in Mexico?

Go to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately to apply for an emergency limited-validity passport so you can return home.

Does my child need a passport?

Yes. Every U.S. citizen, regardless of age, must have their own valid passport to enter Mexico by air.