Can I conduct business on a tourist visa in Mexico?

Yes, Mexico's tourist card (FMM) allows business meetings, conferences, and negotiations. You cannot receive payment from Mexican sources or work for Mexican companies.

Which Caribbean islands require separate business visas?

Most Caribbean islands allow business activities on tourist visas for short stays. Notable exceptions include Cuba (requires business visa for most nationalities) and some French territories that follow EU visa rules.

How long can I stay on a business visa?

Mexico tourist cards allow up to 180 days (immigration officer decides). Most Caribbean islands allow 30-90 days for business visitors. Specific business visas may allow longer stays.

Do I need vaccinations for business travel to the region?

Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from affected areas to most Caribbean islands. No vaccinations required for Mexico, but hepatitis A/B and routine vaccinations are recommended.

How to Get Business Visas for Mexico and the Caribbean

Most Mexico and Caribbean business trips require either a tourist visa with business activities allowed, or a specific business visa depending on your nationality and trip length. Mexico allows business activities on tourist cards for most visitors, while Caribbean islands vary significantly in their requirements.

Check your passport validity. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date. Most countries in the region require this minimum validity period.
Determine if you need a visa. Check specific requirements for your destination. US, Canadian, and EU citizens typically don't need visas for Mexico (tourist card only) or most Caribbean islands for business stays under 30-90 days. Always verify current requirements as they change.
Gather business documentation. Collect invitation letters from local business partners, proof of employment, business registration documents, and a detailed itinerary showing business meetings or conferences you'll attend.
Apply for required visas. Submit applications at consulates or online portals 2-4 weeks before travel. Some Caribbean islands offer visa-on-arrival for business travelers, but confirm this beforehand.
Complete arrival forms. Fill out customs and immigration forms honestly. Declare business purposes and have your invitation letters ready. Mexico requires a tourist card (FMM) which costs about $30 USD.

Can I conduct business on a tourist visa in Mexico?: Yes, Mexico's tourist card (FMM) allows business meetings, conferences, and negotiations. You cannot receive payment from Mexican sources or work for Mexican companies.
Which Caribbean islands require separate business visas?: Most Caribbean islands allow business activities on tourist visas for short stays. Notable exceptions include Cuba (requires business visa for most nationalities) and some French territories that follow EU visa rules.
How long can I stay on a business visa?: Mexico tourist cards allow up to 180 days (immigration officer decides). Most Caribbean islands allow 30-90 days for business visitors. Specific business visas may allow longer stays.
Do I need vaccinations for business travel to the region?: Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from affected areas to most Caribbean islands. No vaccinations required for Mexico, but hepatitis A/B and routine vaccinations are recommended.