Can I work on a tourist card?

No. Tourist cards are for tourism only. Working requires a separate work visa or temporary resident permit.

What if I lose my FMM tourist card?

Report it to local police immediately, then visit the nearest INM office with your police report and passport. Replacement costs about $500 pesos and takes 2-3 business days.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination?

Only if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe do not need any vaccinations for Mexico.

Can I enter Mexico with a one-way ticket?

Technically you need proof of onward travel. Buy a refundable return ticket or a cheap onward ticket to Guatemala or Belize that you can cancel later.

How to Get Your Visa for Solo Travel to Mexico's Caribbean Coast

Most visitors get a free tourist card (FMM) on arrival for stays up to 180 days. U.S., Canadian, and EU citizens need only a valid passport. Apply online through the official government portal or get your FMM at the airport.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of the U.S., Canada, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and most Latin American countries get visa-free entry. Check Mexico's official consulate website for your specific nationality. If you need a visa, apply at least 30 days before travel.
Get your tourist card (FMM). Apply online at oficinavirtual.inm.gob.mx up to 7 days before arrival. Print your QR code. Alternatively, fill out the paper form on your flight or at the immigration desk. The FMM is free and valid for up to 180 days.
Prepare your documents. Bring your passport (valid for at least 6 months), return flight ticket, and proof of accommodation for your first few nights. Immigration officers rarely ask for financial proof, but carry a bank statement or $1,000 cash equivalent just in case.
Complete immigration at arrival. Present your passport, FMM (printed or on phone), and return ticket. The officer will stamp your passport and return part of your FMM. Keep this document safe - you need it to leave Mexico. They'll typically grant 30-180 days depending on your stated length of stay.
Handle extensions if needed. To extend your stay beyond your granted period, visit an INM office in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Cozumel. Bring your passport, FMM, proof of financial means ($1,000+ in your bank account), and pay approximately $400 pesos. Do this at least 10 days before your current permit expires.

Can I work on a tourist card?: No. Tourist cards are for tourism only. Working requires a separate work visa or temporary resident permit.
What if I lose my FMM tourist card?: Report it to local police immediately, then visit the nearest INM office with your police report and passport. Replacement costs about $500 pesos and takes 2-3 business days.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination?: Only if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe do not need any vaccinations for Mexico.
Can I enter Mexico with a one-way ticket?: Technically you need proof of onward travel. Buy a refundable return ticket or a cheap onward ticket to Guatemala or Belize that you can cancel later.