Travel Document Requirements for Mexico
A valid passport is required for every member of your travel party. If you or anyone in your group does not have a valid passport, we strongly recommend applying for an expedited passport or renewal to ensure it arrives in time for your departure. For those crossing the border by land, a Passport Card may be an acceptable alternative to a standard passport book.
Remember to check with your patient coordinator, as these regulations are subject to change.
Documents such as a REAL ID and a U.S. birth certificate are NOT valid for entry into Mexico. While they may be accepted for U.S. citizens returning to the United States by land, you must present a valid passport or passport card to Mexican authorities for entry.
LEARN MORE: Do I need a Passport? What Documents are Required?
Border Regulation Policy
When traveling to Mexico for bariatric surgery, patients will need to have a valid passport book. If you don’t already have a valid Passport, you’ll have to apply for a new passport before your travel. Since March 1, 2010, all U.S. citizens, including children, have been required to present a valid U.S. passport or a U.S. passport card to enter Mexico.
The standard passport service takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks; an expedited service is available in 2 to 3 weeks (and costs an additional $60). View more about processing times.
While documents are not routinely checked along the land border zone, Mexican authorities at immigration checkpoints approximately 20 to 30 kilometers from the border of the United States will often conduct vehicle and document inspections and will require valid travel documents and an entry permit or Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM).
More Information
Department Of State – American Travelers Services
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 647-5225
Embassy of Mexico
Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (202) 728-1600
Helpful Articles
- MBC Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
- What do I Bring to Mexico? What Do I Need to Pack in my Suitcase?
- Can I bring a Companion? What if I want to come alone?
- The Complete Patient Process and Travel Itinerary
- Deposit, Refund, & Cancellation Policy