Updated: 20 May 2026.
⚠️ Important 2026 update : Mexico: paper FMM phased out, 180 days no longer guaranteed
The paper FMM is being phased out at major airports (CUN, MEX). Officers now stamp the passport with a manually-written number of days : the 180-day maximum is no longer automatic. A digital FMM (FMMd) is downloadable after arrival. The paper FMM is still required at land borders. The 2026 fee is MXN 983 (~USD 54).
Effective: Generalised 2024-2025 (paper FMM phase-out)
The Mexico FMM (Forma Migratoria Multiple) is a tourist card required for all foreign visitors entering Mexico for tourism, transit, or short business trips. The FMM is free when arriving by air (included in your airline ticket), but costs approximately MXN 575 (about USD 35) when entering by land. It allows stays of up to 180 days, though immigration officers may grant fewer days at their discretion.
Key Facts
| Visa Type | FMM : Forma Migratoria Multiple (Tourist Card) |
| Cost | Free (by air, included in airline ticket) / MXN 575 (~USD 35) by land |
| Validity | Up to 180 days (at immigration officer's discretion) |
| Processing Time | On arrival (or can be completed online before travel) |
| Official Website | inm.gob.mx |
Who Needs This Visa?
All foreign nationals entering Mexico need an FMM, regardless of whether they are visa-exempt. Citizens of the United States, Canada, EU/Schengen countries, United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries do not need a visa but must still obtain the FMM upon arrival. Citizens of countries that require a Mexican visa must obtain their visa before travel and will also receive the FMM at the border.
Application Process
- For air travel: the FMM is distributed on the plane or at the immigration counter upon arrival. You can also pre-fill it online at inm.gob.mx.
- Fill in the FMM form with personal, passport, and flight information.
- Present the completed FMM along with your passport at the immigration counter.
- The immigration officer will stamp the FMM and assign the number of authorized days (up to 180).
- Keep the FMM card safe throughout your stay : you must return it when departing Mexico.
- For land entry: pay the MXN 575 fee at a bank (Banjercito) at the border crossing.
Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Completed FMM form (available online or at the airport/border)
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Mexico (may be requested)
- Proof of sufficient funds (may be requested)
- Mexican visa (only for nationalities that require it)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mexico FMM?
The Mexico FMM (Forma Migratoria Multiple) is a tourist card that all foreign visitors must complete when entering Mexico. It is not a visa but an immigration form that authorizes your stay for tourism, transit, or short business visits for up to 180 days.
Do I need to pay for the Mexico FMM?
If you are arriving in Mexico by air, the FMM fee is included in your airline ticket price, so there is no additional charge. If you enter Mexico by land and plan to stay beyond the border zone (approximately 20 km from the border) or for more than 7 days, you must pay MXN 575 (approximately USD 35) at a Banjercito bank at the border.
How many days will I get on the Mexico FMM?
The maximum authorized stay on the FMM is 180 days. However, the immigration officer has discretion to grant fewer days based on your travel plans, documentation, and other factors. If you need more days, you can politely explain your planned itinerary.
What happens if I lose my Mexico FMM?
If you lose your FMM, you must visit an INM (Instituto Nacional de Migracion) office in Mexico to obtain a replacement before departing. There is a fee for replacement, and you will need to provide your passport and any documentation of your original entry.
Can I extend my Mexico FMM?
The FMM generally cannot be extended once issued. However, you can visit an INM office and request additional days if your original FMM was issued for fewer than 180 days. Alternatively, some travelers do a border run (exit and re-enter Mexico) to obtain a new FMM.