As of January 2021, the land borders between Mexico and the US were closed to all non-essential travel, including tourism and recreation. However, the borders remained open for individuals travelling for work, essential medical care, or official business. American travellers were still permitted to arrive in Mexico by plane, but different Mexican states had different timelines for reopening, so travellers were advised to check the latest requirements and restrictions. While it was possible to drive across the border without a passport, air travellers were required to have a valid passport.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Land borders between Mexico and the US | Technically closed until October 21, 2024 |
Air travel between Mexico and the US | Allowed for American travellers |
Requirements for air travel to Mexico | Negative COVID-19 test, passport, FMM (Multiple Migratory Form), health declaration form, hotel reservations, return tickets |
Requirements for land travel to Mexico | Passport card (SENTRI Card), import permit for the vehicle |
Border crossings between the US and Mexico | San Diego, California; Calexico, California; El Paso, Texas; and Brownsville, Texas |
What You'll Learn
Driving to the New Mexico border with Mexico
If you're planning to drive to the New Mexico border with Mexico, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, the New Mexico border is unique in that it doesn't link to any big highway systems or toll roads. It's largely rural, with smaller highways and roads entering the Mexican state of Chihuahua. The border crossings in New Mexico tend to be less busy than those in neighbouring states, and there are only three of them:
Antelope Wells-El Berrendo
This is the least visited US/Mexico border crossing. It's accessible via NM 81/Carretera El Berrendo-Janos and is open from 8 am to 4 pm every day. It's non-commercial, so no trucks are allowed.
Columbus-Puerto Palomas
This border crossing is located between Columbus, New Mexico, and Puerto Palomas, Chihuahua. It's accessible via NM 11/Calzada 5 de Mayo and is open 24 hours. The Banjercito is open from 8 am to midnight, seven days a week. This crossing is a good option if you're heading south of Ciudad Juárez and want to avoid the city.
Santa Teresa-San Jerónimo
Located between Santa Teresa, New Mexico, and San Jerónimo, Chihuahua, this border crossing can be accessed via NM 136 (Pete Domenici Boulevard)/Mexican Federal Highway 2. It's open from 6 am to midnight, seven days a week, and claims to have the shortest lines on the border. It's also a good alternative to the El Paso/Juarez crossings. However, truck hours are limited, and you'll need a SAGARPA/SENASICA inspection for agricultural equipment.
When driving to the New Mexico border with Mexico, it's important to plan your route in advance and check the hours of operation for your chosen crossing. You can also check border crossing wait times on the US Customs and Border Patrol website to make your trip faster. Additionally, don't forget to purchase Mexican car insurance before your trip, as it's required by law and cannot be bought at the border.
A Step-by-Step Guide on Travelling from Hosur to Bangalore Airport
You may want to see also
The Mexico-US land border is closed to non-essential travel
The Mexico-US land border is currently closed to non-essential travel. This means that those wishing to cross the border for tourism or recreational purposes will be unable to do so. However, the border remains open for individuals travelling for work, essential medical care, or official business. Trade and shipment of goods will also continue across the border.
The closure is a temporary measure that has been implemented in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The US State Department has issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory, urging citizens to return to the United States or prepare to shelter in place. Additionally, the State Department encourages citizens abroad to register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay informed about travel restrictions and updates.
It is important to note that the land border restrictions do not apply to air travel. American travellers are permitted to fly to Mexico, but they must follow specific requirements. These include presenting a valid passport, completing a Multiple Migratory Form (FMM), and providing proof of health insurance or a negative COVID-19 test. Minors travelling with their legal guardians are exempt from the passport requirement but must provide necessary documentation such as a birth certificate or student ID.
For those planning to drive across the border, a passport or a Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) Card is required. An import permit for the vehicle is also necessary. It is recommended to check the official websites for the latest updates and requirements before planning travel to Mexico.
Travel Orders: Navigating the Process for Smooth Sailing
You may want to see also
Flying to Mexico without a passport
As of June 2009, US citizens entering the United States by land or sea are required to present a valid passport or other WHTI-compliant travel document when returning from Mexico. This can include a US passport book, US passport card, Nexus, SENTRI, FAST card, or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL). However, it is important to note that only a small number of states offer EDLs, and none of the states that share a border with Mexico are included.
When travelling to Mexico by air, a valid passport book is required for all US citizens, regardless of age. US passport cards are not accepted for international air travel.
There are some exceptions to the passport requirement for travel to Mexico. For instance, school groups travelling over land may have the passport requirement waived, and young people may be required to present a letter from their parents authorising them to travel. Additionally, permanent residents of the US must present their I-551 Permanent Resident Card when re-entering the US, and this requirement has not changed under the WHTI.
Iceland's F-Road Adventure: Unlocking the Country's Hidden Cities
You may want to see also
Border crossings between Mexico and the US
The US-Mexico border has been closed to all non-essential travel since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the border remains open for individuals crossing for work, necessary medical care, or official business. Trade and shipment of goods are also allowed to continue.
There are 50 places where people can cross the Mexico-US border. Some of the notable border crossings include:
California-Baja California
- San Ysidro, California: This crossing is for pedestrians only, with limited hours for southbound entry into Mexico.
- Otay Mesa, California: This crossing is for ticketed passengers only, providing pedestrian access to and from the Tijuana International Airport.
- Calexico, California: This crossing offers both pedestrian and vehicular access between California and Mexicali, Baja California.
New Mexico-Chihuahua
- Antelope Wells, New Mexico: The least used and quietest crossing between the US and Mexico, leading to El Berrendo, a very small town in Mexico.
- Santa Teresa, New Mexico: The largest and busiest port of entry in New Mexico, located immediately west of the Texas state line.
- Columbus, New Mexico: A rural border crossing that leads to Puerto Palomas, Mexico. This port of entry operates 24/7 and sees a fair amount of commercial traffic.
It is important to note that each crossing has a three-letter Port of Entry code, which can be found on passport entry or parole stamps. These codes are administered by the US Department of State.
Understanding Italy's Level 4 Travel Advisory: What to Know
You may want to see also
What documents are required for air travel to Mexico?
When travelling to Mexico by air, there are several documents that you will need to ensure you have before your trip. Firstly, a valid passport is essential, and it is recommended that you ensure your passport will not expire within six months of your trip to avoid being denied entry. Upon arrival, your passport will be stamped by an immigration official, and you will be permitted to stay in Mexico for up to 180 days. Alternatively, if you are entering as a tourist, you will go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your passport and self-register your entry. You will then have 60 days to download your e-tourist card.
In addition to a valid passport, you will need to fill out the correct entry forms. For tourists, this will be the Migratory Form for Foreign Tourists, also known as the FMT (Tourist, Business) or the Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) or Tourist Card. These forms are usually available at travel agencies, airline offices, and at all entry points into Mexico. It is important to keep your tourist card with you at all times as proof of your legal stay in Mexico, and you will need to present it when exiting the country. If you are unable to show your tourist card upon departure, you will have to pay for a replacement.
Another document that may be required is a customs declaration form. This form will need to be filled out and presented to customs officials upon arrival in Mexico.
It is also worth noting that there are specific entry requirements for dual citizens and minors. If you are a dual citizen of Mexico and another country, you must identify yourself as a Mexican citizen and carry valid passports for both countries. For children under 18 who are citizens or residents of Mexico, a Mexican Minor Travel Consent Form or a notarized consent form is required when travelling without a legal guardian.
Traveling to Switzerland with a Schengen Visa: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The land borders between Mexico and the US are closed for non-essential travel, but American travellers are allowed to arrive by plane.
You must have a US passport when flying to Mexico. Minors must also have passports, and the passport must be valid for a minimum of three months before your trip.
US citizens need to present a passport card (also called a SENTRI Card) or a REAL ID card. Children under 16 need a birth certificate or student ID.
San Diego, California; Calexico, California; El Paso, Texas; and Brownsville, Texas.