Exploring Mexico: Can I Travel 20 Kilometers In?

can I travel 20 kilometers into mexico

If you're planning to travel 20 kilometers into Mexico, you'll need to be aware of the various safety and security concerns in the country. Violent crime, such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery, is common in many parts of Mexico, and the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in certain areas. U.S. government employees must follow specific travel restrictions, and it is recommended that travelers adhere to these restrictions as well.

When traveling to Mexico, it is important to stay informed about the specific conditions in the states you plan to visit. For example, the U.S. government advises against traveling to certain states, including Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, and Tamaulipas, due to high levels of crime and kidnapping. Other states, such as Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, Sonora, and Zacatecas, are recommended for reconsideration of travel due to similar concerns.

In addition to safety concerns, there are also specific requirements for driving into Mexico. U.S. citizens need to have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, proper insurance, a driver's license, vehicle registration, and a temporary vehicle importation permit (except in the hassle-free zone). It is also important to obtain an entry permit from a National Migration Institute office once you cross the border.

Overall, while it is possible to travel 20 kilometers into Mexico, it is crucial to carefully consider the risks and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe journey.

Characteristics Values
Distance 20 kilometers or more from the border
Permit Temporary Vehicle Import Permit
Permit Issuing Authority Banjercito
Permit Issuing Locations Online, at the Mexican border, or at certain Mexican consulates in the U.S.
Permit Requirements Deposit (generally accepted via major credit cards)
Permit Fees Nonrefundable

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Driving requirements

Driving in Mexico requires careful preparation. Here are the key requirements for driving in Mexico:

Identification and Driver's License

American citizens driving into Mexico need identification, such as a valid passport or passport card. An American driver's license or an international driving permit is also accepted.

Mexican Immigration Card (FMM)

All foreign citizens travelling to Mexico for tourism or a short visit of less than 180 days must fill out an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM) or Mexican Immigration Card. This can be done online in advance or at the border. The FMM is not required if you are flying into Cancun, as this requirement is being phased out.

Car Insurance Policy and Proof of Registration

Mexican law requires car insurance, specifically a liability-only policy or full coverage with optional partial theft and vandalism coverage. You can obtain Mexican car insurance at the border or from select companies in the U.S. Additionally, you will need proof of registration for your vehicle.

Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit

If you plan to drive beyond the border area or free zone, you must obtain a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit. This can be purchased online or at the border. The cost is around $21, and payment by credit card is mandatory unless you pay a bond and processing fee. Keep the permit displayed on your windshield while in Mexico. To obtain this permit, you will need several documents, including proof of car ownership, American registration, an affidavit from lien holders, a valid American driver's license, and proof of citizenship.

Additional Considerations

  • Mexican authorities may impound vehicles without a valid U.S. registration, driven by Mexican nationals who are not U.S. residents, or found beyond the border zone without the necessary import permit.
  • It is recommended to have Mexican auto insurance, as U.S. auto insurance policies cannot prove financial responsibility to Mexican authorities.
  • If renting a vehicle, ensure it is allowed to be taken to Mexico and obtain Mexican insurance, as your credit card insurance may not be sufficient.
  • Avoid driving at night due to increased risks, including poor lighting, animals on the road, and pedestrians.
  • Stay on main roads when driving alone, and use toll roads whenever possible to ensure better road conditions and reduced crime risks.
  • Be cautious of police officers asking for bribes. If you suspect this, ask to speak to the jefe (chief).

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Border zone

The Mexico Free Zone, also known as the Border Zone, is an area of Mexico that does not require a vehicle permit for visitors. It was established to bolster trade and tourism in the country's border areas. The Free Zone includes areas along Mexico's northern and southern border states, typically 12 to 16 miles from the border (20 to 26 km). The entire Baja Peninsula, a large portion of Sonora, and Quintana Roo lie within the Free Zone.

Within the Mexico Free Zone, travel without a temporary importation permit (TIP) is permitted and unrestricted. However, if you plan to drive beyond the Free Zone, you will need to obtain a TIP. This can be done online, at the Mexican border, or at certain Mexican consulates in the United States.

It is important to note that the rules for the Free Zone have changed over time. In 2015, Mexico began requiring travel permits for all foreign visitors to Mexico, anywhere in the country. As a result, the term 'Free Zone' now only refers to the areas where no TIP is required for non-Mexican plated vehicles.

When entering Mexico, all foreign visitors are required by law to have a valid passport, passport card, or proof of legal residency. Additionally, a Mexico Tourist Permit (FMM) is required for all foreign visitors, regardless of where they travel in the country, including within the Free Zone.

It is important to be aware of the security situation when travelling in the Border Zone. Criminal activity, including violent crime, kidnapping, and gang activity, is common in parts of Mexico, including the border areas. It is recommended to stay in tourist areas, be cautious on the roads, and avoid travelling at night.

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Crime and safety

When traveling in Mexico, it is important to follow certain safety precautions. Here are some key recommendations:

  • Stay informed about specific restrictions on U.S. government employee travel to different states in Mexico, as listed in the travel advisory.
  • Avoid traveling between cities after dark, and rely on dispatched vehicles like app-based services or regulated taxi stands instead of hailing taxis on the street.
  • Do not travel alone, especially in remote areas.
  • Use toll roads whenever possible and avoid driving at night or alone.
  • Exercise caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
  • Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry or watches.
  • Be vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency.
  • Follow the U.S. Embassy and Department of State on social media for updates.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations and review the Traveler's Checklist.
  • Keep your traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans.
  • If separating from your group, send your GPS location to a trusted contact.
  • When taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and license plate and text it to someone you trust.

In addition to these precautions, it is important to be aware of specific safety concerns in certain states in Mexico. The travel advisory provides detailed information about each state, categorizing them into four levels of advisory:

  • Reconsider Travel: This includes states like Baja California, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Jalisco, and Sonora, among others, due to high levels of crime and, in some cases, kidnapping.
  • Exercise Increased Caution: States such as Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur, Coahuila, Durango, Hidalgo, Mexico City, and Nuevo Leon fall under this category, with warnings of criminal activity and violence.
  • Exercise Normal Precautions: Campeche and Yucatan are among the states where normal precautions should be taken, with no specific restrictions on government employee travel.
  • Do Not Travel: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas are listed as states to avoid due to high levels of crime and, in some cases, kidnapping.

It is essential to carefully consider the risks and follow the recommended safety guidelines when traveling to Mexico, especially within 20 kilometers of the border or beyond.

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Entry requirements

U.S. citizens must present a valid passport when entering Mexico by any means of transportation. Minors are not exempt from this rule. If you are staying within the border zone for less than 72 hours, you do not need an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM).

If you are travelling as a tourist beyond the border zone or entering by air, you must fill out an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM), which is provided by commercial airlines or at the Mexican airport of entry. Businesspeople must complete and submit an FM-N form, allowing them to do business, not work, in the country.

If you are entering Mexico for reasons not previously established or for a period longer than 180 days, you must apply for the appropriate visa at the nearest Mexican consulate.

If you are driving a vehicle into Mexico, you will need a temporary vehicle import permit if you are driving beyond the border zone. Mexico enforces these permits if you are driving 20 kilometres or more from the border. You do not need a permit in the Baja Peninsula. You can obtain a permit online, at the Mexican border, or at certain Mexican consulates in the U.S.

U.S. citizens must also present an entry permit issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración. You will also need valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone. Entering Mexico with an expired U.S. vehicle registration may lead to the confiscation of the auto by Mexican authorities.

If you are driving a financed car, you will also need a letter of permission from your lender.

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Travel advisories

Overview

Mexico is a popular tourist destination, but travellers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, and travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted.

Border Zones

U.S. citizens can enter Mexico by land or sea without a visa for up to 72 hours within the "border zone", which extends 20 kilometres into Mexico from the U.S. border. A valid passport is required for entry, and travellers must present valid proof of automobile registration.

Entry Permit

If travelling beyond the border zone, an entry permit is required. This can be obtained at a National Migration Institute (Instituto Nacional de Migración or INM) office after crossing the border. The permit is usually granted for a maximum of 180 days, but the exact duration is at the discretion of the immigration official.

Driving in Mexico

To drive in Mexico, U.S. citizens need a valid U.S. driver's license, proof of registration, and a temporary vehicle importation permit (except in the "hassle-free zone", which includes the western half of Sonora and the Baja Peninsula). A letter of permission from the vehicle lender is also required if the car is financed. Mexican liability insurance is mandatory, and U.S. citizens need to buy a separate Mexico auto insurance policy.

Safety Advice

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to the following safety guidelines:

  • Avoid travelling at night and use toll roads where possible.
  • Stay in tourist areas and well-lit pedestrian streets.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewellery.
  • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
  • Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency.
  • Keep travelling companions informed of your plans and send your GPS location if separating from your group.
  • Take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend if taking a taxi alone.
  • Avoid isolated areas and walking alone at night.
  • Stay in hotels and resorts with good security.
  • Rent cars without stickers or other advertisements for the rental company.
  • Do not leave valuables in the vehicle.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you need a temporary vehicle importation permit if you are driving beyond the border zones in Mexico. Mexico enforces the permits if you are driving 20 kilometers or more from the border.

You can obtain a permit through Mexican government authority Banjercito online, at the border, or at certain Mexican consulates in the U.S. Nonrefundable permit fees are also required.

You will need your passport, proof of insurance and registration, driver's license, vehicle importation permit, and letter of permission from your auto lender.

Violent crime is common in Mexico. Travelers are advised to avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas, and to avoid traveling between cities after dark. It is also recommended to use toll roads when possible and to avoid driving alone or at night.

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