Make Sure You Have The Correct Documents For Your Trip To Mexico

Passport

There are specific documents you need if you intend visiting Mexico.  It is a good idea to ensure that these documents are in order before you try to cross the border.  Inadequate documentation will simply lead to time wastage at the border and you do not want to start your holiday on a bad note.

Apart from the usual identification documents, you will require a tourist permit, temporary vehicle import permit, and Mexican car insurance.  If you are planning on travelling beyond the border buffer zone which covers an area of around 16 miles, you need to have a tourist permit for every adult in your party.  These permits are normally issued by the Mexican Immigration department.  You will also need to obtain a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit which is issued by Mexican Customs.

There are certain areas in Mexico where these two types of permits are not necessary.

• If you remain close to the border, about 16 miles or 25 kilometers
• In the State of Baja California North. However, if you enter into Baja California South, you require a Tourist Permit when you enter the state, but you will not need a vehicle permit
• When you travel to El Gulfo de Santa Clara, Sonora and cross at San Luis, Arizona
• When you travel to Rocky Point, Sonora and cross at Lukeville, Arizona
• If you are going to travel south from Nogales, through Sonora. In this case you have to remain north of Empalme

Tourist Permit

At the US-Mexico Border

You may be able to obtain this permit on the Mexican side of the border.  At certain location, the permits are obtained a short distance from the border, generally beyond the buffer zone.

You will have to present proof of citizenship of each member of your party.  You can use your passport for this purpose as you will need the passport to re-enter into the U.S. upon your return.  You need to complete a short application form which should only take a couple of minutes for completion.

These permits are normally issued for a period from one day to six months.  This is dependent on the length of your visit.  Once you receive the Tourist Permit, you have to pay the fee at a bank.  Ensure that the bank teller puts a ‘paid’ stamp on your copy of the document.

Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit

This type of permit is required for each vehicle, including towed vehicles.  The permits are issued for a period from one day to six months.  You can obtain this permit on the same premises as your Tourist Permit.

Mexican Auto Insurance

If you intend travelling by road in Mexico, you will need to obtain Mexican car insurance.  The insurance policy you have in the U.S. and Canada is not valid in Mexico.  The minimum coverage you should obtain is limited liability.  It is however recommended that you obtain comprehensive coverage in the event that you are involved in an accident.  This will ensure that you have sufficient coverage for personal and third party damage.

It is extremely easy to obtain Mexican vehicle insurance.  It can be done online and the process is quick and simple. You can purchase your Mexican insurance policy from this URL.