For Mexican citizens planning to travel to the United States, understanding the necessary documentation is crucial. The requirements differ based on your method of entry, the US state you are entering, and how far into the US you intend to travel from the border with estados de Mexico. This guide clarifies the essential documents you’ll need depending on your travel plans from estados de Mexico to the USA.
If you are a Mexican citizen and any of the following conditions apply, you must present specific documentation to US immigration officials:
- Air or Sea Travel: If you are arriving in the United States by air or sea from estados de Mexico or any other location.
- Land Border Crossing into Texas, New Mexico, or California: If you are crossing the land border from estados de Mexico into Texas, New Mexico, or California and intend to travel more than 25 miles beyond the border.
- Land Border Crossing into Arizona: If you are crossing the land border from estados de Mexico into Arizona and intend to travel more than 70 miles beyond the border.
- Extended Stay in the United States: If you are crossing any US land border from estados de Mexico with the intention of staying in the United States for more than 72 hours, even if you remain within the designated border zone.
In these situations, you will need to present the following documents at the US port of entry:
- Valid Visa or Border Crossing Card: You must have a valid US visa or a border crossing card at the time you enter the United States. It is important to note that the visa or border crossing card only needs to be valid upon your entry into the US, not for the duration of your entire stay.
- Valid Passport: You must also possess a passport that is valid for the duration of your intended stay in the United States. US immigration authorities will not authorize a period of stay that exceeds the validity of your passport.
Understanding these requirements ensures a smoother border crossing experience when traveling from estados de Mexico to the United States. Always verify the most up-to-date regulations before your travel date, as policies can change.
