A Mexican Passport is an essential document for citizens of Mexico, serving as both proof of identity and nationality for international travel. Issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through designated passport offices and consular representations, it is universally recognized and respected worldwide. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to apply for or renew a Mexican passport, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth process.
Applying for Your Mexican Passport for the First Time
For individuals applying for a Mexican passport for the first time, it’s crucial to gather the correct documentation to prove both your Mexican nationality and your identity.
Proof of Mexican Nationality
You must present the original of one of the following documents:
- Birth Certificate: This is a primary document and must clearly state your place of birth, including the municipality and state within Mexico. For example, Guadalajara, Jalisco, or Monterrey, Nuevo León.
- Certificate of Mexican Nationality: An official certificate confirming your Mexican nationality.
- Declaration of Mexican Nationality by Birth: A formal declaration affirming your Mexican nationality by birth.
- Letter of Naturalization: If you acquired Mexican nationality through naturalization, this letter serves as proof.
- High-Security Consular Card: A consular card with enhanced security features, confirming nationality.
Proof of Identity
To verify your identity, you need to present the original of one of the following official photo IDs, ensuring the details match your nationality document:
- Valid High-Security Consular Registration Card: A currently valid consular card with high-security features.
- Valid Voter ID Card: Issued by the Instituto Federal Electoral (IFE) or Instituto Electoral Nacional (INE).
- National Military Service Identity Card: Your official military service ID.
- Professional License or Degree: A valid professional license or degree certificate.
- Certificate of Mexican Nationality: (This can be used for both nationality and identity).
- Declaration of Mexican Nationality: (Also valid for both nationality and identity).
- Letter of Naturalization: (Acceptable for both nationality and identity verification).
Renewing Your Mexican Passport
The process for renewing your Mexican passport is generally simpler. Typically, you only need to present your current passport for renewal.
However, there are exceptions:
- Passport Does Not Show Complete Birthplace: If your current passport lacks the complete place of birth (municipality/city and state), you will need to provide a certified copy of your birth certificate that includes this information.
- Passport Restrictions or Observations: If your passport has any specific restrictions or observations noted, you must fulfill those requirements. If your passport is marked “NOT EXCHANGEABLE,” you will need to apply as if it were your first time, providing all initial documentation.
What to Do if Your Passport is Lost or Stolen
If your Mexican passport is lost or stolen, immediate action is necessary. You should:
- File a Police Report: Report the loss or theft to the police department in the city where the incident occurred.
- Present the Police Report: Bring the police report to the consular office when you apply for a new passport, along with the standard first-time application requirements.
Mexican Passports for Minors (Under 18 Years Old)
Applying for a passport for a minor requires the presence and consent of both parents or legal guardians.
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Parental Presence and Relationship Proof: Both parents must be present with the minor at the Consular Section and provide the minor’s original birth certificate to prove the parental relationship.
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Proof of Minor’s Mexican Nationality: Present the ORIGINAL of one of the following documents for the minor:
- Birth certificate
- Certificate of Mexican Nationality
- Letter of Naturalization
- High-security consular card
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Proof of Minor’s Identity: Provide the ORIGINAL of one of these identity documents for the minor:
- Passport from another nationality
- School certificate from a Mexican primary, secondary, or high school.
- Certified report card with photo and official seal from a Mexican school.
- Proof of grade level stamped by a Mexican educational institution, including a photo.
- Official ID issued by a local authority.
- Residence card from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, or Yemen.
- For children under 7, a certificate with photo and stamp from a medical institution or private doctor.
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Parental Consent (OP-7 Form): Both parents must grant consent by signing the authorization form (OP-7).
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Valid Official Identification of Parents: Parents must present valid official photo IDs with signatures that match the names on the minor’s birth certificate. Acceptable IDs include:
- Valid Passport (required if a parent is not Mexican).
- High Security Consular card
- Voter ID card.
If One Parent is in Another Location
If a parent cannot be present, they must complete an OP-7 form to authorize passport issuance. This form can be signed at:
- A Delegation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Mexico.
- The nearest Mexican Consulate if residing abroad.
Passport Validity and Fees
Mexican passports are issued with varying validity periods: 1, 3, 6, and 10 years. The fees are determined by the validity period you choose and are subject to change based on the exchange rate, as they are fixed in U.S. dollars but payable in local currency. Refer to the consular fees link for current pricing.
Passport Delivery Time
Once you have your appointment and complete the biometric data process at the Consular Section, your passport application is sent to Mexico City for printing. The standard processing time is approximately 6 weeks.
Spouse’s Last Name on Passport
Mexican passports are issued with your birth surnames. However, upon request, and by presenting an original marriage certificate or certified copy, your spouse’s surname can be added as an annotation in your passport. Specific document requirements apply depending on where the marriage took place; marriages outside of Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, or Yemen may require apostille or legalization and translation.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Mexican passport application and renewal process. Ensure you prepare all required documents and follow the outlined steps for a successful application.
