Mexico visas
Whether you need a visa to enter Mexico depends on your nationality and the purpose and length of your stay — nationals of many countries can enter as non-lucrative visitors without a visa. Mexico's visas are issued by the consular service of the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE), while entry documents and residence cards are handled by the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). This hub explains the main routes in plain language and links to the official sources so you can confirm exactly what applies to you before you travel or apply.
Important information
Mexican visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Mexico — tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips and transit, plus any visa-free or electronic-authorisation options.2 visas
- Work visasComing to Mexico to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.2 visas
- Study visasStudying in Mexico — student visas and permits for accepted students, and what they let you do.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a family member in Mexico — spouse, partner, child and other relative routes.2 visas
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Mexico as a highly skilled or exceptional individual.2 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Mexico long term — permanent residence and, where available, the path to citizenship.3 visas
Mexican visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Mexico — key facts
- Entry document
- Visa, FMM or visa-free
- Depends on your nationality and purpose of travel
- Authority
- SRE & INM
- Consular service and National Migration Institute
- Tourist card
- FMM / digital FMMD
- Single entry, up to 180 days, per the INM
- Residence
- Temporary & permanent
- Cards obtained at the INM after entry
Mexican visas — people also ask
It depends on your nationality. Mexico's consular authorities say nationals of many countries may enter as non-lucrative visitors — for tourism, business, transit, study or medical reasons — without a visa. Others must apply for a visitor visa at a Mexican consulate.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-09. Information only — not legal advice.