All You Ever Need to Know About The US Passport Requirements To Mexico Written Here
So you want to go to Mexico? That’s no surprise as Mexico is easily one of the most popular tourist destinations for many Americans. This country has a lot to offer in terms of culture, food, and great beaches. Mexico is the home to many pre-Hispanic civilizations such as the Maya and Olmec, and that’s in addition to its popular Mexican cuisine, and the beaches of Acapulco. If you’re traveling to this destination, we’ll show you what the passport requirements are, including answering your questions such as whether or not you need a passport when traveling to this lovely country.
Mexico is a part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). And as such, you can travel to this country with different US documents that will prove both your identity and citizenship. Documents you can use include your US passport book or your passport card.
What’s the difference between a passport book and a passport card? Let’s talk about the regular passport book first. This is the conventional passport book that you can use to travel to international destinations, including Mexico. Using a passport book provides you with flexibility when traveling to different countries, and not just the WHTI member-countries. Also, you’ll need a passport book for international air travel.
But there are several advantages when using a passport card. First, of course, is the size. Compared to the passport book, the card is smaller which makes it easy for you to keep. Applying for a passport card is also cheap, which is another point for cards over passport books. However, you can only use the passport card if you’re traveling by land or sea to WHTI territories.
Don’t worry if you’re undecided on which of the two options suits you. You can always combine their benefits by applying for both types of passports. For general foreign travel, you can count on your passport book to be accepted. However, if you’re traveling to WHTI territories by land or sea, you’ll need the passport card. Another plus for applying for both is that you can also get a huge discount when you do.
You may notice that the WHTI allows the use of other US documents when traveling to WHTI destinations. These documents may include your birth certificate and your enhanced driver’s license. It’s best if you consult with the Mexican Embassy first to ensure that you can use these or other types of documents.
Keep in mind that there are certain additional passport requirements for minors and businesspeople traveling to Mexico. Minors have to bring a notarized copy of the parental consent. This document should also include the child’s travel details including the airlines he/she will be taking, as well as the minor’s travel schedule. Filling in Form FM-N is required of businesspeople to authorize them to conduct business in the country. If you have more questions regarding the requirements of the two, check with the Mexican Embassy.
So if you’re still wondering what are the New passport requirements for traveling to Mexico, here’s a recap. If traveling by land or sea, you can use your passport card. But if you are traveling by air, the use of your United States Passport book is recommended. Also, don’t forget other possible travel requirements before you leave for Mexico.