Ready to explore Mexico’s beaches, colonial towns and vibrant cities? This guide walks you through everything about the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM)—from who must have one to recent policy shifts that affect air and land travelers.
What Is the FMM?
The FMM, or Mexico Tourist Card, is a multiple‐entry permit issued by Mexico’s National Institute of Immigration. It authorizes stays of up to 180 days for leisure, business or transit, and you must carry it at all times and present it when exiting the country.
Who Must Obtain an FMM?
Most foreign visitors require an FMM regardless of entry point, as detailed by the U.S. State Department’s entry requirements for Mexico:
- Citizens of countries that don’t need a visa for Mexico by air
- All land and sea arrivals
- Every traveler, including children and diplomatic staff, needs an individual FMM
Who’s Exempt?
- Mexican nationals
- Permanent residents of Mexico
- Citizens of some countries on visa‐exempt lists when arriving by air, as noted in the Mexico Tourist Card FAQs (verify with your airline or consulate)
Recent Policy Changes for Air Arrivals
As of 2025, many major Mexican airports no longer collect the FMM from air passengers, a change explained in this KAYAK News report on the FMM process. This applies in:
- Cancún
- Puerto Vallarta
- Los Cabos
- Mexico City
- Tulum
- Mazatlán
If you fly into one of these hubs, you typically skip the FMM process—but double-check with your airline before departure.
Types of FMM
There are two main formats:
- Paper FMM: Issued at land or sea border crossings, presented to immigration officers upon arrival.
- Digital FMM: Obtained through an online system for all entry modes; some airports still require a printed copy for verification.
Entry Requirements & Accepted Documents
To secure an FMM, you need:
- A valid passport book or passport card (both are accepted for land entries)
- A completed application form with personal and travel details
- Proof of onward or return travel
Children and diplomats follow the same rules: each person must present their own FMM application and passport.
How to Obtain Your FMM
1. Online Application
- Visit the official Mexican immigration portal
- Fill in personal and travel details
- Pay the fee (unless exempt)
- Download and print your FMM before traveling
2. At a Port of Entry
- Present your passport to an immigration officer at a land, sea or air crossing
- Complete the paper form provided on-site
- Receive your stamped FMM and keep it with your travel documents
3. In-Flight Distribution
On airlines serving cities that still require the FMM, cabin crew will hand out forms during the flight—complete and submit them before landing.
Validity, Fees & Extensions
- Validity: Authorized stays of up to 180 days for tourism or business purposes
- Extension: You can request a one-time extension up to a total of 180 days
- Cost: Generally USD $35 (or equivalent), but free for land crossings of 7 days or less
State-Specific Rules & Fees
Some regions impose additional charges or requirements on top of the federal FMM:
- Quintana Roo environmental fee: A departure tax of 224 MXN per person at airports in Cancún, Cozumel and Chetumal, as outlined by the Mexico Vacation Guide.
- Always check state tourism websites or local government portals before you travel to avoid surprises.
Practical Tips at Immigration
- Some airports insist on a printed FMM; don’t rely solely on a digital copy when passing through immigration
- Photography in immigration lines is prohibited—officers may inspect devices and delete images of counters or staff, according to Yucatán.com.mx coverage of the new rule
Stay Informed
The list of cities exempt from FMM requirements keeps changing. Confirm the latest entry rules with your airline, a Mexican consulate or the National Institute of Immigration’s official updates a few days before departure.
Your Mexican Getaway Awaits
With this FMM guide, you’re set for smooth entry and exit. Keep your documents handy, review the latest policies, and get ready to enjoy Mexico’s beaches, culture and cuisine—no paperwork headaches in sight.