FM3 to FM2

When I first applied for a visa (November 2006) I was also told that I had to start with an FM3. The requirements apparently changed the following year, and I upgraded to FM2 in November 2008. The INM agent told me not to spend more than 3 months per year out of the country on the FM2, but that may have been just a guideline. My understanding is that if you exceed 18 months in five years, you're ineligible for inmigrado status. In our office (La Paz, BCS), they do look carefully at entry and exit stamps for the FM2. I'd imagine that in Mexicali they would be even more strict, since it's so close to the border. I've heard of people not bothering to get their FM3s stamped when crossing by land, but I suspect that would be harder to get away with on an FM2.

Kate


About September 08, I was told that I had to sign out prior to renewing my FM3. That was confirmed by the San Felipe immigration office. When I tried to sign out at the east border crossing in Mexicali, I was told by a senior officer that signing is not required, but he did it any way, after some additional conversation. I then aske him if the minimum amount of money in a local bank had increased by $500.00 usd? He said no, no change. I told him that this was also a requirement by the local office. He said there would be an investigation. In December, there were staff changes. Lesson learned - things do work in mexico (ocassionally).
Bob