Mexico's F.A.Q.s
IMMIGRATION
Can I get my FM-3 before entering Mexico?
(Puedo obterner mi F.M.3 antes de entrar a Mexico?)
What do I need to cross the border?
(Que necesito para crusar la frontera a Mexico?)What are the requirements for going to Mexico as Business Visitor?
Discussion Threads
Tell me about immigrating into Mexico
What papers do I need to cross the border?
Tell me about working in Mexico
How can I get my F.M.3?
What can I bring into Mexico?
Tell me about dual citizenshipCan I get my FM-3 before entering Mexico?
Outside of Mexico you may pay all the fees and meet all the requirements, etc. your FM-3 Visa is not valid until it has been Officially registered with the Mexican Government and that must be done within the first 30 days you are in the country.
As soon as you arrive ask your real estate agent, The Lake Chapala Society or a long term resident where to register. Failure to register will result in a fine. There are official registration offices, and there are free lance entrepreneurs who, for a fee, will handle all of the paper work for you.
Go with the free lancers.
You also will have to be photographed and finger printed. Don't get all huffy and puffy about this. Look at the hoops the U.S government makes people jump through in order to be considered for residence there.
Also your FM-3 has to renewed every year this is a fairly easy process that takes about a month, but to be safe you may want to start a couple month in advance before your FM-3 expiration date.
What do I need to cross the border?You need the current registration for your car. It should be in your name( not a lease or rental).If the car is not in your name then you will need a letter from the owner of the car stating that they are giving you permition to take the car into Mexico. You MUST have a valid credit card in the same name as the registration. You will be charged about $11.00 for a permiso. You will sign a paper promising to return the vehicle within 6 months and that you will not sell the car in Mexico. You must turn in this paper and the window sticker when you leave Mexico. You do not require a passport but, I would recommend one. Also if you are only going within about 21 km. of the border it is in most areas a free zone. Your Canadian or American Auto insurance is not valid in Mexico. I would recommend you purchase Mexican Insurance( available at the Border).
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