FAQs for Smooth Entry and Exit

FAQs about Entry and Exit Requirements

Below are useful guidelines on what is required or recommended to make your visit to Baja and return home smooth.

Do I need a Mexican visa or tourist card?

You will need a Mexican tourist card if you are visiting from the U.S. or Canada as a tourist and will be traveling longer than 72 hours in Mexico or outside the border zone or tourist corridors. A tourist card is basically an informal "visa" that is filled out by you, the visitor, and stamped by an Mexican immigration officer. Visit our tourist card information for additional details on how to obtain one. If you are visiting Baja on business or to live, you may like to read our visa information about business visas and resident visas. For citizens of other counties, it is best to contact a nearby Mexican consulate for the latest information on documentation requirements.

What documentation do I need to visit Mexico?

U.S. citizens do not require a passport for entry into Mexico. However, U.S. and Canadian citizens, the requirement for obtaining a tourist card is a valid picture ID, like a driver's license and a certified birth certificate. However, it is recommended to have a passport to facilitate this process.

It is important to remember that although at this time you do not need a passport to enter Mexico, it is anticipated that by June 1, 2009, you will need to show a passport to U.S. officials on your way back into the U.S.

Is my driver's license valid in Mexico?

Yes. Mexico recognizes licenses from other countries and international driver's licenses.

Can I take a rented vehicle into Baja and can I buy insurance through Baja Bound?

Maybe. Rental companies have different policies regarding taking their vehicles to Baja. It is important to follow their guidelines since they are the owner of the vehicle. There are plenty of agencies that will allow you to do so. It is recommended that the rental contract states that the vehicle may go to Mexico.

Some rental companies offer the Mexican insurance through us and others will sell you a policy through a company that they partner with. It is important to ask the agency before purchasing insurance through Baja Bound.

Do I need a vehicle permit?

There is no permit requirement for visiting Baja. There is a permit requirement to travel into mainland Mexico or if you will take the ferry from Baja to the mainland. Visit our vehicle permit page for more information on how to obtain a Mexican vehicle permit.

Do I need Mexican auto insurance?

Yes. U.S. policies cannot, by Mexican law, prove your financial responsibility to the Mexican authorities. Therefore, you need at least a liability only policy to fulfill the legal requirement in case of an accident. Full coverage policies are also available with optional partial theft and vandalism coverage. Get a quote or buy a policy. More info

Will my health or medical insurance cover me in Mexico?

Maybe. Call your provider to understand what will be covered while you travel into Mexico. Low cost international policies are available from many reputable companies and may include emergency air evacuation coverage.

What can I bring into Mexico?

According to Mexican customs (Aduana Mexico), generally you may bring your personal luggage, personal belongings and up to US $75 of merchandise if crossing by land. The exemption accumulates if you have other family members traveling with you. Mexican customs has a list of what can be brought into Mexico duty free. Read more about how to cross the border and Mexican customs regulations regarding personal belongings and prohibited items.

Should I register with a U.S. consulate?

The U.S. Department of State recommends that travelers to Baja register with the U.S. consulate in Tijuana or online before you visit. In case of an emergency or other problem, they will be able to either assist you or help family members get in touch with you.

What documentation is required to return to the U.S.?

Currently, you must have a picture ID, like a driver's license and a U.S. birth certificate or naturalization certificate. U.S. passports are not a requirement yet, but recommended. The law is anticipated to change by June 1, 2009, and U.S. citizens will be required to carry a passport, passport card, or other authorized form of documentation, like a SENTRI pass, NEXUS or FAST pass.

What can I bring back to the U.S.?

Generally, you may bring back belongings that you took with you on your trip and up to US $800 in items acquired outside of the U.S. Certain items like handicrafts are not counted towards the US $800 exemption and can be brought across as long as they are for personal use. Read more about U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations about returning to the U.S.

What if I am bringing an expensive item like a laptop into Mexico. Can I take it into Mexico and back to the U.S. without paying duties?

U.S. customs suggests registering your item with them before your trip to facilitate your return. This may be done at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection office. If you cannot register your item, you may need to present the sales receipt as proof of where the item was purchased.

How can I cross into the U.S. faster and avoid the border line?

Join the SENTRI program. The SENTRI lanes are dedicated lanes for enrolled vehicles and passengers. The wait to cross, especially on weekends and rush hour, is greatly reduced. More info

Updated: August 11, 2008