Are you considering traveling to Cabo? Read on to learn more about what sort of documentation you’ll need to reach this fantastic destination.
From whale watching to water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling. Rich culture to cuisine, and from historical architecture to stunning vistas. There are so many reasons to fall in love with Cabo.
This fantastic location is so close to the US and Canada, but lately, Cabo also draws to further further away tourism. UK and Spain already schedule charter flight most of year, and there are rummers of future direct charters from Brazil and China.
Let’s discuss what paperwork you need to enter Mexico and visiting Cabo, passports, and entry points.
Traveling to Cabo San Lucas from the U.S.
Embarking on a journey to Mexico? Navigating entry requirements is crucial for a seamless travel experience. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or a Permanent Resident, understanding the rules is key. Join us as we break down essential information provided by the Consulate General of Mexico, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your Mexican adventure.
Passport Validity and Entry Rules
All foreigners, regardless of nationality, must present a valid and unexpired passport or travel document when entering Mexico by air, land, or sea. The Mexican government only requires your passport to be valid throughout your trip. However, travelers should be aware of the United States’ six-month validity rule, which may apply. Ensure you contact your airline to confirm boarding requirements.
Visa Exemptions for Permanent Residents
If you’re a Permanent Resident of certain countries, including Canada, the United States, and members of the Schengen Area, you’re exempt from obtaining a visa for tourism, business, or transit purposes. A valid Resident Card, along with an unexpired passport, is required for entry.
Cruise Passengers: Visa-Free Entry
Leisure travelers cruising to Mexican maritime ports enjoy visa-free entry. A valid and unexpired passport or travel document is sufficient for this journey.
Airline Flying to Mexico Passport Consideration
Although Mexican consulate does not specify how many months of validity your passport need to have when entering Mexico, some of the airline company require you to have at least 6 month of validity. It is highly recommended check with your airline to avoid any uncomfortable experiences at the airport.
Please note, in the past, US citizens did not require to hold a passport when entering Cabo, this is not true anymore.
Children and minors traveling to Cabo
The Mexican consulate states that minors must submit a passport.
Minors (under 18 years of age), both foreigners and Mexican nationals, traveling to Mexico alone or accompanied by a third party of legal age, are REQUIRED to obtain authorization or a letter of consent from their parents or guardians.
Road trip and flight options
Embarking on a summer road trip promises an exciting adventure, especially for those residing in Southern California or nearby states. The journey to Cabo can be seamlessly woven into your plans, offering a scenic drive and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Border crossing to enter Mexico
When making the journey to Cabo from the U.S. by land, such as in a car or bus, it is imperative to have a passport ready for presentation at the border.
Cabo is situated over 1,000 miles south of San Diego, well beyond the US/Mexico border, requiring travelers to stop at an INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración) office upon entering the country to obtain an entry permit, commonly known as a tourist card or FMM.
To secure this permit, a valid passport is essential, and it may be necessary to show both the entry permit and passport at various checkpoints along your route.
Unlike some countries that mandate a minimum six-month validity for passports, Mexico accepts visitors as long as their passports remain valid for the duration of their stay.
Traveling to Cabo from Canada and Europe
When journeying to Cabo San Lucas from Canada or Europe, air travel stands as the sole option.
For those flying to Cabo, a valid passport is a prerequisite, and it’s strongly advised that the passport remains valid for at least six months beyond the travel date.
Canadian travelers, planning a tourism-focused trip lasting no more than 180 days, do not necessitate a visa. However, they will need a tourist card, which will be stamped at the initial port of entry.
British tourists can venture to Cabo without a visa, provided they travel with a valid UK passport, engage in tourism activities, and stay for less than 30 days.
Excitingly, UK and Spanish tourists already have the option to fly directly to Cabo thanks to a weakly charter plan made to enhance accessibility to our stunning region for European travelers. Cabo is now more reachable than ever for those in Europe, marking a significant development in travel convenience.
Always Double Check!
Lastly, rules might change more often then this thread. we highly recommend to double check that the abover information is correct concerning traveling to Cabo. You are required to check with the relevant authorities to meet the entry conditions before your arrival.
Safe Tavel.
