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Visa Information For Travelers From Mexico

The information below only applies to travel from Mexico.

Visa rules may have changed since this document was prepared. For the most current visa information, please visit http://travel.state.gov/visa/index.html or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Do travelers from Mexico require a visa?

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a non-immigrant visa or Border Crossing Card. The Border Crossing Card is a credit card-style document valid for ten years. Also known as a "Laser Visa," the card is both a BCC and a B1/B2 visitor's visa. All Mexican visitors to the U.S. receive a laser visa. For information on “Laser Visas,” visit http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1260.html#mexico or call the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

What documents are required to obtain a laser visa?

  • Applicants replacing an old-style BCC do not need a passport in order to get a laser visa. They need to present the old card and a recent photo identity card.
  • In lieu of a passport, a voter registration card is the preferred identity document.
  • First time applicants and those renewing other types of visas need to present a valid Mexican passport as the primary document of citizenship and identity.

How much does the laser visa cost?

For information about Visa service fees, please click here

Are there other fees or requirements I should know about?

Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for country specific information on:

  • How to pay fees
  • How to get an appointment for an interview
  • Visa operations at the embassy or consulate
  • Information on the status of your visa application


Where can I get more information?

Phone:  
Visa Services public information line: 1-202-663-1225 (Washington, D.C.)
   
Internet:  
U.S. Embassies and Consulates: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/embassies/embassies_1214.html
Consular Affairs: http://travel.state.gov
Laser Visas: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1260.html#mexico
Travel from Border Countries: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1260.html#mexico
Visa Services - Traveling to U.S.: http://travel.state.gov/visa/index.html


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