United States visa for Mexico passport holders

Before you travel, check what the official route asks for. Which route is open to you depends on your passport and your situation.

Apply for a B2 tourist visa or combined B1/B2 visa unless you qualify for a specific exemption. Complete form DS-160 online and follow the consulate's interview, biometrics and passport instructions. An online application leads to a consular visa, not an eVisa. Visa validity, entries and reciprocal issuance fees depend on nationality and the visa issued. CBP determines admission and the permitted stay, which is recorded on the I-94. Mexican citizens and permanent residents generally need a consular visa or an issued Border Crossing Card. The Mexican biometric DSP-150 BCC is an issued B1/B2/BCC document, rather than a visa on arrival. It can be used without a passport only under the specified rules for entry from Mexico by land or qualifying pleasure vessel; other arrivals may require a passport. The adult BCC fee is USD 185.

ESTA is required for eligible visitors travelling under the Visa Waiver Program. EVUS is a separate enrolment requirement for certain US visa holders. Neither programme is a general arrival card. Use the official service that applies to your travel documents.

An existing US visa, US permanent residence or a separate visa-exemption arrangement can change what you need. US lawful permanent residents return with the appropriate permanent-resident or re-entry documents rather than a tourist ESTA or visitor visa. A valid existing US visa may be used for its issued purpose, subject to any separate programme requirements.

Passport subtype, second nationality, previous travel and admissibility can affect your eligibility. An approved visa or authorization does not guarantee admission; CBP determines the permitted stay at entry.

Under the Visa Waiver Program, air or sea arrivals on participating carriers generally need return or onward transportation. Land-entry rules differ, and itineraries involving Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands have extra conditions. For B-visa visitors, a universally compulsory prebooked ticket has not been confirmed. Carry departure evidence and follow the rules for your admission route.

US official guidance doesn't list travel health insurance as a general requirement for ordinary tourists visiting on a B visa or under the Visa Waiver Program, but it's recommended. Individual admission or visa conditions can still apply.

These conditions are for a regular tourist visit. Where you live, your visa status and the route you take can change what applies to you.

• CBP records the admitted stay on the I-94. Visa validity and permitted stay are different, and a visa or ESTA does not guarantee admission.
• Passport-validity exceptions depend on nationality. Existing US documents, dual nationality and recent travel can change eligibility or trigger restrictions.
• The guidance covers mainland/general US tourism. Guam/CNMI local waivers and American Samoa have separate rules. Check official fees and restrictions again before booking.