Cancun is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. To enjoy Cancun, travelers must have all the necessary documents to enter Mexico.
Passport holders from many countries can visit Mexico without applying for a visa. However, most visitors must complete the Forma Migratoria Múltiple(FMM), also known as the Mexican Tourist Card.
This article provides information about all the essential documents for visiting Cancun and how to process the Mexico FMM online.
What Do I Need to Travel to Cancun?
Foreign tourists must meet Mexico’s entry requirements to visit Cancun. Travelers need the following documents:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from date of entry
- FMM Mexico Tourist Card (if arriving by land)
- Visa for Mexico (when applicable)
- Return flight ticket
- Documentation proving the purpose of the visit (such as hotel reservation)
- Proof of sufficient funds
Do I Need a Visa to Go to Cancun?
Not all tourists need a visa to visit Cancun. Citizens of the EU, the United States, and Canada can go to Cancun for up to 180 days visa-free.
To stay longer than 6 months, or for non-tourism purposes, a visa is required.
Similarly, travelers from non-exempt countries need to apply for a Mexico visa for their trip to Cancun. Among the countries that require a visa for Mexico are Cuba, India, the Dominican Republic, and Albania.
Mexico Tourist Card for Visiting Cancun
All foreigners visiting Cancun need to complete a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), also known as a Mexico Tourist Card if they are arriving via a land border.
The FMM requirement applies to every overseas visitor arriving by land, regardless of whether or not they need a visa.
The Mexico Tourist Card proves that the visitor’s stay in Cancun is legal and specifies the number of days the holder may spend in the country.
An FMM is required to visit Cancun for tourism, business, and a range of other travel purposes for up to 180 days.
The Mexico Tourist Card can be completed up to 30 days before the flight to Cancun.
How to Apply for a Mexico Tourist Card for Cancun
Visitors can complete the Mexico Tourist Card online before traveling to Cancun. The following documents are required:
- Passport valid for a minimum of 6 months
- Debit or credit card to pay the FMM fees
Travelers should fill out the FMM application form with the requested information, including:
- Personal information: name, date of birth, gender, country of citizenship
- Passport details: country, number, issue date, and expiry date
- Travel plans: date of arrival and departure, accommodation address
Applicants should check all the information carefully before submitting the request.
Traveling to Cancun with the Mexico Tourist Card
Passengers must print their tourist card before traveling to Cancun. They will be asked to present it on arrival at the Mexican border together with the passport and if required, a Mexican visa.
One part of the FMM card is kept by immigration officials and the other part is returned to the visitor. This part of the tourist card must be retained as it will be required on departure.
The completed FMM does not guarantee entry, the final decision lies with Mexico border officials.
How long can I stay in Cancun with the FMM?
The Mexican tourist card is valid for stays of up to 180 days in Cancun or elsewhere in the country.
It can only be used to enter Mexico once. Returning tourists need to complete a new FMM each time they travel to Cancun.
Is It Safe to Go to Cancun?
As a resort and major tourist city, Cancun is generally a safe destination. Crime rates are lower than in other Mexican cities.
Public transport and taxis are safe to use although holidaymakers should remain vigilant.
Regarding health, Cancun has implemented the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Safe Travels protocols and achieved the Safe Travels stamp.
