With over 9,000 km of coastline, cruises to Mexico are popular. Cruise passengers can experience everything Mexico has to offer, from the beautiful beaches to the ancient cities built by the Aztecs and Mayas.
Travelers interested in a Mexico cruise are often unsure about the paperwork they need. Requirements are not necessarily the same as when flying and each country has a different policy regarding passports and visas.
This article explains whether each of the 2 key travel documents for Mexico is required when taking a cruise or other vessel:
- Passport
- Mexican visa
Mexico Cruise Passport Requirements
All travelers are advised to carry a valid passport with them when taking a cruise to Mexico, regardless of their nationality and port of departure.
US citizens on closed-loop cruises, meaning they begin and end at the same US port, can travel to Mexico with proof of citizenship other than a passport. Accepted alternative documents include:
- US state-issued copy of the birth certificate
- Consular report of birth abroad
- Certificate of naturalization and government-issued photo ID
Nevertheless, some cruise companies require that passengers carry a valid passport even on closed-loop routes. Passport cards may also be accepted, US citizens should check all the details with the agent.
Cruise companies recommend that all passengers traveling from all countries carry a passport in case they need to take an unexpected flight. Passengers who miss the departure of the ship due to unforeseen circumstances, or need to travel in an emergency will need their passport to arrange flights. Although unlikely, it’s best to be prepared.
Non-US citizens must have a passport for a cruise to Mexico. The passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date.
Do I need a Visa for a Mexican Cruise?
Cruise ship passengers from visa-exempt nations can disembark the ship at any Mexican port without a visa provided they only visit the surrounding area and embark the same ship to continue the journey.
In this case, the foreigner falls into the category of visitor without permission to conduct remunerated activities and has a 21-day allowance.
Mexico’s visa policy allows citizens of many nationalities to enter the country without a visa. This includes the United States, the United Kingdom, and all European countries.
Holders of valid visas for Canada, any of the Schengen countries, the UK, the US, or Japan are also exempt from Mexico visa requirements. An exemption also applies to permanent residents of Canada, Chile, Colombia, Schengen member states, Japan, Peru, the UK, and the United States.
Visa requirements for travelers from non-exempt nations
Passport holders from other nations may need to apply for a Mexican visa for their trip.
Travelers should contact their nearest Mexican embassy or consulate for guidance depending on their specific set of circumstances.
Non-US citizens departing from a port in the United States must have the relevant US visa or ESTA visa waiver.
Do cruise passengers need to complete the Mexico FMM?
The FMM, or Mexico tourist card, is required by foreigners entering Mexico by land. Passengers traveling to the country over a land border can complete the Mexico FMM form online.
Sea passengers do not need to complete the FMM form in advance, the visitor permit is issued at the first port of call in Mexico.
Tourists arriving in Mexico on a cruise should check the document requirements with the cruiseliner and/or a Mexican embassy to ensure they have everything they require for the trip.
Traveling to Mexico by Boat
The rules above apply to cruise ships. There are some differences if entering the country on another type of boat, or for foreigners taking their own vessel into Mexico.
Foreigners arriving in Mexico on a non-cruise vessel should have:
- Valid passport/proof of citizenship in a foreign country
- Mexico visa (if required)
- Departure clearance from point of departure
On arrival by boat, passengers should approach the immigration office to receive the stamped visitor card and a temporary import permit for the vessel.
There are several other requirements for foreigners taking their own boat to Mexico. Sailors should ensure they have all the necessary paperwork in order before departure.
List of Mexico Sea Ports
Cruise ships call at the following ports in Mexico:
- Acapulco
- Cabo San Lucas
- Costa Maya
- Cozumel
- Ensenada,
- Guaymas
- Huatulco
- La Paz
- Loreto
- Majahual
- Manzanillo
- Mazatlan
- Merida
- Puerto Chiapas
- Puerto Vallarta
- Topolobampo
Many Mexico cruises depart from the United States or Canada: companies may offer package deals that include the flights to the point of departure.
Non-US citizens taking a cruise from a departure point in the States or Canada are reminded that they need to fulfill the entry requirements for these countries also, this may require obtaining a visa or travel authorization.
