Individuals with a criminal record are often concerned about how their past conviction will affect their ability to travel overseas.
In many cases, it is possible to visit Mexico despite having a criminal record. Generally, misdemeanors are not considered grounds for denied entry and will not prevent foreigners from going to Mexico on vacation.
Foreigners who require a visa for Mexico must disclose details of their criminal history when applying. Those who are eligible for visa-free access should also check their eligibility before traveling.
The information below is a general guide to the stance taken by Mexican Immigration Authorities on:
- Misdemeanors/minor criminal offenses
- Serious crime
- Pending charges
Be aware that the final decision is made based on the specific nature of the crimes and individual circumstances.
Are You Allowed into Mexico with a Criminal Record?
Whether or not you can enter Mexico with a criminal record largely depends on the type of offense committed.
Individuals charged with committing minor crimes are unlikely to be denied access to the country. Misdemeanors such as driving offenses, assault, and petty theft should not cause issues when applying for a Mexican visa.
The Mexican authorities treat requests on a case-by-case basis. They generally show a relaxed approach to minor criminal records.
If you’re concerned about how a misdemeanor offense may affect your chances of visiting Mexico, consider trying to get the criminal record expunged before traveling.
Traveling to Mexico with a Criminal Record for Serious Offenses
Whilst minor offenses are unlikely to cause issues, individuals convicted of serious crimes may face issues entering Mexico.
Mexican immigration authorities may refuse entry to travelers who:
- Are subject to an outstanding criminal charge (facing charges)
- Have been convicted of a crime defined as serious by national law
- Could compromise national security
Examples of serious crimes as defined by Mexican law
Article 194 of the Federal Code on Criminal Proceedings states that serious crimes are those which have a significant negative effect on the fundamental values of society.
The following crimes are some of those considered serious. Travelers who have been charged for these offenses may be blocked from entering Mexico:
- Aggravated robbery
- Assaults on public communication channels
- Bearing arms reserved for the exclusive use of the Army, Navy, or Air Force
- Child pornography
- Drug-related crimes
- Exploitation of minors
- Extortion
- Falsification and counterfeiting of currency
- Highway and road robbery
- Manslaughter
- Prison escape
- Rape
- Sabotage
- Smuggling firearms and/or illicit substances into the country
- Tax fraud
- Terrorism
- Trafficking of minors
- Trafficking of undocumented persons
- Vehicular theft
Travelers must provide information about their criminal history when completing the visa application form. It’s essential to answer security questions honestly and completely. Anyone who omits details or supplies false information will be penalized.
Foreigners convicted of felonies are advised to contact their nearest Mexico Embassy before traveling for advice.
Travelers facing charges may not be able to travel to Mexico. Similarly, people with warrants and those on probation or parole will likely be denied entry.
Applying for a Mexican Visa with a Criminal Record
Foreign nationals with a criminal record who require a visitor visa for Mexico should apply in the usual way. Visa applications are made at an embassy or consulate. The basic requirements include:
- Completed Mexico visa application form
- Eligible passport valid for at least 6 months
- Proof of financial means
- Payment of the visa fee
There are several additional security questions included on the form. These help authorities determine whether an individual is eligible to travel to Mexico. Criminal record information must be disclosed.
Based on all the information provided, the Mexican government will decide whether the applicant meets all the requirements for the Mexican visa to be granted. It will then be granted or denied at their discretion.
Mexican Tourist Card and Criminal History
All overseas visitors are required to have a Mexico Tourist Card (Forma Migratoria Multiple). Travelers are encouraged to complete the form online in advance. You must present this card when both entering and leaving Mexico.
The Mexican Tourist Card requires just a few basic personal, passport, and contact details. FMM forms do not ask about criminal records. This means that those who are eligible to enter Mexico visa-free may not have to disclose this information at any point.
Nevertheless, you should be prepared to answer questions when going through customs and immigration in Mexico. The final decision on whether to allow a foreign citizen to enter Mexico lies with border officials.
