According to the INM, an FMM, or Forma Migratoria Múltiple is an "admission document" issued to vacationing visitors of certain nationalities. Although the tourist card (FMM) is also popularly known as a tourist "visa," it is not officially a visa. U.S. and Canadian citizens driving to Mexico for vacation may obtain a tourist card (FMM) within minutes at a Mexican immigration office at the border with only a valid passport or passport card. The tourist card application is now available online as well. The tourist card (FMM) may be issued for up to 180 days and is issued per person including children.

A tourist card (FMM) is required for all tourists who enter Mexico.

Previously it was believed there was a tourist zone/72 hour exemption, but this was never actually part of Mexican immigration law according to federal delegate Rudolfo Figueroa from INM (Mexican Immigration).

It is important to note that in Baja, even though you may take your vehicle to the end of the peninsula without a vehicle permit (see vehicle importation regulations) you are required to have a tourist card (FMM) in order to travel anywhere in the state.

If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen traveling to Mexico for tourist reasons, you may only need a tourist card (FMM). For citizens of other countries, view the INM's list of Countries and Regions That Require and Do Not Require a Visa To Travel to Mexico - but DO require an FMM.

If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen you will need to have a valid passport or passport card to present to the Mexican Immigration officials in order to get a tourist card (FMM).

• Full name
• Nationality
• Date of birth
• Passport number
• Purpose of trip
• How you are entering Mexico: air, sea, land

The tourist card (FMM) application is available online or by stopping at an immigration office at the border. View the online application.

Keep in mind that if you obtain your tourist card before crossing the border, you will still have to stop at the Mexican immigration office at the border to document your entry date and to have your tourist card stamped by immigration officials. Tourist cards are no longer available at Mexican Consulates.

As of January 2017, tourist cards cost $533.00 pesos (appx U.S. $24) and can be issued for up to 180 days. It is advisable to have your card valid for 180 days even if you don't plan on staying in Mexico that long. It is easier to already have the time granted to you than extend your card later if you stay longer.

The tourist card is free if your stay in Mexico is 7 days or less and you are traveling by land into Baja. This isn't frequently advertised. Ask your local INM official.

• Fill out a tourist card (FMM) form at the immigration office (INM) and walk to the nearby bank and pay for the tourist card
• Or fill out the online tourist card (FMM) application and pay online with a Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card. Your online tourist card (FMM) will be ready to print within minutes. After printing your FMM form, it must be stamped by INM within 30 days to be valid
• Whether buying the tourist card at an INM office or online, visit the INM office to get your tourist card (FMM) stamped/validated

No. At this time officials are not checking for FMMs when driving across the border. However, the FMM is still legally required once in Mexico.

Yes. The INM delegate for Baja California Norte announced in September 2015 that the FMM is now multiple entry for land travel in Baja California Norte only.

If you lose your tourist card, visit the nearest INM office in order to obtain a new one.

As of January 2015 according to INM, returning the FMM is not necessary in Baja California if you traveled by land. Although there is statement on the back of the FMM saying to return it, there is no procedure about how to return it or where to return it when crossing by land. The Federal INM Delgate in other regions may require that you turn it in and get an exit stamp. If you are not in the Baja Peninsula, it would be best to check with your local INM office.