Puebla Entry Requirements

Children, including infants, need their own passport and FMM. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents or legal guardians must carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) authorizing the child's travel. The letter should include: child's name and birth date, parent's names and contact information, travel dates and destinations, and accompanying adult's information. If one parent has sole custody, bring legal documentation. These requirements are strictly enforced to prevent child abduction. Both entering Mexico and returning to your home country may require this documentation. Have the letter in Spanish or bring a certified translation.

Dogs and cats can enter Mexico with proper documentation. Requirements: (1) Health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 5 days of travel, stating the animal is healthy and free from infectious diseases; (2) Rabies vaccination certificate showing vaccination administered at least 15 days but no more than 12 months before entry (not required for puppies/kittens under 3 months); (3) Import permit may be required for certain animals. Birds, reptiles, and other exotic pets have additional requirements. Airlines have their own pet policies and fees. Consider your pet's comfort in Puebla's altitude (2,135 meters/7,005 feet). Contact SAGARPA (Mexican agriculture department) or SENASICA for current requirements.

Tourist FMM allows stays up to 180 days. If you need to extend beyond your authorized period: (1) Visit the nearest INM office before your current authorization expires; (2) Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials and are not guaranteed; (3) Bring your passport, FMM, proof of financial means, and proof of accommodation; (4) Extension fees apply (approximately 500-600 MXN). For stays longer than 180 days, you'll need a different visa type: Temporary Resident Visa (up to 4 years) or Permanent Resident Visa. These require application at a Mexican consulate before entering Mexico. Digital nomads and remote workers should investigate temporary resident visas. Working in Mexico on a tourist FMM is illegal.

If you lose your FMM tourist card during your stay, report it immediately to local police and obtain a police report (denuncia). Visit the nearest INM office with your passport, police report, and proof of entry (airline ticket, boarding pass). You'll need to pay a replacement fee (approximately 500-600 MXN) and may face additional fines. Without your FMM, you cannot legally leave Mexico and will face delays and penalties at departure. Keep a photocopy or photo of your FMM separate from the original.

If you hold Mexican citizenship (including dual nationality), you must enter and exit Mexico using your Mexican passport, even if you also hold another nationality. This is Mexican law and is strictly enforced. Children born in Mexico or to Mexican parents may be considered Mexican citizens. Using a foreign passport when you're a Mexican citizen can result in entry denial or complications. Contact a Mexican consulate if you're unsure about your citizenship status.

Business visitors conducting meetings, attending conferences, or negotiating contracts can generally enter on a tourist FMM, but cannot receive payment from Mexican sources or engage in gainful employment. For extended business activities, work with clients, or receiving Mexican income, you need a business visa or temporary resident visa with work permission. Apply at a Mexican consulate before travel. Bringing professional equipment may require temporary import documentation. Be prepared to explain your business activities at immigration.