Mexico Visa-Free Entry
Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) · For Costa Rica citizens
Great news for Costa Rican travelers! You can visit Mexico without a visa for up to 180 days. This guide covers the entry requirements, documentation needed, and tips for a smooth arrival at Mexican immigration.
Mexico Entry Requirements for Costa Rican Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Costa Rica citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Costa Rican passport must be valid for the duration of your stay
Forma Migratoria Múltiple issued upon entry to Mexico
Evidence of your departure from Mexico
Recommended (Optional)
Information about where you will stay in Mexico
Evidence that you can support yourself during your stay
Entry Process
Costa Rican citizens enjoy visa-free access to Mexico for tourism.1 The entry process is straightforward:
1. Ensure Valid Passport
Your Costa Rican passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Mexico.1 While technically only validity during your stay is required, having at least 6 months validity is recommended.1
2. Complete FMM Form
The Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) is Mexico’s tourist permit.1 You can:
- Complete it online at inm.gob.mx before your trip
- Fill out the paper form distributed on your flight
- Receive it at land border crossings
3. Prepare Travel Documents
Have ready for the immigration officer:1
- Valid passport
- Completed FMM form
- Return or onward ticket
- Accommodation address
4. Clear Immigration
Present your documents to the immigration officer.1 They will stamp your passport with the number of days you are permitted to stay (up to 180 days).1
5. Keep Your FMM
Store your FMM safely as you must return it when departing Mexico.1 Take a photo as backup.1
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee | Free | No visa required |
| FMM (Air, under 7 days) | Included | Usually included in airfare |
| FMM (Air, over 7 days) | ~638 MXN | Approximately US$38 |
| FMM (Land entry) | ~638 MXN | Paid at border |
Most tourists arriving by air for short stays will not need to pay any additional fees.1
What You Need to Prove
Immigration officers may verify:1
- Tourism purpose: That you are visiting for legitimate tourism or business meetings1
- Temporary stay intent: That you plan to leave Mexico within the allowed period1
- Onward travel: Evidence of your departure plans1
- Basic financial means: Ability to support yourself (rarely requested)1
Duration of Stay
The immigration officer determines your allowed stay, up to a maximum of 180 days.1 Consider:
- Most tourists receive 180 days automatically
- If you request fewer days, state your intended stay clearly
- The stamped date is your deadline to leave Mexico
- Overstaying can result in fines and future entry difficulties
Popular Destinations
As a Costa Rican visitor, you have access to all of Mexico’s incredible destinations:
Beach Destinations: Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta Cultural Cities: Mexico City, Oaxaca, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende Historical Sites: Chichén Itzá, Teotihuacán, Palenque Natural Wonders: Cenotes, Copper Canyon, Monarch Butterfly reserves
Extending Your Stay
If you want to stay longer than your permitted time:1
- Apply for extension: Visit an INM office before your stay expires to request an extension
- Exit and re-enter: Leave Mexico and return for a new 180-day period (though frequent exits and entries may raise questions)
- Apply for temporary residency: For stays over 180 days, consider a temporary resident visa
If Entry is Denied
Entry denial is rare for Costa Rican citizens, but if it happens:
- Understand the reason: Ask the officer to explain why entry was denied
- Provide additional documentation: If you have documents that address their concerns
- Contact your embassy: The Costa Rican embassy in Mexico can provide assistance
- Return home: If denied, you will typically be returned on the next available flight
Denial at entry does not automatically prevent future visits, but address any issues before your next trip.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Invalid or Damaged Passport
Passport is expired, damaged, or has no blank pages for entry stamp.
How to avoid: Ensure your passport is in good condition and valid for your entire stay. Renew if necessary before traveling.
Lack of Onward Travel
Unable to show proof of leaving Mexico, such as a return or onward flight.
How to avoid: Always have a return ticket or proof of onward travel ready. One-way travelers should be prepared to explain their plans.
Incomplete FMM Form
Tourist card filled out incorrectly or with missing information.
How to avoid: Complete the FMM online before travel or fill it out carefully on the plane. Double-check all information.
Previous Immigration Violations
History of overstaying or immigration issues in Mexico or other countries.
How to avoid: Always respect the allowed stay duration. If you had past issues, be prepared to explain your circumstances.
Suspicious Travel Patterns
Immigration officer concerns about the purpose of visit or very frequent entries.
How to avoid: Have clear, honest answers about your travel purpose. Frequent visitors may face additional questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Costa Rican citizens need a visa to visit Mexico?
No! Costa Rican citizens can visit Mexico without a visa for tourism purposes and stay up to 180 days. You only need a valid passport and will receive a tourist permit (FMM) upon arrival.
How long can Costa Ricans stay in Mexico without a visa?
Costa Rican citizens can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days without a visa. The exact duration is determined by the immigration officer at entry and will be stamped in your passport.
What is the FMM tourist card for Mexico?
The FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) is a tourist permit issued to visitors entering Mexico. It records your entry and must be returned when you leave. You can complete it online before travel or receive it at the border.
Is there a fee to enter Mexico as a Costa Rican tourist?
Entry is free for Costa Rican citizens. However, if you enter by land or stay more than 7 days by air, there may be a small FMM fee (approximately 638 MXN or US$38).
Can I extend my stay in Mexico beyond 180 days?
You can apply for an extension at an INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración) office before your permitted stay expires. Alternatively, you may exit and re-enter Mexico, though frequent entries may raise questions.
Can I work in Mexico as a Costa Rican tourist?
No, the visa-free entry is for tourism only. Working, even remotely for Costa Rican companies while in Mexico, exists in a legal gray area. For formal employment, you need a work visa.
What documents should I have ready at Mexican immigration?
Have your valid passport, completed FMM form (if done online), return or onward ticket, and accommodation details ready. Immigration may also ask about your travel plans and financial means.
Can I travel to Mexico with just my Costa Rican ID?
No, you must travel with a valid passport. Costa Rican national ID cards are not accepted for international travel to Mexico.