Travel to Mexico from the U.S. by Air
If you are traveling to Mexico by plane, you need a valid United States passport. Processing an application for a passport can take 6 to 8 weeks, so submit your application several months before you plan to travel. Passport are valid for 10 years and may be renewed.
Travel to Mexico from the U.S. by Land or Sea
If you are traveling to Mexico by land or sea, you need to have a passport or a United States Passport Card. The card is approximately the size of a driver's license. Possession of this card permits the owner to travel by land or cruise ship to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. Like a passport, it is valid for 10 years.
Passport Requirements for Canadians
Starting in March of 2010, Canadian citizens need a valid passport to enter Mexico. The Canadian government recommends that your passport be at least six months old at the time of travel. Canadians can stay in Mexico for 1 to 179 days. For travel lasting longer than 179 days, a passport is not valid and travelers will have to apply for a visa.
