travel to mexico from us with green card

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International Travel as a Permanent Resident

In general, you will need to present a passport from your country of citizenship or your refugee travel document to travel to a foreign country. In addition, the foreign country may have additional entry/exit requirements (such as a visa). For information on foreign entry and exit requirements, see the Department of State’s website .

If seeking to enter the United States after temporary travel abroad, you will need to present a valid, unexpired “Green Card” (Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card). When arriving at a port of entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer will review your permanent resident card and any other identity documents you present, such as a passport, foreign national I.D. card or U.S. Driver’s License, and determine if you can enter the United States. For information pertaining to entry into the United States, see U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s webpage .

Permanent residents are free to travel outside the United States, and temporary or brief travel usually does not affect your permanent resident status. If it is determined, however, that you did not intend to make the United States your permanent home, you will be found to have abandoned your permanent resident status. A general guide used is whether you have been absent from the United States for more than a year. Abandonment may be found to occur in trips of less than a year where it is believed you did not intend to make the United States your permanent residence. While brief trips abroad generally are not problematic, the officer may consider criteria such as whether your intention was to visit abroad only temporarily, whether you maintained U.S. family and community ties, maintained U.S employment, filed U.S. income taxes as a resident, or otherwise established your intention to return to the United States as your permanent home. Other factors that may be considered include whether you maintained a U.S. mailing address, kept U.S. bank accounts and a valid U.S. driver’s license, own property or run a business in the United States, or any other evidence that supports the temporary nature of your absence.

If you plan on being absent from the United States for longer than a year, it is advisable to first apply for a reentry permit on Form I-131 . Obtaining a reentry permit prior to leaving the United States allows a permanent or conditional permanent resident to apply for admission into the United States during the permit’s validity without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Please note that it does not guarantee entry into the United States upon your return as you must first be determined to be admissible; however, it will assist you in establishing your intention to permanently reside in the United States. For more information, see the Travel Documents page.

If you remain outside of the United States for more than 2 years, any reentry permit granted before your departure from the United States will have expired. In this case, it is advisable to consider applying for a returning resident visa (SB-1) at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. An SB-1 applicant will be required to establish eligibility for an immigrant visa and will need a medical exam. There is an exception to this process for the spouse or child of either a member of the U.S. Armed Forces or civilian employee of the U.S. Government stationed abroad on official orders. For more information on obtaining a returning resident visa, see the Department of State’s webpage on returning resident visas .

Additionally, absences from the United States of six months or more may disrupt the continuous residency required for naturalization. If your absence is one year or longer and you wish to preserve your continuous residency in the United States for naturalization purposes, you may file an Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes on Form N-470. For more information, please see the Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Requirements page.

If you lose your Green Card or reentry permit or it is stolen or destroyed while you are abroad, you may need to file a Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) . This carrier documentation will allow an airline or other transportation carrier to board a lawful permanent resident bound for the United States without the carrier being penalized. For more information, please see the Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) page.

More Information

• Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants (PDF, 3.57 MB)
• How Do I Get a Reentry Permit? (PDF, 667.32 KB)
• I-131, Application for Travel Document
• I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

Other USCIS Links

• Green Card Resources
• How Do I Help My Relative Become a Lawful Permanent Resident? (PDF, 577.38 KB)
• How Do I Renew or Replace My Permanent Resident Card? (PDF, 550.19 KB)
• "How Do I" Guides for Permanent Residents

Do Green Card holders need a visa to visit Mexico?

One of the most common questions we get asked and it is always important to be aware of what documentation is required to visit a country. When it comes to Mexico, it is an incredibly popular destination for many U.S Citizens, particularly when those colder months set in and the temptation of an escape to the sunshine becomes too much.

A country full of delicious food, vibrant culture, beach life and historical wonders, let’s go through what exactly is required for people to visit Mexico who owns a US Green Card.

Table of Contents

Do you require a visa?

The short answer is no you don’t require a visa if you are a US Green Card holder. Just for reference, Green Card holders are assimilated US citizen who are permanent residents. However, you still need to remember certain documentation including what is known as a Mexico tourist card. You might see it referred to as a Mexican visa but technically it isn’t. You can definitely enter Mexico without a visa, as well as some other countries and regions including Canada, Costa Rica and the Virgin Islands.

What is a Mexican Tourist Card?

The official term for this tourist card is Forma Migratoria Múltiple or FMM for short. An FMM is an official card that a tourist requires to travel to Mexico for a vacation if you plan to stay for more than 72 hours and travel more than 12km from the Mexican border. This cannot be used if you intend to travel to Mexico for any kind of work.

When you apply for the tourist card, you will need to provide certain documentation and information. Fortunately, this is all a very easy process and won’t take long to get sorted. The information you will need for the form includes:

• A passport: You must have a valid passport with at least 6 months left on it from the point of entry date into Mexico.
• An airplane ticket: This is only for those travelling by air, but you must ensure you have a copy of your ticket to hand as evidence of your travel plans. You would need an alternative if you went by sea to a port of entry in Mexico.
• Your email: Most places will request an email address so that you can receive your confirmation. You can then print this and keep it on your person to show the authorities.
• A payment method: It depends on where you get your tourist card from. Technically you can access it for free from certain places but this can be time-consuming and confusing. If you use a service to help you, then you will need to pay. As a result, you will need to ensure you have a credit or debit card, PayPal or other payment solution that is accepted.

How to get your Mexican Tourist Card

There are a number of ways that you can obtain your card and each one will have a price ranging from free (or included in your ticket) to approx $40. Choose from one of the following:

• If travelling by air, some airlines will distribute the cards before landing and the price of this is normally included in the price of your ticket.
• You can do it online at any point before you travel but do remember to print it off
• At a Mexican embassy in the United States prior to travelling
• At the immigration desk at the airport at the point of entry to Mexico. The immigration authorities should be able to help you with this

An FMM is for a single visit to Mexico, so if you plan to travel back and forth on multiple trips then you would need to get a new one.

The official rule states that you must apply for this document within 30 days of your arrival in Mexico, but as always we advise you to get this dealt with before you go so it’s done and out of the way. The document lasts for 180 days from the date of your arrival, so it is perfect even for those long stays.

Do you require a passport if you have a US Green Card?

Whilst holders of a Green Card are equal with US citizens in terms of their right to work and live, it is important to remember to ensure you have a passport from your country of origin that is valid before you travel to Mexico. If you have this and your Green Card then you are absolutely fine to visit Mexico for your next holiday. If you decide to travel without it then you will quickly discover a problem.

If your passport is not currently valid, then you will be required to get this resolved and the best way is by contacting your country’s embassy located in the US. The fees and lead times vary depending on the nationality and government rules so it is important to do this as far in advance as possible so that you don’t end up cancelling your holiday. Our advice is to also register at the US embassy in Mexico to ensure you can get assistance in an emergency.

For those planning on staying in the country for more than a year, but less than two, you will need to apply for what is known as a re-entry permit. This must be done before travelling to Mexico. This is an official document to confirm you will not be giving up your permanent status of residence in the US. Don’t make the mistake of forgetting this part!

If you wish to work in Mexico then you should check out further guidance on the rules and regulations for doing so. In particular, you will need to get a work visa from the National Immigration Institute (INM). This is the only time when a US Green Card holder will need to obtain a visa for their travels.

Answering the initial question posed in this article, a US Green Card holder does not require a visa to enter Mexico for a holiday. However, there are certain documents that you do need to have prepared to allow you to enter including a valid passport from your country of origin and a Mexico Tourist Card (FMM).

The best advice we can give is to look into this as soon as you decide to book a holiday to Mexico. Getting a new passport can sometimes be a long-winded and painful process, so don’t let this problem ruin your dream holiday. If you’re organised and have everything ready, it is such an easy process to travel down to Mexico and enjoy the sunshine, the culture and its people.

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Crossing the U.S.-Mexico Border by Land

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What Documents Do I Need for Mexico Travel?

StudioLaurent / Twenty20

• Passport or PASS Card
• Acceptable ID
• Mexico Tourist Card
• Where You'll Show Documents

Remember to Keep Track of Your ID and Tourist Card

• Travel Insurance

If you're a U.S. citizen planning a vacation to Mexico, you'll be happy to hear you don't need much in the way of documentation to cross the border. How you are traveling makes a difference, though. The documents you need to travel to Mexico by car or boat differ from what you need if you are flying. Though be aware that no matter which type of transport you choose, you can not travel to Mexico with a Real ID. Read on to discover just what you need to have with you to cross the southern border. 

What documents do I need to fly to Mexico?

To travel between the US and Mexico by air, you must have a valid passport. You cannot fly internationally with a passport card, and you cannot travel to Mexico with a Real ID.

Please be aware that you can no longer use proof of U.S. citizenship, like an embossed birth certificate, with a government-issued photo ID (more on those below) to get into or out of the country. Regardless of your ID choice, you will also need a Mexico tourist card , which you'll be given to fill out on the plane or at the border if you'll be traveling overland.

What documents do I need to travel to Mexico by car or boat?

To travel by land or sea, you can use a passport card or Enhanced Driver's License (residents of some U.S. states can get these) at the border. The documents you need to travel to Mexico by car or boat include:

• A passport or
• A passport card
• Trusted Traveler cards (SENTRI or FAST)
• State-issued Enhanced driver's license (when available)
• Enhanced Tribal Cards (when available)
• U.S. Military ID with military travel orders
• U.S. Merchant Mariner credential when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business
• Native American Tribal photo ID card
• Form I-872 American Indian Card

Outside of a passport, the above documents are valid only for land and sea travel to Mexico. You cannot fly internationally with any ID except a passport.

Tip: It is far cheaper to get a passport at your leisure than to rush a passport just before you need it. If you need to rush a passport application , though, do it yourself—there's no need to pay even more for a passport expediting service.

How do I get a Mexico tourist card?

A Mexico tourist card, also called an FMM, is a government form declaring that you have stated the purpose of your visit to Mexico to be tourism, and it must be carried with you while you are visiting Mexico. Although more than one kind of Mexico visa exists, this is a simple declaration of your intention to vacation in Mexico for no more than 180 days.

It's essentially a standard arrivals card you have to fill in when entering most countries. At immigration, they'll attach a departure card to your passport to hand back when you leave the country. Make sure to fill this out in advance of arriving back at the airport to save time when passing through immigration. 

If you are driving to Mexico, you can get a tourist card at or near the border. If you are flying to Mexico, you will get a tourist card on the plane. 

Where will I need to show my documents in Mexico?

Whenever you cross the border into Mexico, you will need to show your travel documents.

If you are flying into Mexico, you will need to show your travel documents to the Mexico immigration agents before leaving the airport. You may have to show your travel documents again before picking up your luggage. When you leave Mexico by plane, you will need to show your travel documents before you pass through security and board the plane. You'll be expected to hand in your departure card as you pass through immigration, as well, so make sure not to lose it while you're in the country.

If you are driving into Mexico , you will need to show your identification before crossing the border. You will get a tourist card at or very close to the border, and you'll be expected to carry this with you at all times while you're in the country. If you are driving out of Mexico, you will need to show all of your travel documentation before crossing back into the United States. 

You will need to turn your tourist card in when you leave Mexico. And, while it's rare for you to need to produce your ID, if you're driving around the country you may pass occasional checkpoints. The last thing you want is to be taken down to the police station because you can't produce your ID. 

Tip: Don't Forget Travel Insurance 

Travel insurance is a travel essential, so if you're going to be going to Mexico and you're organized enough to be researching which documents you need, there are no excuses for not getting insured.

Suppose something serious happens while in Mexico, you'll need travel insurance. The costs of medical care can often add up to far more than you'd spend on insurance, and if it's so bad that you need to be repatriated to the United States, you could find yourself in seven figures worth of debt. It's not worth taking the risk: get travel insurance. 

Travel Insurance Documents You'll Need

You'll want to bring at least one copy of your travel insurance confirmation of coverage when you're traveling to Mexico. Your confirmation should have the insurance company's phone number on it in case you need to reach them, your policy number, and a thorough explanation of your coverage. We recommend bringing a digital copy and at least one physical copy, that way you'll have access to it at all times. It wouldn't hurt to have a digital copy of your policy terms and conditions either, just in case you need to refer back to it.

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Mexico Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Mexico Visa Needed

(for stays of up to 180 days)

Tourist Card (FMM) Needed

(if traveling by land)

Mexico has a number of entry requirements that citizens of the United States must meet when visiting the country.

US citizens planning to travel to Mexico should first check if they require a visa to cross the border, according to the Mexican visa policy.

What U.S. Citizens Need to Travel to Mexico

American citizens must have a few essential documents to travel to Mexico. These include:

• US passport
• FMM tourist card (for land travel)
• Mexican visa (if applicable)

A visa for Mexico may not be required for US passport holders. This depends on the period of stay and your reason for traveling.

U.S. passport requirements for Mexico

Your US passport must meet certain criteria when traveling to Mexico. It must not expire for at least 6 months after the date of arrival.

If your passport is due to expire sooner than this, renew it before getting the FMM and traveling to Mexico.

Do U.S. citizens need a Tourist Card for Mexico?

Americans must register for a Mexico tourist card to visit the country for the following reasons:

The tourist card required by visitors from the US is called the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) .

The FMM is not a visa. It’s an entry requirement for all foreign visitors, including Americans . It’s mandatory if you plan to travel more than 20 kilometers into Mexican territory and stay more than 72 hours.

A Mexican tourist card for United States citizens is a single-entry document. It becomes invalid once you leave Mexico. You need to get a new FMM for every trip to the country.

Do U.S. citizens need a Mexican visa?

Tourists and business travelers from the United States can stay up to 180 days visa-free in Mexico. Americans can also transit in Mexico for up to 30 days without a visa.

The same is true for non-US nationals who hold a valid US visa or Green Card . These documents must be brought as proof to gain visa-free entry to Mexico.

Citizens of the United States who plan to work, study, or engage in other non-tourist or business activities need a visa for Mexico .

Americans also need a visa to stay in Mexico for more than 180 days.

How Can U.S. Citizens Apply for a Mexico Tourist Card?

US citizens can now complete the tourist card form online. This saves time and the inconvenience of dealing with paperwork during their journey or at border control.

The streamlined electronic form greatly expedites the process of entering Mexico .

Mexico's Immigration Policy for U.S. Nationals

Citizens of the United States of America must comply with Mexico’s immigration policy when traveling to the country.

US nationals must :

• Have the correct documentation
• Comply with customs and border regulations
• Leave Mexico within the time permitted (180 days for visa-free visitors)

Americans must not :

• Bring any unauthorized or illegal items into Mexico
• Overstay the terms of their visa or visa exemption

Do Americans need vaccinations for Mexico?

Mexico’s travel rules for US passport holders do not include any mandatory vaccinations .

However, the US CDC highly recommends being immunized against the following before traveling to Mexico:

• Hepatitis A and B

Malaria is present in certain areas of Mexico. US nationals are advised to bring anti-malaria medication if staying in these regions.

What Do U.S. Citizens Need to Leave Mexico?

When leaving Mexico , you’re required to present the tourist card alongside your passport.

Therefore, it’s important to keep the slip of paper safe during the entirety of the stay in the country.

The validity of the FMM document for Americans begins from the moment it is stamped at the Mexican border . If the FMM is lost or stolen before arriving at immigration control in Mexico, you can obtain another form online.

If a validated Mexico FMM for US citizens is lost or stolen within Mexico, you should report the theft to local police. You must then include the subsequent police report in the application for a replacement tourist card. You can do this at an Instituto Nacional de Migración office within Mexico.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico

The US Embassy in Mexico is located in Colonia Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City. The embassy provides a variety of services to American citizens in Mexico.

These include emergency assistance in cases of:

• Loss of passport
• Arrest of a US Citizen
• Death of a US Citizen
• International Parental Child Abduction

The embassy can provide emergency financial assistance and support to US citizens who are victims of crime. It is also authorized to issue certifications of US citizenship for eligible individuals born abroad to American parents, among other services.

Register with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico

It is now possible for US citizens and nationals to register with the nearest embassy or consulate when traveling in Mexico.

By registering with a US embassy in Mexico, travelers can:

• Make informed travel plans based on information received from the embassy, such as safety and security advice.
• Be contactable in the case of emergency: the US embassy will get in touch in circumstances such as a natural disaster or family emergency.
• Help family and friends to get in contact in an emergency.

US passport holders can enrol when registering for the tourist card on this website . Simply select the Embassy Registration option on the payment page.

Do You Need a Passport to Go to Mexico?

Everything you need to know about travel requirements to visit the united states’ southern neighbor..

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What documents are necessary to visit Mexico’s wondrous destinations?

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With colorful fiestas, lively cities, dense jungles, some of the world’s greatest archaeological monuments, and roughly 7,000 miles of coastline prime for sunning and snorkeling, Mexico is a popular destination for U.S. travelers. And if you’re eyeing a trip across the southern border, you might be wondering what the travel requirements are, particularly whether a passport is necessary or if an alternative document is available. Here’s what you need to know.

Do you need a passport to enter Mexico?

Yes, Americans need a passport (or appropriate alternative travel document) to visit Mexico.

In the past, visiting Mexico with just a driver’s license or birth certificate was possible. However, in 2009, the U.S. Department of State implemented the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which requires all U.S. citizens and legal residents to present a valid passport when entering or re-entering the United States from Mexico by land, sea, or air. The initiative was made “ to strengthen border security and facilitate entry into the United States. ” It made passports the standard document for travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

Acceptable alternative documents for crossing the U.S.-Mexico border

If you’re a U.S. citizen without a traditional passport, you can use a few other documents to visit Mexico.

Passport card

The U.S. government introduced the passport card as a convenient and cheaper alternative to the traditional passport book; it is good for land and sea travel to Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. The passport card is wallet-size (much like a driver’s license) and includes information about its owner, including full name, nationality, place of birth, gender, dates of issue and expiration, a unique ID number, and photo.

Passport cards, however, are only accepted for land and sea travel between the U.S. and Mexico. Air travel to Mexico still requires a passport book.

SENTRI pass

There’s also the SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) pass, which is a trusted traveler program similar to Global Entry or TSA PreCheck .

The program requires prescreening and provides participants with a special card that can be used in place of a passport for land border crossings (by car or foot). While primarily aimed at frequent cross-border travelers, these programs offer a convenient option for those looking for efficient travel between the two countries.

Enhanced Driver’s Licenses

A handful of U.S. states offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses , which contain additional security features that allow them to be used in lieu of a passport for travel to Mexico by car. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses are available in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.

Do you need a passport on a cruise that stops in Mexico?

Americans can also travel to Mexico (and certain other Caribbean islands) without a passport if they’re on a “closed-loop” cruise .

Basically, a closed-loop cruise leaves from and returns to the same U.S. port for embarkation and disembarkation. The rules for sea travel were established under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and allow Americans to travel to Bermuda, the Bahamas, and Mexico without a passport, specifically on closed-loop sailings. However, some cruise companies require (or at least recommend) that you have a passport in case of emergency (such as a medical issue that causes you to fly home early).

If I have a US Green Card can I travel to Mexico?

A green card is the term for a  Permanent Resident Card  granted to a foreigner by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The card gives the holder the right to live and work in the United States permanently without restriction. With this card and your foreign passport, you are allowed to travel outside the U.S. and return with no additional paperwork.

According to the  U.S. Embassy of Mexico , all legal residents of the United States, regardless of their nationality, can travel to Mexico if they are in possession of a green card (now they are pink.) One does not need to go through the process of applying to Mexico City for an entry permit nor do they need to have their passport stamped. A tourist card can be issued on board an aircraft or the port of entry to be able to travel to Mexico as tourists, in transit or for short business trips. You must carry a valid passport and your U.S. Permanent Resident Card (green or pink card) issued by the United States government at all times.

For safety purposes be sure to register at the U.S. Embassy or the nearest U.S.Consulate through the  State Department’s travel registration website , in order to obtain updated information on local travel and security. If you are without the Internet, register directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Registration allows the State Department to assist or contact a U.S. citizen in case of an emergency.

Also, be sure to research and  purchase travel insurance . There is travel medical/evacuation coverage and even travel insurance packages that cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies and medical evacuations. The cost of travel insurance is minimal compared to the medical cost in an emergency situation. Mexico can be a dangerous place in certain regions, be sure to plan for every circumstance and stay safe.

Upon your return from Mexico, you cannot be denied entry. With your valid foreign passport and your U.S. Permanent Resident Card (green or pink card), you have the full right to return to U.S. soil. Be prepared to answer some simple questions and be fingerprinted. If you do not have your passport or green card when trying to reenter the United States, you will be held until the situation can be worked out with the proper embassy authorities, which could take a very long time. For a quick and safe return, be sure not to misplace your passport or U.S. Permanent Resident Card (green or pink card) during your stay in Mexico, keep it with you at all times.

DamianTysdal

Damian Tysdal is the founder of CoverTrip, and is a licensed agent for travel insurance (MA 1883287). He believes travel insurance should be easier to understand, and started the first travel insurance blog in 2006.

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Can you enter Mexico with US visa? – All your questions answered

Updated: October 30, 2023 6 Comments

Mexico has a liberal visa policy allowing many nationalities to substitute Mexican visas with other country visas. The question often comes up: can you enter Mexico with US visa? The answer is a simple yes, but there are certain rules and requirements to keep in mind. 

In this article, I’m going to answer all your questions about using a US visa to travel to Mexico. 

Can you enter Mexico with US visa?

Yes. You can enter Mexico with US visa. Any nationality with a valid US visa can enter Mexico without requiring a Mexican visa. The US visa must be valid during the entire stay in Mexico. You can use any US visa including tourist, work, study and transit visas. 

The airline staff and Mexican immigration officers are well aware of this visa requirement. There is no need to explain anything at check-in or immigration. Just present your passport and US visa. 

Mexican immigration officers at land and seaports are also aware of these visa requirements, so entering Mexico with a US visa via land or seaports is a breeze too. 

Traveling to Mexico with US visa

Mexico offers visa exemption to any nationality holding a valid US, UK, Canada, Schengen or Japan visa. Therefore, those that require a visa to Mexico can substitute a valid US visa for a Mexico visa.

I entered Mexico several times using my US B1/B2 and H1B visas, via popular airports like Mexico City and Cancun and also via the seaport at Chetumal. 

The airport staff and immigration officials are very well aware of this requirement. So they don’t make a fuss about not holding a Mexican visa. They would check your passport for your US visa and then let you in. 

If your US visa is valid but it’s in your old/expired passport, make sure to bring your old passport along with your new passport. Present both passports and tell the airline staff or immigration officer that your US visa is in your old passport. 

Can I travel to Mexico with US B1/B2 visa?

Yes. You can travel to Mexico with US B1/B2 visa . Any nationality with a valid US B1, B2 or B1/B2 visa can enter Mexico without requiring a Mexican visa. 

Keep in mind that your US B1/B2 visa must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Mexico. 

Your US B1/B2 visa can be used or unused. Meaning, that if you have a fresh US visa and you haven’t used it to travel to the US yet, you can still use that US B1/B2 visa to enter Mexico.

All you have to do is to present your passport and valid US B1/B2 visa to the border officials.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I entered Mexico many times using my US B1/B2 visa via Mexico City airport and Chetumal seaport. I didn’t have to say that I plan to use my US B1/B2 visa. They flipped through the pages of my passport, found my US B1/B2 visa and stamped me in. 

RELATED: 51 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a US visa in 2023

Can I travel to Mexico with US H1B visa?

Yes. You can travel to Mexico with US H1B visa. Any nationality with a valid US H1, H2, H3 or H4 visa can enter Mexico without requiring a Mexican visa.

Your US H1B visa must be valid for your entire stay in Mexico. For example, if you plan to stay 1 month in Mexico, your H1B visa must be valid for at least 1 month at the time of entering Mexico.

If your H1B has already expired and you would like to travel to Mexico, then you would need to apply for a Mexico tourist visa .

That being said, if your H1B visa expires while you are in Mexico, you may not be able to return to the US. 

If you stayed less than 30 days in Mexico and your US visa expired while you were in Mexico, you can still return to the US on your H1B using automatic revalidation . Since this article is about entering Mexico, I will not go deep into returning to the US. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I lived and worked in the US for over 8 years on an H1-B visa. I have traveled to Mexico many times using my US H1B visa. It’s super quick and easy to enter Mexico with a US H1-B visa. All border officials at the airports, seaports and land borders are aware of this US visa requirement, so you will not have any trouble using your US H1B to enter Mexico.

Can I enter Mexico with US F1 visa?

Yes. You can enter Mexico with US F1 visa. Any nationality with a valid US F1, F2, M1 or M2 visa can enter Mexico without requiring a Mexican visa.

Your F1 visa must be valid for your entire stay in Mexico. The airline staff and border officials are well aware of this requirement. They will treat all US visas alike and do not make a fuss about your US visa type or category.

If your US F1 visa is valid but is in an old/expired passport, you must bring your old passport along with the new passport. You must present both passports to the airline staff and border officials.  

If your US F1 visa expires while you are in Mexico, you may not be able to get back to the US. But if you were in Mexico for less than 30 days, then you can return to the US using automatic revalidation even if your visa expired while you were in Mexico. 

Can I visit Mexico with US L1 visa?

Yes, You can visit Mexico with US L1 visa. Any nationality with a valid US L1A, L1B or L2 visa can enter Mexico without requiring a Mexican visa.

Both L1 and L2 visas can be used to enter Mexico for tourism for up to 180 days. The Mexican border officials do not scrutinize the type of US visa. As long as your US visa is valid at the time of entering Mexico, you will be fine. But if your US L1 visa expires while you are in Mexico, you may not be able to get back to the US. 

If your US L1 visa is valid but is in an old/expired passport, you must bring your old passport along with the new passport. 

Can I enter Mexico with a US Green card?

Yes. You can enter Mexico with a US Green card . Any nationality with a valid US green card can enter Mexico without requiring a Mexican visa. Your US green card must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Mexico.

US green card holders are pretty much treated like US passport holders for Mexican immigration. All you need is your passport and US green card. 

RELATED: 40 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a US Green Card in 2023

Can I enter Mexico with expired US visa?

No. You cannot enter Mexico with an expired US visa. The US visa must be valid at the time of entering Mexico and must be valid for the entire duration of the stay in Mexico.

If your visa expires after you enter Mexico, you may continue to stay for the allowed number of days. But you cannot return to the US. 

If your US visa is valid but it’s in an expired passport, then you must carry both passports when you travel to Mexico. 

Can I go to Cancun with US visa?

Yes. You can go to Cancun with US visa. Not only Cancun, but you can enter Mexico via any airport, seaport or land border using your US visa.

Cancun is a top tourist destination in Mexico. Hundreds of tourists who arrive at Cancun airport use their US visas to enter Mexico. All immigration officers at Cancun airport are aware of the US visa requirement. There is no need to explain anything. You just have to present your passport and valid US visa. 

Can I enter Mexico with a one way ticket?

Yes. You can enter Mexico with a one-way ticket. But oftentimes, the Mexican border officials ask for proof of onward travel. It doesn’t have to be a flight ticket, it can be a bus or boat ticket out of Mexico. 

It’s quite common for many to travel to Mexico on one-way tickets for the following reasons.

Many travelers leave for Belize by boat or to Guatemala by bus. Booking boat or bus tickets months in advance can be challenging. 

Many travelers want to stay longer and decide their next destination later since Mexico grants 180-day entry.

Since there is a chance that immigration officers may ask for your return or onward ticket, it’s wise to have some proof of an onward ticket . If you can’t book a bus or boat ticket early, get proof of onward flight from any of those onward ticket agencies.

Do I have to enter the US first before going to Mexico?

No. You can fly into Mexico from anywhere as long as your US visa is valid. 

This is a misconception that you have to enter the US first or enter Mexico from the US. All you need is a valid US visa. It doesn’t matter where you enter Mexico from. 

I entered Mexico many times from the US, but I have also entered Mexico from various countries without even stepping into the US. The requirement is specifically about the US visa but has nothing to do with US travel itself. Therefore, you can enter Mexico from any country using your valid US visa.  

Do I have to use my US visa first to enter the US before going to Mexico?

No. You don’t have to use your US visa to enter the US first. As long as the US visa is valid, you can enter Mexico without needing a Mexican visa. 

Yes, there are a few countries that require you to use your US visa first to enter the US. But not Mexico. You can use your fresh and unused US visa to enter Mexico. 

Can I travel to Mexico while in the US on a B1/B2 visa?

You can. But if you stay less than 30 days in Mexico and return to the US, then it won’t be considered a fresh entry. 

As per the CBP, re-entering the US from contiguous countries such as Mexico or Canada does not constitute a fresh entry (new admission). This is to discourage travelers from doing visa runs for continuous stays in the US. Because of this, the re-entry process is also stringent. You may be asked quite a few questions when re-entering the US. 

Let’s look at an example. When you enter the US, you will be granted 180 days of stay. Say, after 4 months, you leave for Mexico for a month and reenter the US, then you will only have 1 more month in the US. You will not be granted a fresh 6-month entry. You will have to leave within that 1 month. 

Can I enter Mexico with Japan visa?

Yes. You can enter Mexico with a valid Japan visa. Any nationality with a valid Japan visa or Japan permanent residence card can enter Mexico without requiring a Mexican visa. 

The Japan visa can be of any visa type but must be valid and affixed in your passport. If you are using your Japan residence visa or card, it must be a permanent residence card that would allow you to stay in Japan permanently. 

Can I enter Mexico with Schengen visa?

Yes. You can enter Mexico with Schengen visa . Any nationality with a valid Schengen visa or a permanent residence permit in any Schengen country can enter Mexico without needing a Mexican visa.

The Schengen visa can be a short stay or a long stay, but it must be valid and affixed in the passport. If it’s a residence permit, then it must be a permanent residence permit that would allow you to reside in the Schengen area permanently. 

RELATED: 51 non-Schengen countries you can visit VISA-FREE with a Schengen visa in 2023

Can I enter Mexico with a UK visa

Yes. You can enter Mexico with a UK visa . Any nationality with a valid UK visa or UK permanent residence permit can enter Mexico VISA-FREE.

Your UK visa can be a visitor, study, work or spouse visa but it must be valid and affixed in your passport. If you hold a residence permit it must be an ILR that would permit you to reside in the UK indefinitely. 

RELATED: 40 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a UK visa in 2023

Can I enter Mexico with a Canada visa

Yes. You can enter Mexico with a Canada visa . Any nationality with a valid Canada visa or Canada permanent residence card can enter Mexico VISA-FREE.

Your Canada visa can be a visitor, study or work visa but it must be valid and affixed in your passport. If you hold a residence permit it must be a permanent residence card that would permit you to reside in Canada permanently.

RELATED: 38 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a Canada visa in 2023

Can you travel to Mexico with a US visa? Yes. Any nationality with a valid US, UK, Canada, Schengen or Japan visa can enter Mexico VISA-FREE. The visa must be valid for the entire duration of the stay in Mexico. 

There you go, guys! Everything you need to know about entering Mexico with a US visa. 

Have you entered Mexico with a US visa? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

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05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

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Do Green Card Holders Need Visa For Mexico?

There are at least 5 various benefits that a Green Card provides its holders.. Apart from legally working and residing in the United States, among others, permanent US residents can also travel to destinations like the Balkans or Costa Rica without a visa.

One of the famous travel destinations for the inhabitants of the United States is its neighbor to the south—Mexico. The country is one of many that allow visa-free travel to American citizens. Thus, a valid question arises: do Green Card holders need a visa for Mexico? 

In this quick overview, we are going to answer this question so you could fully focus on more pleasant aspects of your travel preparations. Let’s start!

Can Green Card holders travel to Mexico without a visa?

Passport photo online, green card photo in 3s.

Take a photo with your smartphone, upload it to the website, we will prepare it as required and send you a digital or printed version. Simple? You can’t get more convenient than that!

There is good news for the holders of the US Green Card. Those who have obtained a lawful permanent resident status in the US are not required to carry a visa if they wish to visit Mexico.

Even though a visa is not necessary to enter Mexican territory, Green Card holders might need valid identity proof to cross the United States-Mexico border. In this case, a valid foreign passport will be a perfect choice. Moreover, Green Card holders need to prove their lawful residency by carrying their US Permanent Resident Cards at all times.

Thankfully, permanent US residents are treated like American citizens in some aspects, so they are free from obtaining a visa to travel to Mexico. However, Mexican entry requirements state that all visitors must carry a valid travel document—a Mexican Tourist Card ( Forma Migratoria Múltiple ). It is a document that allows foreign tourists to enter Mexico and travel within its borders for recreational purposes.

Related readings:

• Traveling within the US with Only a Mexican Passport [Your Questions Answered]
• Ensure your Green Card Photo Meets DV Lottery Requirements
• Passport Expiration Rules for Mexico: When Can You Travel?
• Mexican Passport Renewal in the US: Your Step-by-Step Guide
• Can I Travel if the Names on My Passport and Green Card Don’t Match?
• How Many Passport Photos Do I Need for Green Card Application?
• Can I Travel with a Green Card and Expired Passport?

While the holders of the US Permanent Resident Cards do not need to carry visas to enter Mexico, valid passports may still be necessary to travel there. If you have noticed that your passport is about to expire or if you wish to take a new passport photo, take a look at our picture transformation tool— Passport Photo Online .

You can comfortably take as many pictures as you wish without leaving home while paying only for the final result. Thanks to our advanced AI system, the app will provide a high-quality passport photo that meets all the requirements for ID photographs in accordance with the US Department of State. Give it a try and take a perfect passport photo anytime you want.

Do Green Card holders need visa for Mexico: FAQ

To ensure that all the information is clear, we will answer the essential questions about visas to Mexico for Green Card holders.

Do I have to have a visa to go to Mexico if I have a Green Card?

No, you don’t have to have a visa to go to Mexico if you have a Green Card. Mexico allows American citizens to visit their country without a visa and the same applies to Green Card holders. A valid passport and the Mexico Tourist Card are necessary to enter Mexico.

Yes, Green Card holders can travel to Mexico without a visa. While traveling, Green Card holders are treated like American citizens; thus, they do not need a visa to travel to most countries, including Mexico. However, in the case of Mexico, all visitors need to apply for the Mexico Tourist Card.

Can I travel to Mexico with a Green Card in 2024?

Yes, US Green Card holders can travel to Mexico with their permanent resident card in 2024. There is no sign this rule will change soon.

Can I travel to Mexico with just a Green Card?

No, traveling to Mexico with just a Green Card is not possible. For air travel, all visitors need valid passports to enter the country. The Mexican embassy also requires tourists to hold valid travel documents—Mexican Tourist Cards—for other forms of transport.

What are the Mexico entry requirements for Green Card holders?

Green Card holders traveling to Mexico undergo the same rights and entry requirements as US citizens. That being said, owners of US Green Cards do not need a Mexican visa to enter the country. A passport is a must for air travel internationally, and Mexican immigration services require visitors to hold their valid Tourist Cards.

Can you fly to Mexico with a Green Card?

Yes, US permanent residents can fly to Mexico with a Green Card. However, they also need to bring their valid passport with them. This is a requirement for every air travel.

Is Green Card enough to enter Mexico?

No, a Green Card is not enough to enter Mexico. While Mexico’s visa policy is the same for US citizens and permanent residents, all visitors must hold a valid Mexico Tourist Card during their stay in the country.

Do I need a passport to go to Mexico if I have a Green Card?

It depends on the travel type. If you decide to arrive in Mexico by plane, a valid passport is necessary. However, if the US Green Card holders come to Mexico by land or sea, their permanent residency cards and the Tourist Card are enough.

Does a Green Card holder need a visa to Mexico: closing thoughts

Thanks to the Green Card, US permanent residents can visit various countries without a visa. Mexico has its place on the list as well.

Green Card holders do not need to apply for a visa to enter Mexico. However, they must obtain a Mexican Tourist Card, which the Immigration Office requires, and have a valid passport. The latter one is crucial especially for air travel, and it might happen that the immigration officer asks US permanent residents for their passports on the return journey to the US.

And if you are looking for a convenient way to upgrade your passport photo, visit our Passport Photo Online site and download the app for free. Get the pictures in just 3 (three) seconds without leaving your home!

• [1] https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/finlandia/index.php/traveling/visas

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US Green Card Holders Can Now Travel to Mexico

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Starting today, US Green Card Holders Can Now Travel to Mexico without a visa! This is great news for anyone looking to visit Mexico for business or pleasure.

Checkout this video:

Watch this video on YouTube

The Mexican government has announced that US green card holders can now travel to Mexico without a visa. This change is effective immediately.

US green card holders will still need to obtain a tourist card, which can be done online or at the airport upon arrival in Mexico. Tourist cards are valid for 180 days and cost $25 USD.

As of 2020, US green card holders are now able to travel to Mexico for tourism without the need for a visa. However, there are a few things that you need to know before your trip. For starters, you will need a valid passport and green card You will also need to purchase tourist insurance, which is available at most Mexican airports.

Once you have all of your documents in order, you can begin planning your trip. When it comes to where to stay, you have a few different options. You can either stay in a hotel or rent a villa. If you’re traveling with family or friends, renting a villa may be the better option. Not only will you have more space, but you’ll also have access to your own kitchen and private pool.

When it comes to sightseeing, there are plenty of options for US green card holders in Mexico. You can explore ancient ruins like Chichen Itza or Tulum, go on safari in one of the many national parks, or take a dip in one of the world-famous beaches. No matter what type of traveler you are, Mexico has something for everyone.

As of October 1st, 2019, US green card holders are now able to travel to Mexico without a visa. However, there are still some important things to know before making the trip. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

-All travelers must have a valid passport. -Travelers must have a return ticket or onward ticket. -Travelers must have proof of financial means (such as a credit card or bank statement). -Travelers must have medical insurance that is valid in Mexico. -Travelers must not have any outstanding warrants or criminal convictions.

For more information, please consult the Mexican Embassy website.

As a green card holder, you have the right to travel outside the United States and return. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip.

Before you leave, it’s a good idea to check the expiration date on your Green card and make sure it will not expire while you are gone. If it is expired or will expire while you are gone, you will need to apply for a new one before returning to the United States.

You should also carry your green card with you when you travel. When you return to the United States, you will need to present your green card to the Customs and Border Protection officer at the airport, land border crossing, or seaport.

Lastly, while US citizens can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days without a visa, green card holders can only stay for up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a Mexican visa from a Mexican consulate before your trip.

If you are a US green card holder, you may now travel to Mexico without a visa. This change took effect on December 1, 2016. Green card holders may stay in Mexico for up to 180 days.

There are many things to do in Mexico for US green card holders. For example, you can visit the ancient ruins of the Maya civilization, stroll through colonial-era towns, or relax on one of the country’s many beaches.

Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Mexico has something to offer everyone. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head south of the border!

As a green card holder, you are now able to travel to Mexico for pleasure without having to obtain a visa first. Here are some places you can visit:

-Cancun: Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun is known for its beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters and all-inclusive resorts. -Los Cabos: This region, located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, includes the tourist towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Popular activities include swimming with dolphins, whale watching and golfing. -Puerto Vallarta: Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a resort town with beautiful beaches, tropical jungle scenery and a vibrant nightlife scene. -Cozumel: This island off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.

As of October 16, 2019, the Mexican government has updated its requirements for business travelers from the United States. US green card holders are now able to travel to Mexico for business without a visa, provided they have a valid passport.

This is good news for business travelers, as it simplifies the process of travelling to Mexico. Previously, US green card holders had to apply for a visa in advance of their trip, which could take several weeks. Now, they can simply show their passport and green card at the border

If you are a US green card holder and you plan to travel to Mexico for business, be sure to bring your passport and green card with you. You will not need any other documentation.

US Green card holders are now able to travel to Mexico for pleasure, according to the Mexican government. The change in policy comes after years of negotiations between the two countries.

US citizens have been able to travel to Mexico for pleasure without a visa since 1997, but green card holders were not included in that agreement. That changed on Friday, when Mexican officials announced that green card holders would now be able to visit Mexico for up to 180 days without a visa.

The news is a welcome relief for many green card holders who have family or business ties in Mexico. It also comes at a time when relations between the US and Mexico are strained over the issue of immigration.

1. US green card holders can now travel to Mexico for leisure or business, provided they have a valid passport and a valid US green card. 2. US citizens do not need a visa to enter Mexico, but green card holders must obtain a tourist visa from a Mexican consulate before traveling. 3. Green card holders may stay in Mexico for up to 180 days without renewing their visas. 4. Mexican authorities may ask green card holders to present their passports and green cards upon entry into Mexico. 5. US green card holders are permitted to work in Mexico, but they must obtain the proper work authorization from the Mexican government before beginning employment. 6. Green card holders who plan to stay in Mexico for more than 180 days must register with the Mexican government and obtain a residency permit. 7. US green card holders are advised to carry their passports and green cards with them at all times while in Mexico. 8. Green card holders who lose their passports or green cards while in Mexico should contact the nearest US embassy or consulate for assistance. 9. Green card holders who plan to travel outside of Mexico should check with the nearest Mexican consulate to determine if they need a tourist visa for the country they are visiting. 10. For more information about traveling to Mexico as a US green card holder, please contact the nearest Mexican consulate or visit the website of the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in Spanish).

As a US green card holder, you now have the ability to travel to Mexico without the need for a visa. Whether you’re planning a vacation or business trip, there are a few things you should know before you go.

First, it’s important to be aware of the length of stay you’re allowed in Mexico. US green card holders are allowed to stay in Mexico for up to 180 days per year. If you plan to stay longer than that, you will need to apply for a visa.

Second, while your green card will allow you to enter Mexico, it’s important to have other forms of identification with you as well. A passport is always a good idea, even if it’s not required. In addition, it’s a good idea to have your US driver’s license with you or an international driver’s license if you plan on driving in Mexico.

Third, there are some restrictions on what you can bring into Mexico as a US green card holder. For example, you are not allowed to bring firearms or ammunition into the country. You also need to declare any food items that you are bringing with you.

Fourth, it’s important to be aware of your medical insurance coverage when traveling to Mexico as a US green card holder. You should check with your insurer to see if your policy covers medical expenses incurred outside of the United States. If not, you may want to purchase travel insurance that will cover your medical expenses in case of an emergency.

Finally, make sure that you have all of the necessary documents with you when traveling to Mexico as a US green card holder. In addition to your green card and passport, you may also need other documents such as proof of onward travel and proof of financial means.

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Can I travel to Mexico with a US green card? | iVisa

Traveling to Mexico with a Green Card? You're in luck! You don't need a visa, just like US citizens. But, don't forget about the Mexico Tourist Card . It's not a visa, but you'll still need it to enter Mexico as a Green Card holder.

Can I travel to Mexico with a green card?

If you hold a valid US green card, you can visit Mexico as a tourist without a visa, just like US citizens. However, keep in mind you need a Mexico Tourist Card to cross the border.

What's a Mexican Tourist Card?

The Mexican Tourist Card , commonly known as Forma Migratoria Múltiple or FMM , is a tourist card that allows all foreign citizens to travel to Mexico as long as they don't engage in any work, including green card holders from the United States.

What are the requirements for the Tourist Card or FMM?

You will be happy to learn that the process of getting a Tourist Card is not very demanding. It is quite the contrary. Simply provide these documents:

• Passport – It must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Mexico .
• Airplane ticket – If you are planning to travel by plane, you'll need this document. and in case you want to travel by land, you won't need this document.
• Method of payment – Such as a credit or a debit card.
• Email address – We will send your Tourist Card by email.
• Trip information - As in the address where you'll stay in Mexico.

How to get the Mexico Tourist Card?

After you gather all of the above, you can complete the application form. Most of the time, people take about 10 minutes to complete.

1. First, complete your details and select a processing time.

2. Second, we will ask you to make the payment for the processing . Always double-check your info before paying.

3.Third, upload the documents that support your application . When you are done with that, you can submit your form and wait for your approved and processed Tourist Card.

Make sure to select the correct Tourist Card, as there's a different one for entering by land or air.

More questions about traveling to Mexico?

If you still have doubts about traveling to Mexico as a green card holder , contact us via online chat or WhatsApp . We're ready to assist!

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'Potentially catastrophic' Hurricane Beryl made landfall. Will it impact Texas?

Hurricane beryl became the earliest category 4 hurricane on record − before dropping to category 3 on monday − and is the first june major hurricane east of the lesser antilles on record..

Note: This file is no longer being updated. For the latest information, visit the Wednesday file.

Hurricane Beryl made landfall on Grenada's Carriacou Island mid-morning Monday as a Category 4 with 150 mph winds.

The hurricane is expected to remain an "extremely dangerous major hurricane" as its core  slams through the  eastern Caribbean, National Weather Service forecaster Eric Blake said.

Beryl weaken some as it moves through the central Caribbean midweek, but is forecast to remain a hurricane when it makes landfall, again, on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula later this week.

"Potentially catastrophic wind damage is expected where the core of Beryl moves through portions of the Windward Islands," Blake warned in the advisory.

The system reached tropical storm status Friday before strengthening into a hurricane Sunday. Hurricane Beryl reached Category 4 status with winds of 130 mph as record-warm ocean temperatures led to rapid intensification before dropping down to a Category 3 early Monday morning and returning to a Category 4 later again, USA TODAY reported.

The storm is the earliest on record to reach Category 4 status and is the first major hurricane east of the Lesser Antilles to hit in June.

More: Hurricane Beryl moving across Caribbean. Could it impact Texas over Fourth of July?

More: US sees more than 1,200 tornadoes so far in 2024. Here's how many have hit Texas

Will Hurricane Beryl hit Texas?

Even after initial landfall on the Windward Islands, Beryl is expected to remain an "extremely dangerous major hurricane" until it reaches Mexico, National Weather Service forecaster Eric Blake said in an advisory early Monday.

"Potentially catastrophic wind damage is expected where the core of Beryl moves through portions of the Windward Islands," Blake warned.

It is unlikely that the U.S. will undergo any significant impact from Beryl, as the storm is expected to hit farther south. However, AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Forecaster Alex DaSilva warns that there are potential circumstances in which the storm could track northward instead.

"The most likely scenario is for the storm to move westward into Mexico," DaSilva said. "However, it is very important to note that if the high pressure across the Southeast weakens, that can allow the storm to move farther north and potentially directly impact the Gulf Coast."  

What is rapid intensification?

Rapid intensification is the phenomenon of a storm strengthening by at least 35 mph in a 24-hour period. Fueled by record-warm ocean temperatures, Beryl gained 95 mph within a 42.5-hour span.

It's also likely that a huge Saharan dust plume has also contributed to the storm's intensity as the dry air pocket carries heavy moisture, one of the most prominent ingredients needed for tropical cyclone development.

More: Why are skies across Texas hazy this week? Huge Saharan dust plume, experts say

Hurricane storm tracker: See active storms in the Atlantic

Weather watches and warnings issued in texas, how many hurricanes have occurred this season.

Beryl is the first hurricane of the season, although it comes less than two weeks after Tropical Storm Alberto made landfall along Texas' coastal region off the Gulf of Mexico.

The  first named storm  in the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, Alberto sustained winds near 45 mph, although no significant flooding occurred.

Interactive map: Hurricanes, tropical storms that have passed near your city

Walgreens plans to close a significant amount of underperforming stores in the US

Walgreens is planning to close a substantial number of stores in the United States.

The pharmacy chain confirmed its plan to close underperforming stores in an emailed statement to USA TODAY Thursday morning after the parent company, Walgreens Boots Alliance, disclosed the news in its 2024 third quarter fiscal results.

In the statement, a Walgreens spokesperson said the company is repositioning its store footprint, noting that about 25% of its stores are not contributing to the chain's long-term strategy.

The spokesperson also said the company is working on a program to close a significant portion of these locations over the next three years.

Tim Wentworth, CEO of Walgreens' parent company Walgreens Boots Alliance, said in an interview with CNBC that the company now forecasts weaker consumer spending for the rest of the year.

How many Walgreens locations are closing?

Wentworth also said in an interview with the Wall Street Journal that the company has not settled on a final number of locations to close .

Walgreens operates roughly 8,700 stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, according to its website.

Wentworth also told the Wall Street Journal that Walgreens will reduce its stake in primary-care provider VillageMD and will no longer be the company's majority owner.

Wentwort said the company is focused on improving its core business: retail pharmacy. The company is launching a "retail pharmacy action plan" that will "invest in and deliver an improved customer and patient experience across channels," according to the strategic review section of the fiscal results.

According to his interview with the WSJ, Wentworth said the company expects that it will be able to reassign staffers so that its U.S. retail footprint reduction "doesn't result in a meaningful loss of jobs."

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

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Migrant crossings along U.S.-Mexico border plummeted in June amid stricter asylum rules

By Camilo Montoya-Galvez

Updated on: July 12, 2023 / 7:16 PM EDT / CBS News

The number of migrants who crossed the U.S.-Mexico border without authorization in June plummeted to the lowest level since the start of the Biden administration following the enactment of stricter asylum rules , according to unpublished government data obtained by CBS News.

Border Patrol agents recorded just over 100,000 apprehensions last month of migrants who entered the U.S. illegally along the southern border, a sharp drop from the 169,000 apprehensions reported in May, the preliminary statistics show.

Border Patrol apprehensions denote the number of times the agency processed migrants who crossed into the U.S. in between legal ports of entry, which is illegal. They do not include migrants processed at ports of entry, where the Biden administration has been admitting tens of thousands of asylum-seekers each month.

The last time Border Patrol apprehensions along the U.S.-Mexico border were lower was in February 2021, President Biden's first full month in the White House. The number of unlawful border entries remains high compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Still, the marked reduction in illegal crossings has, at least temporarily, eased the major operational, humanitarian and political challenges faced by the Biden administration over the past year as a result of an unprecedented migration crisis that saw record numbers of migrants arrive to the U.S.-Mexico border.

In May, daily illegal border crossings peaked at 10,000, a record, before officials terminated the Title 42 pandemic measure that allowed them to expel many migrants on public health grounds, without allowing them to claim asylum. In June, average daily migrant apprehensions dropped below 4,000.

While a single catalyst is unlikely, U.S. officials and immigration experts said, the drop in illegal crossings could stem from stricter asylum rules enacted by the Biden administration in May, programs that allow some would-be migrants to enter the country legally, expanded efforts by Mexico and other Latin American countries to slow U.S.-bound migration and tougher rhetoric by American authorities. Moreover, temperatures in the southern U.S. have soared to dangerous levels this summer, contributing to several deaths of migrants in recent weeks.

The U.S. has also increased regular deportations, which impose stiffer penalties, such as five-year banishments and the threat of criminal prosecution, since halting the Title 42 expulsions. While Title 42 allowed officials to summarily expel hundreds of thousands of migrants, it did not impose these penalties, and fueled a massive jump in repeat crossings among those expelled to Mexico.

"Some of that drop can be attributed to the strengthened consequences that we are implementing at the border," Blas Nuñez Neto, the assistant secretary for immigration and border policy at the Department of Homeland Security, told CBS News in an interview Wednesday.

Nuñez Neto said the administration is staging the "most significant expansion of the use of expedited removal in DHS history," describing a process dating back to the 1990s that allows U.S. border officials to deport migrants without court hearings if they don't ask for refuge or if they fail their initial asylum screenings.

That expansion of expedited deportations has been facilitated by a Biden administration rule that disqualifies migrants from asylum if they enter the U.S. illegally without first seeking protection in another country. Nuñez Neto said the measure has deterred migration by reducing the percentage of migrants who pass their initial asylum interviews from the pre-pandemic average of over 80% to below 50%.

"What we've seen in the past is that, because of the congressional inaction and inability to address the underlying factors in our immigration system that are contributing to these now-regular surges in migration under presidents of both parties, migrants are coming to the border to claim asylum because they know that the system is broken and it will take years for them to go through the process," Nuñez Neto added.

Nuñez Neto also credited the Biden administration's efforts to increase opportunities for migrants to enter the country legally for the decrease in illegal entries. A phone app known as CBP One is allowing up to 44,950 asylum-seekers in Mexico to enter the U.S. each month at ports of entry, while another program is giving 30,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans the chance to fly to the U.S. monthly.

Other countries south of the U.S. have simultaneously staged operations to crack down on migration. 

"You're seeing Mexico taking actions on its southern border to disincentivize migrants from entering Mexico. You're seeing Guatemala do the same. Colombia and Panama are currently doing an operation, a coordinated operation, in the Darién (jungle) that is unprecedented in its scope," Nuñez Neto said.

The recent reduction in illegal immigration numbers, however, has not extinguished the intense Republican criticism of the Biden administration's border strategy. Republicans have accused the administration of engaging in a "shell game," saying apprehensions are not an accurate measure of progress at the southern border since they do not include those who evade capture and migrants who enter the U.S. via the Biden administration's legal migration programs.

"This is another way of hiding the ball or cooking the books to make it look like the situation at the border has vastly improved when it has not," Texas Republican Sen. John Cornyn recently said in Congress. 

Angela Kelley, a top Biden administration immigration official until her departure in May 2022, said the CBP One system "is bringing order to the border," noting that those entering the U.S. under that process are doing so without the help of smugglers and after being screened by law enforcement officers.

"A 'shell game' implies you're moving things around in order to hide them. Whereas what we're seeing now at the border is we know where people are and they're not hiding. They're coming forward," she added.

The new strategy has also not pleased advocates for migrants and human rights groups, who have argued the Biden administration is relying on restrictive Trump-era policies to deter migrants from coming to the U.S.

Robyn Barnard, an attorney at Human Rights First, a group that advocates for migrants and refugees, said it is "perverse" for the Biden administration to cite a restriction on asylum as a reason for lower border crossings.

"For an administration who says they are pro-immigrant and wanting to welcome asylum-seekers, for them to be touting this ban as a success is very disappointing, because it clearly contravenes our obligations to refugees," Barnard said, referring to the restriction on asylum eligibility.

While migration to the U.S. border remains significantly lower than the record levels recorded over the past year, the Biden administration's new border strategy could be upended by lawsuits, seasonal changes to migration patterns and the continued movement among people fleeing poverty and political upheaval across Latin America, including millions of migrants displaced from crisis-stricken Venezuela.

The regulation that restricts asylum eligibility has been challenged by immigration advocates who say it is a draconian policy that flies in the face of U.S. refugee law and by Republican-led states who argue it contains too many exemptions. Republican state officials have also asked a judge to shut down the program that allows certain migrants to fly to the U.S. legally if they have American sponsors. 

Nuñez Neto, the DHS border official, said the administration still expects to see "a lot of migration in coming weeks and months."

• Immigration

Camilo Montoya-Galvez is the immigration reporter at CBS News. Based in Washington, he covers immigration policy and politics.

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