mexico travel for canadian pr

• English (UK)

Embajada de México en Canadá

Entry requirements, important announcements.

The Embassy of Mexico in Canada informs the public that Canadian nationals and permanent residents of Canada do not require a visa to enter Mexico.

Canadian nationals must present a valid passport to prove their nationality. Mexican authorities do not require a minimum period of validity of passports ; nevertheless, this document must be valid at the time of entry and during the period you wish to be in Mexico.

Permanent residents of Canada must present their Permanent Resident Card and one of the following documents: valid Passport or Refugee Travel Document.

All foreign visitors, regardless of their nationality, traveling to Mexico for tourism, business or in transit to another destination, are exempt from presenting a Mexican visa as long as they have a valid visa issued by any the following countries: Canada, Japan, the United States of America, the United Kingdom or any of the countries comprising the Schengen Area.

Migratory Regulations – Travel of minors

A Decree was published on December 2, 2013, reforming the provisions of the Migratory Law Regulation corresponding to the travel of minors under 18 years of age; this took effect on January 24, 2014.

FOREIGN MINORS (UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE) TRAVELLING TO MEXICO ALONE OR WITH A THIRD PARTY OF LEGAL AGE (GRANDPARENT, AUNT/UNCLE, ETC.) AS VISITORS (TOURISTS OR WITH A SHORT STUDY STAY OF UP TO 180 DAYS), DO NOT REQUIRE authorization or a letter of consent from their parents or guardians. Mexican migratory authorities will allow these minors to leave Mexico upon presentation of a valid passport.

The Canadian government requirements for minors departing or entering Canada may be consulted at the following webpage: http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/children

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Minors under 18 years of age (girls, boys, adolescents or those under legal guardianship) who are of Mexican nationality or foreigners holding the migratory status of Permanent Resident, Temporary Resident or Temporary Student Resident, who are in Mexico and wish to travel abroad alone or accompanied by a person of legal age other than one of their parents, must present:

• Notarized document in which those holding parental authority or guardianship authorize the minor’s departure from Mexico, granted before a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths, or;
• The document issued by the National Migration Institute (INM), in the format published for this purpose, available at the following webpage: www.inm.gob.mx

If the parents or holders of parental authority or guardianship choose to authorize the minor’s departure from Mexico with the document granted before a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths , the document must specify the mode of transportation, destination and date of travel. If this document is issued abroad (Canada) it must be legalized at the Mexican Consulate or the Embassy of Mexico in Canada . In addition, this document must be accompanied by a translation into Spanish. Mexican offices abroad do not provide translation services.

Minors under the age of 18 travelling with at least one of their parents or guardians DO NOT require authorization or a letter of consent.

Criminal record

Immigration authorities may decide to refuse the request to enter the country if the applicant is subject to criminal process or has been convicted of a serious crime as defined by national laws on criminal matters or provisions in international treaties or conventions that the Mexican State is party to, or if the applicant’s background in Mexico or abroad could compromise national or public security, in accordance with Article 43 of the Migration Law.

According to Article 194 of the Federal Code on Criminal Proceedings, serious crimes include all crimes that have a significant, negative effect on the fundamental values of society.

Serious crimes include, among others: manslaughter; terrorism and international terrorism; sabotage; piracy; genocide; prison break; attacks on public thoroughfares; drug-related crimes; corruption of minors; child pornography; exploitation of minors; falsifying and counterfeit of currency; rape; highway robbery; trafficking in minors; trafficking in undocumented persons; aggravated robbery; vehicular theft; extortion; crimes against the environment, committed with intent; forced disappearance of persons; bearing arms reserved for the exclusive use of the Army, Navy or Air Force; smuggling into the country firearms not reserved for the exclusive use of the Army, Navy or Air Force; smuggling and comparable crimes, and; tax fraud and comparable crimes.

FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROCESS OF ENTERING MEXICO

At the point of entry, Mexico's immigration officers (INAMI) are the only authority that can accept or refuse the entry of any traveller into Mexico, regardless of whether the traveller has previously attained a visa or is exempt from obtaining one.

New Electronic Multiple Migratory Form for Air Travel (FMME Aérea)

Learn about the new Electronic Multiple Migratory Form for Air Travel (FMME Aérea) which facilitates and expedites the registration of your entry to Mexico.

To obtain this form, you must:

• Go to the following link: https://www.inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/solicitud.html
• Fill out the application from any electronic device connected to the Internet.
• Print the Multiple Migratory Form and keep it with you to be validated at the airport, where the immigration authorities must stamp it.

Once the form has been printed, it will be valid for 30 days and allow foreign visitors to remain in Mexico (without engaging in paid activities) for up to 180 days.

The traditional way of obtaining the FMM at ports of entry is still in force. The FMME Aérea is an additional option to the traditional practice, and will facilitate the process by enabling the user to fill out the form in advance, from any country.

It is very important to keep the stamped portion of the FMM that corresponds to the record of entry, as this is proof of your legal entry into Mexico and will be required when you leave the country.

For further information, consult: http://www.gob.mx/inm/articulos/fmm-electronica-aerea?es-MX

You can also search using these:

Discover Mexico A-Z

• News & Offers
• Mexico Guides
• Mexico Features
• Free eBooks

• Free Guides

Travel Experiences

Trip planning, travel destinations, destination highlights, mexico lifestyles, living & lifestyle, lifestyle planning, real estate, healthcare & wellbeing, leisure assistance, lifestyle assistance, insurance coverages, property assistance, about mexperience, mexico essentials, discover more, mexico entry requirements—for leisure, business or residency.

This guide explains what you need to know about entry requirements when you are visiting Mexico for leisure, for business, or to take up residency here.

Mexico entry requirements for tourists and short term visitors

Mexico visitors permit, fmm.

Passport holders from countries on Mexico’s no visa required list do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. They may, instead, use a visitor’s permit, known as a FMM ( Forma Migratoria Multiple ).

For the countries that don’t need a visa , a Mexico Visitor’s Permit (FMM) is issued in place of a visa. Learn more about Mexico’s visitor permit, the FMM .

How long is your Mexico visitor permit valid?

When you enter Mexico as tourist or business visitor, the immigration official at the port of entry will grant you a number of days stay in Mexico and write this on your visitor permit. This will be a maximum of 180 days; but it may be less than 180 days.

Check to see how many days you are granted to determine your exit date.

Learn more about the number of days being granted  to people arriving in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit, FMM.

Visitor permits cannot be extended or renewed

The Visitor Permit (FMM) will always expire after the number of days written on the permit: it cannot be extended beyond the number of days the immigration official grants when you arrive in Mexico, even if this is less than the maximum allowance of 180 days; and cannot be renewed.  You must leave the country before it expires.

Your Mexico Visitor Permit, FMM

Do I Need A Visa to Visit Mexico

Entry to Mexico: Essential Information for All Travelers

Regardless of whether you come to Mexico for leisure, for business or to take up residency here, take note of the following:

Required documentation

For a summary of the documentation required to enter Mexico, see Documents required for travel and entry to Mexico

Minors traveling to Mexico alone

Minors traveling to Mexico alone, or unaccompanied by at least one parent or their legal guardian: Read Traveling with Minors to Mexico .

Passport validity

The maximum period of time that a visitor/tourist may stay in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit (FMM, see above) is six months.

Therefore we recommend that your passport, regardless of country of origin, should be valid for a minimum period of six months, however long you intend to stay to avoid any potential problems at the port of entry.

Immigration authorities at the port of entry may allow or deny entry of any person into Mexico. If you have a passport that is valid for less than six months and you intend to stay in Mexico for a short period of time —perhaps a vacation— the Immigration Officer might allow you entry, especially if you can show a return air ticket.

Notwithstanding this, we recommend that you and your family members hold passports valid for at least six months from the date you intend to enter Mexico.

For holders of U.S. Passport Cards

U.S. passport cards are less expensive than passport books and can be used by U.S. citizens who cross the border between the United States and Mexico by land or sea. These look like a driver’s license, and are more robust and less bulky than a passport book. You can learn more about Passport Cards on this page of the US State Department web site. If you are a holder of a U.S. Passport Card, please note that this is NOT valid for air travel to Mexico . Passport Cards can only be used to cross the border between the United States and Mexico by land or sea ports. A passport is required for air travel to and from the the United States.

Traveling to Mexico via the United States:

In January 2009 the United States government introduced new rules for travelers entering the country using the Visa Waiver Program (US State Dept). See Also: Travel to Mexico via the USA

Arriving to Mexico by cruise ship

If you are traveling on a cruise ship that visits Mexico, you will be asked to complete a Visitors Permit/FMM (see information above) at your first Mexican port-of-call.  This permit will be valid for a maximum of 21 days.  Ask your cruise company for details.

Traveling in transit through Mexico

As of February 2004 foreigners passing through one of Mexico’s international airports to a third country no longer require a visa or any migratory documentation, provided that they remain at the airport and depart Mexico within 24 hours of arrival. See Also: Entry Procedure at Mexican Ports

Entry requirements for business visits to Mexico

Mexico welcomes business visitors and makes the immigration procedure for short visits straightforward by means of a special section on the Visitor’s Permit described above.

Business visits to Mexico

If you are traveling on business, or representing a company to conduct business in Mexico, and you hold a passport from a country on Mexico’s “ no visa required list ” you do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. You can, instead, use a visitor’s permit —the same entry permit and procedures used by tourists to enter Mexico (see section above for full details).

If the country you hold a passport for does not appear on the no-visa list , you should check with your nearest local Mexican Consulate  for details of visa requirements before you travel to Mexico.

Longer-term business visits to Mexico

If you plan to work or live in Mexico longer periods ( more than 180 days ), you will need to apply for a business visit visa.

This visa enables the visitor to live, work and do business in Mexico, provided that certain criteria are satisfied. You can get more detailed information about long-term living and working permits on Mexperience by connecting to the Immigration Page that contains lots of information and advice about living and working in Mexico. See also: Working in Mexico

Entry requirements for residency in Mexico

People wishing to travel to Mexico to live, work, or retire must meet certain criteria to do so. Mexperience has comprehensive sections of information dedicated to these topics of interest:

Residency visas and immigration

Our guide to Mexico Visas and Immigration page gives an overview of the requirements for temporary and permanent residency in Mexico. Also see the regularly-updated  Mexico Immigration FAQs page for the most-commonly asked questions about immigration to Mexico.

Entry Procedure at Mexican Ports

The entry procedure will vary depending on where you arrive in Mexico and whether you arrive as a visitor or as resident. See also: Procedures for Entering and Leaving Mexico

Mexican Customs procedures and allowances

Like all countries, Mexico has policies on what can be brought in to the country without paying duties or taxes.

Your customs allowances when entering Mexico

Allowances are subject to change without notice, but listed below are the principal items followed by some tips about entry to Mexico.

• Personal Luggage: including new and used goods for personal use to include clothes, footwear, personal hygiene and beauty items which, according to the form: ‘reasonably respond to the duration of the trip and that due to its quantities may not be used for commercial purposes’;
• Two photographic or video cameras and twelve rolls of film or videotapes;
• Two mobile phones or pagers;
• One used or new laptop; one used or new printer; one projector;
• Two used or new items of sports gear;
• One CD player or portable music player; one DVD player;
• One musical instrument;
• Three surfboards; four fishing rods; a pair of skis;
• Ten packs of cigarettes (200 cigarettes total), twenty-five cigars OR 200 grams of tobacco (over 18s only);
• Vaping imports banned: The commercial import of vaping products was banned in February 2020; however, small quantities  for personal use by visitors to the country should not be confiscated (vaping itself is not illegal in Mexico); bringing an ‘excess’ deemed reasonable for personal use may cause your entire supply to be confiscated.
• Three liters of liquor AND six liters of wine (if the person is aged over 18 years);
• There is a US$300 tax exemption on items you import (in addition to those already listed above) when you enter the country by means or air or maritime transport; the exemption is reduced to US$50 if you travel in by land, except at Easter, Summer Holidays and Christmas time, when the land exemption limit is increased to US$300.

Please Note:  Refer to the Mexican Customs web site for full details about customs allowances as these limits are subject to change with little or no notice .

MEXICAN CUSTOMS: TIPS & ADVICE FOR TRAVELERS

Bringing prescription drugs to Mexico:  You are allowed to bring prescription drugs into Mexico provided that you have the accompanying documentation which proves a medical need. If you or a member of your family are taking prescription drugs, be sure to take the prescription/doctor’s note with you, which includes the patient’s name and the name of the medication(s) to prove medical need of the drugs you are carrying in case your luggage gets inspected.

Don’t bring firearms or ammunition!   A foreign firearms license is not valid in Mexico ; if you own a gun, don’t take it to Mexico with you and don’t bring any ammunition with you either. The only exception is a firearm and ammunition used for hunting purposes; but you will need to apply for a special permit – contact your local Mexican Consulate . Being in possession of lethal knives, firearms of all types, and even a single round of ammunition is a Federal crime in Mexico: caught in possession of a firearm can land you in very serious trouble—even if you have a license for it that was issued in your home country. See Also: Mexico’s Strict Gun Laws

Type and quantity of items : Don’t bring anything that obviously looks like you’re planning to resell goods; for example, several laptop computers. These items will get heavily taxed or confiscated. Items for personal use will be allowed, new or used, but only in quantities that are commensurate with the definition of ‘personal use.’ If you are carrying large quantities of anything, or if the Customs Inspector believes you are trying to commercialize any of the goods you are carrying, then you may be interviewed further.

Drug smuggling: Every year, foreign nationals are arrested and convicted for drug smuggling in Mexico.  Don’t attempt to smuggle any narcotics – not even small amounts of ‘soft’ drugs, e.g. cannabis/marijuana. You may be required to present documentary evidence for any powerful prescription drugs you need to carry on your person (i.e. doctor’s prescription, see note above about prescription drugs.) Narcotic offenses (use of, import, export, dealing) are likely to land you in a Mexican prison for many years. Don’t expect your consulate to bail you out because it won’t be able to. 20-25 year prison sentences for drug and serious firearm-related offenses are not uncommon in Mexico.

What you may take home from Mexico

Customs allowances into your home country will depend on where you live.

If you are planning to do a lot of shopping in Mexico, you should check at the information desk at (air)port of departure in your home country for the latest duty-free allowances.

Most goods classed as art and craft work are free of import taxes and you can bring as many home as many as you like, provided the quantities would be considered ‘for personal enjoyment’. Check with your local port/customs authorities for details.

The following items are are typical of duty-free allowances in many countries:

• 200 Cigarettes;
• 50 Cigars or 250g of Tobacco;
• 2 liters of wine;
• 1 or 2 liters of liquor (depending on country);
• 60cl of perfume;
• In addition to the above: a US dollar or euro amount of goods, ranging from about US$300-$500, depending upon the country. If you go over the monetary limit, duty and tax is usually payable on the whole amount not just the sum above the limit;
• Exact rates and amounts vary by country/trading block. Check with the information desk at your home country’s port of departure for the latest details on allowances

Leaving Mexico and Consular Contacts

Leaving mexico.

There are some procedures to follow when you depart Mexico, whether you are a visitor, or resident here:

If you are in Mexico as a tourist/visitor: When you leave Mexico, you will need to show your visitor permit you were issued with when you arrived. See also: Your Mexico Visitors Permit, FMM

If you are resident in Mexico be sure to the immigration desk at the airport or land border to show your residency card and get passport stamped before you leave the country . See also: Procedures for entering and leaving Mexico

Foreign Embassies and Consulates

Foreign nationals may be able to get assistance from their country’s consulate.  Read our article about seeking consular assistance in Mexico for further details.

Directory of Mexican Consulates Abroad

Directory of Foreign Consulates in Mexico

Mexico in your inbox

Our free newsletter about Mexico brings you a monthly round-up of recently published stories and opportunities, as well as gems from our archives.

Visa for Mexico

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Mexico?

Do you need a visa to visit Mexico? This article explains who —and who does not— need to apply...

FAQs Visitor Permit

FAQs: Mexico’s Visitor Visas and Visitor Permit, the FMM

These are the most frequently-asked questions we receive in relation to Mexico's visitor visas, and the visitor permit—updated regularly

Time Limits

Time Limits on Mexico Visitor Visas and Residency Permits

Discover answers to common questions about time limits as well as exit/entry rules for Mexico visitor visas and residency...

Documentation

Documents Required for Travel and Entry to Mexico

A reminder about the documentation that is required for travel and entry to Mexico whether you are visiting or...

Entry & Exit

Procedures for Entering and Leaving Mexico

There are some straightforward paperwork procedures to engage with when you arrive to, and depart from, Mexico. This...

Volunteering in Mexico

This article explains what you need to know about visas if you plan to undertake some volunteer work in...

Mexico’s Strict Gun Laws

Mexico’s gun laws are similar to those in countries like the United Kingdom that do not allow possession of...

Routes to Residency

Principal Routes to Obtaining Legal Residency in Mexico

This article describes principal routes foreigners take to apply for legal residency in Mexico, with references to additional information...

Immigration Assistance

Mexico immigration assistance.

Our associates provide advice to apply for residency in Mexico and practical assistance as you make your way through...

Consular Assistance

Obtaining Assistance from Your Country’s Consulate in Mexico

Foreign Consulates in Mexico provide a range of support services to their citizens, but there are limitations to the...

Mexican Consulates

Directory and details of Mexican Consulates situated around the world

Please SAVE the PDF for your personal use.

Download again

My File Downloaded - Close this box

• Join Our Newsletter
• Post a Listing
• Your Listings
• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines
• Sign up for Notifications

Is it safe to visit Mexico? What Canadians need to know about the 2024 travel advisory

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

The Mexico travel advisory has been updated several times over the past year and includes several warnings at the start of 2024.

The Canadian government continues to advise travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in the North American country. Additionally, there are several regions they should avoid all travel to. 

Mexico is the second-largest tourist destination for Canadians after the United States and travellers from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) can enjoy affordable flights to hot spots like Cancun throughout the year. However, violent crime and kidnapping have been rapidly increasing in the country over the past several years.

In November 2023, the United Nations stated that over 100,000 people are currently missing in Mexico , characterizing the mass disappearances as "alarming," according to Reuters.

What do I do if I get kidnapped?

Canada warns that Mexico has one of the highest kidnapping rates in the world; it is a "serious security risk" for people who travel to this country. Although many tourist areas are considered safe, this issue is widespread. 

Many contracted Canadians working for Mexican businesses have been kidnapped but "kidnappers target all classes." They often work in areas that aren't under the control of security forces or police.

If you're kidnapped:

• comply with the kidnappers’ requests
• don’t attempt to resist

A second kind of kidnapping, called express kidnapping, occurs in large urban areas. Criminals ask for a small and immediate ransom and often work with taxi drivers (or pose as them). They force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release.

• Use only a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand ( sitio )

Do not travel to the Guerrero State

Although Hurricane Otis made landfall in Mexico in October 2023, parts of the country are still grappling with damages left in its wake.

People should completely avoid travelling to the Guerrero State due to the precarious security situation. There continues to be a threat of "armed violence, banditry, and looting in cities and on roads."

 The cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco are excluded from the advisory.

Updated Mexico travel advisory for Canada in 2024

In 2022, Canada and its neighbours south of the border issued updated  advisories for parts of Mexico  due to violent crime, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. 

There continue to be high rates of these types of crime in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum), and Acapulco. Criminal groups and drug cartels are also present in tourist areas and bystanders can get caught in crossfire. 

Disputes between taxi and ridesharing application drivers may occur in these popular tourist destinations. Drivers generally don't target tourists but you "be caught up in these incidents and harassed or injured."

In Mexico City, government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B." Other taxis at stands will have both the logo of their company and the plate number stamped on the side of the car. Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can validate the pink and white taxis on the CDMX app.

Buses are relatively safe in the capital city but you should use VIP or executive class transportation when travelling to other cities.

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. Travellers can be held in pre-trial detention with lengthy delays before a trial.

"Many petty crimes (such as public urination, failure to pay a bill or disorderly behaviour) can result in a 72-hour detention by police. Paying a fine can secure an early release from detention."

Smoking is prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. Some of the places tourists can no longer smoke in include beaches, parks, hotels, and restaurants. If you are caught smoking in public, you may be fined.

Avoid non-essential travel to these areas in Mexico

The Canadian government warns against non-essential travel to the following areas due to high levels of violence of violence and organized crime.

• all Chihuahua
• all Colima, except the city of Manzanillo
• all Coahuila, except the southern part of the state at and below the Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
• all Durango, except Durango City
• Highway 45 between León and Irapuato
• the area south of and including Highway 45D between Irapuato and Celaya
• all Michoacán, except the city of Morelia
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park and surrounding areas
• the municipality of Xoxocotla
• the area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango
• the city of Tepic
• all Nuevo León, except the city of Monterrey
• all Sinaloa, except the city of Mazatlán
• all Sonora, except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• all Tamaulipas
• all Zacatecas

What to do if you need help while you are in Mexico 

In case of an emergency in Mexico, dial 911. 

Contact roadside assistance if you run into an issue on a highway. The Angeles Verdes is a highway patrol service that provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time. 

To contact the Angeles Verdes,  download their App  on your mobile device. In case of an emergency, you can also dial 078 or 800 006 8839 (toll-free in Mexico) to reach them.

Canadians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling 001-800-514-0129 (toll-free from Mexico only), +1 613 996 8885, by text message at +1 613-686-3658, via WhatsApp at +1 613-909-8881, via Telegram at Canada Emergency Abroad or by  e-mail . 

What to do before you leave on your trip to Mexico 

Visit a travel medical clinic before you book a ticket. The healthcare professionals will inform you about what vaccinations you require and what you can expect on your trip. There are risks of contracting several viruses spread by mosquitoes including dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.

Travellers should always check the latest advice from the government before they book a ticket from Vancouver to Mexico. They should also purchase a  comprehensive travel insurance policy  when they book their ticket, which will cover the cost of your ticket in case you can't leave due to an unforeseeable medical or other emergency reason. It will also cover incidents like missed connections, baggage interruption and loss, and more. 

Canadian travel advisories that have a "level three" or "level four" warning may be claimed under a trip cancellation and interruption plan. However, travellers can't claim insurance if they booked the flights or accommodation after the advisory was issued. 

You must fill out a tourist card to enter Mexico unless you plan to stay under 72 hours within the northern border zone. 

If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival , you may face:

Canadians should always register trips that they take  online  before they leave so that the government can contact them in an emergency.

• See a typo/mistake?
• Have a story/tip?

This has been shared 0 times

Get your daily victoria news briefing.

Mexico Entry Requirements for Canadian Citizens

Mexico Visa Needed

(for stays of up to 180 days)

Tourist Card (FMM) Needed

(if traveling by land)

Unlike nationals of some other countries, Citizens of Canada do not need a visa to enter Mexico but they are required to complete a Mexican tourist card if traveling by land. Commonly known as FMM ( Forma Migratoria Múltiple ), this is a mandatory requirement for all travelers who visit the country, including Canadians.

It is of the utmost importance that Canadians know the procedure to apply online for a Forma Migratoria Múltiple , as well as the prerequisites that they must abide by in order to be considered eligible.

Do Canadians Need a Mexican FMM?

Although Canadian citizens are visa-exempt when traveling to Mexico, they do need to hold a Mexican tourist card (FMM) when arriving at a land border. This travel document, along with their valid passport, is all Canadians need to enter the country.

Mexican authorities typically screen incoming travelers as part of their security protocols to protect both visitors and Mexican citizens. This is why nationals of Canada need an approved Mexican tourist card when accessing the country by land.

Entry Requirements to Mexico From Canada

Even though Canadian passport holders may travel to Mexico legally without a visa, they will still have to carry a valid passport issued by the Canadian government to identify themselves.

The Canadian passport must also be valid for at least six months (180 days) after the proposed arrival date in Mexico.

One of the key Mexican entry requirements is that citizens of Canada must have an approved tourist card if arriving by land. When crossing the border, Mexican officers will keep a part of the travel document, while Canadians will hold the other part (slip of paper) , which must be kept with them during the whole trip to present when exiting Mexico.

An approved Mexico tourist card for Canadians is valid for a single entry only. In other words, in the event that travelers leave Mexico and then want to re-enter, they will have to apply for another Mexican FMM.

On the other hand, the FMM is valid for 180 days in total . If holders from Canada would like to extend their stay, another FMM application will have to be completed online.

Mexico Tourist Card's Application Form for Canadian Nationals

It is now possible to get the FMM online from Canada rather than on the journey to Mexico. This new electronic system has made the process much quicker and easier for Canadians to enter the country.

Citizens from Canada may now complete the FMM application form online .

To do so, applicants from Canada must abide by the following:

• Have access to an internet connection - any electronic device, such as a tablet, laptop, or mobile phone, can be used
• Provide an accessible and current email address to receive key FMM information
• Submit personal information such as Canadians’ full name, date and place of birth, and contact details
• Give travel details such as passport information (number, expiry and issuance date) and purpose of their travel
• Respond to routine questions related to Canadian travelers’ health and criminal record, if any
• Pay the Mexican FMM processing fee with a valid credit or debit card

It is recommended that nationals from Canada double-check the information provided to avoid any error or missing details.

Once all these steps are completed, the FMM is sent by email. Applicants can expect to receive their tourist card to Mexico in up to 24-48 hours , although most FMM cards are approved within a few hours.

Benefits for Canadians when applying online for a Mexican FMM

Applying online and beforehand for a Mexican tourist card allows Canadian applicants to avoid long queues at the border of Mexico . It also means that travelers do not need to carry money on their person to settle the tourist card fee. Instead, the payment can be made online.

The online option is, therefore, deemed more convenient, secure, and straightforward. The completion of the electronic FMM application form will only take 20 minutes or less for Canadians. Short-stay travelers do not need to apply for a Mexican visa from an embassy if they have an approved tourist card.

Register with the Canadian Embassy in Mexico

Nationals of Canada traveling to Mexico are advised to register with the Canadian Embassy in Mexico City. This can be done by completing a quick form online, while applying for a Mexico FMM through this site.

Registration of Canadians Abroad is a service that provides important information about current events in Mexico or internationally if this could affect the individual’s travel plans.

For example, Canadians registered with the Embassy of Canada in Mexico City will be contacted in the following circumstances:

• Personal emergencies at home (the Canadian Embassy to Mexico will help citizens’ families to contact them)
• International emergencies that could impact the journey home
• Civil unrest
• Natural disasters

In emergencies , the Embassy will contact Canadians in Mexico who have registered and can help them get in touch with family and friends at home.

Travel Advisory for Mexico from Canada

The Canadian government recommends that its citizens who travel to Mexico to :

• Stay in tourist areas
• Remain vigilant against petty crime
• Keep an eye on local media during their stay
• Be vigilant when driving on major highways
• Avoid traveling at night

Canadians traveling to Mexico are particularly advised to avoid the following areas due to common incidents of violence and crime :

• Colima, excluding Manzanillo city
• all Coahuila, except the southern part of the state at and below the Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
• Durango, except Durango City
• Guerrero, except for Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco
• Highway 45 between León and Irapuato in Guanajuato and the area south of this
• Lagunas de Zempoala National Park and Xoxocotla in Morelos
• Michoacán, except for Morelia
• Nuevo León, except for Monterrey
• Sinaloa, except for Mazatlán
• Sonora, except for Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• Tepicin and the area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango in Nayarit

As when traveling to any foreign destination, Canadians should be aware that while most travel to Mexico is trouble-free, they should take safety precautions to ensure a smooth trip . Signing up for the embassy registration mentioned above can help to achieve this.

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• For U.S. Citizens/Lawful Permanent Residents

Canada and Mexico Travel

What do i need to travel to canada or mexico.

Different countries may have different travel document requirements. It is best to check with the country you are visiting to determine the appropriate travel document requirements (for instance, whether you need a passport and/or visa). You can find out more by referring to the U.S. Department of State website.  

Travel to Canada

For questions about travel to Canada contact the Canadian Border Services Agency .  

Travel to Mexico

Warning: it's Illegal to Carry Firearms or Ammo into Mexico.

For border crossing information, tune into the port of entry’s Loop Radio on 1620 AM. To report drug and alien smuggling, call (956) 542-5811 in the U.S., 001800-0105237 from Mexico.  

Prohibited/Permissible Items

• All articles acquired in Canada and Mexico must be declared. There is an $800 exemption for gifts and personal articles, including one liter of alcoholic beverages per person over 21 every 30 days.
• Check with State ABC laws and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regarding individual state requirements.
• Cuban cigars are prohibited.
• Check with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) about importing any medications prior to crossing into Mexico.
• CBP has a zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs. Any type, in any amount, may result in serious fines, seizure of vehicle, federal record and/or imprisonment.
• Switchblade knives, sea turtle boots or any other articles of endangered species (i.e. spotted cats, coral, crocodile, elephant, etc.) are prohibited.

Prohibited/Permissible Agricultural Items

• Most fruits, including oranges and apples are prohibited.
• Do not take U.S. fruits and meats to Mexico. You cannot bring them back.
• Before you go to Mexico, ask a CBP Agriculture Specialist for a list of items you can bring back.
• Fines of $300 to $1,000 may result if you fail to declare agricultural items.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

35 VISA-FREE Countries for Canadian PR Holders [2024 Edition]

Updated: February 11, 2024 Leave a Comment

As a Canadian PR card holder, you can enjoy VISA-FREE travel to certain countries. As of 2024, there are 35 VISA-FREE countries for Canadian PR holders. This includes Mexico, countries in the Caribbean, Central America, Europe and Asia. 

In this article, you will learn which countries Canadian permanent residents can travel to without visa along with the duration of stay and entry requirements for those countries.

So without further due, let’s get started. 

Table of Contents

What are the visa-free countries for canadian pr holders in 2024.

The VISA-FREE countries for Canadian PR holders in 2024 are:

• Anguilla (British Territory) (90 days)
• Antigua and Barbuda (30 days)
• Armenia (VOA for 21 or 120 days, select nationalities only)
• Aruba (30 days)
• Bahamas (30 days)
• Belize (30 days)
• Bermuda (British Territory) (30 days)
• Bonaire (Dutch Territory) (90 days)
• Cayman Islands (British Territory) (30 days)
• Costa Rica (30 days)
• Curaçao (90 days)
• Dominican Republic (90 days)
• El Salvador (90 days)
• Georgia (90 days)
• Guatemala (90 days)
• Honduras (90 days)
• Japan (eVisa, 90 days)
• Jordan (eVisa, 90 days)
• Mexico (180 days or less)
• Moldova (90 days)
• Montenegro (30 days)
• Morocco (eVisa, 90 days)
• Nicaragua (VOA, 30 days)
• Oman (VOA for 30 days, select nationalities only)
• Panama (30 days)
• Peru (180 days)
• Philippines (14 days, India only)
• Qatar (eVisa, 30 days)
• Singapore (96 hours TWOV, India and China only)
• Sint Maarten (30 days)
• South Korea (30 days while transiting, select nationalities only)
• Taiwan (eTA, 14 days, select nationalities only)
• Thailand (eVisa, 60 days)
• Turks and Caicos (British Territory) (90 days)
• United Kingdom (24-hour entry while transiting)

How many countries you can visit with Canadian PR?

In 2024, you can visit 35 countries with a Canadian PR without requiring a separate visa. Your Canadian permanent resident card must be valid and should be accompanied by a valid passport from your country. Here are the requirements in short.

• Must hold a valid Canada Permanent Resident card
• Must hold a valid passport from your country of nationality
• Must be from an eligible nationality and must follow entry requirements

Let’s look into each of these 35 Canadian PR VISA-FREE countries in detail.

North America

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
• Entry granted: Varies depending on the itinerary
• Entry rule: Canada PR card must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico
• Official source: National Institute of Migration in Mexico

Central America

• Entry granted: 30 days
• Official source: Consulate of Belize in Alberta, Canada

03. Costa Rica

• Entry rule: Canada PR cards must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Embassy of Costa Rica in Ottawa, Canada

04. El Salvador

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Turkmenistan
• Entry granted: 90 days total in the entire CA-4 zone (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua)
• If entering by air, a fee of 12 USD will be charged for a tourist card
• If you have already entered Guatemala or Honduras, you can enter El Salvador from Guatemala or Honduras by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement
• Official source: IATA Travel Centre

05. Guatemala

• Côte d´Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• Entry rule: If you have already entered Honduras or El Salvador, you can enter Guatemala from Honduras or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement. 
• Official source: Embassy of Guatemala in Ottawa, Canada

06. Honduras

• Cote d’Ivoire
• South Sudan
• Entry rule: If you have already entered Guatemala or El Salvador, you can enter Honduras from Guatemala or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement. 

07. Nicaragua

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Congo, Dem Rep of
• Congo, Rep of
• Sierra Leone
• Timor-Leste
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 50 USD, payable in USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Besides VOA fee, there is a 10 USD tourist card fee, a 2 USD land border migration fee (for land border only) and 1 USD municipality tax (for land border only) (payable in USD only)
• Canada PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of 500 USD
• Official source: Consulate of Panama in Toronto, Canada

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a US visa in 2024

09. Anguilla (British Territory)

• Entry granted: 90 days
• Official Source: Anguilla Tourist Board, entry requirements

10. Antigua and Barbuda

• VOA fee is 100 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Department of Immigration, Antigua and Barbuda
• Official source: Netherlands Worldwide

12. Bahamas

• If traveling directly from Canada, the Canada PR card must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
• If not traveling directly from Canada, the Canada PR card must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism

13. Bermuda (British Territory)

• Canada PR card must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Passport must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Official source: Government of Bermuda

14. Bonaire (Dutch Territory)

15. cayman islands (british territory).

• Entry rule: On arrival, you must present a return ticket back to Canada (not to a third country)
• Official source: Cayman Islands Customs and Border Controls

16. Curaçao

• E ntry granted: 90 days

17. Dominican Republic

• Entry rule: If arriving by land or sea, must purchase a Tourist Card on arrival for 20 USD. If arriving by air, the tourist card is included in the airfare. 
• Official source: Ministry of Tourism of Dominican Republic

18. Sint Maarten

19. turks and caicos (british territory).

• Official source: Ministry of Border Control of Turks and Caicos

RELATED: 43 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa in 2024

South America

• Entry granted: 180 days
• Entry rule: Canada PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival 
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru

21. Armenia

• Marshall Islands
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Entry granted: 21 or 120 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 3,000 AMD, valid for 21 days, single-entry (OR) 15,000 AMD, valid for 120 days, single-entry
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia

22. Georgia

• Canada PR must be valid on the day of arrival in Georgia
• Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

23. Moldova

• São Tomé and Príncipe
• South Africa
• Entry rule: Canada PR must be valid for the intended period of stay
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova

24. Montenegro

• Official source: Government of Montenegro

25. United Kingdom

• Entry granted: 24 hours only (Transit Without Visa)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to request a 24-hour entry at London (LHR) or Manchester (MAN) airports
• You must be traveling to or from Canada
• Must arrive and depart by air 
• Must hold the boarding pass for the onward flight
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or the next day before midnight)
• Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
• Official source: GOV.UK

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Schengen visa in 2024

Middle East

• Congo, Dem. Rep. Of
• Guinea Bissau
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for Jordan E-Visa
• Official source: Jordan E-Visa
• El Salvador
• Entry granted: 10 or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Oman 26M or 26N Tourist Visa online
• 26M eVIsa fee is 20 OMR, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• 26N eVIsa fee is 5 OMR, valid for 10 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Sultanate of Oman, Royal Oman Police
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for A3 Visa online on the Hayya portal
• A3 Visa fee is QAR 100, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Must provide hotel booking for the entire stay reserved through the Discover Qatar website
• Canada PR must be valid on the day of the A3 Visa application

29. Morocco

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 770 MAD, valid for 180 days, single-entry only
• Canada PR permit must be valid for at least 90 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Morocco E-Visa Portal
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible for Japan eVisa
• eVisa fee is JPY 3,000, valid for 90 days, single-entry
• Must submit proof of residence to prove that you reside in Canada
• Must show the visa issuance confirmation via the eVisa website on your phone at the immigration (Prints and PDFs are not accepted)
• Must enter Japan by flight only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

31. Philippines

• Eligible nationalities: India passport holders only
• Entry granted: 14 days, extendable for another 7 days
• Canada PR must be valid for the entire duration of the stay
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure
• Official source: Embassy of the Philippines in India

32. Singapore

• Entry granted: 96 hours (4 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) upon arrival
• Must be traveling to or from the country of passport. Example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore. An example itinerary would be India-Singapore-Bali or Bali-Singapore-India.
• Both arriving and departing flights in Singapore must be on the same itinerary
• Canada PR must be valid for at least 1 month at the time of arrival
• Official source: Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

33. South Korea

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities (except these 23 nationalities – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen)
• Entry rule: Must be traveling to/from Canada through South Korea
• Official source: South Korea Embassy in Washington DC, USA
• Entry granted: 14 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate  
• ROC Travel Authorization Certificate is free of charge, valid for 90 days, multiple-entry
• If using an EXPIRED Canada PR card, the PR card must have expired within the last 10 years
• Official source: Bureau of Consular Affairs of Republic of China (Taiwan)

35. Thailand

• Entry granted: 60 days, extendable for another 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Thailand e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 40 USD, valid for 90 days or 180 days, single or multiple-entry
• Official source: Thai E-Visa Portal

RELATED: 18 countries you can visit VISA-FREE with an Australian visa or PR in 2024

Can you use a Canadian visa to travel to these countries?

Yes, you can also use a valid Canadian visa to travel to these countries. However, the eligibility and entry requirements vary depending on what Canadian visa you hold. Refer to my article on VISA-FREE countries for Canada visa for more details. 

There you go, folks! 35 countries and territories that a Canadian PR holder can visit in 2024. Though most of them are Visa-Free, some countries require you to obtain VOA at the airport or apply for an eVisa before your travel.

Change history:  For those who are interested, here are the changes to this list.

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

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

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.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

RELATED POSTS

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

READ BEFORE LEAVING A COMMENT: (1) Use the Search Form to see if your questions have already been answered in an existing article. (2) Ask your questions on Visa Traveler Facebook Group for quick response from us and other experienced visa travelers. (3) We cannot respond to questions on student visas, work visas or immigration. Our advice is purely for travelers needing tourist visas. (4) Due to overwhelming amount of questions, comments and messages we receive, please allow us 24-48 hours to respond to your query.

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

Passport Requirements for Canadian Citizens Traveling to Mexico

Perry Mastrovito/Getty Images

Nearly two million Canadians visit Mexico each year for business or pleasure (and often both), making it the second most popular tourist destination for Canadians, according to the government of Canada website. Prior to 2010, Canadians could visit Mexico with a government-issued identification such as a driver's license and birth certificate, however, times have changed, and since the United States phased in the  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, travel document requirements for Canadians traveling in North America have become more stringent. Canadians who wish to visit Mexico nowadays do need to present a valid passport .

Canadian citizens who do not hold a valid passport  will not be allowed entry into Mexico and will be returned to Canada. Some countries require visitors to hold a passport which is valid for several months beyond the time of entry; this is not the case for Mexico. Mexican authorities do not require a minimum period of validity of passports. However, your passport must be valid at the time of entry and for the extent of time you are planning to remain in Mexico.

Requirements for Canadian Residents

If you are a permanent resident in Canada but not a Canadian citizen, you should present a Resident Card, and a Certificate of Identity, or Refugee Travel Document. It is also advisable to carry a passport from the country of which you are a citizen. Airlines may refuse to allow boarding to travelers who do not carry the proper identification. If you have any questions about travel documents and other entry requirements for visiting Mexico, contact the Mexican embassy or consulate nearest you.

The passport requirement for Canadian travelers to Mexico came into effect on March 1st, 2010. Since that date, all Canadian citizens need a valid passport to enter Mexico. A passport is the best form of international identification and having one can help prevent hassles!

If You Lose Your Passport in Mexico

If your Canadian passport is lost or stolen while you are traveling in Mexico, you should contact the Embassy of Canada or the consulate of Canada nearest you in order to obtain an emergency replacement travel document. The Embassy of Canada is located in the Polanco district of Mexico City , and there are consular agencies in Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, Cancún , Guadalajara, Mazatlán, Monterrey, Oaxaca, Playa Del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, and Tijuana . Depending upon your circumstances, and at the discretion of the Canadian consular officials, you may be able to obtain a ​temporary passport, which is a travel document that will allow you to continue your trip but will need to be replaced upon your return to Canada.

Emergency Assistance

If you experience an emergency situation while traveling in Mexico, remember that the emergency phone number is not 911, it is 066. You can also receive bilingual assistance from the Ángeles Verdes by dialing 076. They offer both roadside assistance for people ​ driving in Mexico as well as more general tourist assistance.

You should also keep the emergency phone number of the Canadian Embassy on hand. It is (55) 5724-7900 in the greater Mexico City area. If you are outside of Mexico City, you can reach the consular section by dialing 01-800-706-2900. This toll-free number is available throughout Mexico, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

What to Do in an Emergency in Mexico

Venture 4th RFID Neck Pouch Review

Travel Documents You Need to Visit Mexico

Passport Requirements for Driving to Canada

Marriage Laws for Caribbean Destination Weddings

Passports and Mexico Entry Requirements for Children

Do I need a passport to travel to Mexico?

Required Documents for Travel to China

What Travel Documents Are Needed for Your Caribbean Vacation?

What You Need to Know About Visiting Canada From the U.S.

Do Children Need a Passport to Visit Canada?

How Can I Renew My US Passport?

Visa Requirements for Canada

Required Documents for International Travel With Minors

Visa Requirements for the Netherlands

Vancouver to Seattle Border Crossing: Which Travel Documents do I Need?

Language selection

Canada and mexico.

Services for Canadians if you're visiting, studying, working or doing business in Mexico. Includes information about coming to Canada.

Travel advice and advisories - Mexico

Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)

Travel advice, passport and entry requirements, health and safety information, and more.

Services and information

Coming to canada.

Apply to immigrate. Get a visa to study, work or visit Canada.

Travelling outside of Canada

Travel advice for how to stay safe and returning to Canada.

Living abroad

Everything you need to know to prepare to leave Canada to live in a foreign country.

Canada-Mexico relations

Canada’s diplomatic, economic or cultural relationship with Mexico.

Doing business in Mexico

Business opportunities, market and sector advantages and other insights.

Most requested

• Authentication of documents
• Registration of Canadians Abroad
• Importing a vehicle

Find a Government of Canada embassy, high commission or consulate

• Canada and Mexico news (Canada news)
• Canada and Mexico news (Local statements)

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

• Embassy of Canada to Mexico

Terms of service

X (Twitter)

• @CanEmbMexico
• Canada.Mexico
• Embassy of Canada in Mexico

(855) 851-5000

Call Us (CANADA / USA TOLL FREE)

Mexican Immigration For Canadians Living, Retiring Or Working In Mexico

So, you are thinking about moving to Mexico, it is possible for Canadians to live in Mexico permanently. Many Canadians are living, retiring, and even working in Mexico. Although the Mexican Immigration laws can be daunting, MexLaw can help to gain the visa you require to stay in Mexico.

Mexican Immigration laws require Canadians who are thinking about retiring in Mexico, prove they can support themselves for the duration of their stay, whether that be from a retirement pension, investments , owning a business or owning property here in Mexico .

Canadians relocating to Mexico may apply for a Temporary Resident Visa or Permanent Resident Visa , depending on their financial status and length of their stay.

If you are testing the waters regarding living in Mexico you will want to start off with a Temporary Resident Card, this visa is issued for one year and renewable up to 3 more years, a total of 4 years maximum. You may apply for a Temporary Resident Visas with permission to work, if you will be working in Mexico.

If you are already sure you and your family are relocating to Mexico, and you plan on becoming Mexican citizens you will want to apply for Permanent Resident Visa. The Permanent Resident Visa is suitable for Canadians relocating to Mexico. If you are moving to Mexico, you do not need to be a Temporary Resident first to become a permanent resident, provided you fulfill one of the requirements needed for a Permanent Resident Visa.  Permanent Residency offers the ease of a single, one-time application and you may remain in Mexico for more than 180 days. As a Permanent Resident you may come and go from Mexico as you please. It also gives you the right to work in Mexico automatically.

Mexican immigration law requirements are as follows, you have immediate family in Mexico, or you are retired and can prove a sufficient income, or you already have had a Temporary Resident Visa for 4 years, or you are married to a Mexican (only require 2 years with Temporary Resident Visa) or meet the minimum score under the point system, or you are in Mexico for humanitarian reasons.

Investors in Mexico may apply for Permanent Resident Visa under Mexican Immigration laws. There are other avenues in which you may apply for a residence card, it is important to deal with an immigration specialist to get all the facts.

How can MexLaw assist you in your Temporary Resident or Permanent Resident Visa process?

The Mexican immigration law changes frequently, there are also variations between consulates, but if you hire MexLaw to start your procedure you will have the peace of mind that the procedure will be done to the satisfaction of Mexican immigration laws. Once you provide your information, MexLaw will do the legwork, saving you repeated trips to and from the immigration office. MexLaw is  informed and always updated on the Mexican Immigration laws and procedures.  A professional law firm of Canadian and Mexican lawyers that provides the convenience of English speaking representatives plus the knowledge of Mexican laws and regulations. Contact MexLaw’s immigration specialist to get your relocation process started.

• Cancun Tourism
• Cancun Hotels
• Cancun Bed and Breakfast
• Cancun Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Cancun
• Cancun Restaurants
• Cancun Attractions
• Cancun Travel Forum
• Cancun Photos
• All Cancun Hotels
• Cancun Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Cancun
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Canadian PR requires visa to Mexico? - Cancun Forum

• Mexico    
• Yucatan Peninsula    
• Quintana Roo    
• Cancun    

Canadian PR requires visa to Mexico?

• Canada Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Quintana Roo forums
• Cancun forum

Do we need to apply for a tourist visa ahead of time?

Also is there a minimum amount of time the passport needs to be valid for? Ours is due for renewal 2 months AFTER we return date from mexico.

Thanks in advance

You are fine on the visa front. This is an extract from the Mexican consulate's website in India: "Legal Permanent Residents of USA, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom and Schengen States do not require visa for enter Mexico with tourist, transit and business purposes." Here is the original link: http://embamex.sre.gob.mx/india/index.php/en/consular-section/visas

I agree on renewing your passport now. You don't want to take the chance and be out of the money you spent for vacation.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Valladolid heatwave 40+ °C (104+ °F) 18:46
• ADO Bus website (for Airport, Cancun, PDC and Valladolid) 17:21
• Cancun to Playa Del Carmen transfer options 16:52
• Hyatt Zilara or Live Aqua 08:14
• Best area in cancun for 60+ that’s not crazy or boring today
• Isla Mujeres..Ferry or group excursion today
• America Car Rental : Is the price too good to be true? yesterday
• I’m not paying Visitax, have you? yesterday
• Secrets the vine, Secrets Akumal vs secrets PM yesterday
• Alcohol restrictions during upcoming election yesterday
• Royal resorts sold- former owners left out in the cold yesterday
• Flights yesterday
• Airport transfer 24 May 2024
• Advice needed for 4 day itinerary for the first time visitor 24 May 2024
• Secrets The Vine Cancun 254 replies
• Party resorts for 20-30 years old? 26 replies
• New RIU Palace Peninsula 469 replies
• Best Party Hotel In Cancun???? 12 replies
• Smile at Oasis Palm 26 replies
• Anyone travelled to Cancun on the Sunquest Roulette 5 trip? 177 replies
• Sens del Mar 17 replies
• THE best all inclusive ?? 16 replies
• Young adults:which of the following would be best ? 12 replies
• Best All Adult Singles All Inclusive Resorts in Cancun? 19 replies

Cancun Hotels and Places to Stay

• Safety, Advice, Tips, and Hurricanes -
• Maps of Area Resorts
• Cancun Restaurant Trip Advisor Listing and Ratings
• Dollars or Pesos: What should I use?
• Weather: What will it be like in ...
• Bus, Taxi or Private Driver: Getting around Cancun
• Private/public ground transfer options:
• Online Tourist Card
• Airport Arrival, immigration limits,and hotel tranportation
• Best way to get to Isla and what to do
• Replacing a lost immigration form (tourist card)
• Avoid immigration jail. Verify your FMM visit duration.
• AA Meetings in Cancun and Nearby
• Departure Tax: Do I have to pay to leave Cancun?
• Travelling to Cancun/Riviera Maya with a criminal record
• WEATHER & June thru November - Hurricane Season Information
• How Do I Go by Bus from Cancun to Merida

• Skip to main content
• Skip to site information

Language selection

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

Traveller entry requirements

How to prepare for crossing the border into Canada

Services and information

Travel and identification documents for entering canada.

Acceptable documents, establishing your personal identity, your citizenship and other important information

Find out if you can enter Canada

Visas, Electronic Travel Authorizations and other documentation you may need to enter or transit through Canada

Visas, Electronic Travel Authorizations and other documentation you may need to enter or transit through Canada.

Information on what you can bring back to Canada, what to declare, duties and taxes, and personal exemptions

Airport arrival kiosks and eGates

Verify your identity and make a customs declaration at Canada’s major international airports

Directory of CBSA border offices and services across Canada

List of designated CBSA offices and service locations across Canada

Examining digital devices at the Canadian border

Your cell phones, tablets, laptops and any other digital device you are carrying can be examined when you when cross the border

Reporting requirements for private boaters

Options, exceptions, consequences for failing to report and more.

Reporting requirements for non-commercial aircraft

Landing private, company-owned or charter aircraft in Canada

Advance Declaration: Save time at the border

Use Advance Declaration in ArriveCAN to submit your customs and immigration declaration before flying into Canada

FlyFromCanada

Travel Hacks & Deals for Canadians

Home » Vacation ideas » Other Destinations

23 Canada PR Holder Visa Free Countries

If you are a Permanent Resident (PR) Cardholder in Canada, it might interest you to know that there are several countries you can visit without having to apply for a visa. A PR card is the most convenient way of proving status to authorities within Canada (e.g., provincial governments, employers, schools).

Permanent residents have other documentation (such as original landing papers) which is also acceptable, so there is no legal requirement for a permanent resident to carry a PR card at all times.

There are three types of Canada PR cards in circulation: 2002, 2009, and 2015 versions. As all PR card’s lifespans cannot exceed five years, the initial 2002 and 2009 versions should be no longer in use. All three versions of the card contain a maple leaf in front of the card, hence earning the nickname “maple leaf card”.

Please note that the Canada PR card is normally valid for five years. However, it may be valid for one year for those whose Canada PR status is being assessed by the IRCC. Please note that a PR card’s expiration date does not indicate that the holder’s status as a permanent resident has expired, or will expire, on that date.

It is the date after which the card must be replaced with a new card. Having said that, here is the list of countries that someone with a Canadian PR card can travel to without having a valid visa.

1. All Dutch Caribbean Territories

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to all Dutch Caribbean territories without a visa, and interestingly, you can stay within the territories for 3 months (that is 90 days).

The Dutch Caribbean are the territories, colonies, and countries, former and current, of the Dutch Empire and the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Caribbean Sea. They are in the north and south-west of the Lesser Antilles archipelago.

At present, it comprises the constituent countries of Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten (CAS islands), and the special municipalities of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba (BES islands). The term “Dutch Caribbean” is sometimes also used for the Caribbean Netherlands, an entity consisting of the three special municipalities forming part of the constituent country of the Netherlands since 2010.

2. Anguilla

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Anguilla without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 3 months (that is 90 days) maximum.

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to the Bahamas without a visa, and interestingly, you can stay within the country for 3 months (that is 90 days maximum).

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Belize without a visa, and you can stay within the country for one month (that is 30 days) maximum.

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Bermuda without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 6 months (that is 180 days) maximum.

6. The British Virgin Islands

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to the British Virgin Islands without a visa, and you can stay within the territories for 6 months (that is 180 days) maximum. Please note that the British Virgin Islands consist of the main islands of Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke, along with more than 50 other smaller islands and cays.

7. Cayman Islands

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Cayman Island without a visa, and you can stay within the territories for 2 months (that is 60 days) maximum.

Please note that Cayman Islands territory comprises the three islands of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman, which are located to the south of Cuba and northeast of Honduras, between Jamaica and Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. The capital city is George Town on Grand Cayman, which is the most populous of the three islands.

8. Costa Rica

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Costa Rica without a visa, and you can stay within the country for one month (that is 30 days) maximum. Please note that your PR card must be valid for more than six months.

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Cuba without a visa, and you can stay within the country for one month (that is 30 days) maximum. Please note that a PR card and a current and valid passport are required to enjoy this benefit.

10. Dominican Republic

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to the Dominican Republic without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 2 months (that is 60 days) maximum.

11. El Salvador

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to El Salvador without a visa but it is important to state that this privilege does not apply to all nationalities.

12. Georgia

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Georgia without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 3 months (that is 90 days in 180 days) maximum.

13. Guatemala

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Guatemala without a visa but this privilege is not applicable to all nationalities.

14. Honduras

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Honduras without a visa but it is important to state that this privilege is not applicable to all nationalities.

15. Jamaica

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Jamaica without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 6 months (that is 180 days).

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Mexico without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 6 months (that is 180 days) maximum.

17. Nicaragua

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Nicaragua without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 3 months (that is 90 days within 180 days) maximum. It is important to state that this privilege does not apply to all nationalities.

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Panama without a visa, and you can stay within the country for one month or 6 months depending on your country of origin.

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Qatar without a visa, and you can stay within the territories for one month (that is 30 days).

20. Saint Maarten

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Saint Maarten without a visa, and you can stay within the country for 3 months (that is 90 days) maximum.

21. South Korea

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to South Korea without a visa, and you can stay within the country for one month (that is 30 days when in transit) maximum. But it is important to state that this privilege does not apply to all nationalities.

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to Taiwan without a visa, and you can stay within the country for one month (that is 30 days maximum, but online registration is required). Please note that this privilege does not apply to all nationalities.

23. Turks and Caicos Islands

If you are a Canadian PR cardholder, you can travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands without a visa, and you can stay within the territories for 3 months (that is 90 days) maximum.

Please note that the territory consists of the larger Caicos Islands and smaller Turks Islands, two groups of tropical islands in the Lucayan Archipelago of the Atlantic Ocean and the northern West Indies. They are known primarily for tourism and as an offshore financial center.

In Conclusion,

To enjoy visa-free travels, Canadian permanent residents require a PR card unless the person’s passport in itself is sufficient for exemption. A Canadian PR cardholder may travel visa-free to the above countries if not already exempt.

More on Other Destinations

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Mexico tightens travel rules on Peruvians in a show of visa diplomacy to slow migration to US

Peruvian Julia Paredes, left in white hat, listens to instructions from a Border Patrol agent with others seeking asylum as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Julia Paredes, right, of Peru, gets a hug from volunteer Karen Parker, after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

A Border Patrol agent instructs a group of people seeking asylum, including Peruvians, as they are transported for processing after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum walk through a field of wildflowers as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Peruvian Julia Paredes, center in white hat, listens to instructions from a Border Patrol agent with others seeking asylum as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Men seeking asylum, including Peruvians, line up as they wait to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum keep warm near a fire as they wait to be processed, after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

People seeking asylum, including a group from Peru, walk behind a Border Patrol agent towards a van to be processed after crossing the border with Mexico nearby, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Boulevard, Calif. Mexico has begun requiring visas for Peruvians in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country. The move follows identical ones for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians, effectively eliminating the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

• Copy Link copied

BOULEVARD, Calif. (AP) — Julia Paredes believed her move to the United States might be now or never. Mexico was days from requiring visas for Peruvian visitors. If she didn’t act quickly, she would have to make a far more perilous, surreptitious journey over land to settle with her sister in Dallas.

Mexico began requiring visas for Peruvians on Monday in response to a major influx of migrants from the South American country, after identical moves for Venezuelans, Ecuadorians and Brazilians. It effectively eliminated the option of flying to a Mexican city near the U.S. border, as Paredes, 45, did just before it was too late.

“I had to treat it as a emergency,” said Paredes, who worked serving lunch to miners in Arequipa, Peru, and borrowed money to fly to Mexico’s Tijuana, across from San Diego. Last month smugglers guided her through a remote opening in the border wall to a dirt lot in California, where she and about 100 migrants from around the world shivered over campfires after a morning drizzle and waited for overwhelmed Border Patrol agents to drive them to a station for processing.

Senior U.S. officials, speaking to reporters ahead of a meeting of top diplomats from about 20 countries in the Western hemisphere this week in Guatemala, applauded Mexico’s crackdown on air travel from Peru and called visa requirements an important tool to jointly confront illegal migration.

For critics, shutting down air travel only encourages more dangerous choices. Illegal migration by Venezuelans plummeted after Mexico imposed visa requirements in January 2022, but the lull was short-lived. Last year Venezuelans made up nearly two-thirds of the record-high 520,000 migrants who walked through the Darien Gap, the notorious jungle spanning parts of Panama and Colombia.

More than 25,000 Chinese traversed the Darien last year. They generally fly to Ecuador, a country known for few travel restrictions, and cross the U.S. border illegally in San Diego to seek asylum. With an immigration court backlog topping 3 million cases, it takes years to decide such claims, during which time people can obtain work permits and establish roots.

“People are going to come no matter what,” said Miguel Yaranga, 22, who flew from Lima, Peru’s capital, to Tijuana and was released by the Border Patrol Sunday at a San Diego bus stop. He had orders to appear in immigration court in New York in February 2025, which puzzled him because he said he told agents he would settle with his sister on the other side of the country, in Bakersfield, California.

Jeremy MacGillivray, deputy chief of the Mexico mission of the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration, predicts that Peruvian migration will drop “at least at the beginning” and bounce back as people shift to walking through the Darien Gap and to Central America and Mexico.

Mexico said last month that it would require visas for Peruvians for the first time since 2012 in response to a “substantial increase” in illegal migration. Large-scale Peruvian migration to Mexico began in 2022; Peruvians were stopped in the country an average of 2,160 times a month from January to March of this year, up from a monthly average of 544 times for all of 2023.

Peruvians also began showing up at the U.S. border in 2022. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Peruvians an average of about 5,300 times a month last year before falling to a monthly average of 3,400 from January through March, amid a broad immigration crackdown by Mexico .

Peru immediately reciprocated Mexico’s visa requirement but changed course after a backlash from the country’s tourism industry. Peru noted in its reversal that it is part of a regional economic bloc that includes Mexico, Chile and Colombia.

Adam Isacson, an analyst at the Washington Office on Latin America, said Peru’s membership with Mexico in the Pacific Alliance allowed its citizens visa-free travel longer than other countries.

It is unclear if Colombia, also a major source of migration , will be next, but Isacson said Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is in a “lovefest” with his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, while his relations with Peru’s government are more strained.

Colombians are consistently near the top nationalities of migrants arriving at Tijuana’s airport. Many find hotels before a guide takes them to boulder-strewn mountains east of the city, where they cross through openings in the border wall and then walk toward dirt lots that the Border Patrol has identified as waiting stations.

Bryan Ramírez, 25, of Colombia, reached U.S. soil with his girlfriend last month, only two days after leaving Bogota for Cancun, Mexico, and continuing on another flight to Tijuana. He waited alongside others overnight for Border Patrol agents to pick him up as cold rain and high winds whipped over the crackle of high-voltage power lines.

The group waiting near Boulevard, a small, loosely defined rural town, included several Peruvians who said they came for economic opportunity and to escape violence and political crises.

Peruvians can still avoid the Darien jungle by flying to El Salvador, which introduced visa-free travel for them in December in reciprocation for a similar move by Peru’s government. But they would still have to travel over land through Mexico, where many are robbed or kidnapped.

Ecuadoreans, who have needed visas to enter Mexico since September 2021, can also fly to El Salvador, but not all do. Oscar Palacios, 42, said he walked through Darien because he couldn’t afford to fly.

Palacios, who left his wife and year-old child in Ecuador with plans to support them financially from the U.S., said it took him two weeks to travel from his home near the violent city of Esmeralda to Mexico’s border with Guatemala. It then took him two months to cross Mexico because immigration authorities turned him around three times and bused him back to the southern part of the country. He said he was robbed repeatedly.

Palacios finally reached Tijuana and, after three nights in a hotel, crossed into the U.S. A Border Patrol agent spotted him with migrants from Turkey and Brazil and drove them to the dirt lot to wait for a van or bus to take them to a station for processing. Looking back on the journey, Palacios said he would rather cross Darien Gap 100 times than Mexico even once.

Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed.

Turks and Caicos releases US tourist arrested for ammo in luggage

T urks and Caicos released an American man who was charged for bringing 20 rounds of ammunition in his luggage to the Caribbean islands, according to court documents released Friday.

Bryan Hagerich, a Pennsylvania father of two, was arrested in February while on a family vacation. In Turks and Caicos — a British territory — firearms, weapons and stray bullets are prohibited.

Hagerich faced a 12-year sentence, the country’s minimum under its strict gun laws.

At his sentencing hearing Friday on the island of Providenciales, Judge Tanya Lobban Jackson sentenced Hagerich to 52 weeks but with “12 months suspended,” meaning he won’t serve any jail time, NBC News reported.

The judge said she found exceptional circumstances for him, citing that he unintentionally brought the ammunition, that his detainment had an impact on his daughter and that he had no criminal background, the outlet reported.

He can head home after making a payment of $6,700, per the reporting.

After court, an emotional Hagerich said he was “absolutely elated” and could not wait to get back to his children.

“This is what we’ve been waiting for for the last 101 days and to experience this here – in eight short hours to be home and hug my kids — it’s the best day,” he said, per NBC News, which had reporters at the courthouse.

He said he hopes to continue working for the other Americans who are detained on the island for similar charges.

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) was among a group of lawmakers who traveled to the island to lobby for the Americans’ release. He said in a statement Friday that it was an honor to meet with Hagerich and the others.

Fetterman said officials on the Turks and Caicos islands recognized that Hagerich and the other Americans “are not gunrunners — they are just people who made a mistake.”

“I’m grateful that the judge recognized that the right thing to do was to send Bryan home,” he continued in his statement . “I’m also grateful to the U.S. State Department which has been a critical partner in bringing Bryan home.”

The freshman senator said he is hopeful that the government expedites the other cases and the detained Americans “will soon be released and reunited with their families as well.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.

Language selection

• Français fr

Apply for permanent residence: Express Entry

• 1. Fill out the online form
• 2. Scan and upload the documents
• 3. Pay your fees
• 4. Submit your complete application
• 5. After you apply
• Check your application status

Before you apply for permanent residence

You can only apply for permanent residence through Express Entry if you’ve received an invitation to apply.

Once you have your invitation to apply

Your Express Entry invitation to apply is valid for 60 days only . You should start filling out the online form right away so that you can get all the information and documents you need before your invitation expires.

Follow these steps to fill out the online form:

• Sign in to your account .
• Click the link to apply for permanent residence under Express Entry.

When filling out the form:

• make sure you submit all of the required documents
• all of your answers must be complete and true
• make sure all the mandatory fields are completed, or you won’t be able to submit your application
• you can save your information on the form and go back as often as you need to

For your application: $1,525

Include your spouse: $1,525

Include a dependent child: $260

Processing time  ?

Varies by program

You may need to give biometrics with your application. This processing time includes the time you need to give your biometrics.

Processing times

Processing times will vary based on:

• the type of application submitted
• if the application is complete
• how quickly we expect to process applications we’ve already received
• how easily we can verify your information
• how long you take to respond to any requests or concerns
• other factors

More people want to immigrate to Canada than we can bring in each year. Applications received after we meet our yearly limit may have to wait longer to be processed.

Learn how processing times are calculated .

If your work permit will expire soon

If your work permit expires before you submit your application and you didn’t apply for a new one yet, it may cause your score to drop.

This could happen if you got points for a job offer but the work permit associated with the job offer expired before you submitted your application. This could cause you to not be eligible anymore.

If your score has dropped below the minimum cut-off for your round of invitations, you should decline the invitation. If you submit your application anyway, we’ll refuse it.

If you decline, you’ll be put back in the pool. You should update your Express Entry profile to show the change in your work status.

Top questions about Express Entry

• I was found not eligible for Express Entry and I can’t change my profile. What do I do?
• Why didn’t I get points for my job offer in Express Entry?
• I am working in Canada on a valid work permit. Does this count as a job offer?

Page details