Do you require a Mexican Tourist Card to enter Cancun, Cozumel or Cabo in 2025?
If you’re planning a beach holiday in Mexico, chances are Cancun, Cozumel, or Cabo San Lucas are at the top of your list. These destinations are world-famous for their turquoise waters, lively nightlife, and endless resorts. But before packing your bags, you may be wondering: Do I need a Mexican Tourist Card (FMM) in 2025 to enter these places?
The answer depends on your nationality, the length of your stay, and how you enter the country. Let’s break it down clearly.
What is the Mexican Tourist Card and its importance?
It is a specially prepared document that allows foreign nationals to visit Mexico for up to 180 days. It is non-renewable and must be kept in a secure location; always have it with you.
It can only be helpful to you once Mexican Immigration authorities have officially stamped it.
This card is intended solely for domestic travel and should not be used as a visa substitute. Instead, it is a type of permit that allows a foreign national from an eligible country to legally stay in the country for a very short period of time.
Your passport must be shown alongside it and serves as proof that you have stayed in Mexico during the allotted time for which the Mexican tourist card is valid.
Do you need a Mexican Tourist Card (FMM) for Cancun, Cozumel, and Cabo?
As of 2024, the requirement for a Mexican Tourist Card (FMM) for entering Cancun, Cozumel, and Cabo is no longer necessary.
You also no longer need to wait for a lengthy process of filling out your form, sending it to the official Mexican Immigration Offices or Mexican Embassy, and waiting for a considerable period before receiving your Mexican Tourism Card.
2025 Mexican Airport updates regarding FMM
The official website of Cancun Airport has issued a statement stating that they will no longer supply and create FMM tourism cards for foreign nationals.
These updates will affect a total of three major international airports in Mexico: Cancún International Airport (CUN), Cozumel International Airport (CZM), and Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).
You are, hence, no longer required to file for an FMM while arriving or departing from any of these three locations, and you won’t have to go through the usual paperwork.
There are still exceptions being made for individuals who do not land at these specific airports and arrive at alternative locations.
It also affects those who are not tourists and are potential residents of the country, requiring a visa for permanent residency. In this case, the regular FMM paperwork is still needed and provided.
What are the essential requirements for Foreign National Air Travellers?
To replace the previous FMM situation, the Mexican Government has devised a newer and more advanced version of the Mexican Tourist Card: the FMMd, or the digital version of the Mexican Tourist Card.
It can be completed through an online web portal that directs you to a website where you can fill in your personal details, as well as the type of FMMd you are looking to obtain: Business, Educational, or Tourism.
You will receive your new FMMd form via your personal email, or you can download it directly from the website.
You are required to present it to the Immigration officials the moment you land in Mexico, as well as keep it as you leave the country.
Summary Table
Entry Point
Is the FMM Tourist Card Necessary?
Cancún (CUN) and Cozumel (CZM) International Airports
Having an FMM is not required for tourists who are either arriving or departing from these two specific airports
Los Cabos (SJD) (Through Air)
Tourists who enter this airport are also not required to have an FMM with them.
Different Airports in Mexico
Tourists may need to carry their FMMs with them and must have them at all times, either through an official online source or at the point of entry, with the assistance of Immigration officers.
Through both land and sea entries, or with visa holders
Always have an FMM with you at all times, no matter the circumstance. Also, have your FMMd digital form at the ready in case of any confusion.
Applying for the Mexican Tourist Card
The FMM can be filled out with a Mexican Tourist Card online before your trip or at the port of entry.
Always carry your passport, printed FMM (if applied online), and return ticket with you.
Keep the FMM safe—losing it means you’ll need to apply and pay for a replacement before leaving Mexico.
Final Travel Tips for 2025
Yes, you do need an FMM to enter Cancun, Cozumel, and Cabo in 2025, regardless of whether a Mexican visa is required for your nationality.
Double-check with your airline or cruise line if the FMM fee is included in your ticket.
Treat the FMM like your passport—it is required both for entry and exit from Mexico.
