Visa applications at border posts in Mexico

Return to "Temporary Worker Visas" main page

U.S. visa offices in Mexico generally accept nonimmigrant visa applications from third country nationals (TCN). Unlike posts in Canada, post in Mexico will not accept applications from citizens of the "T4" and "List of 26" countries.

Unlike posts in Canada, post in Mexico will not accept any initial visa applications for the category sought. They will only accept reissuances (extensions) for previously issued visas. They will allow changes within the same letter category, however. This means that someone with an h1 can apply for an H1B, or someone with an F1 may apply for an F2. Because posts in Mexico only accept these types of cases, the approval rate for TCN applications is 98%.

Posts in Mexico will accept and process TCN E1 and E2 visa applications, but not B1, B2, or H2.

Obviously, TCNs who have incurred unlawful presence and are subject to the provisions of Section 222(g) may not apply. They are required by law to apply only at their "home" consular post.

Applicants should review the information available for each consular post on that post's web site:


Most applicants for visas in Mexico must obtain visas for entry. Citizens of some countries are exempt from having to apply for visas to enter Mexico.

Persons considering applying for visas in Mexico should keep in mind the extreme violence that pervades that country. Travel to Mexico, particularly travel to border cities is extremely dangerous. Most countries have issued travel advisories for the citizens who might be considering travel to Mexico.

Please also read the tips on the page for consular visa applications generally and border posts generally.

For specific information about applying at border posts in Canada, please click here.

For information about applying for a nonimmigrant visa at a non-border post, please click here.

To discuss your visa application experience, or read what others have to say on this subject, please click here to be taken to the Immigration Information Discussion Forum.