- Requirements
- * Income
- * Age
- * Permitted Activities
- * Letters
- * Photos
- Step by step instructions
- Persons who can assist in the process
- Location of Immigration Office
This FM3 information doesn't apply to getting or renewing your visa but may be useful.
In January 2005 I had to make an emergency trip back to Canada to help with a family situation. I didn't know exactly how long I'd be out of Mexico. What I did know was that my FM3 would expire while I was out of Mexico! I went to Migración to find out what my options might be. I was hoping I might possibly get the renewal done quickly because of my situation but that didn't seem to be an option. I also asked if I could start the renewal process and get a letter explaining my situation and keep my FM3 until I returned to Mexico. I could surrender my old FM3 for my new one as in my case it was the fifth renewal and time for a new book. That wasn't an option either.
I was told I could do the following. Leave Mexico with my current FM3 and make sure it was stamped with the exit date. Return to Mexico within thirty days and make sure the re-entry date was stamped. There's a thirty day grace allowance with no penalty.
I followed this procedure, which is what you normally do, and I had no problems. When I returned, Migración did notice my FM3 was expired but that I hadn't exceeded the thirty days. They explained this an told me I should report to Migración in Maz asap. I assured them I would and that's all that was required at the airport.
When I went back to Migración they also noticed it was expired but because I had the exit/entry dates stamped in the book there was no problem. If you don't have the stamps, it seems there is a fine of approximately fifty pesos per day. My renewal was then handled normally and I received my new FM3 book in a couple of weeks!