For most projects you only need a Visitor Permit (FMT)

There are three types of non-immigrant permits or visas that you may need depending on the nature and duration of your project; the Visitor Permit (FMT/FMN), Visitor Visa and the Work Permit (FM3).

Visitor Permit

You can get this permit if you meet the following requirements:

  • Your stay in Mexico will be of lees than 180 days;
  • You are from any of these nationalities;
  • You are coming to Mexico for casting, scouting, pre-production meetings, or post-production, or;
  • You are producing in Mexico but your project will be exploited mainly outside of Mexico, AND you’re not hired by a Mexican company.

The visitor permit (FMT/FMN) is issued to individuals from the above mentioned nationalities and can be obtained when entering the country by filling up a form.

Visitor Visa

It’s issued in advance at a Mexican embassy or consulate and is required for individuals who meet the following requirements:

  • Your stay in Mexico will be of lees than 180 days;
  • You are from one of these nationalities;
  • You are coming to Mexico for casting, scouting, pre-production meetings, or post-production, or;
  • You are producing in Mexico but your project will be exploited mainly outside of Mexico, AND you’re not hired by a Mexican company.

Please visit the Mexican Immigration site for more information on how to obtain a Visitor Visas or if you may be exempt of requiring a Visitor Visa.

Work Permit

You need to obtain an FM3 Work Permit if:

  • You are hired by a Mexican company;
  • When producing content to be exploited mainly in Mexico, or;
  • If you need to stay in Mexico more than 180 consecutive days.

This permit is obtained at a Mexican embassy or consulate. You will need to meet some requirements, like having a Mexican sponsor. You can upgrade your Visitors Visa or Permit to an FM3 permit while in Mexico. The process may take up to 35 days and the permit is valid for one year and can be renewed for up to 4 years on a yearly basis.

We have immigration lawyers that will help with the permit expedition process to avoid the hassle of dealing with the bureaucracy and expedite the process.

Visas | Production Services in Mexico
Creative & Production Services in Mexico | Film in Mexico