In November 2012 some new regulations were brought into effect for minors traveling to Mexico unaccompanied by their parents. The new requirements stated that proof of the parents' permission for the child to travel should be shown via an authorization letter, which needed to be translated and legalized by the Mexican Consulate or Embassy. Many people were initially unaware of the changes, and unfortunately, some were turned away by airlines who refused to carry them without the necessary documents for entry into Mexico. The Mexican government decided to postpone the implementation of the rule for a few months, until February 15, 2013, to give travelers time to gather the necessary documentation prior to their trip. However, they've since suspended the requirement longer, and it is now on hold until January 24, 2014.
According to the website of the Mexican Secretary of External Relations: "In the aim of facilitating the travel of national and foreign tourists, Mexican immigration authorities will allow the entry to and departure from Mexican territory, of minors travelling with at least one parent; with the person who holds parental authority; alone or accompanied by an adult who does not hold parental authority; with the presentation of the minor's valid passport."
I'm sure many prospective travelers are breathing a sigh of relief to know this documentation won't be required until next year. If you have any doubts about the necessary travel documents, contact the Mexican embassy or consulate nearest you for updated information. Learn more about entry requirements for kids traveling to Mexico.
I have full custody of my children. Their fathe is a Mexican citizen and lives in Mexico. I want to send them unaccompanied via airplane to Mexico this summer for visitation with their father. My children have valid passports. What other documentation will they need or other regulations or requirements should I be aware of?
According to the website of Mexico’s Secretary of External Relations (as quoted above), only a passport is required. This will change next year when the new requirements come into effect. It might make things easier for them if they had a letter from you that they could present which gives your authorization for the trip and states the dates and purpose of the trip, and attach a copy of proof of custody and a copy of your ID (with signature). This is not an official requirement, but may be handy in case they get asked questions at immigration.
I am travelling to Mexico with my husband, my son (17) and his girlfriend (17) I really don’t no what documents I need for his girlfriend I have been told I need a letter of consent from her mum but having read things on the Internet I’m totally confused and worried! Do I need it translated? Do I need a birth certificate, do I need the dads consent also because she doesn’t really see him also I read that the letter needs to be witnessed? I didn’t realise when I booked it that it would be so complicated!