Get Your Mexico Electronic Authorization (SAE) Online Now!

Apply today for the Mexico Electronic Authorization with us!

Last updated: November 2023

Mexico's vibrant landscape, from the tranquil beaches of Cancun to the historic wonders of Mexico City and the ancient Mayan temples in Yucatan, offers a world of exploration and discovery. While planning your trip to visit these destinations, there’s an important administrative step that should not be overlooked: securing the Mexico Electronic Authorization.

In the sections that follow, we will delve into every aspect of the Mexico Electronic Authorization, covering eligibility criteria, application procedures, and more. Our aim is to make your preparation for visiting Mexico as straightforward as possible, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming travels.

So, let’s set sail on this journey of discovery, ensuring your entry into Mexico is as captivating as the country itself.

What is the Mexico Electronic Authorization?

The Mexico Electronic Authorization, or Sistema de Autorización Electrónica (SAE), is a digital travel authorization system, much like the United States ESTA. Implemented by Mexico's immigration services, it allows citizens of select countries to apply online and travel to Mexico without first applying for a Mexican visa​.

The SAE was introduced to streamline the entry process for these nationals, facilitating easier and quicker access to Mexico. This digital system reflects a shift towards more efficient and user-friendly travel documentation processes, emphasizing convenience and accessibility for eligible travelers.

What can you do with the Mexico Electronic Authorization?

The Mexico Electronic Authorization grants you some of the privileges of a Mexico Tourist Visa, including:

• Tourism: Explore Mexico's rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and vibrant cities.

• Business trips: Attend meetings, conferences, or conduct business-related activities.

• Visits: Visit family and friends.

What can you not do with the Mexico Electronic Authorization?

Carrying out any of the following activities is prohibited when you possess a Mexico Electronic Authorization:

• Engage in paid work or employment.

• Break Mexican laws.

• Illegally extending your stay after your SAE expires.

• Become a permanent resident of Mexico.

Who can apply for the Mexico Electronic Authorization?

To be eligible for the Mexico Electronic Authorization, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• You must be a citizen of one of the countries eligible for the Mexico Electronic Authorization system​​​​​​.

• You must hold a valid passport.

• You must be traveling to Mexico by air. Those who are eligible to apply for the Mexico Electronic Authorization but are arriving by land or sea must apply for a visa.

Who is eligible for the Mexico Electronic Authorization?

The Mexico Electronic Authorization is specifically designed for:

• Russian citizens.

• Ukrainian citizens.

• Turkish citizens (specifically those holding red passports. Holders of green and gray passports must apply for a regular Mexican visa).

• Peruvian citizens traveling with Aeromexico from Peru to China or Japan, who are making a connection in Mexico for transit purposes. In such cases, a valid visa for the destination country is required.

Who doesn't need to apply for the Mexico Electronic Authorization?

Travelers from the eligible countries (Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey) who hold the following documents do not require the SAE or a Mexican visa:

• Permanent residency: Document proving permanent residency in Canada, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, any Schengen country, or Pacific Alliance countries (Chile, Colombia, and Peru)​​.

• Valid visa: A valid visa for Canada, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, or any Schengen country​​.

• APEC Business Traveler Card (ABTC): Holders of the ABTC adopted by Mexico are exempted​​.

Additionally, citizens from visa-exempt countries, such as the US, UK, Canada, Japan, and Schengen countries, can visit Mexico for up to 180 days without requiring an SAE or a Mexican visa, for purposes like tourism, transit, and business.

Do minors have to apply for the Mexico Electronic Authorization?

Yes, each traveler must apply for their own separate Mexico Electronic Authorization, including minors.

Additionally, minors require authorization or a letter of consent from their parents or guardians when traveling to Mexico, whether they are traveling alone or with a third party of legal age.

Mexico Electronic Authorization validity: How long is the Mexico Electronic Authorization valid?

The Mexico Electronic Authorization is a Single entry permit and has a maximum validity period of 30 days after issued. It's linked electronically to the traveler’s passport.

Can I extend my Mexico Electronic Authorization?

The Mexico Electronic Authorization does not allow for extensions. If you need to extend your stay beyond the 30-day validity or if your SAE has expired, you must apply for a new one.

Mexico Electronic Authorization requirements

To apply for the Mexico Electronic Authorization, applicants need the following:

• Passport: It needs to be valid for at least 6 months before your intended departure date from Mexico.

• Travel itinerary: You will need to provide your planned travel date and duration of stay in Mexico.

How to apply for the Mexico Electronic Authorization

Choosing to apply for your Mexico Electronic Authorization through our website offers several advantages over the traditional application process. Our platform is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, saving you time and effort.

Here's how it works with us:

• Step 1: Enter your personal and travel details on our website or via the iVisa app.

• Step 2: Verify that all the information you’ve provided is accurate and choose your preferred processing time. Pay the fees with a credit or debit card, PayPal, or Venmo.

• Step 3: Complete the rest of the application form and submit it.

Once your Mexico Travel Authorization is ready, we'll send it straight to your email. We recommend saving it on your mobile device and also bringing a printed copy when you travel to Mexico.

Are you ready to travel to Mexico? Apply for your Mexico Electronic Authorization now!

Mexico Electronic Authorization costs and processing times

The Mexico Electronic Authorization is free.

However, when you choose to invest in our visa service, there is a surcharge depending on the processing time you choose:

• Standard processing, which takes 24 hours.

• Rush processing, which takes 4 hours.

• Super Rush processing, which takes 30 minutes.

Do I need the Mexico Electronic Authorization to transit through the country?

Even if you're just transiting through one of Mexico's international airports and are eligible for a Mexico Electronic Authorization, it's necessary to apply for this travel authorization, regardless of how brief your stay at the airport might be.

Benefits of getting your Mexico Electronic Authorization with us

Selecting our platform for your Mexico Electronic Authorization means experiencing a straightforward and effortless process. We've tailored our service to be intuitive and simple, offering straightforward instructions and support throughout.

Apply for your Mexico Electronic Authorization here!

Mexico entry requirements or restrictions

Mexico does not currently impose specific COVID-19 health-related entry requirements for travelers. This includes no obligation for visitors to present a negative COVID-19 test result, nor is there a requirement for travelers to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

At airports, standard procedures are followed, but there are no additional health checks related to COVID-19 specifically. It is always recommended to stay updated with the latest advisories by checking the Mexican government website.

Differences between a Mexico Electronic Authorization and a Mexico Tourist Card

The Mexico Electronic Authorization and the Mexico Tourist Card (FMM - Forma Migratoria Múltiple) are two different documents required for entry into Mexico, each serving distinct purposes:

• Mexico Electronic Authorization: This is primarily for citizens of specific countries (Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey) who can apply online and receive electronic authorization for tourism, business, or transit. It's a digital process, simplifying entry for eligible travelers without the need for a consular visa.

• Mexico Tourist Card (FMM):

  This card is necessary for tourists entering Mexico, regardless of nationality. It is an entry immigration form that all foreign travelers must fill out prior to arrival or at the border entry point in Mexico.

Where can I learn more about the Mexico Electronic Authorization?

For more information about the Mexico Electronic Authorization/Tourist Card application, you can get in touch with our customer support team. Please send us a message on our live chat or at help@iVisa.