Essential Guide to Seamless Transit Through Mexican Airports

In most cases, passengers transiting through Mexican airports will not need a Mexican visa. This depends on factors such as nationality, onward flight destination, layover duration, and whether they plan to leave the airport. Travelers from countries without visa exemptions must obtain a visa if they wish to leave the airport or stay longer than 24 hours, necessitating the customs and immigration process. Citizens of visa-exempt nations must secure a transit visa if changing flights requires stopping in Mexico.

Commuting between terminals at major Mexican airports can be challenging. Most international airports, like Mexico City and Cancun, feature multiple terminals often disconnected by walkways, necessitating the use of trains or shuttles. Active passengers can board airport trains with proof of travel, while bus services are available for anyone. At Mexico City International Airport, for instance, the Aerotren connects terminals, operating daily from 5 am to 11 pm, while Cancun\'s free shuttle runs every 10 minutes.

Transit passengers typically do not need to clear customs unless their layover exceeds 24 hours, when they would need to apply for a visa or FMM. Most international airports in Mexico provide currency exchange and ATM services. To improve transit experiences, travelers can prepare by gathering travel documents, adhering to airport rules, engaging with officials, and exploring duty-free shops while waiting for their next flight. Preparation can enhance the overall experience at foreign airports.

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Visas Processed

Most passengers transiting through Mexican airports do not need a visa if their layover is under 24 hours and they remain in the international transit area. However, travelers from non-visa-exempt countries must obtain a visa if leaving the airport or staying longer than 24 hours.

Mexico City International Airport offers the Aerotren, an automated train connecting terminals, operating daily from 5 AM to 11 PM. Free shuttle buses are also available for passengers needing to transfer between terminals.

The Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) is Mexico's immigration form. Transit passengers typically do not need to complete it unless their layover exceeds 24 hours or they plan to leave the international transit area.

Yes, most international airports in Mexico provide currency exchange services and ATMs in both the international and domestic terminals, allowing transit passengers to access Mexican pesos if needed.

Cancun International Airport operates a free shuttle service between terminals that runs every 10 minutes, making it convenient for transit passengers to move between Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 4.