In addition to a US visa and passport, there is one document with which Mexicans can visit the United States: the Border Crossing Card; however, there is a reason why their regular entry into the country could be affected.
According to Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Mexicans who present the “laser visa” outside of authorized border zones will not be allowed to enter the country, as the documentation would not be sufficient.
The Border Crossing Card, or BCC, serves to verify the identity of a Mexican citizen. It is valid for 10 years from the date it is issued. It is laminated, has graphics, and indicates the expiration date on the front.
This document allows Mexican citizens to visit the United States and remain in authorized border zones for a maximum period of 30 days.
These are the requirements for applying for a laser visa.
According to the United States Bureau of Consular Affairs, to obtain this document and legally enter the US, you must have the following documents:
- Meet the eligibility criteria for a B1 and/or B2 visa.
- The traveler cannot stay for more than 6 months.
- Must demonstrate ties to Mexico that guarantee return after the temporary visit.
- Have a valid Mexican passport.
- Cover the $435 fee for the new Visa Integrity Fee.
Minors under 15 years of age will pay a reduced fee to obtain a BCC, which expires upon turning 15. However, if the full fee is paid, it will be valid for 10 years.
In what cases is a laser visa not valid for entry to the United States?
If a Mexican citizen wishes to enter the US by air, they will not be able to do so with a Border Crossing Card. In these cases, it is essential to present a passport and a US visa, in addition to the BCC.
According to immigration authorities, only Mexican diplomats, as well as their family members, with diplomatic or official passports who are not permanently assigned to the United States, may enter without a US visa or the BCC for a maximum of 6 months.
With the laser visa, visitors may also not visit other places outside the authorized border zones; in those where they are permitted, they may only stay for 30 days.
What distances can I travel with a laser visa in the US?
Mexicans are entitled to visit several US states as long as they do not exceed the distance authorized by immigration authorities:
Arizona: up to 120 km from the border.
California: up to 40.22 km from the border.
New Mexico: up to 88.55 km from the border or up to Interstate 10.
Texas: up to 40.2222 km from the border.
In these cases, the BCC functions as a B visa; however, if questions arise about the purpose of travel, CBP officers may refer travelers to a review process.
If you wish to visit other parts of the United States regularly and through all land, air, and sea ports of entry, a passport and a B1/B2 tourist visa, or a passport and the BCC are required.
Source: VIVE USA
