To enter the United States, a Mexican passport, B1/B2 visa, or Real ID is required at the Mexico-U.S. border. However, the U.S. Department of State issues a Border Crossing Card, or Laser Visa, which makes it easier for Mexican citizens to enter the country. On the other hand, keep in mind that for longer stays, you will need Form I-94. Read on to learn more about it.
Mechanisms for entering the United States
Foreigners typically use visas, passports, or Real IDs as the most common mechanisms for entering the United States. However, there is a legal document used by one country that could facilitate border crossings. What is it?
One of these mechanisms is the Border Crossing Card (BCC), also known as a “laser visa.” This document allows citizens to enter the United States by land or sea without the need for a traditional visa. The BCC functions as a B1/B2 visa when presented with a valid Mexican passport.
Although the BCC facilitates border crossing, it does not replace a passport or Real ID for flights within the United States. To board domestic flights, travelers must present valid identification that meets Real ID requirements. As of May 7 of this year, it will be mandatory to have a Real ID document to fly within the United States or access federal facilities.
What is a Border Crossing Card (BCC)?
The Border Crossing Card (BCC) is a document issued by the U.S. Department of State that allows citizens to enter the United States by land or sea without a traditional visa. It is valid for up to 10 years and functions as a B1/B2 visa when presented with a valid Mexican passport.
To obtain a BCC, applicants must be Mexican citizens residing in Mexico, demonstrate strong ties to their home country, and meet the requirements for a B1/B2 visa. The process includes completing Form DS-160, attending a consular interview, and submitting supporting documents. The BCC allows stays of up to 30 days in specific border areas without the need for Form I-94.
Use and limitations of the BCC
The BCC allows entry into the United States by land or sea without the need for a traditional visa. However, its use is limited to stays of up to 30 days in certain border areas. To travel beyond these areas or stay longer, it is necessary to apply for Form I-94 and comply with the corresponding procedures.
It is important to note that the BCC does not replace a passport or Real ID for domestic flights. To board flights within the United States, travelers must present valid identification that meets Real ID requirements. As of May 7, 2025, it will be mandatory to have a REAL ID document to fly within the United States or access federal facilities.
How to Obtain a Border Crossing Card?
For Citizens of Mexico:
A Form DSP-150 is both a Border Crossing Card and a B1/B2 visitor visa, but a DSP-150 is generally called a Border Crossing Card (“BCC”). It is issued as a laminated card, which has enhanced graphics and technology, similar to the size of a credit card. It is valid for travel until the expiration date on the front of the card, usually ten years after issuance.
Qualifying for a Border Crossing Card
- BCCs are only issued to applicants who are citizens of and resident in Mexico.
- Applicants must meet the eligibility standards for B1 and/or B2 visas and plan to stay in the U.S. no more than six months.
- They must demonstrate that they have ties to Mexico that would compel them to return after a temporary stay in the United States.
