En esta noticia
The U.S. visa and passport are essential documents for traveling to the United States as a tourist, and are part of the list of mandatory requirements that the authorities will generally request in order to authorize the trip.
However, Mexicans who can obtain Form DSP-150 will be able to apply for an alternative document to enter certain areas of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California without presenting either a traditional visa or passport.
Form DSP-150: how it is used to enter without a traditional visa or passport and when more documents are needed
The Border Crossing Card (BCC) can be used to visit the country by sea or by land for 30 days without a passport or visa.
The geographic limit it covers is known as the “border zone” and when it is used as an independent document it only allows short visits; for longer stays it must be presented with a passport. In this last case it can be used to enter by any route.
“It is issued as a plasticized card, with improved graphics and technology, similar in size to a credit card”, states the Department of State.
Requirements to complete Form DSP-150
To obtain this document, it is essential that the following three requirements are met
- Be Mexican and reside in Mexico.
- Meet the eligibility standards for the B1 or B2 visa.
- Demonstrate strong ties to Mexico that are considered sufficient reasons to return.
The process is carried out at the United States Embassy in Mexico or at the nearest consulate.
Border zone: how it is geographically defined for those who present the document independently
Independently and only for tourism, business -unpaid- or family visits, it is permitted to visit
- California: less than 40 km from the border
- Arizona: less than 120 km from the border
- New Mexico: within 88 km of the border or up to Interstate 10, whichever is farther north
- Texas: less than 40 km from the border
The BCC is valid for 10 years after its issue date.