Boat Permit, Fishing License and Fees for Mexico

How to get your boat into Mexico. Boat Permit, Fishing License and Fees for Mexico. Learn what you need to do. (If there is more updated information about Boat Permit, Fishing Licenses please write us.)

Everyone onboard must have a FMM. You must have original vessel documentation for proof of ownership, obtaining a temporary import permit (TIP) and displaying the decal, as well having your boat’s hull identification number (HIN) where inspectors can see it. This is especially important if you plan to leave your boat in Mexico while returning stateside. In 2013, Mexican authorities seized dozens of U.S.-flagged boats that didn’t have the permit decal and/or the HIN visible.

For Mexican Sportfishing Regulations go here

Documents Required

1. Temporary Import Permit (TIP)

Apply for a TIP at one of 10 Mexican consulate offices in the U.S. You can also apply and pay for the TIP online through its Banjercito website. The site is in Spanish, but you can switch to English by clicking the option in the upper right corner. The cost is around US$51 plus tax.

• You may request your permit 11 to 60 days prior to entering Mexico by vehicle.
• Once the payment has been accepted, we will send the permit to your address within 11 business days.
• The boat must be greater than 4.5m (14.7 ft) in length.
• If you are a foreign citizen, you should approach a Mexican immigration officer in order to obtain the form, which grants you permission to enter Mexican territory.
• Should any of the information you provide during the application process be found to be false, you may be subject to sanctions imposed by the Mexican authorities.
• Banjercito reserves the right to deny any request for a permit should any violation of current law be found.
• The person applying must always be an adult, (18 years old or more) in accordance with Mexican law.
• The credit card that is used to make the payment for the Temporary Import Permit, must be in the name of the person who is applying
• Application form

2. Everyone on board will also need an FMM visitor card (formerly called a tourist visa). Go here

3. Vessels also must complete an International Clear-In Document on arrival. A fee of about US$15 is required for each person aboard and must be paid by credit card. The fee can be prepaid online through the Mexican government’s Banjercito website.

4. Mexican fishing license. If there is fishing gear on board every person on board must obtain a whether or not they’re fishing. Go to sportfishinginmexico.com to find out more and apply for a license. Prices vary.

In addition to proper documentation, boating in Mexico requires three types of insurance: hull coverage, liability coverage, and automobile liability coverage, if you’re trailering your boat on land. The wrinkle is that a Mexican insurance provider — outside of your normal insurance policy — must issue liability coverage for boat and trailer. Restrictions may apply for storm seasons, destination, and length of stay.
Go here for Marine Insurance quotes