Immigration Changes?

[Kami]

Originally Posted by Babaloo

having the FM3 stamped at the airport is NOT the authorization required for an FM3 acquired in the States.
The stamping at the airport is for ALL FM3s...just procedure but it's not the required authorization

maybe we are talking about two different things...This is what I read on the dallas consulate site:

1. FM3 VISA is a 365 days multiple entry visa for non immigrant –rentista (retired/pensioner). Applies to working FM3 also.

2. All visas must be used within 3 months from the date of issuance. Upon arrival to Mexican territory. This is the part where you "activate it at entry into the airport or border"
3. FM3 holders should register within 30 days at “National Institute for Foreigners”, in Immigration Office of the city where residence is to be established. This is where you actually have to go to a physical immigration office such as the one in Playa

4. Thereafter and before expiration, FM3 visas should be renewed or extended at same office of the city where residence is to be established.

5. Extensions are not granted outside México

This is what I've been through...hopefully mine is valid and I don't have any suprises when I get back to Mexico!!

Now, I've read many sites that say the the US Consulates and the Mexico Consulates sometimes work on different rules
Best bet would be to contact the Consulate in Playa directly to make sure everything is in compliance.

[John]

Originally Posted by Kami

3. FM3 holders should register within 30 days at “National Institute for Foreigners”, in Immigration Office of the city where residence is to be established. This is where you actually have to go to a physical immigration office such as the one in Playa

This is the authorization I was referring to earlier. They will stamp your FM3 upon entry to Mexico, but it is NOT considered valid until it is officially registered here. That means, if you try to use it after the 30 day grace period without it being properly registered, they can (read that as they will just to be on the safe side) confiscate your FM3.

[Solomon]

Originally Posted by John

That means, if you try to use it after the 30 day grace period without it being properly registered, they can (read that as they will just to be on the safe side) confiscate your FM3.

There is probably a fine that can be paid to avoid that.