Deep breath. Here's the answer.

Mexico's embassy in Australia says Australian passport holders are visa-exempt for visitor stays under 180 days. On arrival, the officer decides how long you can stay — up to 180 days, not guaranteed. Adults with ordinary chipped passports can usually use e-gates and get a QR record of their stay (not available in some cases, such as travelling with minors). Otherwise you get an FMM entry permit, which can be completed online before or on arrival; Smartraveller calls this arrival permission a visa. If entering by land, get an immigration stamp and pay any fee. Your passport must be valid for the whole stay.

Key facts

For Australian passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

You may need a visa if…

• The officer sets your permitted stay on entry — up to 180 days, not guaranteed.
• E-gates are for adults with ordinary chipped passports; not, for example, when travelling with minors.
• The FMM is an entry permit, separate from the visa exemption. Smartraveller describes arrival permission as a visa.
• If entering by land, get an immigration stamp and pay any fee.
• No work on a visitor entry.
• Ensure your passport is valid for your entire stay.
• Though not always strictly checked, having a return or onward ticket is advisable.
• Declare all items as required by customs regulations to avoid issues.
• Overstaying your permitted time can result in fines and future entry restrictions.
• If traveling for purposes other than tourism or short business, a visa will be required.
• Be aware of current health entry requirements which can change.

Before you travel

• ✓Ensure your passport is valid and has at least one blank page.
• ✓Book your flights and accommodation.
• ✓Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
• ✓Check current travel advisories for Mexico.
• ✓Make copies of your passport and other important documents.
• ✓Notify your bank of your travel plans.
• ✓Familiarize yourself with Mexican customs regulations.

Common questions