Mexico has increased the entry fee, known as DNI (Derecho de No Inmigrante), charged to tourists and transit travellers of all nationalities, including Belizeans, from $262 pesos to $294 pesos (approximately BZ $45).

All foreign nationals who enter Mexico by air, road or sea, must pay the DNI entry fee to the Mexican Government.

These include tourists staying in Mexico more than 7 (seven) consecutive days; transit travellers with destination to a third country regardless of the time needed for their transit, and those who enter Subteniente Lopez, Chetumal, by road and whose purpose is to board a flight in Cancun to travel to another country, as well as those arriving inCancun with Belize as their destination. and holders of the FMVLborder card, (Forma Migratoria de Visitante Local), who overstay the three days quota they are allowed under FMVL status. This fee is payable in addition to sanctions for overstaying.

FMVL holders are reminded they may stay in Quintana Roo for no more than three consecutive days.

Travel agencies and airlines do not receive the DNI payment anymore. The tax must be paid in Mexican pesos, so it would be advisable to pay in advance of one's departure at any bank in Mexico during working hours.

If travelling through the Subteniente Lopez border (Chetumal), the entry fee can be paid at the bank "Banjercito" located at the Mexican Customs compound during working hours.

Tourists visiting Mexico for less than seven days and FMVL border card holders staying less than 3 days are exempted from this tax as well as FM3 and FM2 holders.

For more information, please contact the Mexican Embassy's Consular Section at tel. 223-0193 or 223-0194, Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm or write to [email protected].

The Reporter