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EmailBorder Crossing Card (BCC) Page
Background
Border Crossing Card Validity
Applying for a Border Crossing Card
Qualifying for a Border Crossing Card
Required Documentation
Border Crossing Card Fees
Border Crossing Card Issuance
Section 104 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRIRA) serves as the legal basis for the issuance of Border Crossing Cards (BCC).
The first generation of machine readable BCC's, known as “laser visas,” was produced from April 1, 1998, until September 30, 2008. The laminated, credit card-size document is both a BCC and a B1/B2 visitor’s visa. The cards are valid for travel until the expiration date on the front of the card, usually ten years after issuance.
October 1, 2008, marked the beginning of production of a second generation B1/B2 visa/BCC. The new card is similar in size to the old BCC, but contains enhanced graphics and technology.
- The new card is valid for ten years after issuance, except in the cases of some children (see Border Crossing Card Fees).
- “Laser visas” issued prior to October 1, 2008 are still valid for travel until the expiration date on the front of the card.
Applying for a Border Crossing Card
BCC applicants must make an application using the normal procedures set by consular sections in Mexico. Refer to the websites of the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico for details.
Qualifying for a Border Crossing Card
- B1/B2 visa/border crossing cards are only issued to applicants who are citizens of and resident in Mexico.
- Applicants must meet the eligibility standards for B1/B2 visas.
- They must demonstrate that they have ties to Mexico that would compel them to return after a temporary stay in the United States.
All applicants for a B1/B2 visa/Border Crossing Card must have a passport that is valid at the time of application
For current fees for Department of State services, select Fees.
Mexican children under 15 years of age pay a reduced fee for a Border Crossing Card. The child must have at least one parent who holds a valid BCC or is applying for a BCC. BCC's issued for the reduced fee expire on the child’s 15th birthday. If the full fee is paid, the child receives a BCC valid for the full ten years.
- BCC applicants at the consular sections in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Merida receive a B1/B2 visa/Border Crossing foil that is affixed in the applicant’s passport instead of a card.
- BCC applicants at all other Consulates receive the new Border Crossing Card.
