CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES MATAMOROS, MEXICO

Frequently Asked Questions for the American Citizen Services Section

1.) What do I need to apply for a U.S. passport?

You may review the passport application requirements within the Consulate General’s website at http://matamoros.usconsulate.gov/ and also the Department's website at http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html.

2.) How do I obtain U.S. citizenship?

Look at the list of requirements for applicants less and older than 18 years of age contained within this website: http://matamoros.usconsulate.gov/.

3.) Does the U.S. allow you to be a dual national?

Yes, as long as you comply with certain requirements.  For more information about services for dual nationals please visit the Department’s website at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cic_pa_tw/cis/cis_1753.html.

4.) Can I file an immigrant petition with this Consulate?

The Consulate General in Matamoros does not accept Immigrant Visa petitions.  For Immigrant Visa petition information you may dial the following number:  1-800-375-5283 if dialing from the U.S. and 001-880-375-5283 dialing from Mexico.  For further information regarding the Immigrant Visa process you may visit the Department’s website at http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/info/info_1339.html.

5.) Can I register to vote at the Consulate?

Yes, you may register to vote at this Consulate.  For more information on registering to vote please visit the Department’s website at http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/living/overseas_voting/overseas_voting_4754.html.

6.) If I am a U.S. citizen traveling or living in Mexico, do I need to register with the Consulate?

We encourage any U.S. citizen traveling or living in Mexico to register through the department’s website at http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/tips/registration/registration_4789.html.

7.) What do I do if I have been robbed in Mexico?

File a report to the proper authority, such as Local Police, State Police or Federal Police.

8.) What do I do if my car is stolen in Mexico?

File a report to the Federal Police (PGR), in the place where the incident occurred.

9.) Do I need to declare my goods with Mexican Customs?

Yes, according to the Customs Law any person entering to Mexico is required to declare their goods and pay taxes if they exceed the exemption.  For more information visit the Mexican Customs webpage: http://www.aduanas.sat.gob.mx/aduana_mexico/2008/tramites/140_13829.html.

10.) What do I do if I am arrested in Mexico?

The Consulate General encourages U.S. citizens arrested abroad to inform the authorities that they are US Citizens and ask them to inform the Consulate/Embassy.

11.) Can the Consulate help me return to the United States?

The Consulate General assists in the repatriation of U.S. citizens by providing a variety of services.  For further information you may visit the Department’s Mexico Country Specific Information Sheet at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_970.html.