Visa Guide: How to Move from Mexico to the United States

Are you planning to move from Mexico to the U.S.? Navigating the visa process can feel overwhelming, but with the right information and guidance, you can take each step with confidence. In this guide, we’ll cover visa options, application steps, embassy details, and more.

At Law and Visas, we’re dedicated to helping Mexican families successfully immigrate to the U.S. Whether you’re applying for a family visa, fiancé visa, or a work visa, our services are tailored to make the process smooth and stress-free.

Find the Right Visa for Your Journey

Moving to the U.S. from Mexico starts with identifying the best visa for your specific needs. Below are some of the most popular visa categories for Mexican applicants:

K-1 Fiancé Visa

The K-1 visa allows a fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to travel to the United States for marriage. Here’s a breakdown of the K-1 visa process:

  1. File Form I-129F, “Petition for Alien Fiancé(e).”
  2. Attend a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City.
  3. If approved, you can enter the U.S. and must marry your U.S. citizen partner within 90 days.

For detailed timelines, costs, and requirements, explore our K-1 visa guide.

Marriage-Based Green Card

If you’re already married to a U.S. citizen or plan to marry soon, you may qualify for a marriage-based green card. The process varies depending on whether the Mexican spouse is living in Mexico or the U.S.

Key steps include:

  1. Submitting Form I-130, “Petition for Alien Relative.”
  2. Completing an interview at the U.S. Embassy or USCIS office.
  3. Receiving your green card after approval.

Costs and processing times depend on your specific circumstances. Contact Law and Visas to understand what applies to your case.

K-2 Visas: For Children of K-1 Visa Holders

If you have unmarried children under 21, they can be included in your K-1 application through the K-2 visa. This allows them to accompany you to the U.S.

IR-2 Child Visas

U.S. citizens can sponsor their children living in Mexico for permanent residency through the IR-2 visa. This is a great option for reuniting families

Employment Visa Options: TN Visas

Mexican professionals may qualify for a TN Visa, a non-immigrant work visa under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA). This visa is ideal for individuals in professions like engineering, teaching, or healthcare.

  • Duration: Up to three years, with renewal options.
  • Eligibility: Must have a job offer in a qualified profession and meet educational requirements.

Explore our TN visa guide to learn about qualifications, fees, and application tips.

Tourist Visas for Short-Term Visits

If your goal is short-term travel, the B-1/B-2 Tourist Visa is the best option. This visa allows Mexican citizens to visit the U.S. for business or leisure.

Key details include:

  • Duration: Typically valid for up to six months.
  • Eligibility: Proof of financial stability and intent to return to Mexico is required.

Need help applying for a tourist visa? Law and Visas can guide you through the process.

U.S. Embassy Information in Mexico

For Immigrant Visas

Immigrant visas are processed at the U.S. Consulate General in Ciudad Juarez:

  • Address: Paseo de la Victoria #3650, Fracc. Partido Senecu, Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico C.P. 32543
  • Process: Applicants must visit an Applicant Service Center (ASC) before their consular appointment.

For K-1 and Non-Immigrant Visas

K-1 and other non-immigrant visas are processed at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City:

  • Address: Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City, Mexico 06500

Ensure you schedule appointments and follow all instructions for document submission.

Document Requirements for Mexican Applicants

Mexican applicants must provide specific civil documents, such as:

  • Birth Certificates: Issued by the Civil Registry. Baptismal certificates are not accepted.
  • Marriage or Divorce Certificates: Issued by the Mexican government.
  • Travel Documents: Only Mexican passports or “Documento de Identidad y Viaje” are accepted.

Documents must meet U.S. immigration standards to avoid delays. Certified copies can be obtained from the Civil Registry Office.

Steps After Visa Approval

  1. Receive Your Visa Packet: Approved visas are delivered via DHL to the selected courier office.
  2. Port of Entry: You can enter the U.S. at any designated port of entry. If your visa has a medical annotation, you may need to follow special instructions.
  3. Adjustment of Status: K-1 visa holders can apply for a green card through USCIS after arriving in the U.S.

Financial Tips for New Immigrants

Moving to a new country means navigating a different financial system. Here are some tips:

  • Banking: Open a U.S. bank account to manage finances.
  • Credit: Start building credit by applying for a secured credit card.
  • Taxes: Understand your tax obligations as a new immigrant.
  • Health Insurance: Secure coverage to avoid high medical costs.

Check out our financial guide for more resources to help you settle in the U.S.

How Law and Visas Can Help

At Law and Visas, we simplify immigration for families and individuals moving from Mexico to the U.S. Here’s how we help:

  • Streamlined Applications: We turn complex government forms into simple, easy-to-understand questions.
  • Expert Support: Our team ensures your application is accurate and complete.
  • Family Integration: We include children in your visa application for no extra charge.

With over a decade of experience, we’ve helped thousands of families achieve their U.S. immigration dreams.

Start Your U.S. Immigration Journey Today

Whether you’re reuniting with family, pursuing a new job, or starting fresh, Law and Visas is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to begin your immigration process. Let’s make your American dream a reality!

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