Essential Tips for Crossing the Border from Belize to Chetumal, Mexico: What You Need to Know
I heard so many horror stories about crossing the border from Belize into Chetumal, Mexico and there was SO much varying information that I wasn’t sure what to believe or what to expect.
I have flown into Mexico numerous times over the past several years and have always had a seamless and pleasant enough entry experience but will attest that crossing by land, especially from Belize, is a very different experience.
Here is everything you need to know and expect when crossing the border from Belize in to Chetumal, Mexico (as of April 2025).
🛂What Do I Need to Cross the Border?
For US, CAD, UK, EU Citizens (be sure to check official sites prior to entry yo any country)
To Exit Belize:
You will need your passport and to complete a short departure form with your passport, DOB, duration of stayy, etc which will be turned in to the immigration officer.
To Enter Mexico:
Valid Passport
FMM (Tourist Card):
You need to complete the FMM form, which is an entry immigration form.
You can complete the form online before your arrival and print it, or obtain it at the immigration office located at the border.
The FMM is required for all tourists who enter Mexico.
You can find the FMM form online at https://www.inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/en/solicitud.html.
The FMM is free
💰What are the Fees to Cross the Border from Belize to Mexico?
The total cost to cross from Belize to Chetumal is $62.00(USD) if staying in Mexico for more than 7 days.
If staying 7 days of less, the total cost if $20.00.
There is a mandatory border fee, which includes a border development fee, a conservation fee, and a border exit fee, LEAVING Belize of 40 Belizean dollars ($20 USD) this can be paid in cash in Belizean or USD dollars, or via Visa or Mastercard. This fee applies to anyone leaving Belize, even if you are just transiting through.
All of my research about this fee stated it had to be paid in cash, but they will take credit cards, so there is no need to pay outrageous ATM fees for $20… like I did.
If you are staying in Mexico for more than 7 days, there is a mandatory fee of 861mxn ($42USD) this can be paid in USD, MXN, or by credit card.
Many blogs and articles will state this fee is a “scam” and some even suggest refusing to pay it, however; if you do not pay it, you will be limited to a 7 day tourist visa and the overstay fees will be much higher than paying the entry fee.
📆How Long Can I Stay in Mexico?
Regardless of nationality, the duration of the visa given is for the exact number of days you intend to stay in Mexico. You will be asked your intended exit date, or number of days you will stay in Mexico by the immigration officer.
This is written on the paperwork you are given and entered electronically (do NOT try to change it).
⭐TRIPLE check the number of days is correct… mine was not and was short by 2 days.
Keep the documents you are given - these need to be presented upon departure from Mexico.
🚐 If you are traveling by bus or shuttle
You will take your luggage with you, go through the immigration process, exit, walk through another building where your luggage will go through a metal detector (extra screening is possible) then board a new shuttle to your destination in Mexico
The process of entering Mexico through Chetumal can be tedious, and frankly annoying, but being prepared and knowing what to expect can help make the process easier and less stressful.
For more information on entering Mexico as a tourist, visit the official “External Relations” website here.
