Pre-registration allows you to begin the permit process online and then you will simply pick up your permit at any Banjercito Module at the border. Be sure to take note of your confirmation number and the necessary documents you will need to present. Applying and paying online on the other hand, allows the added convenience of having the permit mailed to you if there is enough time.
The cost of your temporary import permit is currently U.S. $51.75 including IVA if purchased at a border consulate or Banjercito office or U.S. $49.50 if purchased online. This will be applied in Mexican pesos at the current exchange rate.
Unlike other vehicle import permits that are valid up to 6 months, RV and Motorhome permits are valid up to 10 years.
At the current time, only citizens of the US or Canada may apply online for a temporary import permit for their RV or motorhome. Citizens from other countries may pre-register their vehicles online but they will still need to visit a border Banjercito office to present their original documents plus one copy of each.
No matter which way you decide to apply for your permit, you will need to have in your possession ORIGINAL copies of several required documents. The documents you need differ based upon your nationality, visa status, and whether or not you are the owner of the vehicle, but below are general guidelines. Check the Banjercito website for more information.
If you are not the owner and the motorhome is property of your family, you will need a document that proves your relationship to the owner, i.e. a marriage certificate or birth certificate. If the motorhome is owned by a company, bring a document that states you are an employee of the company.
If applying by internet, you may use your credit card to make your payment. It is important to note that many debit cards will not accept charges made online so make sure that you have the appropriate VISA, American Express or Mastercard logo on your card before attempting to purchase using a debit transaction. Please note that if purchasing your permit online, the credit card used MUST be issued to the importer's name. Your card must also be issued in a country outside of Mexico and valid internationally.
You may request your temporary import permit up to 6 months (180 days) in advance of the time you plan to travel.
It is strongly recommended that you plan your trip in advance and apply for your permit no less than 10 days before you plan to leave. During holidays and other busy times of the year, it is recommended to plan further in advance and allow 2-3 weeks for your permit to arrive.
No problem...you can always stop at one of the Banjercito offices located at the border when entering Mexico and apply for your permit in person.
Check your permit very carefully to make sure that all information is correct. Make sure to verify that the VIN number on your permit is a perfect match with the number that appears upon your vehicle sticker and your original documents. Should the VIN be entered incorrectly or missing digits, your motor home could be mistaken for another. Discrepancies in the information may cause problems and delays.
Yes. You will need to bring along all of your original documents and the original permit when traveling in Mexico. Your vehicle may be inspected by Mexican authorities at any time during your stay and you will need to present all original documentation at that that time.
RV temporary import permits are granted for motorhomes or fully converted vans. Pick-up trucks with slide in campers are not eligible for 10 year permits.
Motorhomes are allowed to tow a second vehicle. The second (towed) vehicle is eligible for a 6 month temporary import permit. One driver may now use their valid U.S. drivers license, credit card with Visa/AMEX/Mastercard logo and original citizenship documentation to bond both vehicles (RV and towed vehicle) at the same time.
Before crossing back into the U.S., you must take your motorhome or RV to the nearest Banjercito Module for your permit to be canceled and the sticker removed from your vehicle. They will issue a return certificate to you.
Banjercito will request that you return to the border to cancel the permit. It is best to return the permit so that you do not run into future problems with this or other vehicles you may wish to drive to Mexico.
No. It is essential that the Banjercito or border agent remove the sticker at the same time that they check your VIN and take photos of your VIN plate.
The above information is courtesy of Banjercito - Banco Nacional del Ejército, Fuerza Aérea y Armada.