Travel to the US without a visa: what is the Border Crossing Card and how to obtain it
If you have plans to travel to the United States and do not have an American visa, the Border Crossing Card or laser visa is an alternative to enter legally and safely.
Although the American visa is the most common way to enter the United States, it is not the only option. If you are Mexican and need to travel to the country for business or tourism and you do not have this document, there is an alternative: the Border Crossing Card or laser visa. What it is about and how to process this document that allows you to travel to the US without a visa.
Travel to the US without a visa: what is the Border Crossing Card
The Border Crossing Card or laser visa is an official document issued by the United States government to Mexican citizens who frequently cross the border with the United States. This card works as a kind of crossing permit for a limited distance and for a maximum of one month, and also serves as official identification.
Who can get the Border Crossing Card?
The Border Crossing Card can only be granted to citizens of Mexico who have processed their American visa with their Mexican passport. This card can be used to enter the United States by land or by air (as long as you have a passport).
The Border Crossing Card was created as part of the Visa Waiver Program (VEP) in 1998, and is valid for 10 years.
What is the limit to travel to the United States with a Border Crossing Card
The Border Crossing Card can only be used for limited distances and only for border ports of entry. In addition, only a maximum stay of 30 days is allowed in the United States.
The limit varies depending on the location:
- Texas and California: 25 miles.
- New Mexico: 55 miles.
- Arizona: 75 miles.
It should be noted that during the stay in the United States with the laser visa you cannot carry out work or charge for any service.
How to apply for a Border Crossing Card?
To request a Border Crossing Card or laser visa, you must have a valid Mexican passport with no less than six months validity. In addition, it must be demonstrated that the reason for the visit to the United States is for leisure plans or not to work
You must also demonstrate that you have enough money to make the trip and guarantee that you will not visit the United States for more than 30 days in a row.
The steps to apply for a Border Crossing Card are as follows:
Fill out the DS-160 form.
Pay the American visa application.
Schedule an appointment to take biometric data.
Conduct an interview at the US Embassy in Mexico.
