More than 38 million people of Mexican origin live in the United States, and many will need to renew their passports at some point. If you’re one of them, having a valid Mexican passport is essential for travel, legal ID, and consular services anywhere in the US.
The good news? Renewing a Mexican passport in the US is simpler than you think. That’s why we’ve created this Remitly guide to walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll show you who’s eligible, the documents you’ll need, how to renew an expired Mexican passport, and tips to make your experience as smooth as possible.
Who can renew a Mexican passport in the US?
You’re eligible to renew your Mexican passport at a Mexican consulate in the United States if:
- You’re a Mexican citizen and can prove it with documents like a citizenship certificate, a birth certificate, or a previous passport.
- Your passport is about to expire or has been expired for less than one year.
- Your passport has no blank pages left for immigration stamps.
Details to keep in mind:
- Your personal details have to match those on your previous passport. If your name, marital status, or other information has changed, you’ll have to provide official documents to verify the change.
- You cannot renew if your passport expired more than a year ago, or if it was lost, stolen, or badly damaged. In these cases, you’ll need to apply for a new passport.
- For minors under 18, your parents or legal guardians need to attend the appointment, fill out the consent form (OP-7), and provide your original birth certificate at the consulate.
Required documents for Mexican passport renewal
When you go to your appointment at a Mexican consulate in the US, make sure you bring the following documents:
- Current or expired Mexican passport
- Completed OP-5 application form (filled out in black ink)
- Original Mexican birth certificate (certified copy), citizenship certificate, or naturalization letter
- Valid photo ID, such as a Mexican driver’s license, national ID card, or military service card
- Valid proof of legal status in the US (such as a green card, visa, or work permit)
- Two recent passport photos (color, white background, no glasses)
- Proof of address in the US (utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement)
- Proof of fee payment
If you don’t have a certified copy of your birth certificate, be sure to order one online through Mexico’s civil registry or ask a family member back home to obtain it.
If you can’t find your immigration documents, request replacements from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For photos, use a professional service that knows the official passport requirements. The OP-5 form is available on your consulate website.
Only original or certified copies are acceptable. If any document is not in Spanish, you’ll need to provide a certified translation.
Step-by-step renewal process
Renewing your Mexican passport in the US involves two main parts: completing the online pre-application and attending your in-person appointment at a Mexican consulate. Here’s how to do it: Once you have your appointment scheduled, make sure to gather all required documents, such as your old passport and a recent photograph. For those also interested in renewing your Spanish passport steps, you will need to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for that process, as it may differ significantly from renewing a Mexican passport. Remember to allow ample time for processing to avoid any travel interruptions.
Part 1: Online pre-application
Step 1. Create an account:
- Go to https://citas.sre.gob.mx/
- Register with your email address
- Open the confirmation link sent to your inbox to activate your account
Step 2. Fill out the application form:
- Enter your personal information (full name, date and place of birth, current US address)
- Double-check details to make sure they match your official documents
Step 3. Select passport validity:
- Choose how long you want your passport to be valid (e.g., 3, 6, or 10 years)
- Fees vary depending on the option you select
Step 4. Print your confirmation:
- After submitting your information, you’ll receive a confirmation page with a folio number
- Print this document and bring it to your consulate appointment
Part 2: Booking and attending your appointment
Step 5. Schedule your appointment:
- Log in to the official website or call your local consulate during business hours
- Mexico has over 50 consulates across the United States, in major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, and New York. You can find the full list and their contact details here.
- Slots fill fast—aim to book your appointment two to three months before your passport expires
Step 6. Pay the fee:
- Fees depend on the validity period you selected
- Most consulates accept payment by money order, cashier’s check, or card
Step 7. Gather your documents:
- Bring all required originals and certified copies
- Missing paperwork is one of the main reasons for delays
Step 8. Attend your appointment:
Here’s what will happen:
- Document check: A consular officer reviews your pre-application, passport, birth certificate, proof of nationality, US immigration status, and proof of payment
- Biometric collection: Your photo, fingerprints, and digital signature are taken
- Final confirmation: You’ll get a receipt with details on when and how to pick up your new passport
Costs and payment methods
The fees to renew a passport at the consulate depend on the validity period you choose:
| Validity period | Cost (USD) |
| 1 year (for protection cases and children under 3) | $42 |
| 3 years | $99 |
| 6 years | $133 |
| 10 years | $203 |
Mexican consulates across the US accept different payment methods, so you’ll need to check the official website of the one you plan to visit for the latest information. For example, the consulate in Los Angeles accepts payment for passport renewal fees via debit or credit card (Visa and Mastercard), money order, or cash.
Processing times and expedited services
After your consulate appointment, the Mexican passport renewal process takes about four to six weeks. Processing times may depend on whether your documents are complete, the consulate’s current workload, and peak travel seasons.
If you need your passport faster, some consulates offer expedited or emergency services for an additional 30% fee in locations such as Chicago, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. Additionally, it’s important to check the specific fees associated with expedited services, as these can vary by location. When planning your trip, make sure to inquire about how much a passport costs, including the expedited service fee, to avoid any surprises. Remember to allow extra time for processing, especially if you’re applying close to your travel dates.
The service is available for verified emergencies, such as urgent travel, medical needs, or family situations. Each consulate may have different requirements for emergency requests, such as flight tickets or medical records to prove your situation.
Common issues and how to avoid them
Renewing your passport at a Mexican consulate in the US is usually straightforward, but small mistakes can cause big delays. Here’s what to watch out for:
Incomplete documentation
Missing documents cause the most delays. Gather all the documents needed for passport renewal before your appointment. Use a checklist and organize your documents in advance to avoid extra trips. If you’re unsure about anything, contact the consulate ahead of time to confirm.
Name or personal information changes
If you’ve changed your name (for marriage, divorce, or legal reasons), bring certified documents like a marriage certificate or court order. Check that each document matches your current legal information.
Address changes
Consulates will ask for your current US address. If you’ve recently changed address, bring a utility bill to confirm your residence and avoid mismatched records.
Review consulate-specific instructions
Each consulate may have slightly different procedures. Check your consulate’s website before your appointment for updated forms, accepted payment methods, and local instructions.
Helpful tips for a smooth renewal process
Following a few simple steps can make your Mexican passport renewal quick, easy, and stress-free:
Dress neatly for your photo
Wear solid-colored clothing and avoid hats, glasses, or heavy makeup unless needed for medical or religious reasons. A clean, natural look ensures your photo meets Mexican passport standards and reduces the risk of rejection.
Keep backup copies of your documents
Consulates will only accept originals or certified copies, but it’s smart to keep photocopies or digital scans of everything you submit. This way, you’ll always have a backup in case anything gets misplaced.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment. This gives you time for check-in, security, and any last-minute paperwork issues.
Prepare children for the appointment
Explain the process to minors and bring all required forms and photos. Familiarizing them with what to expect helps them stay calm and speeds up the appointment. Bring snacks or small distractions if the wait is longer than expected.
Update other documents after renewal
Once you receive your new passport, check all official records that use your passport information, such as visas or immigration documents. Keeping your information up-to-date prevents future travel or legal complications and ensures consistency across different agencies.
Renew your Mexican passport today
Renewing your Mexican passport in the US is straightforward when you follow the right steps. Gather all required documents, complete the online application, schedule and attend your consulate appointment, and pay the applicable fees.
Paying close attention to details like passport photos, proof of nationality, and updated personal information helps ensure a smooth process.
For children and minors, remember that both parents or guardians need to be present and bring the required documents. Start early to avoid last-minute complications and keep your renewed passport in a safe place.
FAQs
How long does passport renewal take?
Renewing a Mexican passport at a US consulate usually takes four to six weeks from the appointment date. Some consulates offer expedited or emergency services for urgent travel or medical needs, which can reduce the wait time.
Can I renew my passport if it’s expired?
Yes, you can renew an expired Mexican passport. However, if it’s expired for more than a year, you’ll likely need to apply for a new one. This means providing additional proof of nationality and identity, such as your birth certificate, voter ID, and filling out the OP-5 form.
Can I renew my Mexican passport online?
Not entirely. You can complete the pre-application form online to save time. But you have to attend a Mexican consulate in person to submit documents, provide biometrics, and finish the renewal process.
What should I do if my Mexican passport is lost or stolen?
A lost or stolen passport cannot be renewed. First, report it to the local police and bring the police report to the consulate. Then, complete a new passport application with all the required documents, since lost or stolen passports are treated like first-time applications.
Can children renew their passports automatically?
Children under 18 cannot automatically renew their passports. Their applications are treated as new because their appearance and personal details change as they grow. Both parents or legal guardians need to be present to give consent and provide the child’s birth certificate and proof of nationality.