Mexicali border crossing

We read a few posts about border crossing and watched a couple of YouTube videos of crossing with pets, but the reality was a bit different…

We tried to get to the border as earlier as possible. Woke up around seven o’clock, had a quick breakfast, packed up, and then drove to the border. We were at the Salton Sea recreation area, it took about an hour and fifteen minutes to get to Mexicali. A couple of tasks we wanted to finish on the US side: fuel up and money exchange. Found the cheapest diesel ever in California, then drove to the money exchange. Here was the first surprise of the day: almost 10 am and a huge line up to crossing, luckily google maps found a way around and quick money change in a strange window without commissions or any receipts. Now either merge in the waiting line to Mexicali West or drive to Mexicali East.

Most of the reviews mentioned that the east location is much easier for campers. When we got closer to crossing we stuck in line anyway too. It moved pretty fast, took us about 20 minutes to the bridge between US and Mexico. A little bit before the sign says: last US exit, nothing on the US side except a stand about the declaration and automatic drive-thru photoshoots.

Next Mexican side, signs say left lines if you have nothing to declare, right side if you need to declare anything above $10k. A sign a few feet away says motorhome to the right lane. We took the right lane and realized that all other RVs went to the left side and took the right lane on the left side. Ok, anyway there is no more way back.

We tried to explain to a nearby officer that we chose the wrong way, and at that moment we realized border officers mostly don’t speak English at all. They directed us to dedicated spots, I got out and tried to explain again. They “kinda” let me know it was ok and told me that they need to examine the vehicle. Asked to open rear doors, quickly looked up, then called a dog. Doggy really liked something in our under-bed trunk but definitely not in an illegal way. The officer had to pull the dog away, and after that another officer climbed the back ladder halfway up. That’s it, they completely lost interest in us and seemed like done.

I have to go after them to figure out what’s next. Since we almost don’t understand each other I tried to do my best in Spanish and asked for “officina migration”, they gave me directions with a finger to the building behind. Thanks to our preparation we know the documents to get from the border: an immigration form (FMM) first, then a vehicle importation permit (because we want to go to Mexico mainland from La Paz).

The immigration office was quite empty. Just a couple persons in line. Overall form could be filled and paid online but since we had no exact schedule it was easier for us to fill it out right there. Lady at the counter understood English very well but spoke a little. It was enough to get forms and have them filled out. Then payment, all the papers printed, and passports stamped. Do remember receipt is important and do not throw it away.

While waiting in line we saw a stand behind us about bringing pets to Mexico. A prior search online said all covid requirements are suspended and no special requirements are present anymore. We decided to check anyway, again all persons do not speak English. Couple minutes later they found English speaking person. She asked a couple of questions if our cats were vaccinated, quickly checked vaccination documents, and said we are good to go. Also mentioned that we don’t really need pet inspection only have them vaccinated up to date and have paper proof with us.

Last but not least Vehicle importation permit (TIP). The helpful lady said we have to go to the building behind the current. In the next building, which was customs, been told to go further back. Finally, we are in the right place. Just one person in front of us, a few minutes and we were next. The person behind the counter knew what he was doing, asked a few questions, then told us that we have to do a temporary deposit. I checked before for regular vehicles you have to pay a deposit but not for motorhome. Lucky me, we changed our registration to motorhome right before we left home.

And another good bonus to an RV permit will be good for 10 years, while regular only for your trip duration. The last page of the permit itemizes what you have inside your motorhome (such as a stove, tv, audio, etc). Permit signed and stapled.

After we were done with all papers we got back to the van. What’s next? Since there is no gate or any review person you just drive away into Mexico. Long story but very easy crossing, no issues just some language barriers. We should learn Spanish before the next border crossing 😉