Take Your Pets!

So many people have emailed me, worried about whether or not they can bring their pets to Mexico.

Bringing your pets, at least dogs and cats, into Mexico is pretty easy, if you just know how:

Assuming you take excellent care of your pet anyway, you just need to have your vet fill out the proper form – one that states your pet has had the required shots and is in good health.

I have more info on this in my book Retire In Luxury, such as contacting your vet well in advance to make sure he has the required forms to bring your pet along, etc.

Griff outside just looking around

Do you have any questions about pets? Just let me know. If you don’t see the comment field right after this pet article, click on read full article and let me know what you think.

Visa

Required :)…

…Sorta

Do you need a permit to live in Mexico?

When you drive or fly in, as a tourist, you are allowed to stay for a period up to  6 months – you fill out papers on the plane to secure the visa that allows that, and you will fill out similar papers if you drive in - Forma Migratoria Multiple, or FMM.

As of April 30, 2010, Passport holders from countries on Mexico’s “no visa required list” do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. They may, instead, use a visitor’s permit  – the Forma Migratoria Multiple, or FMM.

If you decide to stay longer…

… you have to leave Mexico, and then re-enter Mexico to secure another permit visa, permitting another stay.  It may be wise, in that case, to secure an FM3, (180 days to one year)  and maybe even eventually an FM2.  The FM3 is what we call a perpetual visitor.  That allows you to stay a year - then that can be renewed another year, for a 5-year period.  Then, you can reapply – again.  That’s what retirees usually secure.  The process may take a day – possibly even two, so, be prepared, and be patient – at least when applying the first time.

By the way – not to do with a permit, but, do something for yourself right now

Place a bottle of aspirin beside your bed table now.  WHY?  If you have chest pain that is sever enough to waken you, all you need to do is immediately chew two aspirins and then swallow them with a bit of water.  It could save your life.  Then, immediately get medical attention – call 911. And while you are waiting on the emergency people to come, DO NOT LIE DOWN.  Sit on a chair or sofa near the front door and wait for their arrival.

Permit and aspirin by Barbie.