Travel

Travel Note

Apply for "GLOBAL ENTRY" to minimize BORDER CROSSING time!

Global Entry is not required to get to cross back into the US, but it will significantly reduce your crossing time back to the USA when driving a personal vehicle. It could be the difference between 15 minutes with Global Entry/SENTRY versus 4 hours without. The online application costs $120 and covers your quick international reentry to the USA for 5 years. The application process is covered by AMEX Platinum, Chase Sapphire, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite credit card, or maybe other credit cards. Processing time is currently minimal, so it's a great time to apply! See below for the 3 step process: - Step 1: Online application. Once that is approved, you will be prompted to move onto… - Step 2: Schedule an interview with US border personnel at any major airport through the online portal. The interview is 5 mins, but the appointment times can be very impacted, so it’s recommend applying sooner rather than later. If you have international travel before the wedding, you can do your interview on the spot when arriving at the USA international airport. Before crossing through customs, ask airport personnel where to go for the quick on the spot interview. Once you receive your card in the mail, you will move onto… - Step 3: Login to your online portal and click the ACTIVATE button in your Global Entry portal to validate the card. You must do this otherwise the card is useless when you cross back into the USA and they will send you back into the long commoner’s line. If you manage to get Global Entry, your card should be the only thing required to cross to and from Mexico if you’re traveling by car, but bring your passport in case. If you’re flying you’ll need your passport. If you don’t end up getting Global Entry, you’ll need your passport to cross and be prepared to wait in the regular crossing lines which average between 2-4 hours on a Sunday. Click on "VIEW" button below for the website.

Travel Note

What to Know for Cross Border Transit

Transit Experience by car from USA -> Mexico: - For US Citizens: This is usually fast, ~20 minutes of waiting or none, depending on traffic. No stopping for passport stamps is necessary. - For non-US citizens: You will need to get dropped off at the border (at the California side), walk into the immigration building, and get your passports stamped by Mexican Immigration Officers. You will then get back in your vehicle / shuttle, and continue on your journey. Transit Experience by car from Mexico -> USA For Global Entry/SENTRY holders: Navigate to the Global Entry/SENTRY line for a quick return back to California. You MUST show your Global Entry/SENTRY card to the USA Immigration Officer to cross. If someone in the car fails to have a valid Global Entry/SENTRY card, everyone in the vehicle will be sent for secondary inspection (this could take a while, so not recommended). For non-Global/SENTRY holders: Be prepared to wait between 2-4 hours. You can check border cross times at the "VIEW" Button below. For US AND non-US citizens DRIVING from California to Mexico and FLYING out of Mexico: You MUST get your passport stamped by Mexican Immigration officials upon entering Mexico.

Travel Note

Document checklist / What to bring to Mexico!

- Your valid passport - A second form of ID - Your valid Global Entry or SENTRY card (if you have it) - Optional but recommended: Some Mexican pesos (most establishments accept credit card, but taxis, smaller taquerias and some businesses only accept cash)