Overview

• The Border Crossing Card functions under the B1/B2 category and is intended for short land or recreational-ferry trips by Mexican citizens into defined U.S. border zones.
• Entry decisions are made at the port of entry, and officials can deny admission even if the card is valid and unexpired.
• The card cannot be used alone for air or most maritime travel, which require a passport and an appropriate visa.
• Geographic limits apply by state—about 40 km in California and Texas, 120 km in Arizona, and 88 km or up to Interstate 10 in New Mexico—with typical stays capped at 30 days unless otherwise authorized.
• Holders are prohibited from working or studying, and overstays, out-of-zone travel, or unclear trip purposes can lead to denial, detention or return, and possible cancellation of the document.