One of the most frequently visited nations in the world, whether for leisure, business, or other reasons, is the United States. Canadians and Mexicans, its original neighbors, are its most frequent tourists. The US immigration officials have set up specific entrance permits and cards in order to make it easier for residents of these two nations to enter and keep track of them.

The US Department of State first issued the Border Crossing Card (BCC) to Mexican nationals in May 1998. This article will teach you all you need to know about BCCs, including who needs them, what they’re used for, and how to get them.

A Border Crossing Card is a piece of identification that Mexican nationals need to enter the US. The BCC, also referred to as a DSP-150, is the Mexican equivalent of a B1/B2 visitor’s visa. It comes in the shape of a card and has improved visuals and technology.

A BCC enables the holder to enter the US legally for purposes such as travel, commerce, or shopping. However, it forbids them from working or remaining for longer than three days (72 hours).

Additionally, those who own it are only permitted to go 25 miles into California and Texas. In contrast, in New Mexico you can go up to 75 miles into Arizona and up to 55 miles from the border.

You can, however, continue and stay longer if you so choose. You merely need to request an I-94 form, which will allow you to stay in any state for the predetermined amount of time.

With a BCC, you can enter the US from Mexico via land, a cruise ship, or a ferry.

Who can submit a Border Crossing Card application?

An individual must fulfill a number of requirements in order to be qualified to apply for a Border Crossing Card. These requirements are as follows:

-The candidate must be a resident of Mexico and be a citizen of Mexico.

-The applicant must meet all requirements for B1/B2 visas, including: -The applicant must provide convincing evidence that they have no intention of staying in the US after their visit and must return to Mexico. They must own sufficient funds to support their stay in the US

-Possess a letter from the authorities confirming that they have no        prior convictions or a criminal record.

Application for Border Crossing Card: Steps

A BCC can be applied for in the same way as a B1 business visa or a B2 tourist visa. You must gather the necessary paperwork, including the Form DS-160.

In addition, you will be required to pay the $160.00 BCC cost, just like you would for a visitor’s visa. While Mexican nationals under the age of 15 must pay $17.00 for a Border Crossing Card (BCC) if their parent or legal guardian already has one or is seeking for one.

You must show the consular official the receipt proving payment of the fee during the interview, therefore keep it safe.

Fees for Border Crossing Cards

Right now, getting a non-immigrant visa costs the same as getting a Border Crossing Card. The cost for non-immigrant visas and border crossing visas is presently $160, according to the Department of State website.