Minors travelling: documents in Mexico (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: A minor travelling with one or both parents does not need the SAM exit permit. A Mexican minor, or a foreign minor with temporary or permanent residence, travelling alone or with an adult who is not a parent or guardian needs the INM SAM form.

RuleWhat applies
Child needs own passport or ID cardChild travelling across a border⚠ Not yet verified
Consent when travelling with one parentChild travelling across a borderNot required [1]
Consent when travelling without parentsChild travelling across a borderOfficial authorisation required [1]
Official consent form or declarationChild travelling across a borderYes [2]

Notes

  • The official pages read did not state a general passport rule for minors. The SAM requires a copy of the minor's passport.
  • Applies to travel with one or both parents or with a person holding legal custody. The SAM pages do not say whether the other parent's consent is needed.
  • Applies to Mexican minors, including dual nationals, and foreign minors with temporary or permanent resident status. Foreign minors in tourist status are not asked for the SAM or any other authorisation. A notarised letter or a judicial document is mentioned as an alternative.
  • One form per minor and per departure, filled in by the person with parental authority, free of charge, valid for six months (180 days according to the INM FAQ) and for one use.

Sources

  1. Secretaría de Gobernación: Formato SAM para niñas, niños y adolescentes que viajen al extranjero (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Instituto Nacional de Migración: Preguntas y respuestas relativo al Formato de salida de menores (SAM) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.