Mexico/FM3

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Expert: Dale Gress - 6/20/2009


Question
Hi Dale, I have two questions about FM3. 1. If I am late in renewing; (say a month) do I have a difficult time getting across the border? and 2. The consulate will only give me 6 months for my car because of my FM3 renewal date. After I renew my FM3, do I have an extension for my car even though the paperwork does not say it?  Thanx

Answer
Greg:

I had a similar problem a few years ago.  Technically you have thirty days to renew.  There may be a late charge but nothing serious.  My problem was with the particular person who was checking me in at the checkpoint.  The official was a real jerk and wanted to fine me.  I think he wanted a bribe.  I asked for his supervisor and was allowed to enter with a short term visa for me and the car.  Once I renewed my FM3 thecar and myself were free to stay as long as I liked.  The immigration office pasted a copy of the rules regarding the 30 day period.  When I renewed my FM3 last year I was not given the rule so I cannot quote the law for you.
Hopefully you will get in without any problem.

Good luck
Cale

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Dale Gress

Expertise

I am familiar with Puerto Vallarta-activities-art-locations of cyber cafes -churches- tile & glass factories. I have travelled by bus to Guadalara on several occassions and enjoy the market at Tonalah. I have also visited Lake Chapala (it snowed when I was there in Dec. 1997-left for the beach and the sun). This year I will travel to Morelia. I have also been to Puerto Escondido and Mexico City. I am familiar with purchasing property in the restricted zone and the use of bank trusts and Notarios. I love Mexico and it`s people. We recently sold our condo in Vallarta and we are in the process of purchasing one in Manzanillo, Colima. We have visited Mata Ortiz, Zacatecas, Guanajuato Morelia

Experience

I have been to Puerto Vallarta over 20 times and recently purchased a condo near the port. In January 2000, I drove my 1984 Volkswagen Van from Yakima Wa. to PVR. I have been studying Spanish for 3 years and I am getting better all the time. We have sold the condo in Vallarta and are moving to Manzanillo, Colima.

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