Since last Friday, pedestrians crossing the border between the United States and Mexico at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, specifically at the “East Gate,” have reported a new measure implemented by Mexico's National Institute of Migration (INM). According to user testimonies, immigration authorities have begun charging the Tourist Entry Fee (DNR) without prior notice to foreign visitors, primarily U.S. citizens entering Mexico for tourism purposes.

This fee, established under the Federal Law on Rights and the Migration Law, requires a payment of 717.14 pesos for foreigners who do not engage in paid activities during their stay in Mexico. The sudden enforcement of this measure caught travelers by surprise, with reports indicating that INM has set up checkpoints to divert visitors to specific modules where they are questioned about the purpose of their visit. Those able to prove Mexican residency are allowed to pass without issue.

The DNR is a mandatory contribution for foreigners entering Mexico for tourism, business, or other non-remunerative purposes. This measure applies to individuals entering the country via land, air, or sea. According to the 2020 “Guía Paisano,” the DNR fee was 575 pesos at that time, and for 2023, the amount was set at 717.14 pesos.

There are certain exemptions from this fee, such as for those staying in Mexico for less than seven days if entering by land, children under two years old, diplomats, and others.

The DNR can be paid through various methods, including by obtaining and paying for the Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) online through the INM’s website, electronically, or at bank branches and Banjercito modules. In some cases, such as air travel, the DNR fee is included in the price of the airline ticket.

For those entering by land, the payment must be made before presenting their passport and FMM at immigration modules to receive the stamp validating their legal entry into the country. It is recommended that travelers carry a printed receipt of the payment made online or at a bank.

Some users who crossed at San Ysidro this past weekend noted that the measure is only being enforced on foreign visitors, while Mexican residents are not subjected to the new checkpoints. Although this measure is supported by law, the lack of formal announcement by the INM has caused confusion and long lines at the border crossing.

Here you can see its version in Spanish: El DNR, impuesto a extranjeros que ya cobran en garitas de San Ysidro

At present, the INM has not issued an official statement to clarify the details or the reasoning behind the sudden implementation of this fee. However, the enforcement of this immigration charge appears to be in line with the regulations established by the Migration Law and the Federal Law on Rights.