We love how Global Entry and TSA Pre-Check save us a ton of time at the airport when we’re in the US. However, when we fly internationally, we still have to wait in lines for customs. If you travel to Mexico frequently, you should sign up for the Mexican version of Global Entry so you can skip those lines as well!
In This Post
What is the Viajero Confiable program?
It is described on the Mexican immigration website as:
The Mexican Immigration Institute has designed a program to allow quick and secure entry into Mexico through automated kiosks located at participating airports.
The program is targeted to Mexican citizens and U.S. citizen Global Entry members:
– Mexican citizens
– U.S. citizens who are members of Global Entry
If you’re familiar with the United States’ Global Entry program, this program is very similar. In fact, as a US citizen, you must be signed up for Global Entry in order to qualify for the Viajero Confiable program. All of our family has Global Entry, even my 4 year old son… and my 5 month old daughter will be getting her card in early 2016, thanks to the generous $100 credits from some of the credit cards I have.
Since Southwest started flying to Mexico with their acquisition of AirTran, Mexico is one of our favorite destinations. We go to Cabo about once a year and will be headed to Isla Mujeras later this year.
Just like Global Entry, the Viajero Confiable membership is good for 5 years.
How do you get the Mexican Global Entry?
To apply for Programa Viajero Confiable, follow these 4 simple steps:
- Apply online at their website.
- Make your payment – currently 1,372 Mexican pesos (approx $84).
- Choose a location for your interview. Currently, you can interview at one of three airports – Mexico City, Cancun, or San Jose del Cabo.
- Show up for your interview (at least 15 days after you apply) to get your photo taken, have biometric scans, and verify submitted documentation. Bring your passport and a signed copy of the application.
How do you use Programa Viajero Confiable?
The Programa Viajero Confiable is very simple to use, just the like United States’ Global Entry system. There are designated lanes which allow you to speed through customs because the government has already performed a background check on you, and you are considered a trusted traveler.
- When you fly to the 3 airports listed above, use the designated lane (just like TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry in the US).
- Scan your passport and fingerprints.
- Complete the electronic immigration form.
My experience applying for the Program Viajero Confiable
I applied via their website and chose the English version.
Then choose to start a new application.
Then there are instructions about General Requirements, the Enrollment Process, and Membership Renewal. Basiscally, a rehash of the FAQs and overview pages of their site. Most important, once you start the application process and pay, you have 6 months to complete your interview. If you fail to complete your interview within those 6 months, you will forfeit your application fee.
You start the registration process and complete your personal information, including passport information, date of birth, email address, etc.
Once you complete your registration, the system sends you an email that you need to click on to continue your registration.
The email will contain a link to continue to your application and includes a temporary password. After you click the link and change your password, you will continue your application.
Now you’ll enter the rest of your personal information.
Once you have completed your personal information, including your Global Entry number, now you’re ready to pay.
The website directs you to another website to process your payment. When paying for your application fee, make sure that you use a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees.
After I paid, the system had me download my receipt since it is necessary to bring that with you when you arrive for your appointment.
Now it is time to book your appointment at any of the three airports available – Mexico City, Cancun, or San Jose del Cabo (aka Cabo San Lucas).
After you pick your date and time, you are given an opportunity to print and save your appointment confirmation and your membership application.
So, you should now have 3 pieces of paper to bring with you, in addition to your passport:
- Programa Viajero Confiable application
- Payment receipt
- Appointment confirmation
I would also recommend bringing your Global Entry card with you, since that is a requirement for participating in this program.
Conclusion
If you fly to Mexico City, Cabo, or Cancun on a regular basis, you should consider signing up for Mexico’s Programa Viajero Confiable (aka the Mexican Global Entry). Your registration is good for 5 years, just like Global Entry, so this program is a bargain at less than $20 a year. It took me about 15 minutes total to apply, and it was a really simple and straightforward process. I look forward to my interview during our trip to Cancun. I’ll have more to report after I complete the interview later this year.
Do they still make you press the button for the stoplight to show if you can pass or be searched for customs? Or have they removed that? I always thought it was silly and that it was never really random with when you press the button. I am going to Mexico in October. I haven’t been there for years so I am not sure if it makes sense for me to do this but it is something to consider.
The last time we were in Cabo (about a year ago), you still had to do the push-button green/red light for customs search. The airport was pretty thrashed during the hurricane last year, so there’s no telling whether it will be like that with the necessary remodel. Where are you going to in Mexico? We’re going to Cabo in October. If you don’t go to Mexico very often, I wouldn’t recommend the almost $100 fee… but if you go once a year, then (to me) it is worth the $15-20 a year to avoid the lines. Just remember, that you’ll be doing your interview during your next trip, so you wouldn’t be saving any time on that trip.
thanks for the information. Do they give you your card at the time of the interview? or do they email it to you?
Also do you do the interview before you go through the immigration line, or do you go through the line first?
Thanks
From what I remember, they email you a letter that you can use to go through immigration in the future.
You go through the interview before immigration inspection. As soon as you get to the bottom of the steps, there is a gate to the right. Speak to the officers there and let them know you’re there for an interview. Also, this is where you show your letter in the future to skip the immigration line.
Mike and Lee – No, you do not receive a membership card or membership letter or anything that in any way looks official when you’re approved for Viajero Confiable (VC). You fill out the application online, download it as a PDF, print it, and bring it to the Immigration office at the airport for an interview. In Cabo, the Immigration office is in the departure area, which is on a separate floor from arrivals where you show your passport to the Immigration officer. So you have to get through Immigration first, then Customs, before you can leave the building. Then you can go to the Immigration office on the departure level near where you check in for flights.
If you only go to Mexico once a year for a week, you would have to time it just right to get off the plane, go through Immigration and Customs, leave the building, then come back into the building to go to the Immigration office when it’s open for Viajero Confiable processing (which includes a look at your passport, a fingerprint scan, and a retinal scan). Otherwise your best bet is to get to the airport early on your day of departure and complete your application at Immigration at that time, then use the email you get later approving you when you return to Mexico on your next trip. If you are in Mexico for more than a week then you can consider a separate trip to the airport just to complete your application at Immigration.
Take a look at my 4/6/19 and Bob’s 4/9/19 replies in this thread for good directions on how to apply for VC.
Lee – Because the Viajero Confiable application process has changed so much since 2015 when you first wrote this post, I suggest you delete this post entirely and create a new one. I have updated the step-by-step application process that Bob originally posted on 4/9/19, with links to explanations of the program and to the application, and would be happy to give that to you directly for inclusion in the new post.
Hey Murray, thanks for the offer. I will definitely take you up on that. My schedule in August is light so far, so maybe I’ll have the time to rewrite the article. Would appreciate all of the help that you can provide.
Hi Lee: Thank you for the instructions. While the website did ask me for credit card information it never allowed me to enter the card information nor redirect me but took me straight to schedule an appointment which I was able to do. I also am afraid the appointment is too close to my landing time and I will not make my appointment. My husband has tried twice to pre-enroll just to get the email and he has yet to get the email with the unique password. I received my email right away. Do you know of any contact information I can get to find out what is going on with my husband’s application?
How frustrating! I’m not sure Jane. I’m in Stockholm right now, so I’ll have check email when I’m in front of a computer or look at my paperwork when I get home.
Thank you Lee that is very generous of you to take the time. Please do not take too much time with it.
Hi Lee:
I just want you to know that I finally got the Viajero Confiable website too accept my husband’s information. The problem was the web search program I used. I had to use Chrome. This may be important for your readers to know.
Good to know Jane! Thanks for sharing this tip. I use Chrome as my primary browser, so maybe that’s why I never encountered your issue. Congrats on getting it done!
Thanks Lee and thanks for this blog.
Definitely. The greatest compliment is when you share us with your friends and family!
I love beating the lines using Global Entry, but I feel like the lines in Cabo are worse than many of the US entry points, so having the Viajero is almost as valuable.
I am unable to make a payment on Viajero Confiable for U.S. Citizens website. I am using chrome browser every time i get to that step it reads that my payment was already processed before I enter any card information. Do you have any suggestions I have started the application over twice and it again said payment already made.
That is really weird Christie. I would try deleting your history and cookies from your browser and trying again. Or use Incognito Mode, a different browser, or another computer. Sorry that you’re having so much trouble. Good luck!
Hi Christie: The same thing happened to me. I was able to get appointments anyway. I am making the assumption that I will pay at the interview. I have had back and fourth emails with staff at the Viajero Confiable, they respond in about a week to inquiries. I currently have an inquiry into them regarding this very thing. I will let you know what they say.
Thanks for sharing your experience Jane. Things “just work” here in the US, and we often expect the same in foreign countries. It’s frustrating when they don’t. Good luck to you both!
Thank you Jane and Lee for yoyr response to my question. I was told from my travel agent that I will not be able to pay when I get to Cancun that it must be done online. So I was interested in your thoughts. I will post if I get a response from my email.
Thanks again!
I can imagine that they won’t accept payment in person. I would try clearing browser history and cookies and apply again.
Hi Lee:
I received a reply email today from Viajero Confiable that the application fee has been waived as of January 1st. So the application is now free. I plan to show up at my appointment time and hopefully all will go smoothly.
Hi Lee:
I just received an email from Programa de Viajero, Confiable to inform me that as of January 1st the Viajero Confiable program is now FREE!! This must be why it would not show Christie nor I the payment forms.
Wow, that is awesome news!!! Can you send me a copy of that email? Lee@BaldThoughts.com
Hi Jane and Lee,
Thank you both for your help I will complete the application and pick my time slots.
I really appreciate your response.
You’re welcome! Enjoy. Getting this has really helped increase our happiness when visiting Cabo. Skipping lines is the best!!!
One more question please if anyon knows. Can I make my appointment now if I am going to Cancun in May or do i need to wait until two weeks before?
Thank you
If I recall correctly, you can schedule your appointment to align with your vacation plans. I don’t remember how far in advance you can book though.
Christie: I will let you know as I have scheduled our appointments in Los Cabo’s well before the two week requirement and Programa Viajero, Confible has sent me two reminders of our appointment. Sounds ok to me although I will report whether it was a success or not.
Jane thank you for your reply/
Thanks so much Lee!
Hi Lee & Christie:
I want you to know that my husband were successful in joining the Programa Confinable at the San Jose del Cabo International Airport but not without a lot of trouble. I cannot STRESS enough how important it is for you to look over your forms and MAKE SURE they are correct. Our first interview was canceled because our forms did not match our passport information because it is very confusing to set up the information. Fortunately for us we were staying in Cabo a while and had to start all over, re-apply, set up new appointments with correct forms and were accepted into the program. There was no charge for joining this program. If you do not speak Spanish you may consider getting a local Spanish speaking person to join you at your interview to help you over the bumpy road to success.
Jane, thank you for the follow-up! Congrats on getting approved. Sorry that you had such problems with the paperwork. BUT, your next trip to Cabo (or their other Viajero locations) will be so much better next time. I LOVE skipping lines!!!
How long does the interview in Mexico take? Any idea if I can sign my kids up too? (They are already GE members here in the US. )
Thanks, Tom
Tom, the actual interview process is fairly quick. From what I recall, it was maybe 15-30 minutes. Not sure what age your children are, but mine a 6 and 2, and they don’t need to sign up. I looked and travelers need to be 18 years old before they can sign up. As long as they are traveling with you as a holder of Viajero Confiable, they will also be able to skip the lines.
I also put some inaccurate info on the pre-app form. Last name showing twice. I showed up and they said I would have to re-apply. Which is fine but I see no place on site to re-enter pre-app info. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
That’s a pain. I think you may have to start over from scratch. Now that the Viajero Confiable program is free, it shouldn’t be a problem.
Hi Russell: This is exactly what happened to us the first time we tried to submit our application. For the life of me I could not figure out where I messed up by having our last name entered twice.. I had to start over and was very careful to understand what exactly they were asking. If I remember correctly it had to do with Surname (your last name, which you do not have to enter) vs. your given name, your first name.
Good Luck!
Do you need to speak Spanish for the interview?
No. The interviewers speak English. So you’ll be fine.
Jane,
That is great news… Congrats! I have scheduled my appointment for May. I was not so lucky with my husbands application. They have changed the website some since I first applied and now every time I start a new application with a new email it does not proceed to the next step and never sends me an email to confirm and complete the new application. I emailed them and ask them to delete his old application so I could correct his Given Name on app. They did not understand and just told me to due a new application. Which I tried gain today and it still will not work. I guess I will keep trying. I have made him a new gmail account just for this but has not helped.
Thanks for your insight into your experience.
Christie
Sorry for your troubles Christie. It is a pain, but so worth it to skip the lines! Have you tried clearing your cookies/browser history or using a different browser (IE vs Chrome)?
Hi Lee great suggestion I have not tried that in my last few attempts. Thank you for your response I am using chrome I will try clearing the browser.
Christie: I am so sorry you are having such trouble. Maybe you could find a spanish speaking person to help write your email to Programa Confiable. In all of my correspondence with them they always told me I had to start all over. I hope it works for you.
John Tutza: I was told by Programa Confiable that as of January 1, 2017 there would be no fee. We did not pay a fee to join the Program.
Hi Lee H.,
My wife and I are going to Cancun in Sept this year and wanting to get this. Do you know where in the airport, (Cancun), we would go to do the interview / pics & fingerprints. I am getting ready to do the application for both of us. Did I read this right that there is NO FEE associated , ( FREE )?
John Tutza: There was no fee for our applications. The Programa Confiable told me in an email that the application is now free as of January 1, 2017. We submitted our application in Cabo. I do not know where the Cancun office is but when we completed our form and secured our appointments we were sent a map of where the office was at the Cabo airport.
Hi Lee,
I thought I’d share my experience with the Viajero Confiable program with you and your posters considering there isn’t much information online about the program (like GE or NEXUS) and fortunately I was able to find your website which allowed me to get the additional information that I needed to “fill in the blanks.”
Since I have GE and travel to Mexico I figured I’d sign up for VC as well after several long, hot waits in line at Cancun and Cabo and noticing while waiting that literally nobody was using the VC kiosks. The online enrollment was easy enough (much shorter than GE) and since I applied in mid-February, 2017 I was pleasantly surprised that I did not have to pay the application fee! I made an appointment for April, 2017 in Cancun a couple of hours after my scheduled arrival to give myself some additional time in case the fight was delayed. The VC system kicked out a pre-populated copy of the application that in part said that I had to sign it in front of the VC immigration officer and an imprecise map of the location of the VC office in Cancun. In the interim I did receive two automated emails from the VC system reminding me of my appointment date and time.
When I arrived in Cancun I was amazed to see that there was super short line at immigration (again nobody using the VC kiosks) therefore I was more than two hours early for my scheduled appointment. The map given shows you have to exit the arrivals and go to the left and into the departures area. What you want to do is exit the arrivals and turn left. There are two “checkpoints” (metal gates-turnstile height) manned by airport staff in red shirts that will ask you where you are going. Tell them you are going to the immigration office and they will let you through. Enter the departures door and turn left. There will be an immigration booth on your left- don’t stop there, continue straight towards the store/gift shop on the right next the escalators that go up to departure security. Behind the store there is a hallway. Go right and on your right there will be a small hallway the dead ends. The VC office is the first door on the left once you enter the dead end hallway.
Since I was over two hours early I was concerned that I’d have to wait until the scheduled time to be enrolled. Not the case. The immigration officer took me immediately in and began to process my application. He asked for my passport and the copy of the application I brought. He didn’t ask for my GE card, although I brought it just in case. After taking my fingerprints he said that I might have to remove my contacts if the iris scan didn’t take. Fortunately for me, they took on the first attempt. He then asked why I wanted to join VC and which cities would I like to see additional VC kiosks in the future. He said that traveler input was being considered for future locations, but didn’t give any hints or further information on where. My vote was for Puerto Vallarta. He had me sign my application and said that I would be receiving an email with a welcome letter and a hard copy of the same letter in the mail. He said there isn’t a card like GE or NEXUS, so he gave me several ID sized VC luggage tags that he said I could show in the immigration area so that I could be sent to the front of the line in non-VC kiosk cities. He did say that there are currently no plans to have a dedicated VC line at customs area where you press the button to get the red or green light. The process in the office took less than ten minutes and the immigration officer couldn’t have been nicer.
As I was waiting for my transportation to the resort I received the email from the VC containing the welcome letter and program enrollment confirmation noting that I’m enrolled for the next five years. As of posting I haven’t received the hard copy in the mail. I’m looking forward to planning my next trip to Mexico and using VC for entry!
I hope this assists your posters in enrolling in the VC program. If I have any updates I’ll post them.
Thanks for the very thorough story of your experience. This will really help a lot of our readers! I did my interview in Cabo and it was just as easy as you described yours. Have fun with it!
Has anyone had any success with showing up days before your scheduled appointment? I learned about this just a few days shy of the two weeks and so the earliest appointment I can make is two days after I depart. I wasn’t sure if I had my application if I could just come to the office for the interview. Thanks!
I was able to do a walk-up appointment with US Global Entry, but I haven’t tried the Mexican version. Please write back and let us know how it works for you. Can’t hurt to try, right?
I had an apt at 2:00 pm and showed up at the airport 10:00 and went ahead and stopped in. They went ahead with my processing 4 hours early. Not aware of showing up days early, but it appears you can show up hours early and proceed with processing. Ensure your application is perfect. I had one line inaccurate- on the name lines I had my full name on the line that they want first and middle name. I had to start the entire process over.
Hi Lee,
Here’s an update on my original post from April…
No hardcopy in the mail of the Viajero Confiable welcome letter and unlikely it will come.
I did take an unexpected trip to Cabo over the weekend (June 3rd) and wanted to update you on how the VC kiosks “worked” and the experience we had.
When I arrived at Cabo with my girlfriend the line was backed up all the way to the escalators that go down into the immigration area. I figured that this was perfect set up here for the VC and I’d save myself a ton of time in immigration on this trip and I was happy that I didn’t have to fill out the immigration form. We approached a security guard next to the bottom of the escalators and told her (in Spanish) that we were in the Viajero Confiable program and were met with a blank stare. We then showed her our VC luggage tags and explained that we used the kiosks for entry and she let us though. There are two VC kiosks at SJD and we each went to one. I used the kiosk on the left and here’s what happened: It asked me for a passport scan- accepted. Then a photo- accepted. Then fingerprints- accepted. Then it asked me to use a drop down menu with which airline I flew in on and it accepted United. Then, on the same screen, it asked for the flight number on the drop down and it showed a bunch of flight numbers in no apparent order. I scrolled up and down and couldn’t find number from the flight that I was on. I tried manually typing it in and it wouldn’t work. The system wouldn’t progress from there without a flight number entered from the drop down menu. At the same time my girlfriend was experiencing the same problems and we began to talk about what to do. Just then an immigration officer must’ve noticed what was going on and came over to the kiosks and directed us to his desk next to the kiosks. He then told us that the kiosks weren’t working correctly and anytime that happens just come over to the nearest immigration officer for processing. He had us fill out the immigration forms and we were off to baggage claim.
I’m glad that at least they knew that the kiosks weren’t working and that the officer was really nice about immediately processing us, but I’m guessing that the kiosks need a software update/ upgrade in order to function correctly. No information on when that’ll happen. Needless to say I’d be angry if I paid the fee for enrollment and found that the kiosks weren’t functioning correctly. However, we didn’t have to wait in line so the process worked as it was supposed to minus the kiosks.
Does anyone else have similar experiences out there? Are the kiosks working in Cancun or Mexico City? A final thought… just in case you get stopped by the security guards that monitor the lines it might be helpful to bring a copy of your acceptance letter with you as additional proof so they’ll let you pass through to the kiosks.
If I have any updates or new experiences I’ll let you know. I hope that helps. Happy travels!
Thanks for sharing your experience. I never received a formal card or bag tag. All we have are the letters confirming acceptance. We’ve never used the kiosks in Cabo. It’s always been, skip the line and show the letter along with passport. We actually paid for ours before the program became free. Saving all of the time avoiding the lines was totally worth it!!!
Thank You Bigdog. That was very helpful for future entry to be sure to bring the letter.
Anyone can guide me how to apply. I can get to the proper website: https://www.gob.mx/inm/acciones-y-programas/programa-viajero-confiable
When I click the apply online I get directed to this page: http://www.inm.gob.mx/gobmx/word/index.php/mantenimiento-2/
I used Google Translate to to understand the web page said: “Dear user, at the moment the request is in maintenance, we are sorry for the inconvenience”
So it looks like the online application is offline at this time.
Will update again soon…..I would love to get this for my wife and I.
Hey Jack, happened to me too. I guess the online app is down. Please let us know should it be online again. Thanks.
Please, if anyone can help with a contact phone number for the VC renewal, it would be so appreciated. I have been trying since early December 2017 to set up interview for renewal, as passport expired and need to update VC with new number. The VC site is unavailable – under maintenance message showing 11/24/2017 date still. Tried number showing on informational tryptich, but call cannot connect. I have received 3 renewal emails and now have less than 30 days to schedule interview. Tried going to office at Cabo airport, but was told I needed to set up interview online. And apparently, no phone number available to share either. So frustrating! Any help, direction, would be fantastic. I have scheduled trip to Cabo coming up again before the deadline and it sure would be nice to be able to get through to VC to set up interview. Thanks for taking the time to read and any help you might be able to give.
Hello Ellen,
I can’t find a phone number, but I have this email address listed in my enrollment documents: viajeroconfiable@inami.gob.mx
Hope it helps.
Hi Again Ellen,
I happened to find a VC number on a brochure that was with my enrollment documents. I don’t know if it’s the same one you called before.
01800 0046 264
Hope that helps.
Thanks for sharing!
I too am unable to get into the VC program online, and as a result my VC membership has been suspended.
I received an automated email from the VC program telling me I needed to update my US passport number because it was expiring soon. I’ve been trying since early March to get in to the VC program online (at http://solicitudviajeroconfiable.inami.gob.mx/manageID3PVC/pvcLogin.xhtml) but the page never opens. I also tried https://www.gob.mx/inm/acciones-y-programas/programa-viajero-confiable? and the link there to making a new online application (solicitud en línea) and that page says the site has been down since November 2017.
An email I sent to viajeroconfiable@inami.gob.mx did get a response, but the response only said in English:
“Dear user,
“By this means it is reported that the platform is in maintenance, reason why you can not perform the activity of registration, update or scheduling of interview appointment.
“Additionally, the new software allows interested parties to participate in the Trusted Traveler Program, register their data online at the time they consider it.
“Finally, we regret the inconveniences and the requests that remain pending of the changes that are made in the program and that are informed through the page of the National Institute of Migration.”
I didn’t find the response to be very helpful.
Anyone have advice on who we can ask about how long the web site will be down? Or an alternate way to update our information?
Thank you.
If you enrolled in Viajero Confiable in maybe 2017 or prior (maybe even in early 2018?), you will be unable to renew your membership when your passport expires. Instead, you must re-apply for the program.
This was confirmed to me today over the phone by one of the people who runs the program in Mexico City. After two months of trying to get answers out of that office, I finally got through to her today, and she said that the old program is being phased out and a new program is being started with a new system.
The downside is that it is not possible to bring your information from the old program over into the new system, so renewal is not possible. The upside is that it is free to re-enroll in the new system.
I’m about to go through the process myself to enroll again, and at first glance the online system seems better than it was when I originally enrolled.
Unfortunately, I’m currently outside Mexico, so it looks like I’ll need to enter Mexico the normal way on my next trip with the new passport (i.e., not using the automated gates). Then, I’ll need to do an interview again with the new passport in order to get fully enrolled. So, I’ll be able to use the gates when arriving into Mexico on the following trip.
Great info. My Viajero Confiable membership expired in July and I never received any sort of notification, but I am heading out on the 31st to Cancun and wanted to do my renewal.. Not sure of the process or do I have to start over from scratch?
Hi Ashley, the program is a bit vague. Mine expired recently as well. We flew into Cancun in December and the VC desk wasn’t even manned. We asked around and the workers just told us to get into the regular line. It has worked really well for us when traveling through Cabo over the years.
I have to get things figured out for Cancun now that we’re in Nashville and it is a much closer destination for us. I’ll write additional posts when I have more information.
Please write back and let us know about your experience.
Lee- It appears most of the Viajero Confiable information you wrote about is no longer valid, thanks to their system revision a couple years ago 🙁 Would you consider writing an update covering the VC 2.0 process for your blog?
Our application situation is unknown: we applied online in mid-February, so we’re obviously beyond their 15-day review period, but have heard nothing, not even a confirmation email, and am feeling we’ve been lost somewhere in this process. What now/next? Do we eventually get an email with appointment-making information? Has that process gone by the wayside and one simply shows up during opening hours for a walk-in interview? All the numbers I’ve tried are Spanish only, and Google translate fails in the real-time arena, LOL…is there an English line for application questions? Any help from those who have successfully registered for VC under 2.0 would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Hey Bob, thanks for writing. Yes, this information was written when I first applied to Viajero Confiable several years ago. On the plus side, the program is now free. To the negative, it seems that follow through can be lacking with the officials in charge.
During a recent trip to Cancun, the VC line wasn’t even open and security that we spoke to didn’t seem to know much about it. When we lived in California, we flew to Cabo San Lucas twice a year and VC saved us so much time waiting in line.
I will add this to my to-do list of articles to research and write. It is an important benefit to those of us who like to travel to Mexico. Have a great day and good luck.
Please be sure to write back and let us know how everything goes for you.
Thanks 🙂
Wish I could, Lee, but we’re at a stand-still until I either reach an English speaker when I call their numbers, find a Spanish speaker to assist me with the call, or get a reply back to my email inquiry…
Perhaps your wife’s fluency can garner insight to the missing process and timing information needed for successful new/renewal applications under the VC 2.0 program. While I’m not asking her to go to bat for us, if she does ask generically about the “submitted 5 weeks ago, heard nothing” status for new applicants, I’m curious to hear their response.
I understand. I’m going to call the Mexican Consulate tomorrow to see if I can get some answers. When my wife returns from her work trip, we’ll schedule some time to see if we can work some magic with her Spanish-language skills.
Lee-
Found what appears to be a recently (according to the wayback machine) updated VC info page posted on the gob.mx website:
http://www.gob.mx/tramites/ficha/membresia-del-programa-viajero-confiable/INM772
Got that link last night from Google while searching for any contact numbers I haven’t tried. If Google’s translation is correct, it makes no mention of a 15-day application review period or setting up an account to schedule the interview…just complete your application and show up at a designated VC office during opening hours with required documentation for an interview…??? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Wish I could give you “it worked” or “bogus info” feedback, but we won’t be through MEX again for a couple months. At least you have a less vague starting point to reference in your call to the Mexican Consulate.
Thanks for the follow-up, Bob. Valuable info indeed. The numbers have been busy when I’ve called. Will try again Monday.
We have had our Viajero Confiable for a few years now and when we were approved we were told we did not need our letter of confirmation but to just come through the Mexican residents line with our passports in Cabo. I am thankful that I always traveled with our letter of approval from Mexico’s immigration to get into Cabo San Lucas as that was the only way were were able to get into the residents line as the agent would always try to put us through the regular line. This year the immigration agent happened to be the one who approved us a few years ago and he remembered us. We asked him why do we always have to show our letter and he said because the Viajero Confiable machines never work. Also I belong to a Cabo Facebook group who mentioned that renewing Viajero Confiable seems to be a challenge so it seems that Mexico is dropping the ball on this. I think it will be a challenge to get it renewed. It sounds like it has become a challenge for new people to apply. I will be sad if it goes away because the immigration line for Cabo in February is at least and 1-1/2 wait time unless you come in on a Tuesday as a friend of ours did this year. Another friend came in on a Friday and had to wait for 1-1/2 hours to get through immigration.
Thanks for sharing, Jane. It is such a great program that gets us out of line and into the country quicker (aka spending money in local community sooner). I hope that they continue to support it. My wife speaks fluent Spanish, so I’m going to have her help me call around to see what we can find out.
My paid Viajero Confiable membership “expired” after I received a warning email that my passport was about to expire and I needed to update my passport number and expiration date. I tried mightily over several months to use the INM web site to update my passport. I wrote to email addresses at Mexican consulates and to a contact name at INM in Los Angeles. But nothing helped and my VC expired.
Bob’s 4/1/19 post is correct – VC is now in a 2.0 mode and it is still free. I think I figured out how it works.
Bob is correct that information about the program is available, in Spanish only, at https://www.gob.mx/tramites/ficha/membresia-del-programa-viajero-confiable/INM772. On that page is a link to where you now apply. Look for the line that reads “En línea: Realiza tu trámite en línea aquí.” Or go directly to https://www.inm.gob.mx/viajero-confiable/publico/solicitud.html. This page also is only in Spanish and I could not find an English site.
Yes, you’ll need to do some translating of Spanish to English. For “País de nacimiento” or country of birth, or for “País de expedición” or passport country of issuance, you’ll have to look alphabetically for Estados Unidos de America. Nacionalidad or “nationality” is Estadounidense.
When you finish entering your personal information, you’ll be able to see a draft of what your final answers look like. You can make changes then or submit it. When you submit it, if I recall correctly, you will be given the ability to download your completed application as a PDF file. Print out the PDF file and take it with you to one of the three airports where it will be processed – Mexico City, Cancun, or Los Cabos. The hours that each office is open is shown at https://www.gob.mx/tramites/ficha/membresia-del-programa-viajero-confiable/INM772. There’s no appointment – you just show up. However, at least in Cabo, there was only one employee who handles VC, and she frequently is downstairs with arrivals while the office you go to is upstairs in departures, so be prepared to wait until she arrives.
In the INM office they will scan your fingerprints, scan your eyes, and review your passport. Shortly thereafter you will receive an automated email telling you that your application is “pendiente,” or pending. One or more weeks later you should receive another email telling you that your application is “resolucion positiva,” or approved.
And that’s it. After asking twice I’ve been told that there is no membership document that is signed that you can carry with you. The only thing I have is the “approved” email. When I flew in to Cabo a couple of months ago, the line was so short that I didn’t even try to go in the VC line, so I have no idea how to get into the VC line without any document to show. I printed out the “approved” email, but I doesn’t even have my name on it.
Here’s a link to a short video about Viajero Confiable in English – https://www.gob.mx/inm/videos/programa-viajero-confiable-english.
Here’s a link to a flyer in English about Viajero Confiable – https://www.gob.mx/cms/uploads/attachment/file/220318/T_Viajero_Confiable_ENG_LR.pdf.
Thanks for sharing such great tips, Murray. I’m going to check these steps out this week since I need to renew mine as well.
Thanks for closing the process loop on VC 2.0, Murray, that information clears up the “what next” questions we had.
Thanks for closing the process loop on VC 2.0 membership, Murray, that answers the “what next?” questions which brought us here in the first place. 🙂
Murray, I agree thank you for sharing your tips. While my VC is still good, when my husband and I visited Cabo in February I had my original signed letter that we received 3 years ago from the INM agent we had our interview with. I had to show that letter to the agent standing at the Residents entrance and that got us through. The agent we talked to in immigration told us that they reason you need a document is because their Global Entry machines never work. Without some kind of correspondence (like the signed letter) you can’t get past the first agent at the first entrance. Maybe your email will work if you print it out.
Lee-
Now that we have a working path for VC 2.0, I think it is safe to share my block-by-block outline of questions from the online form, done as a new applicant. Combined with the great information in Murray’s 4/6/19 post, you’re pretty well set to publish that overdue update article, “VC 2.0: twice as good, because there are now only half as many steps to join.” LOL 🙂 After all, that’s why we’re posting here: to help each other better enjoy more of the journey; collectively figuring out the new processes of VC 2.0 follows suit.
I put this outline together while completing our application forms, so focus was on new applicants from the US. With intent to share it among several work colleagues, I also touched on the couple Canadian-specific answers.
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
### Note: This outline applies to Canadian or US nationals. Translation is [in brackets] and is paraphrased, not verbatim. Outline numbers do not exist on the form, they are presented here only for clarity. I use ? to indicate a question on the form, a > to represent further explanation of a free-form answer box item and — for drop-down choice answer details where applicable. Items marked with * are answer-required, except item 2.7 as it does not apply to US or Canadian nationals. ###
1) Tipo de trámite [Transaction type]
1.1) ? Tipo de trámite* [Transaction type] (drop-down):
— Inscription Programa Viajero Confiable [New VC applicant]
— Renovo Programa Viajero Confiable [VC renewal]
— Cambio de documento de identificación [Change of identification document]
### (Note: selecting Renovo or Cambio will bring up a Busqueda de membresia [Membership search] screen requesting your Membresia [Membership] number and Fecha de nacimiento [Date of birth]. I did not test these transaction options, other than clicking on Buscar [Search] to learn it will not take you forward without a valid VC membership. If you reached this screen in error, simply click on Cancelar [Cancel] to return to main form. ###
2) Datos personales [Personal data]
2.1) ? Nombre(s)* [Name(s)]:
> Enter you First and Middle names as on passport.
2.2) ? Apellidos* [Last name]:
> Enter your last name as on passport.
2.3) ? Sexo* [Gender] (drop-down):
— Hombre [Male]
— Mujer [Female]
2.4) ? Fecha de nacimiento* [Date of birth]:
> Enter your DOB or click on the calendar icon and locate/select your DOB.
2.5) ? País de nacimiento* [Country of birth] (drop-down):
— Select appropriate country from list (note that country names are alphabetized in Spanish, so for example, United States is found in E for Estados Unidos de America).
2.6) ? Nacionalidad* [Nationality] (drop-down):
— Mexicana [Mexican]
— Estadounidense [American]
— Candanese [Canadian]
2.7) ? CURP*: [unknown, not applicable for US and Canadian nationals]
2.8) ? RFC: [unknown, not applicable for US and Canadian nationals]
2.9) ? Soy residente permanente [I am a permanent resident] (Check this box ONLY if you are a permanent resident of Mexico.)
3) Document de identificación [Identification document]
3.1) ? Tipo de documento* [Type of document] (drop-down).
— Pasaporte [Passport] is the only available answer.
3.2) ? Numero de documento* [Document number]:
> Enter your passport number.
3.3) ? País de expedición* [Country of issue] (drop-down):
— Select appropriate country from drop-down list.
3.4) ? Fecha de expedición* [Issue date]:
> Enter date or select using calendar icon.
3.5) ? Fecha de expiración* [Expiration date]:
> Enter date or select using calendar icon:
4) Domicilio particular [Address particulars]
4.1) ? País* [Country] (drop-down):
— Select appropriate country from drop-down list.
4.2) ? Código postal o código de área* [Postal (ZIP) code]:
4.3) ? Dirección (línea 1)* [Address (line 1)]:
> Enter your address (suggest avoiding abbreviations, and add country as used for mailing: 1234 Any Street, City, State, USA ).
4.4) ? Dirección (línea 2) [Address (line 2)]:
> Additional line for address, if needed.
5) Información de membresía [Membership information
5.1) ? Programa* [Program] (drop-down):
— This drop-down will autofill with Global Entry for US or NEXUS for Canadian nationals, as answered earlier on form, respectively.
5.2) ? Número de membresía* [Membership number]:
> Enter your PASSID number.
6) Información adicional [Additional information]
6.1) ? Con qué frecuencia viajas a México?* [Frequency of travel to Mexico?]:
> Enter a reasonable approximation (2 times per year, monthly, etc.) if you don’t have a known/defined frequency.
6.2) ? Actualmente perteneces a algún programa gubernamental de viajeros confiables vigente en otro país?* [Do you currently belong to a government program of reliable travelers in force in another country?]:
> Choose Si [yes] or No [no], and enter program name(s) if you answered yes. (Other than GE or NEXUS, which you’ve declared already.)
6.3) ? Consideras que sea necesaria la implementación del programa Viajero Confiable en otros aeropuertos?* [Do you consider it necessary to implement the Trusted Traveler program at other airports?]:
> Choose Si [yes] or No [no], and enter airport name(s) if you answered yes.
7) Datos de contacto [Contact information]
Agrega la dirección de correo electrónico en donde se recibirán las notificaciones asociadas a tu trámite, así como tu teléfono. [Add the email address where you will receive notifications associated with your application, as well as your telephone.]
7.1) ? Lada* [Area code]:
7.2) ? Teléfono* [Telephone number]:
7.3) ? Correo electrónico* [Email address]:
7.4) ? Correo electrónico (confirmación)* [Confirm email address]
8) Verificación
8.1) ? Código de verificación* [Verification code]:
> Enter the code shown in adjacent image box; if the code is unreadable, click the “Intenta con otro” link for new image.
Finally, near the bottom right of the application page, click on Limpiar [Clear] to clear the form and start over, or Guardar [Save] to continue to the next page.
The next page is for confirming your entered information and submitting it to the VC system, then a final page to save/print your submitted application — save a PDF copy for future reference and print a hard copy for the interview.
Bob – Thank you dry much for the step-by-step instructions, particularly translated into English. I want to let you know that I copied and pasted your instructions into a private Facebook group consisting of travelers to specific resorts in Cabo. I was only able to credit you as “Bob.” If you’d like me to credit you more thoroughly, let me know how to do so.
Bob
thank you so much for the play by play on entering the information
I used this link on Google chrome
http://www.gob.mx/tramites/ficha/membresia-del-programa-viajero-confiable/INM772 And then had google do the translation of the form. I followed your steps all the way. ( remember to enter your dates correctly (day/month/year) format. When I was finished and hit save and download the form printed in Spanish. it was very easy. I hope the interview goes as smooth thanks again for all your help!!
Mike
Lee – As I posted on 7/16/20, I still am willing to provide you with updated details on Viajero Confiable so you can update your readers. Write to me outside of this forum and I’ll send you what I have. – Murray
Hey Murray, I’m working on updating the article now. I’m actually in Cabo and planning to go to the Viajero Confiable office on Friday before our flight to complete our interviews. <> Thanks for all of your help!
Hi Lee,
I cannot find anywhere information on how far in advance should I renew my viajero confiable card, can you please advise?
Also as of today 6/6/23 the immigration office in cancun told me that they are not processing viajero confiables at their offices in Cancun anymore, have you heard anything?
Thanks!
Kari
Thanks for sharing your experience, Kari. I’m not sure either. I typically travel to Cancun and Cabo, and I haven’t been able to renew mine either. For many years, I was able to use the old letter from my original Viajero Confiable membership, but they didn’t accept it the last time I tried (Summer 2022). Staffing issues due to COVID are probably making it hard for them to dedicate the time to the program.