Planning a trip to the United States isn’t as simple as picking destinations or packing your suitcase. You’ll also need a valid B1 or B2 visa for the entire period from your entry into the U.S. until your return to Mexico.

So, if it’s already expired or about to expire, it’s crucial to renew that document early to avoid future travel hassles.

That’s what this small guide is for.
Below, we share useful information to keep the process smooth and successful. From the basic requirements for renewing an American visa as a Mexican to key steps. We’ll also tell you when is the ideal moment to do it and how much the procedure costs.

Take note and stay prepared so you can continue traveling to the U.S. without any setbacks.

Requirements for Renewing a U.S. Visa: A Guide for Mexicans

How to Renew a U.S. Tourist Visa in Mexico

The visitor visa is classified as “nonimmigrant” and falls under the B1 or B2 category. Unlike a Green Card, this document only allows you to enter the U.S. on a temporary basis.

And if it’s expired—or will soon— you can renew it to continue entering the country smoothly.

Here’s how to renew your B1/B2 visa:

1. Fill out Form DS-160. Set aside about 90 minutes to complete the DS-160 form and keep your ID number safe.

2. Create an account. Register on the American visa department portal in Mexico.

3. Pay the fee. Enter your DS-160 ID after confirming your email and get the reference to make payment. Then, pay online or at a bank authorized by the U.S. authorities.

4. Schedule a CAS appointment. Once your payment is recorded, pick a date for your biometric data collection at a Visa Application Center (VAC or CAS).

5. Interview. Since this is a renewal, you may be excused from an interview—though the consulate might still request one for specific cases.

6. Show up to your appointment. Take the necessary documents to your consular interview, if needed.

7. Track your status. Once approved, monitor the appointment system to pick up your visa when it’s ready.

These steps ensure a straightforward, well-structured renewal process once you meet the visa requirements.

Requirements for Renewing an American Visa in Mexico

The requirements for renewing a U.S. visa as a Mexican largely resemble those needed for a first-time application.

Visa renewal requirements:

• No prior deportation from the United States.

• A clean immigration record.

• A valid Mexican passport, with at least six months remaining after your planned stay in the U.S.

• Your previous visa—whether it’s expired already or not.

• Completed DS-160 online form, with a printed copy.

• A printed confirmation page of your scheduled appointment at the Visa Application Center (CAS) or the corresponding embassy/consulate.

• Additional documents if renewing the visa together with your family, like marriage certificates or children’s birth certificates.

• Proofs of ties to Mexico, which demonstrate you’ll return to your home country after your trip. For instance, property deeds, stable employment records, or bank statements. While these aren’t always mandatory, they can help.

• Financial solvency to assure you can cover your travel costs.

• A trip itinerary, if you’ve already booked a hotel or plane ticket on Despegar or Expedia, for example.

• Invitation letter if you intend to stay with family or friends in the U.S.

Gathering all these documents is critical for your travel checklist. Some items above are not strictly required for a U.S. visa renewal in Mexico, but providing them can strengthen your application.

How Soon Should I Begin the Visa Renewal Process?

You can renew your U.S. visa in Mexico if it’s nearing expiration or still valid. In fact, it’s recommended to start early before your current visa runs out. According to consular advice, you can begin up to 2 years in advance.

It’s also possible if your previous visa has been expired for fewer than 48 months (4 years). Once that period passes, you’d have to do the entire application as if it were your first time.

Also, for a B1/B2 renewal, you might not need an in-person interview, unless the consular officers decide so upon reviewing your file.

How Much Does Renewing an American Visa Cost?

Fees for certain nonimmigrant visas rose as of June 2023, according to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico. This includes visitor visas for business or tourism (B1/B2), which increased from 160 USD to 185 USD.

Hence, the B1/B2 renewal fee is 185 USD, the same as if you were applying for the first time.

DolarApp: Receive U.S. Payments with a Flat 3 USDc Rate

Needing to receive money from the United States?

DolarApp can be your solution for quick transfers, minimal fees, and maximum financial flexibility.

Our app was built so you can open a digital dollar account from Mexico, Colombia, or Argentina. Thus, you can stop worrying about high bank fees and hidden charges for your international transfers.

It’s that simple.