Temporarily Importing your car

RVGRINGO · #1 (**permalink**) 14th October 2009, 05:00 PM

Those moving to Mexico, or tourists visiting Mexico may temporarily import their vehicle into Mexico, as in the past. These vehicles may never be sold in Mexico, even for parts, and must eventually be removed from the country, even if they no longer run. That has not changed.

However, an unofficial but usually reliable source has just reported that permanent importation (nationalization) by individuals has been stopped. I have no other information at this time.

Southbound · #2 (**permalink**) 14th October 2009, 07:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RVGRINGO

Those moving to Mexico, or tourists visiting Mexico may temporarily import their vehicle into Mexico, as in the past. These vehicles may never be sold in Mexico, even for parts, and must eventually be removed from the country, even if they no longer run. That has not changed.

However, an unofficial but usually reliable source has just reported that permanent importation (nationalization) by individuals has been stopped. I have no other information at this time.

If one has a personal vehicle in Mexico while residing there with one of the three Visas, then the new ruling would mean that at some point before the vehicle stopped running it should be removed from the country?

Is it that simple or am I missing a whole bag of nuances?

Thanks, RVGringo

RVGRINGO · #3 (**permalink**) 14th October 2009, 07:44 PM

That has always been the case and it saves a lot of headaches if a vehicle can simply be driven back to the USA and sold or otherwise disposed of. One must be sure to have 'Aduana' remove the sticker and give the owner a receipt showing that the vehicle has been removed from Mexico. Then, you can temporarily import another or hop a bus home and buy a car in Mexico.
We have a US plated, Japanese manufactured car that could never be imported permanently under any of the previous rules. Some day, we'll have to take it north. We also have a car purchased in Mexico and registered in Jalisco. Although the taxes and registration are more expensive, it makes life simpler; even when crossing the border to go to the USA. However, should we ever decide to leave Mexico for the USA, that car cannot be imported permanently to the USA. It works both ways.

dstan · #4 (**permalink**) 3rd November 2009, 08:15 AM

Is there a time limit by which I have to remove the car from the country if I am on a visitors visa, with no FM3? Or can I keep a car there indefinitely but EVENTUALLY bring it out when I am finished with it? (afew years later)
On another note, can I buy a car in Mexico if I do not have an FM3?

bournemouth · #5 (**permalink**) 3rd November 2009, 03:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dstan

Is there a time limit by which I have to remove the car from the country if I am on a visitors visa, with no FM3? Or can I keep a car there indefinitely but EVENTUALLY bring it out when I am finished with it? (afew years later)
On another note, can I buy a car in Mexico if I do not have an FM3?

On an FMT, visitors visa, when you leave the country, the vehicle has to leave the country.

RVGRINGO · #6 (**permalink**) 3rd November 2009, 03:47 PM

Bournemouth is correct. If you are visiting Mexico on an FMT tourist permit, you may temporarily import your vehicle only for the time that your FMT remains valid; a maximum of 180 days. The FMT may not be renewed and you and the vehicle must leave the country. Only people with FM3 or FM2 Visas may come and go with, or without their vehicle.
In order to purchase a vehicle in Mexico, most states will require you to have an FM3 or FM2 Visa along with they necessary proofs of address and a driver's license.

dstan · #7 (**permalink**) 3rd November 2009, 04:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bournemouth

On an FMT, visitors visa, when you leave the country, the vehicle has to leave the country.

What happens if it doesn't?

RVGRINGO · #8 (**permalink**) 3rd November 2009, 05:07 PM

A vehicle in the country illegally is subject to permanent confiscation. Should it be stolen and driven by a Mexican, it would be confiscated and the owner would become 'wanted'. If it was involved in an accident and caused damage, injury or death, the owner would be held liable and would be subject to all of the legal remedies; confiscation of property, imprisonment, fines, deportation, etc.
Therefore, it isn't a good idea to violate the law and the rules of this forum prohibit encouraging such activity.

dstan · #9 (**permalink**) 3rd November 2009, 05:58 PM

Okeedoekee....I get the picuture! Does leaving a car which is registered against your passport also effect tourist visa applications in the future?

RVGRINGO · #10 (**permalink**) 3rd November 2009, 06:10 PM

It could, but there is no definitive answer except that it can all depend upon the efficiency of the computer records, your vehicle VIN and Passport Number, etc.
I can only suggest that it might be wise to ask your nearest Mexican Consulate for advice before traveling. They might be able to cancel the FM3 through INM and that would allow entry on an FMT sometime after that date. If he could travel on an FMT for a while, then he might be able to apply for a new FM3 once he has made himself and the vehicle 'legal again'.
I'm afraid I can't offer any other suggestions, other than being honest and open about it and paying the fines.