Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Who is eligible for the BCC?
- How to apply for the US Border Crossing Card?
- US Border Crossing Card Fees
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Introduction
America is a popular destination for tourists, business travelers, and individuals seeking medical services. Every year, thousands of visitors from Mexico come to the United States. To facilitate this traffic, the US government has established the Border Crossing Card (BCC). In this blog, we will provide you with essential information about the BCC application procedure, fees, and other important details.
- Significance of the US as a tourist and business destination
- High number of Mexican visitors to the US
- Introduction to the US Border Crossing Card (BCC)
- Purpose of the blog: to provide information on the application procedure, fees, and other essential details of the BCC
The BCC is a laminated card that combines the B-1 and B-2 visas. It resembles a driver's license and is the size of a credit card. Holders of the BCC can enter the US from the Mexico border by land or sea and are authorized to stay for less than 72 hours for activities such as shopping or visiting. For longer stays, an application for the I-94 Form is required. The BCC does not permit work in the United States.
To be eligible for the BCC, you must meet the standards for B-1/B-2 visas, such as being a Mexican citizen and resident, demonstrating no intent to stay in the US, and having the financial means to cover temporary residence expenses. The application process for the BCC is similar to that of the B-1 or B-2 visas and requires the same documents, including a valid Mexican passport.
The application fee for a BCC card with a 10-year validity for individuals over 15 years old is $160. For individuals under 15 whose parents have a BCC or apply for one, the fee is $16. The card remains valid until the applicant reaches 15 years old or ten years, whichever comes first. It is important to keep the payment receipt for border crossing.
For travel within the US on a Border Crossing Card, there are limitations depending on the state. For example, in California, travel is limited to within 25 miles of the border. In Arizona, it is within 75 miles of the border. In New Mexico, it is within 55 miles of the border or up to Interstate 10, whichever is further north. In Texas, travel is limited to within 25 miles of the border. To stay longer or travel farther, you will need to request an I-94 at the U.S. port of entry from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. Please note that I-94s are now issued electronically at air and sea ports, but if you enter by land, you will receive a paper form.
With this information, you can now begin your US Border Crossing Card application process. If you find the steps confusing, we have provided a cheat sheet on our website for you to download. Don't forget to like this blog and subscribe to our channel for more helpful information. You can also follow our social media accounts for updates. Thank you for reading!
Who is eligible for the BCC?
To be eligible for the Border Crossing Card (BCC), individuals must meet certain standards and requirements. Here are the eligibility criteria:
Explanation of the eligibility standards for B1/B2 visas
In order to obtain the BCC, applicants must meet the eligibility standards for B1/B2 visas. This includes demonstrating the purpose of your visit, having strong ties to your home country, and showing that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your temporary stay in the US.
Requirement of being a Mexican citizen and resident
Only Mexican citizens and residents are eligible to apply for the BCC. Proof of citizenship and residency, such as a valid Mexican passport, will be required during the application process.
Demonstration of no intention to stay in the US
Applicants must demonstrate that they have no intention of staying in the US beyond the authorized period of stay. This can be done through documentation and providing evidence of strong ties to Mexico, such as owning property or having a business in Mexico.
Ability to cover expenses of temporary residence in the US
Applicants must show that they have the financial means to cover their expenses during their temporary stay in the US. This includes costs such as accommodation, transportation, and other daily expenses.
Significant ties to Mexico as a requirement
Having significant ties to Mexico is a requirement for eligibility for the BCC. These ties can be demonstrated through ownership of property, business interests, or family connections in Mexico.
Meeting these eligibility criteria is essential in order to be considered for the BCC. It is important to gather all the necessary documentation and evidence to support your application and to ensure that you meet all the requirements. By doing so, you will increase your chances of obtaining the BCC and being able to travel to the US for temporary visits.
How to apply for the US Border Crossing Card?
To apply for the US Border Crossing Card (BCC), The BCC application process is similar to that of the B-1 or B-2 visas.
Before applying for the BCC, you must ensure that you have a valid Mexican passport. This passport will be required during the application process.
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can begin the application process for the BCC. The application fee for a BCC card with a 10-year validity for individuals over 15 years old is $160. For individuals under 15 whose parents have a BCC or apply for one, the fee is $16. It is important to keep the payment receipt for border crossing.
During the application process, you will need to demonstrate that you meet the eligibility standards for B-1/B-2 visas, such as being a Mexican citizen and resident, demonstrating no intent to stay in the US, and having the financial means to cover temporary residence expenses. The application process also requires the same documents as the B-1 or B-2 visas, including a valid Mexican passport.
Once you have completed the application and paid the fee, you will receive your BCC card, which will be valid for 10 years or until you reach 15 years old, whichever comes first.
US Border Crossing Card Fees
When applying for a US Border Crossing Card (BCC), it is important to be aware of the associated fees. Here are the key points regarding BCC fees:
Application fee for a BCC card with 10-year validity for individuals over 15
For individuals over 15 years old, the application fee for a BCC card with a 10-year validity is $160. This fee covers the processing and issuance of the card, allowing the holder to enter the US from the Mexico border by land or sea.
Application fee for individuals under 15 with parents who have a BCC or apply for one
For individuals under 15 years old whose parents have a BCC or are applying for one, the application fee is $16. This reduced fee is applicable to minors who are dependents of BCC holders or applicants.
Importance of keeping the payment receipt
After submitting the application fee, it is crucial to keep the payment receipt. The receipt serves as proof of payment and may be required when crossing the border. It is recommended to keep a copy of the receipt in a safe place.
Validity period of the card
The BCC card remains valid for 10 years or until the applicant reaches 15 years old, whichever comes first. It is important to note the expiration date on the front of the card and plan travel accordingly.
With these fee details in mind, you can now proceed with your US Border Crossing Card application. Remember to gather all the necessary documents and submit the required fees to ensure a smooth application process. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does the Border Crossing Card expire?
The Border Crossing Card (BCC) is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. However, there are exceptions for children. If you have a "Laser visa" issued prior to October 1, 2008, it remains valid for travel until the expiration date printed on the front of the card.
How far can you travel within the US on a Border Crossing Card?
The travel limitations within the US on a Border Crossing Card depend on the state. Here are the restrictions in different states:
- In California, travel is limited to within 25 miles (40 km) of the border.
- In Arizona, travel is limited to within 75 miles (121 km) of the border.
- In New Mexico, travel is limited to within 55 miles (89 km) of the border or up to Interstate 10, whichever is further north.
- In Texas, travel is limited to within 25 miles (40 km) of the border.
If you need to stay longer or travel farther within the US, you will need to request an I-94 at the U.S. port of entry from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. There may be a small fee for this service.
What is an I-94 and how do you obtain it?
An I-94 is a form that provides information on your arrival and departure from the US, as well as your immigration status. It is important for non-immigrants to keep track of their I-94 records to ensure compliance with their stated period of stay. To obtain an I-94, you can go to the CBP website and retrieve your electronic I-94 after entering the US. If you enter by land, you will receive a paper form I-94 at the port of entry.
How are I-94s issued?
I-94s are now issued electronically at air and sea ports. When you enter the US by air or sea, the CBP officer will stamp your passport and provide you with a small white card that contains instructions on how to retrieve your electronic I-94. If you enter by land, the CBP officer will give you a paper form I-94. It is important to check the information on your I-94 for accuracy and to report any errors to the CBP.
Where can the audience find additional resources and a cheat sheet for the application process?
For additional resources and a helpful cheat sheet for the US Border Crossing Card application process, you can visit our website. We have provided a link in the video description where you can download the cheat sheet. It contains step-by-step instructions and tips to guide you through the application process. Don't forget to like this video and subscribe to our channel for more informative content. You can also follow us on social media for updates. Thank you for watching!
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