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3 years ago

vehicle import for tourist complications

3 years ago
Hi, I first came to Mexico back in November, driving from Texas to Oaxaca. At the time, I obtained a 180-day Tourist Visa along with a Vehicle Import Permit. Now that both are about to expire, I am exploring my options.

I drove here in a Kia Forte, which is great for the city but was in no shape for the backroads of Mexico, especially where I currently live in Oaxaca which is a 45-minute drive down a dirt road. My car has incurred much damage in the process and is in no shape to make the drive back to Texas, nor do I want to go through that experience again.

At this point, I will gladly forfeit the $400 deposit (I paid way more in gas/etc. to get here anyway). My plan is to fly to Texas, visit a consultant, and apply for Temporary Residency. If I got approved, would my car then become legal?

If I absolutely have to drive my car across the border, I am considering Guatemala as it is much closer. I have heard about people making border runs there to renew their Visa, but am hazy on the details beyond that. Would I be able to apply for a Temporary Residency in Guatemala? Or just extend my Tourist Visa for another 180 days? If the later is the case, would they also renew my Vehicle Import Permit for another 180 days?

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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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