Job Discussion Forums

[New Haven]

I have taught English in Mexico for three years on an FM3 Independent visa (ie not sponsored by any school). I am returning permanently to the US in a few weeks. I have heard conflicting reports about what, if anything, I need to do to exit the country legally. Some say I should just let my FM3 expire; others state that I must officially notify the INAM. I'm inclined to let my FM3 simply expire, but I wonder if that would create problems when I return...which I will do from time to time as I own a home here. Any advice? Is there an English language website I can go to? Thanks!

[Samantha]

You will need to turn it in to Immigration when you leave the country, so they can cancel it. When you leave but expect to return before it expires, you can simply get it "stamped" but if you are not planning to return before it expires, don't take the chance of having fines levied at some future date. You can always verify that at your immigration office, ahead of time. Hope everything goes well for you.

[New Haven]

Thanks, Samantha. One more question: Must I notify immigration in advance of returning to the US permanently? I was thinking that I might have to complete forms or write a letter stating my intention to return permanently to the U.S. Or will it suffice to simply surrender my FM3 to the immigration officer at the airport prior to departure, explaining that I am not returning except as a tourist. If I can avoid going to INAM that would be great, as I am sure they will make a relatively simple procedure far more complex and burdensome than it needs to be. That's been my experience, anyway, in renewing my FM3.

[Samantha]

You should be able to turn it in to the Immigration officer in the airport, as that's where they stamp FM2's and FM3's "out", and provide documentation that it's been done. (If you've flown out of Mexico, you will be familiar with the procedure). Hang on to any documentation they give you, for future reference. Tell them that you are not coming back to work anymore and they will understand what you mean. You can come and go freely on tourist cards, no problem, after that.

Are you going back home to work or to take a break from work? Seems to be alot of people leaving Mexico right now, so you are definitely not alone in that. Hope everything goes well for you.

[New Haven]

Thanks, Samantha.

I have been offered a job running a non-profit in Connecticut. Plus my novio is there and my dad is unwell All in all, I couldn't say no. I have mostly loved being here (Merida), so it is with some sadness that I close this chapter on my life's journey. But as a friend used to tell me, "the best is yet to come." Espero que sea la verdad.

[scottmx81]

You should turn in your FM3 at your local immigration office. They will give you a letter confirming the cancellation and the date of your salida definitiva from the country. They should give you up to 30 days to leave, during which time the letter validates your legal presence in the country. The letter also serves to check-in for your flight without surrendering your tourist card or showing your FM3.

You may be able to turn it in at the airport as has been suggested, but what I'm suggesting is probably the best way to do it and ensure that it has been done properly. Returning as a tourist, without properly cancelling your FM3 could probably lead to problems (fines) if they realize you had an uncancelled FM3 and entered as a tourist.

[leslie]

Bye

[geaaronson]

Sorry to see you go, New Haven. You helped me a lot in our conversation at the Italian Coffee. You stand out in my memory as being one of the most pleasant persons I had the chance to encounter in good ole Merida.