US border card: Who qualifies for the 10-year travel document and how much it costs
The United States government has published the application fee for its 10-year Border Crossing Card, a travel document that also serves as a visitor visa for eligible travellers. The document costs $185 for applicants aged 15 and above, while younger children may qualify for a reduced fee of $15.
The US Department of State lists the Border Crossing Card (BCC), officially known as Form DSP-150, among its available visitor travel documents.
The card comes in a laminated, credit-card-sized format with security features. It generally remains valid for 10 years after issuance, although the validity period differs for some children.
However, the document is not available to every foreign national seeking entry into the United States. Its eligibility requirements are specifically tied to Mexican citizenship and residency.
How much the US Border Crossing Card costs
According to the US Department of State’s official visa fee schedule, applicants aged 15 and above must pay $185 to obtain the 10-year Border Crossing Card.
Children under 15 may qualify for a reduced application fee of $15. However, this option comes with an additional condition.
At least one parent or guardian must already hold a Border Crossing Card or be applying for one.
Furthermore, cards issued to children under the reduced-fee arrangement expire when the holder turns 15. Parents who want the standard 10-year validity for their children must pay the full $185 application fee.
The fees cover the card application and do not automatically guarantee approval.
Who is eligible to apply for the US border card?
The US government restricts the Border Crossing Card to people who are both citizens of Mexico and residents of the country.
Applicants must also meet the requirements for a B1/B2 visitor visa, which covers temporary business and tourism visits.
They must demonstrate strong ties to Mexico that would encourage them to return after their visit. A valid Mexican passport is also required when submitting an application.
Applications are processed through designated US embassy and consular offices in Mexico.
This means Nigerians and citizens of other countries cannot apply for the Border Crossing Card simply because they want to visit the United States.
Foreign nationals who do not meet the Mexican citizenship and residency requirements must explore the appropriate US visa category for their travel purpose.
What the 10-year Border Crossing Card allows holders to do
The Border Crossing Card combines a border identification document with a B1/B2 visitor visa.
It allows eligible holders to visit the United States temporarily for tourism or approved business activities.
For land crossings within designated border zones, holders may use the card without presenting a passport or obtaining an I-94 arrival record, subject to applicable restrictions.
However, travellers who intend to go beyond the permitted border zone or stay longer than 30 days must obtain an I-94 record.
The card does not provide permission to work or live permanently in the United States.
According to the US Department of State, the document remains subject to immigration requirements and inspection at the point of entry.