Ciudad Juárez to El Paso Border Crossing: 2026 Guide
El Paso, Texas and Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua share several Rio Grande bridges and one of the busiest crossings on the US-Mexico border. All of El Paso’s crossings operate around the clock, but each bridge handles traffic differently.
The Bridges
- Paso del Norte (Santa Fe Street): downtown. Pedestrians cross both ways; cars only northbound into the US
- Stanton Street (Good Neighbor): cars southbound into Mexico; northbound is SENTRI only
- Bridge of the Americas (BOTA): the only toll-free crossing, passenger lanes 24 hours
- Ysleta-Zaragoza: east side of El Paso
Getting Your FMM
Mexican immigration rarely stops people walking or driving south, which is why so many visitors end up without a valid tourist permit. If you are going beyond the border area or staying more than a few days, go to the INM office at the crossing, get your FMM stamped, and pay the fee if staying more than seven days.
Mexico’s FMM And How Many Days You Get
Every visitor entering Mexico needs an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple). By land, it is free if you stay seven days or less. For longer stays the 2026 fee is 983 MXN, roughly US$55. You can fill in the FMM online before you arrive, but it still has to be stamped by an immigration officer at the border. See our Mexico tourist card guide.
The FMM allows up to 180 days, and the officer decides the number. In 2025 and 2026 travelers have reported receiving far fewer days, sometimes 30 or less, especially when their passport shows a pattern of visa runs. Ask politely for the days you need, have a hotel booking and proof of funds ready, and show when you plan to leave.
Safety
The US State Department rates Chihuahua Level 3, Reconsider Travel. Most visitors who cross for the day stay in central areas and use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps. Check current advice before you go.
Using Juárez For A Visa Run
To reset a Mexican stay, exit Mexico properly, enter the US, and return for a new FMM. Non-US citizens need valid US entry permission. Expect questions if your passport shows repeated runs.
Bring Proof Of Onward Travel
Border officers on a visa run are deciding one thing: will you leave again on time? A confirmed onward or return booking is the quickest way to answer that. It matters most when you are re-entering a country you only just left, and on the flight leg if your run involves one. See whether Mexico asks for proof of onward travel.
If you do not want to commit to a real ticket yet, Fast Onward Tickets issues an onward flight reservation in minutes. See our complete guide to proof of onward travel for what officers and airlines accept.
FAQs
Which bridge should I walk across?
Paso del Norte, downtown, is the usual pedestrian route.
How long are the lines back into the US?
From under an hour to several hours at peak times. SENTRI and Ready Lanes help.
Do I need a car permit?
Only if you drive beyond the border zone into the interior of Mexico.
The Bottom Line
Crossing at Juárez is easy. Getting your FMM is the part people skip. Do it at the bridge and travel with a clear exit plan.