### Ongoing Charges for Crossing from San Ysidro to Tijuana
Crossing through the San Ysidro border into Tijuana continues to involve charges for foreigners unable to prove Mexican nationality. The National Guard and the National Institute of Migration (INM) oversee the pedestrian entry points, where those who cannot confirm their Mexican nationality must pay 575 pesos for the Visitor’s Permit (DNR), which restricts them from engaging in remunerative activities.
On September 20, 2024, a significant number of people faced long queues at the border crossing. The new delegate of the INM, Jorge Alejandro Palau Hernández, has enforced stricter adherence to the regulation introduced in 2020. An INM worker, speaking anonymously, noted, “Although we had been very flexible, new instructions required us to check returning individuals. Many people in Tijuana with Mexican parents or cultural ties still had to pay because they couldn’t legally prove their nationality.”
Efforts to reach Jorge Alejandro Palau Hernández for comments on the number of DNR processed, approved, and denied applications were unsuccessful. On September 21, however, five desks were operational for random document verification and DNR payments. Journalist Yolanda Morales of Imagen Televisión reported on the process, stressing that while it is a legal requirement, the transient population often prioritizes compliance with US regulations over Mexican documentation.
According to the Secretaria de Gobernación, the exceptions to the DNR fee include:
– Mexican nationals who can prove their citizenship.
– Visitors staying less than seven days, entering by land, and not engaging in paid activities, such as work or gambling.
– Temporary or permanent residents of Mexico.
– Children under two years old.
Visitors must complete a form available on the INM website and can make payments online to Mexican banks or Banjército.
### Additional News:
#### Tense Wait Times and Documentation Issues at Border
As of mid-September 2024, border crossings via San Ysidro have faced increased scrutiny leading to considerable wait times. The enforcement of these measures has caused inconvenience for the significant bi-national population. A report highlighted the ongoing frustration among travelers as the strict documentation requirements remain a contentious issue.
#### Efforts to Facilitate Documentation
To assist those affected, local governments in border regions have initiated campaigns to help residents obtain necessary documentation. These initiatives aim to ease the transition and compliance for bi-national individuals, although many residents still feel the emphasis should be on facilitating easier travel rather than imposing stringent measures.
For more updates on cross-border travel and immigration regulations, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.