Voice of the Fields - November 2012

FA R M L A B O R I N F O R M AT I O N B U L L E T I N

Voice of the Fields California

November 2012

FREE

Volume 22, Number 10

The Paisano Program: Help getting through Mexico’s Borders

W

ith the holidays around the corner, a lot of people will be traveling to Mexico to visit their family and friends. For a safe and easy trip, it is important that you understand and comply with Mexican laws, and take a few precautions. To help travelers get through the border with ease, Mexico’s Federal Government introduced the Paisano Program. Volunteers from the program are stationed at Mexican borders and access points such as airports and bus terminals providing accurate paper work and information to travelers.

The program runs year-round for the protection of people entering, transiting or leaving Mexico. Their focus is to bring better service and safety to people returning to their home country. They hope to control and eventually eliminate the incidents of abuse, theft, corruption and extortion at Mexican borders, while making travel easier for people during the holiday season.

It is a good idea to find out what you need to know and what to have with you when traveling to Mexico. According to the Paisano Program, you need to prove your citizenship, then declare your items at Customs and do a temporary importation of your car. Read on to find out more information about these steps to ensure a smooth, successful and safe trip to Mexico. And remember, volunteers from the program will be at the border to help.

Tijuana

Mexicali Ensenada

UNITED STATES

Puerto Penasco

Ciudad Juarez

Nogales

San Quintin

Ojinaga

Hermosillo

Isla Cedros

Delicias

Cuidad Obregon

Santa Rosalia

Loreto

Piedras Negras

Chihuahua

Guaymas

Nuevo Laredo

Hidalgo del Parral

Gulf of California

Monclova

Los Mochis

Torreon

Saltillo

Monterrey

Matamoros

Gulf of Mexico

Culiacan

La Paz

San Lucas

North Pacific Ocean

Durango

Cuidad Victoria

Mazatlan

Zacatecas

Ciudad Mante

Tepic

Guadalajara

Tampico

San Luis Potosi

Aquascalientes

Islas Marias

Progreso Merida

Guanajuato Leon Queretaro

Pachuca

Morelia

Colima Manzanillo

Isla de Cozumel

Poza Rica

Campeche

Bahia de Campeche

Mexico City

Xalapa Tlaxcala Veracruz Toluca Puebla Orizaba Cuernavaca

Chetumal

Villahermosa

Lazaro Cardenas

Coatzacoalcos

Chilpancingo

Acapulco

BELIZE

Oaxaca

Salina Cruz Puerto Escondido

Tuxtla Gutierrez

Golfo de Tehuantepec

Comitan

GUATEMALA Tapachula

HONDURAS

What documents do I need to prove my citizenship in order to enter Mexico?

When you arrive in Mexico, you will need one of any of the following documents to prove you are a Mexican citizen: a passport, birth certificate, military ID, Matricula Consular Certificate, or Declaration of Mexican Nationality or naturalization document.

If you do not have the aforementioned documentation, you may simply state your citizenship. As a Mexican Citizen you will need to complete a free form (migratory FEM) for statistical information. If you have any questions about any of these forms of identification, contact your local Mexican Consulate office: from Mexico dial 01 800 201 85 42 and from the U.S. call (877) 210- 9469.

You can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you are a foreigner entering Mexico, you will need a Mexican tourist card – officially the forma migratoria para turista (FMT) - that must be completed and stamped by Mexican immigration officials when you enter Mexico, and kept until you leave. It’s available at official border crossings and international airports and ports. At the US–Mexico border you will have to ask for the card, because they are not automatically provided. Though the tourist card itself is free of charge, it brings with it a tourist fee of about $23 USD which must be paid for in Pesos ($294). This fee is called the derecho para no inmigrante (DNI, nonimmigrant fee).

Look after your tourist card because it may be

EL SALVADOR

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The Paisano Program: Help getting through Mexico’s borders Continued from previous page

checked when you leave the country. You can be fined for not having it. If you are a Mexican citizen, it is important that you have the correct documentation (listed above) with you to prove your citizenship so you are not charged this fee.

How do I go about getting a Mexican Passport?

To make your trip into Mexico, and back to the U.S. faster and easier, it is recommended that you obtain a Mexican Passport through the Mexican Consulate office. To do this, you need to make an appointment by calling 1-877-MEXITEL, or 1-877-639-4835.

Operators are available between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. You will be provided with an appointment date, and you will be required to bring the following documents: n

A certified copy of your Mexican birth certificate, or a Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization Charter or Declaration of Mexican Nationality. n A photo ID and Voter registration card, education certificate from Elementary or Middle School and Mexican military service card. n Present two photographs, in color, without glasses, uncovered head, front view, with a white background that have been taken up to 30 days prior to the processing of the passport. n Fill out the application form in blue or black ink.

For minors, the OP-7 Form must be completed, and the documents above must be submitted. You will also need: n Certified Copy of parents’ Marriage Certificate n Official photo ID of the father and mother— with both names being the same as what is stated on the child’s birth certificate.

If you already have a Mexican Passport, and need it to be renewed, call the number listed above. Once you receive your appointment

date, you need to bring your previous passport and two color photos. There will be a fee to renew your passport.

What is a Matricula Consular and how do I get one?

The Matricula Consular is an identification card issued by the Government of Mexico through its consulate offices to Mexican Nationals residing outside of Mexico. The purpose of the card is to prove that the holder is a Mexican national living outside of Mexico.

It includes a Government of Mexico issued ID number and a photograph and address (outside of Mexico) of the Mexican National it is issued to. To obtain your Matricula you need to schedule an appointment with the Consulate office by calling 1-877-MEXITEL or 1-877639-4835, operators are available between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday-Friday. You will be required to bring the following documentation in order for your card to be processed: n

Certified Mexican birth certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization Charter or Declaration of Mexican Nationality.

n

Official Mexican photo identification such as a passport, military ID, voting card

n

Provide proof of address such as a water, electricity, gas or phone bill.

What should I do when crossing the border?

When arriving at the border, you will notice two sections, or lanes, (one of which you will need to enter). The two lanes are the “Nothing to declare lane” and the “Self –declaration lane”. n

Go to the “Nothing to declare lane” when you’re sure what you have brought with you to Mexico will not exceed the permitted limit.

n

Go to the “Self-declaration Lane” when you bring items worth more than the personal and family exemptions ($75 USD normally/$300 USD during the holidays).

If you choose the wrong lane by mistake, you can ask a Customs inspector for an appraisal of your goods, so you can pay the correct duties and taxes. Remember, when your belongings are being inspected, you must be treated with courtesy and respect. The inspectors must also handle your belongings gently and with care, but you also must be sure to follow and comply with Mexico’s border laws.

What do I need to do for the temporary importation of my car in order to travel safely through Mexico with U.S. issued license plates?

If you plan on driving to Mexico, you will be able to temporarily import your car for a maximum of 180 days. You need to obtain and fill out the appropriate paperwork which can be found online, at your local Mexican Consulate office in California, or at the Banjercito offices located at the Mexican border. To find the forms online visit: www.aduanas.gob.mx or www.banjercito.com.mx. If you decide to do this over the internet, you will receive the permit and sticker for your car within 7 working days. This is the easiest and fastest way of obtaining your permit. In order to obtain the permit, you will need the following items: n Documents proving your migratory status (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, etc.). n Vehicle property title, registration, invoice or lease contract in the importers name, original or copy. n A document that proves the return of the past imported vehicle, if it applies. n A credit or debit card issued outside of Mexico with the name of the importer. If you do not have a credit or debit card, cash deposit of $200 USD to $400 USD (depending to your vehicle year and model). The deposit will be returned when the vehicle is presented before the expiration date of the permit.

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Traveling to Mexico for the Holidays

I

f you are planning to travel to Mexico for the holidays, you need to be sure you have prepared yourself and your family for the trip. There are people who are available to answer your questions, and provide you with information you may need. The staff members at your local Mexican Consulate are focused on giving you the most up-to-date information about traveling to Mexico, and if you run into any problems during your trip, they are available over the phone to handle your questions and complaints.

Below are some frequently asked questions about the documentation you will need to travel to Mexico, as well as travel safety tips, what items to take, buying car insurance, and other important holiday traveling tips. The answers to the question are also provided.

What should I bring with me to Mexico? n

n

n

n n n n

n

Important travel documents to prove your Mexican citizenship (a passport, birth certificate, military ID, Matricula Consular Certificate, or Declaration of Mexican Nationality or naturalization document). If you’re not a Mexican citizen and are a U.S. citizen, bring your U.S. Passport.

A map of your drive to Mexico, as well as a map of your final destination Mexican car insurance (more information below) Your family and friend’s contact information A cell phone Your temporary vehicle permit Contact information for the Mexican Consulate (from Mexico dial 01 800 201 85 42 or 1 (877) 210-9469 from the U.S.) Any medications you may need-including a prescription stating your name

If I am driving to Mexico, do I need insurance for my car?

Yes. Although having automobile insurance in Mexico is not required by law, the Consulate of Mexico recommends all vehicles traveling to Mexico purchase Mexican car insurance. If your vehicle is insured in the U.S., the policy will not be valid in Mexico. Check with your insurance carrier for more details. You may also purchase Mexican auto insurance in cities and towns along the U.S. Mexican border.

What safety precautions can I take to protect myself and my family while traveling to Mexico by vehicle?

The Consulate of Mexico reminds you that it is important to take common sense measures when traveling. These measures include traveling only during the day, not carrying large amounts of cash (or not carrying cash at all), and traveling only designated roads. To make traveling easier,

the consulate has a service to provide you with the safest and shortest driving routes, as well as an estimated fuel cost. It is called Point to Point Routes, and it can be found on their website: http://www.paisano.gob.mx and follow the link titled “Trace Your Route”

What are some tax-free items that I may bring with me to Mexico?

According to the Paisano website, you may bring with you any items that are part of your personal baggage, including: your clothes, shoes, toiletries and some electronic devices (including cell phones, a radio, laptop and a DVD player) tax-free. If you are traveling with a baby, any items for room or transportation of the baby are permitted tax-free. For a detailed list of what you are allowed to bring into Mexico, tax-free, visit http://www.paisano.gob.mx/index.php/ quejas. All other items are taxable at a flat rate of 16% if they are worth more than $300 United States Dollars (USD) (raised from the normal $75 USD for the holidays). However, this amount applies to each person and can be combined for family members (including kids) traveling together in the same car. If you have a question about something that is not listed on the website, and would like to know if you can bring it into Mexico tax-free, check with your local Mexican Consulate office before your trip. Call the toll free number, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: (877) 210- 9469.

I have a pet, and I would like to bring it with me when I travel to Mexico. What do I need to do?

You can bring a dog or cat with you to Mexico, but there are steps you must take to ensure it will be allowed across the border with you.

You are required to carry the original, as well as a photocopy, of the Health Certificate from a registered veterinarian issued within 15 days prior to your departure. You also need a valid certificate of vaccination stating your pet has had Continued on next page

Paisano Program

Continued from second page page The cost of obtaining the permit at the border is $32 USD plus taxes, at the Mexican Consulate office it will cost $40 USD plus taxes, and via the internet, it will cost $48 USD, shipping included.

Please remember that the credit card used and all documents provided must be in the name of the vehicle owner. The vehicle owner must also be present and in the vehicle when it arrives at the border.

It is important to note that you make sure to cancel your vehicle permit at the border before you leave Mexico and obtain a receipt. Failure to turn in your vehicle permit before the expiration date may result in very high fines or you may be denied entry on your next trip.

If you encounter abuse from Mexican authority officials while you travel in Mexico, you may file a formal complaint by calling the numbers below.

Remember, everyone’s circumstances are different, and not all situations are covered in this article.

Please visit http://www.paisano.gob.mx or call the Mexican Consulate toll-free for more information. To contact the Consulate from the U.S. dial 1 (877) 210-94-69, from Mexico dial 01 800 201 8542. You can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Traveling to Mexico

Continued from previous page all required vaccinations within fifteen days of departure. These certificates must be provided to the Office of Animal and Plant Health Inspection when entering Mexico. If you transport one to three pets, there is no payment required. If you transport four or more, you must make a payment of about $140 USD ($1,817 Pesos) for the issuance of the Import Health Certificate.

I am packing food to bring with me to Mexico. What am I not permitted to bring with me?

If you encounter abuse from Mexican authority officials while you travel in Mexico, you may file a formal complaint by calling the numbers below. Remember, everyone’s circumstances are different, and not all situations are covered in this article. Please visit http:// www.paisano.gob.mx or call the Mexican Consulate toll-free for more information. To contact the Consulate from the U.S. dial 1 (877) 210-94-69, from Mexico dial 01 800 201 8542.

You can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Voice of the Fields California Circulation: 40,000 copies

www.LaCooperativa.org

To protect Mexico’s agriculture, animal products and plants are not allowed to cross the border. The Paisano Program’s website, recommends that you do not bring the following: n Flowers, plants, or dirt n Fruit, seeds or grains n Hay, straw, palm or coconut n Homemade food n Animal meats, in any form n Eggs, feathers n Milk, or milk products in any form n Pet food

Published monthly by: La Cooperativa Campesina de California 1107 9th Street, Suite 420, Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone 916.388.2220 Fax 916.388.2425 Produced with the support of the Employment Development Department Voice of the Fields may be reproduced

Agricultural Jobs available to U.S. workers under H-2A contract You may apply for these jobs by phone or in person at your nearest Employment Development Department (EDD) field office Name of Employer

CalJOBS Number

Job Title

Pay Rate

Contract Dates

Positions

City of Job

Employer’s County (for ECMS)

EDD Workforce Services Site Office

1

Q & H Honey Farms

CA13577249

Beekeeper

$11.00

1/15/13 11/1/13

3

Fresno

Fresno

Bakersfield WS (661)635-2600

2

Grizzly Creek DBA Brant AgPollen

CA13559884

Beekeepers

$11.00

1/7/13 11/7/13

5

Waterford

Stanislaus

Turlcok WS (209)664-8306

3

McDonald Apriary

CA13564807

Beekeeper

$11.00

1/5/13 5/5/13

6

Shafter

Kern

Bakersfield WS (661)635-2600

4

King Bee Apiarys

CA13528786

Beekeepers

$11.00

1/1/13 10/31/13

6

Lake Isabella

Kern

Bakersfield WS (661)635-2600

5

Corona Vineyard

CA13551299

Vineyard Workers Grapes

$10.24

1/12/13 10/31/13

20

Napa

Napa

Napa WS (707)253-4134

6

Western Range Association

CA10339218

Agricultural Worker, Sheepherder

$1,422.52

Continous

143

California & Western States

California and other Western states

Contact any EDD WS office

The H-2A temporary agricultural program allows agricultural employers who anticipate a shortage of domestic workers to bring nonimmigrant foreign workers to the U.S. to perform agricultural labor or services of a temporary or seasonal nature. The H-2A employers must demonstrate that qualified U.S. workers are not available for the job and the employment of temporary foreign workers will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of U.S. workers similarly employed. Preference in hiring will be given to qualified U.S. workers before employers are allowed to bring in foreign workers under the program.