The card includes updated graphics security and a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that allows travelers to use the faster Ready Lanes when driving across the border. The Border Crossing Card also negates the need for a passport when entering the United States within the first 25 miles of the border for under 30 days.
Existing visas will remain valid until their expiration.
The consulate will continue to issue the old passport insert visas for validation periods other than ten years and for expedited emergency travel.
The change reduces the workload at the Consulate, as they no longer have to deal with applications for Border Crossing Cards, while typical visa solicitors will see no change in the process.
Daniel Keller, Consul General in Guadalajara, hopes these changes will help reduce the waits for appointments and the long lines outside the Applicant Service Center on Union and La Paz evident this holiday season. Keller said, “We are making some adjustments to our process a little and also to the equipment of the consulate to resolve this problem.”