Question for Photographers...Work Permits

Mel · January 12, 2008

I did a search on here and found only one thread from 2006 about work permits in Mexico. What the photographer's experience on customs and the work permits were and if they have the permits or if they just "take their chances"? Like have any been threatened to have their equipment taken away or is everything usually go pretty smooth.

What has everyone else's experience been on this? I was told at a bridal show this weekend some horror stories and it makes me really nervous to hire someone that doesn't already have the permit.

Yari · January 12, 2008

Wow, I have never heard of that. I am anxious to hear that answer.

jayreilly · January 12, 2008

I have been to mexico for about 35 plus wedding in northern baja, cabo, cancun, puerta vallarta, cancun and playa and south...

I have NEVER had a problem. The only issue is how much camera equiptment your bringing PER person. A photographer can not bring more than 2 cameras to mexico, it is in the custom rules on entry, the declaration document that you sign. It is a resale, taax issue not a working permit issue.

The chances of your photographer not getting in to shoot is VERY SLIM. I have never heard of ANYONE haveing a problem and I know MANY photographer working in mexico on a regular basis.

I have shot in The Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, Mexico, Scotland, France, Italy, Canada... with no issue.

I would not loose sleep over it but I would make sure your photographer is comfortable with travel work. Some photographers want to jump into DWs because it sounds exciting but in reality it is alot of work, tiring and you end up spending more money on incidental things to get the job done. These little things of safely getting into the country is just part of the experience;-)

Hope that helps, just my point of view.

jay

Nic Dragomire · January 12, 2008

Jay = (rock star)

Great info Jay,

PS

what are you doing up this early dude?

jayreilly · January 12, 2008

hey nic! what are you doing up so early! my excuse...i have a 2 year old that cant sleep. young guy lik eyour self, probaly just getting in from froma night of club hopping, must be nice;-)

jay