Offices remain closed, airport reopens after earthquake

IMPACT – MEDIUM

Offices of the Instituto Nacional de Migración in Mexico City, Puebla and Morelos remained closed Wednesday, a day after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck about 80 miles from Mexico City.

Key points:

• The closure of INM offices in areas hit by the earthquake may delay immigration services, including processing of work permits, visas and exit permits. Authorities will extend deadlines for those who miss them because of closures related to the earthquake. Offices are expected to reopen Monday, Sept. 25.
• Flights resumed into and out of Mexico City, the nation’s capital, after the airport temporarily closed yesterday. Travelers were nonetheless urged to contact their airline prior to traveling.
• Services at embassies and consulates in Mexico may also be disrupted. The British Embassy, for example, remained closed to inspect for structural damage. The U.S. State Department asked Americans in Mexico to monitor local media and “contact loved ones directly or use social media to let them know your status.”

BAL Analysis: Those in need of INM services in Mexico City, Puebla and Morelos should expect processing delays. Companies that have not already done so should take steps to account for the safety of any employees in Mexico. Delays should be expected when traveling in areas hit hard by the quake, including many parts of Mexico City. Those planning on traveling to Mexico should be sure to check with their airline before leaving for the airport. BAL will continue to monitor developments in Mexico, including any additional disruptions to immigration services.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Mexico. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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