EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS IN MEXICO
From Mexico: 800-681-9374 or 55-8526-2561
From the United States: 1-844-528-6611

U.S. Citizen Services Inquiries: Contact Form

U.S. Embassy Mexico City
Paseo de la Reforma 305
Colonia Cuauhtémoc
06500 Ciudad de México

U.S. Consulate General Ciudad Juarez
Paseo de la Victoria #3650
Fracc. Partido Senecú
32543 Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua

U.S. Consulate General Guadalajara
Manuel Acuña 3410
Colonia Monraz
44670 Guadalajara, Jalisco  

U.S. Consulate General Hermosillo
Consulado General de los Estados Unidos de América en Hermosillo
Blvd. Navarrete 291 Colonia Raquet Club C.P. 83204
Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico.

U.S. Consulate General Matamoros
Constitución No. 1
Colonia Jardín
87330 Matamoros, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Merida
Calle 60 No. 338-K x 29 y 31
Colonia Alcalá Martin
97050 Mérida, Yucatán

U.S. Consulate General Monterrey
Avenida Alfonso Reyes 150
Colonia Valle del Poniente
66196 Santa Catarina, Nuevo León

U.S. Consulate General Nogales
Calle San José s/n
Fracc. Los Álamos
84065 Nogales, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Nuevo Laredo
Paseo Colon 1901
Colonia Madero
88260 Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Tijuana
Paseo de las Culturas s/n
Mesa de Otay
Delegación Centenario
22425 Tijuana, Baja California

Consular Agencies

Acapulco
Hotel Continental Emporio
Costera M. Alemán 121 – Office 14
39670 Acapulco, Guerrero

Cancun
Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 ZH
Torre La Europea, Despacho 301
77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo

Los Cabos
Las Tiendas de Palmilla L-B221, Km. 27.5 Carretera Transpeninsular
23406 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur

Mazatlan
Playa Gaviotas 202, Local 10
Zona Dorada
82110 Mazatlán, Sinaloa

Oaxaca
Macedonio Alcalá 407, Office 20
68000 Oaxaca, Oaxaca

Piedras Negras
Abasolo 211, Local 3, Centro
26000 Piedras Negras, Coahuila

Playa del Carmen
Plaza Progreso, Local 33
Carretera Federal Puerto Juarez-Chetumal, Mz. 293 Lt. 1.
77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Puerto Vallarta
Paradise Plaza, Paseo de los Cocoteros 85 Sur, Local L-7
63732 Nuevo Nayarit, Nayarit

San Miguel de Allende
Plaza La Luciérnaga, Libramiento Jose Manuel Zavala 165, Locales 4 y 5
Colonia La Luciérnaga
37745 San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

See the State Department’s Fact Sheet on Mexico for more information on U.S.-Mexico relations.

Helpful resources
Mexican government entry, exit, and visa requirements (in Spanish)
U.S. Embassy in Mexico

Common terms

• FMM = Forma Migratoria Multiple (entry permit). 
• FMMD = Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital 
• INM = Instituto Nacional de Migracion (National Migration Institute)
• PROFECO = Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor (Mexico’s consumer protection agency)
• CONDUSEF = Comision Nacional para la Proteccion y Defensa de los Usuarios de Servicios Financiero (Mexico’s banking regulatory agency)

Passport requirements
Air travel: You need a passport book to enter Mexico. You can’t use a U.S. passport card to board a plane at the airport.

Land travel: You need a passport book or card to enter Mexico. All travelers to Mexico, must apply for an FMM, (entry permit) online or from an INM office, including travelers who are only staying within 12 miles (or 20 kilometers).

Entry and exit procedures

By air: Mexican authorities issue digital Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital (FMMD) at all 66 international airports in Mexico.

• When you arrive at an airport in Mexico, the Mexican immigration authorities will determine how long you are authorized to stay.
• A date stamp will be placed in your passport. You may be directed through a self-service electronic gate (E-Gate) that will generate a printed receipt with a QR code.
• Air travelers can visit National Migration Institute (INM) (in Spanish) to download a record of their FMMD or find more information.

By land: All travelers are required to have a passport book or card and apply for an FMM, online or from an INM office, including travelers who are only staying within 12 miles from the border (or 20 kilometers)

By sea: If you are traveling to Mexico by sea, you must have either a valid passport, a U.S. passport card, a trusted traveler card (such as NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST), or a state-issued REAL ID.

• If the cruise departs from and returns to the same U.S. port (“closed-loop” cruises), U.S. citizens may instead provide an original government-issued birth certificate or certified copy (with raised seal). If you are 16 or older, you also need a government-issued photo identification, such as a valid driver’s license.
• People entering Mexico on a private boat or ship must get a permit from the Mexican Government before traveling.
• For more information contact the Embassy of Mexico in Washington D.C.

Vehicle regulations

• Temporary vehicle import permits are required for U.S. registered vehicles traveling beyond the border zone. You must obtain this permit from Banjercito (office of temporary vehicle import) and pay a refundable deposit.
• Hassle-free zones in the states of Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Sonora allow cars to drive throughout the state without an entry permit. Car registration is also available within the zone if you prefer.

Legal and customs entry information

• Declare goods worth over $300 USD (arriving by land) or $500 USD (arriving by air) with Mexican customs to avoid fines or confiscation. This includes used goods and donations. More information is available from Mexican customs (ANAM).
• While not always enforced, Mexican regulations allow the tax-free import of only one portable computer (like a laptop or tablet) per person. If you bring more than one, you might have to pay a fee of up to 19% on the value of the extra device, or up to $4,000 USD. · Importing drugs, including medical marijuana, is illegal. It is also illegal to import e-cigarettes (vaping devices).
• Bringing weapons including guns, ammunition, and knives into Mexico without permits issued by the Mexican government is a serious crime.
• Criminal history or charges can be a reason Mexican authorities may deny you entry.
• Dual nationality is permitted by both Mexico and the United States. Learn more about dual nationality requirements and customs regulations.
• Having HIV/AIDS does not result in a restriction on entry for visitors or residents.
• Travelers under 18 may require a notarized parental consent letter if they are not traveling with both parents. Bring a notarized consent letter from parents who are not on the trip.

Emergency numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

Dial 911 to report emergencies in Mexico. Seek help from a Spanish speaker to place the call. Not all emergency operators speak English.

Dial 55 8526 2561 (from Mexico) for the U.S. Embassy.

Dial 844 528 6611 (from the United States) for the U.S. Embassy.

Contact the closest U.S. Consulate

U.S. citizens in Mexico should not expect the same public health and safety standards as in the United States. Enforcement varies by location, even when standards exist. Follow health and safety precautions to reduce the risk of illness or injury.

Crime: Crime in Mexico is common and can be violent. This ranges from petty street crime to attacks by cartels, criminal organizations and terrorist organizations. There have been violent crimes in resort areas and tourist spots in Mexico.

• Mission Mexico has assisted U.S. citizens who were victims of armed robbery, carjacking, extortion, homicide, kidnapping, pickpocketing, and sexual assault. · Targeted killings and other cartel, criminal organizations and terrorist organizations violence result from fights over territory. This can hurt innocent bystanders.
• Travelers who experience an active shooter situation should flee or drop to the ground behind a hard barrier.
• For more details, review the Mexico Travel Advisory

Robbery: Robberies happen often in cities. Criminals force victims to use their debit or credit cards to withdraw money. They may also pose as taxi drivers to trick you.

To stay safe:

• Limit the cash you carry in public. · Do not hail taxis on the street. Use trusted ride-sharing apps or book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand.
• Ask your bank how to quickly freeze or cancel your bank and credit cards. 

Extortion: Extortion schemes are common, such as virtual kidnapping. Criminals convince families that a relative has been kidnapped. The relative is actually safe but unreachable. In another version of virtual kidnapping, a caller tells someone who has checked into a hotel that they are in danger and must pay a ransom. The criminals try to scare the victim into not contacting police or family. They claim the cartel, criminal organization, or terrorist organization is involved and threaten violence.

To protect yourself from these schemes:

• Don’t share travel plans, your room number, or personal details with strangers.
• Don’t share business details with strangers in person or over the phone, especially when using hotel phones.
• If someone tells you your loved one has been kidnapped, try first to contact them directly and confirm whether they are safe.
• End your phone call immediately if you receive a threat.
• If someone tells you that you are in danger in a hotel, contact the front desk to report the threat, consider relocating to another hotel, and evaluate whether you should contact local authorities for more help.

Drug smuggling: Mexican cartels, criminal organizations and terrorist organizations are active in a violent struggle to control trafficking routes. Crime organizations may try to convince Americans to carry packages into the United States for them. They target unaware travelers who regularly cross the border to smuggle drugs.

• Monitor your vehicle closely.

Don’t agree to carry any package across the border.

Sexual assault: Rape and sexual assault are common in some resort areas, especially at night or early morning. Criminals sometimes drug their victim’s drinks. 

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Consider bringing a friend with you when you go out.
• Closely monitor your drinks. 

Financial scams: Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams and learn how the FBI can help.

Internet financial scams are common in Mexico. Scammers often reach out through online services or unwanted emails. They may pretend to be U.S. citizens needing help. They even claim that you or a loved one may be in danger if you do not give them money. There have also been reports of banking fraud against U.S. citizens. Common scams include:

• Requests for you to help with a money transfer, promising you a share of the money.
• Notifications of supposed bank overpayments or fake inheritances. · Promises of free trips or luggage.
• Online girlfriends or boyfriends claiming they are in trouble and asking for financial help.
• Promises to help you exit your timeshare property investment in Mexico.

If you think you’ve been scammed, you can:

• File a police report.
• File a complaint with Mexico’s consumer protection agency, PROFECO (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor, Spanish only).
• File a complaint with the Mexican banking regulatory agency CONDUSEF (Comision Nacional para la Proteccion y Defensa de los Usuarios de Servicios Financieros, Spanish only).
• Consult an attorney.

Credit and debit card skimming: Fraudulent charges or cash withdrawals can occur due to “skimmed” cards.

• Use ATMs in safe, well-lit areas, ideally within banks.
• Be especially alert for skimming devices in tourist areas. These are popular targets.
• Regularly check your account for unauthorized transactions. 

Victims of crime: When a crime occurs while traveling:

• Dial 911 for the local authorities.
• File a report of the crime “denuncia” with the “Ministerio Publico,” similar to the office of public prosecutor or district attorney in the United States. (Note: First responders do not handle crime reports.)
• Dial +52-55-8526-2561 for the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate to report serious crimes such as:
  • Kidnapping of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR)
  • Domestic violence
  • Sexual assault

The Department of State provides help for U.S. victims of crime overseas. The Embassy or Consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to local authorities.
• With your written consent, contact relatives or friends.
• Provide general information about a victim’s role during local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Share a list of local attorneys.
• Issue an emergency loan for repatriation to the U.S. or limited medical support in cases of poverty.
• Help you find accommodations and arrange flights home.
• Inform you about victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. 

Carbon monoxide: U.S. citizens have died from carbon monoxide poisoning in Mexico.

• Many hotels and vacation rental properties do not have carbon monoxide detectors.
• If you are not sure that your accommodations provide one, bring a portable carbon monoxide detector.

Demonstrations: Demonstrations happen often, sometimes due to political or economic issues, political holidays, or international events.

• Protesters may block roads, bridges, or take over toll booths.
• If protesters ask for money at toll booths, paying usually lets you pass.

U.S. citizens should not join demonstrations, as Mexican law forbids political activities by foreigners. Joining demonstrations can lead to detention or deportation.

• Avoid areas with protests.
• Protests can be unpredictable and sometimes turn violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic news. Tourism regulations

In major cities and resorts, tourism is well-regulated and enforced through best practices and safety inspections.

• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• In smaller towns, regulations, inspections and safety measures are limited.
• Professional staff support organized tour-group activities.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Tourist assistance:
Dial 078 from any phone in Mexico to get free information about:

• Tourist attractions
• Airports and travel agencies
• Car rental companies
• Embassies and consulates
• Fairs and exhibitions
• Hotels
• Hospitals
• Financial services
• Migratory and other issues

Mexico also has multilingual Centers for the Care and Protection of the Tourist (CAPTA) and Tourist Assistance Centers (CATTAC) to help with:

• Disputes with businesses and government
• Filing criminal reports
• Finding special needs accommodations

Locations:

• Acapulco 
• Cancun
• Cozumel
• Ciudad Madero
• La Paz
• Los Cabos
• Mazatlan 
• Playa del Carmen
• Queretaro

Traveling in the state of Quintana Roo (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cozumel):
Consider downloading the government of Quintana Roo’s Guest Assist mobile app. Find easy access to emergency numbers, legal advice, and tourist information. Get help with police reports for lost passports or complaints against service providers.

Weather and Natural Disasters 
Resources during natural disasters Civil Protection
U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

Earthquakes and tsunamis
Mexico is an active earthquake zone. Tsunamis may occur following significant earthquakes. Travelers may wish to download one of several earthquake alert apps. Tropical storm and hurricane season is May to November

Make plans to prepare for a potential disaster or crisis. Tropical storms with heavy rain and wind occur between May and November.

Stay informed of incoming storms and avoid these areas if possible.

Criminal penalties
Learn and follow local laws. If you break laws, even by mistake, you can be fined, expelled, arrested or imprisoned.

You may also be prosecuted in the U.S. for some acts committed abroad regardless of local law.

Federal law bans U.S. citizens or residents from traveling abroad to engage in any sexual conduct with someone under 18.

Arrest notification
If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to inform the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately.

Firearms and other weapons
Mexican federal law regulates firearms, and other weapons. Laws vary by state. However, it is almost always illegal to carry weapons such as:

• Firearms
• Knives
• Daggers
• Brass knuckles
• Ammunition (including cartridges and used shells) 

The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against bringing firearms into Mexico. Refer to Traveling Abroad with Firearms for more information.

• Bringing firearms or ammunition into Mexico without proper Mexican Government permits and permission is a serious crime. This includes when arriving by air or land and entering Mexican waters by boat.
• You could face severe penalties, including prison time and expensive fines.
• U.S. permits to carry weapons are not valid in Mexico.
• Illegal trafficking of firearms from the U.S. to Mexico is a crime.

Drugs
Drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico. It can lead to long jail sentences or fines. This includes marijuana, even if its use is allowed where you live in the United States.

Alcohol
Drink alcohol only in moderation and seek medical help if you feel ill.

• The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old.
• There are reports of people getting sick or becoming unconscious from contaminated alcohol.
• Criminals also drug drinks to rob or sexually assault victims.

Health inspection of hotels, restaurants and other hospitality establishments is handled by the Mexican Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk, COFEPRIS (Comision Federal para la Proteccion contra Riesgos Sanitarios, Spanish only). Contact COFEPRIS for information, to schedule an appointment, or file a report for any unregulated alcohol or health-related violations:

Dial 800-033-50-50 (from Mexico)
Dial +52-55-5080-5425 (from the U.S.)
Email: contacociudadano@cofepris.gob.mx

Electronic cigarettes (vaping devices)
It is illegal to bring e-cigarettes and vaping liquids into Mexico. Don’t bring them to avoid entry delays, fines or criminal charges.

Customs will confiscate vaping devices and solutions.

Counterfeit and pirated goods
Counterfeit and pirated goods are common but may be illegal according to local laws. You may also get fined or have to give the goods to authorities if you try to bring them to the United States. Review the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Real estate and time share purchasing
Be cautious when considering time-share investments or buying real estate in Mexico.

• Some sales representatives use aggressive tactics.
• Consult a Mexican attorney to understand the property rules and real estate laws before making any purchases. Disputes over time share arrangements have led to legal action and detentions.
• If needed, you can file a complaint with Mexico’s consumer protection agency, PROFECO (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor, Spanish only).

Business permits or licenses
U.S. citizens starting a business or practicing a profession should work with local authorities to understand what special permits or licenses are needed.

Mountain climbing and hiking

• Check CENAPRED (Centro Nacional de Prevencion de Desastres), for the latest volcanic warnings in Mexico to see if it's safe to climb near Popocatépetl.
• Trespassing on private land could result in a fine or jail time.
• In remote areas, there may be limited cell phone coverage or internet connectivity.
• It may be difficult for rescue teams to reach climbers and hikers in distress.

Beach areas and water activities
Beaches in Mexico can be dangerous due to strong currents, rip tides, and rogue waves.

• Do not swim alone.
• Take warning notices and flags on beaches seriously.
• If black or red flags are up, stay out of the water, However, not all dangerous beaches are marked.
• Strong currents can be dangerous even for experienced swimmers.
• Rogue waves have swept people out to sea, leading to drownings or disappearance.
• Avoid alcohol while enjoying water activities.

Boating
Be cautious on boats during excursions and water activities.

• Boats used for excursions may not be covered by accident insurance. 
• Adventure travel and sports may not be covered by accident insurance. Review information from the CDC to prepare for your trip.
• Boats may lack life jackets, radios and tools to make repairs.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Adventure Travel website for more information about Adventure Travel.

Faith-based travelers
Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel Information 
• International Religious Freedom Report
• Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Gay and Lesbian travelers
There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relationships or events in Mexico. However, there are occasional reports of violence against Gay and Lesbian people.

Gay and Lesbian Travel Information
Human Rights Report for Mexico

Women travelers
Travel tips for women travelers

Students
Students abroad travel tips
FBI travel tips

Health Resources
Mexico Traveler Health Information 
Health Traveler Information
Medical Tourism information 
International Air Quality Index 
Insurance Coverage Overseas

Common diseases
CDC Traveler’s Health in Mexico

Vaccinations
Visit your doctor at least one month before traveling to Mexico to update your vaccinations.

Emergency healthcare
Dial 911 to report emergencies in Mexico. Seek help from a Spanish speaker to place the call. Not all emergency operators are English-speaking.

Ambulance services are:

• Widely available in major cities. However, emergency responder training and availability may be below U.S. standards.
• Not available in rural or remote areas.
• Not equipped with advanced medical equipment.

Injured or seriously ill travelers may reach a major hospital faster by arranging private transportation than waiting for an ambulance.

Health facilities
Excellent health facilities are available in Mexico City and major cities.

• Mexican health providers usually require payment before providing medical care or before releasing you from the hospital.
• Most hospitals do not accept U.S. health insurance, including Medicare.
• Refer to this list of doctors and hospitals if you need healthcare in Mexico 
• We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

High costs at private hospitals
Most private hospitals in Mexico charge higher than expected prices and require payment before they allow you to leave.

• Some resorts have exclusive deals with medical providers and ambulances. This can limit your choices for emergency healthcare.
• Get all billing, pricing, and medical procedure details before agreeing to any medical care.
• Some private providers may discharge a patient to the public hospital if the patient reaches credit card or medical insurance limits. 

Medical payments and insurance
The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.

• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not pay for medical care in Mexico.
• U.S. health insurance often does not always cover care outside of the United States. Most hospitals and doctors in Mexico do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Even if your health insurance will cover the costs of medical care in Mexico, many hospitals want up-front payment. Not all U.S. insurance companies have staff available on nights or weekends to authorize payment. 
• Most care providers overseas accept cash or major credit cards.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. The CDC provides more information on types of travel insurance available.

Medical tourism and elective surgery
Many U.S. citizens suffer serious complications or die during or after cosmetic or other elective surgery in Mexico.

• Medical tourism for affordable cosmetic, dental, or elective surgeries is rapidly growing.
• Medical systems abroad work differently than in the United States. They have different rules and regulations.
• Mexico has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, but quality of care varies widely.
• Before you plan any surgery in Mexico, confirm that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified. Consult with your local physician or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information.
• Coverage for medical evacuation is recommended for unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Mexico. PROFECO (Spanish only) may be able to help resolve disputes over medical services.

Private residential treatment facilities
Private facilities in Mexico include child behavior modification, addiction rehabilitation and assisted living centers.

• Standards for education, safety, health, and sanitation vary widely.
• Staff licensing may not meet U.S. standards or be strictly enforced.
• There have been reports of abuse, negligence, or mismanagement at some facilities.
• U.S. citizens should thoroughly research and choose carefully before selecting a facility.

Pharmaceuticals

Importing into Mexico
Some medicines that are sold over-the-counter in some U.S. states are controlled substances in Mexico. For example, pseudoephedrine (found in Sudafed) is illegal in Mexico.

• You could be arrested if your over the counter or prescription medicine is illegal in Mexico, even with a U.S. doctor’s letter or prescription.
• For information about what you can bring to Mexico and regulations on controlled substances in Mexico, visit the COFEPRIS website (Spanish only), the Secretary of Foreign Affairs (SRE) website, and the Mexican Law of General Health’s List of Prohibited Drugs (source: LGS, Chapter V, Article 234, Spanish only)
• You may need to either leave certain medications at home in the United States, or obtain a permit to import medicine into Mexico from COFEPRIS.(Comisión Federal para la Protección contra Riesgos Sanitarios | Gobierno | gob.mx) (Spanish only). Please contact the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C. or your nearest Mexican Consulate for additional information. 

Purchasing in Mexico
Exercise caution when purchasing medication in Mexico. Counterfeit medication is common and may:

• Not be effective
• Not be the correct strength
• Contain dangerous ingredients.

The Drug Enforcement Agency reports that counterfeit prescription pills are sold by criminals on both sides of the border. U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or contaminated prescription pills.

• Counterfeit pills are often advertised on social media and sold at small pharmacies near the border and in tourist areas in Mexico.
• Pills represented as OxyContin, Percocet, Xanax, and others may contain deadly doses of Fentanyl.

Returning to the U.S.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.

• Medication purchased abroad must meet U.S. requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.
• Medication should be for personal use and must be approved by the United States.
• Prohibited and Restricted Items 
• Buying Medicine from Outside the U.S.

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) and surrogacy
Access the latest information from the Department of State on assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy before you travel to Mexico.

In 2021, Mexico’s Supreme Court ruled that surrogacy is constitutional but left it to the individual Mexican states to regulate the practice. However, the vast majority of Mexican states lack laws that expressly permit or regulate surrogacy, leaving parents and surrogates with no clear protections. Surrogacy agreements between foreign “intended parents” and gestational mothers are not always enforced by Mexican courts. Some U.S. citizens face long delays for court decisions on parental rights and custody.

• Delays in getting your child’s Mexican birth certificate will impact the processing of an application to document your child’s U.S. citizenship. You may be asked to provide a DNA sample to prove genetic relationships when applying for documentation of your child’s U.S. citizenship

If you choose to pursue ART or surrogacy in Mexico, consider hiring a reputable local attorney who understands Mexican law regarding ART or surrogacy.

Food and water quality:

• Tap water in many areas is not safe to drink. 
• Bottled water is safe and should be requested at restaurants and hotels.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made from tap water. 
• Uncooked vegetables can make you sick. 

High altitude
Many cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel. 

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes (source: CDC). 

Air quality
Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Mexico. Consult your doctor on how seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may impact your health.

Helpful road travel resources
Driving and Road Safety Abroad
Mexico National Tourist Office
Temporary Import of Vehicles
Vehicle Recovery Unit - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico

Emergency numbers
Dial 911 for emergency services.

Dial 078 on toll roads (“cuota”) or major highways for bilingual help from Green Angels, a Mexican government roadside assistance service.

If there are no injuries, contact your car insurance provider directly. They may come to the site’s accident and assess it right away.

Road conditions and safety
Road conditions and surface maintenance vary across Mexico. Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of U.S. citizen deaths in Mexico.

• Drive between cities only during the day.
• Take toll roads marked with numbers followed by a D (“cuota”) rather than free (“libre”) roads. Toll highways are more often patrolled by police.
• Travel with a charged phone that works in Mexico. 
• Availability of electric vehicle charging stations varies widely. 
• Do not accept rides from or offer rides to strangers in Mexico. 
• Follow instructions at all checkpoints.
• Be cautious traveling in rural areas where cell phone coverage is spotty. Roadside or medical assistance is often slow to arrive.

Driving in Mexico City:

• Driving days and times are restricted in Mexico City to reduce air pollution. Restrictions happen Monday through Saturday and are based on the vehicle’s plate number.
• The Mexico City government provides more information at Hoy No Circula (Spanish only).

Road checkpoints

• Drivers may come upon legal checkpoints by the National Guard, military, or police. They may also encounter illegal ones set up by criminals to stop rivals or extort money.
• When approaching any checkpoint, cooperate. Avoid any behavior that appears aggressive. Fleeing can raise suspicion and lead to violence.

Vehicle laws 
U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico. Only U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents can operate U.S.-registered vehicles.

The owner must be in the vehicle for another person to drive it. Violating this law can lead to towing and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

It is illegal in Mexico to:

• Drive under the influence of alcohol.
• Use a mobile device while driving.
• Drive through a yellow light.

Car insurance and required documents
Mexican car insurance is required for all vehicles.

• Uninsured drivers involved in car accidents, major or minor, may be subject to arrest.
• Arrests can happen regardless of who is at fault.

U.S. vehicles entering Mexico must have a valid license plate and current registration sticker.

• Mexican authorities will not let you in with a temporary or paper license plate.
• Vehicles with expired registrations or unauthorized plates may be confiscated.
• The driver of an unauthorized vehicle could receive a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

Vehicle border permits
Temporary permits for U.S. registered vehicles are required when you drive beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles into Mexico).

• Apply for the permit at Banjercito or at a Mexican consulate in the U.S.
• A valid passport and monetary deposit are required.
• You will receive your deposit back when you leave Mexico before the permit expires.
• Driving without a permit may lead to towing and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

Traveling by bus
Public buses vary in security but are generally safe in Mexico City and major tourist areas. Avoid buses in Tamaulipas state as they are not generally safe.

• Protect your belongings since theft is common.
• Travel between cities only during daylight.
• For inter-city travel, first-class or “executive” buses are most direct and most reliable.

Taxi travel
Do not hail taxis on the street. Use trusted ride-sharing apps.

• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand (“sitio”).
• Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are available and generally safe to use.
• If you are using a taxi or ride sharing app, confirm the driver’s license plate number and vehicle type to make sure you are getting into the right vehicle.
• Beware, though, that there have been violent attacks on ride-sharing app drivers by taxi drivers who see them as a threat to their business. If your ride-sharing app driver is involved in a confrontation, leave the car and seek safety.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

• If you plan to enter Mexico by sea on a privately owned vessel you need to get a permit from the Mexican Government before traveling. For more information contact the Embassy of Mexico in Washington D.C.
• Mariners and passengers planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. Maritime Advisories and Alerts.  Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website, and the NGA Navigational Warnings website.

Maritime safety oversight
The Mexican maritime industry (charter fishing and recreational vessels) may not meet U.S. standards or have accident insurance.