Mexico

Safety and security

Emergency phone 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.
• Contact the U.S. embassy or closest U.S. consulate to report emergencies.
• Do 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.

Terrorism

Terrorists in Mexico may commit crimes including targeted assassinations, carjackings, and kidnappings. When law enforcement takes action against terrorist groups, those groups may retaliate violently. They may block streets, seize vehicles, and burn businesses.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Protesters may block roads, bridges, or take over toll booths. 
• If protesters ask for money at toll booths, you are usually allowed to continue once you have paid them.

U.S. citizens should not join demonstrations. 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.

Crime

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

• Mission Mexico has helped U.S. citizens who were victims of armed robbery, carjacking, extortion, homicide, kidnapping, pickpocketing, and sexual assault. 
• Drug cartels, criminal organizations, and terrorist groups engage in targeted killings and violence. This is often due to fights over territory, and can hurt innocent bystanders.
• Travelers who experience an active shooter situation should flee or drop to the ground behind a hard barrier.

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 lock or cancel your bank and credit cards.

Carjackings

• Carjackings may occur in Mexico. If you believe you are being followed, go directly to a police station.

Extortion

Extortion schemes are common, such as virtual kidnapping. Criminals and terrorists 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 and terrorists try to scare the victim into not contacting police or family. They claim a 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 the caller threatens you.
• 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 drug cartels, criminal organizations, and terrorist organizations are active in a violent struggle to control trafficking routes. Criminal organizations may try to convince U.S. citizens 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 and domestic violence

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

• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Consider bringing a friend with you when you go out.
• Closely monitor your drinks.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

 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

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. When a crime occurs while traveling:

• Dial 911 for the local authorities. 
• File a report of the crime “denuncia” with the “Ministerio Publico.” This is similar to the office of public prosecutor or district attorney in the United States. (Note: First responders do not handle crime reports.)
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.
• Contact the U.S. embassy or closest U.S. consulate to report serious crimes such as:
  • Kidnapping of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR)
  • Domestic violence
  • Sexual assault

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

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 accommodation provides one, bring a portable carbon monoxide detector. 

Tourism safety

 The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• 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.  Review our information on insurance providers for coverage abroad.

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.

Traveling to Tijuana

• Consider downloading the Tijuana Emergency Button app (Android) (iPhone) for bilingual assistance and the Purple Button app to help counter violence against women. (Android) (iPhone).

Adventure travel

• Review our adventure travel information.

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 disappearances.
• 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.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws.

• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and be convicted of a crime.
• 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 
• Fireworks or explosives 
• Daggers 
• Swords
• Brass knuckles 
• Ammunition (including cartridges and used shells) 

The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against bringing firearms into Mexico. Review our information on traveling abroad with firearms.   

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

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 800-033-5050 (from Mexico) 
• Dial +52-55-5080-5425 (from the U.S.) 
• Email: [email protected]

Electronic cigarettes (vaping devices)

• It is illegal to bring e-cigarettes and vaping liquids into Mexico. Customs will confiscate vaping devices and solutions, and you may face entry delays, fines or criminal charges.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

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.

Faith-based travelers

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

• Faith-Based Travel
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• 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 Travelers
• Human Rights Report for Mexico

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Mexico prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The law is not enforced consistently.

• The most common types of available accommodations include accessible restrooms, ramps, and elevators.
•   There is a significant difference between large cities and the rest of the country.
• Repair and replacement parts for aids, equipment, and devices are available. Mexican Sign Language interpreters or personal assistants are available for hire.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in:
  • Public transportation
  • Hotels and buildings
  • Communication and information
  • Sidewalks
  • Intersections

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

There are significant human rights issues in Mexico, including credible reports of:

• arbitrary or unlawful killings
• disappearances
• torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment
• arbitrary arrest or detention
• serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including violence or threats of violence against journalists
• enforcement of or threat of criminal or civil charges in order to limit expression
• violence or threats against labor activists or union members
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling. Review the Department of State’s information for journalists.

Health

Health resources

• CDC Mexico Traveler Health Information
• CDC Health Traveler Information
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• 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

Ambulances are widely available in major cities. However, emergency responder training and availability may be below U.S. standards.

• Ambulances are not available in rural or remote areas.
• Ambulances are not equipped with advanced medical equipment.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may reach a major hospital faster by arranging private transportation than by waiting for an ambulance

Vaccinations

Visit your doctor at least 1 month before traveling to Mexico to update your vaccinations. Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Traveler’s Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Common diseases

• CDC Traveler’s Health in Mexico

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities, with advanced medical equipment and staff, 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.  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 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)
• 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 pills are often advertised on social media and sold at small pharmacies near the border and in tourist areas in Mexico. U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or contaminated prescription pills.

Counterfeit medication is common and may:

• Not be effective.
• Not be the correct strength.
• Contain dangerous ingredients.  
• Pills represented as OxyContin, Percocet, Xanax, and others may contain deadly doses of Fentanyl. 

Returning to the United States

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

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 allow or regulate surrogacy. This leaves 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. 

Water quality & food safety

• 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.

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.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many major cities in Mexico.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Mexico.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Helpful resources

• Driving and Road Safety Abroad
• Know Before You Go: Driving into Mexico
• 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.

Traffic 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.

Regulations regarding tinted windows may vary by state. After-market tinted windows are generally prohibited or restricted, especially on windshields or front side windows. Violations can lead to fines, towing, or the removal of tint.

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.
• Note: The states of Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Sonora allow cars to drive throughout the state without an entry permit.

Public and commercial transportation

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.

Taxis and ride-shares

Do not hail taxis on the street. Use trusted ride-sharing apps or authorized taxis. 

• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand (“sitio”).  
• Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are available in parts of Mexico and generally safe to use. 
• Ride-sharing apps may not be available at all airports, or you may have to walk to a designated pick-up point to use the app. 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.
• 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 planning travel to Mexico should check the following:  

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Maritime safety oversight 

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

Weather

Helpful resources

• Civil Protection
• FEMA - U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency

Weather conditions

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Mexico is an active earthquake zone.

• Tsunamis may occur following significant earthquakes.
• You may wish to download 1 of several earthquake alert apps.         

Tropical storm and hurricane season

The season runs from 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.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates