In a recent announcement, the U.S. Consulate has alerted travelers to expect an increased security presence and potential delays on all bridges connecting Matamoros, Tamaulipas, to Brownsville, Texas, on Monday, March 24, 2025. This includes the Gateway International Bridge (Puente Nuevo). The consulate advises employees to avoid travel on the Gateway International Bridge and to allow extra time for all border crossings.
The State Department has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Tamaulipas due to crime and kidnapping concerns. Travelers are advised to postpone non-essential travel until after March 24 and plan for longer border crossing times. It is recommended that individuals monitor local media for updates, remain aware of their surroundings, and notify friends and family of their safety.
For assistance, travelers can contact the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico at 55 8526 2561 from Mexico or +1-844-528-6611 from the United States. The Department of State – Consular Affairs can be reached at +1-888-407-4747 or +1-201-501-4444.
Additional resources include links to Mexico International Travel Information, U.S. Citizens in Mexico WhatsApp Channel, U.S. Passports information, Traveler’s Checklist, as well as social media pages of the Department of State and U.S. Embassy Mexico on Facebook and X.