Each winter, many U.S. citizens travel to Mexico for extended stays or holidays. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico have issued guidance for travelers during the upcoming winter season.
Travelers are reminded that crime, including violent incidents, can occur anywhere in Mexico, even in areas popular with tourists and expatriates. The embassy advises caution in destinations such as San Carlos, Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point), Los Cabos, and Mazatlan, particularly after dark. For detailed information on safety by region, travelers are encouraged to review the Mexico Travel Advisory.
Bringing firearms or ammunition into Mexico without proper permits is a serious offense that can result in lengthy prison sentences. Items such as guns, ammunition (even used shells), knives, fireworks, explosives, daggers, swords, and brass knuckles are illegal. Travelers should inspect their vehicles before crossing the border to ensure compliance with Mexican law.
All visitors must obtain a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) regardless of how far they plan to travel from the border. This document is required when leaving Mexico. Currently it costs $861 MXN (about $47 USD), but will increase to $983 MXN (about $54 USD) starting January 2026.
A valid passport book or card is necessary for entry into Mexico; minors traveling domestically by air within Mexico need a passport book. Upon arrival, immigration authorities determine the length of stay permitted—travelers should check their entry stamp for this date and ensure their passport remains valid throughout their visit.
Travelers should be aware of customs regulations regarding what items may be brought into Mexico and any applicable taxes or fees on goods exceeding certain values ($300 USD by land or $500 USD by air). Only one portable computer per person may be imported tax-free; additional devices could incur fees up to 19% of value or up to $4,000 USD.
Drivers may encounter both legal checkpoints operated by authorities and illegal ones set up by criminals seeking money or targeting rivals. Cooperation at checkpoints is advised; attempting to flee can lead to suspicion or violence.
Emergency services may not be available in remote areas. Travelers are urged to plan routes carefully and ensure vehicles are well-maintained. Medical emergencies might require upfront payment at private hospitals where costs can exceed those in the United States.
Drug possession—including medical marijuana—is illegal in Mexico and carries severe penalties. Criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking operate throughout the country; U.S. citizens should never transport packages across borders for others.
The embassy recommends several actions: read official travel information pages; enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates; keep travel documents secure; call 911 for emergencies—ideally with help from a Spanish speaker—and use Green Angels roadside assistance by dialing 078 within Mexico if needed.
Travelers should confirm health insurance coverage extends to Mexico or purchase travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage. Friends and family should be informed of travel plans and provided copies of key documents like passports and vehicle registrations.
For tourist support—including disputes with businesses or government—assistance is available through multilingual Centers for Care and Protection of Tourists (CAPTA) and Tourist Assistance Centers (CATTAC).
If assistance is needed while abroad:
- Contact Form
- U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico: From within Mexico: (55) 5080 2000; From the United States: +52 55 5080 2000
- Department of State – Consular Affairs: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
Additional resources include Mexico International Travel Information, U.S. Citizens in Mexico WhatsApp Channel, U.S Passports, Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), U.S Department of State on Facebook and X, as well as U.S Embassy in Mexico on Facebook and X.