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 COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mexico travel advice

Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)

Latest updates: Risk levels; Natural disasters and climate – Avoid non-
essential travel to the Baja California Peninsula, from Todos Santos to Los
Barriles, due to Hurricane Norma

Last updated: October 19, 2023 06:37 ET

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Risk levels
Safety and security
Entry and exit requirements
Health
Laws and culture
Natural disasters and climate
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Risk levels

MEXICO - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal
activity and kidnapping.

Regional risks

Hurricane Norma - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the Baja California Peninsula, from Todos
Santos to Los Barriles, due to Hurricane Norma.

Natural disasters and climate

Regional Advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the following areas due to high levels of
violence and organized crime:

all Chihuahua
all Colima, except the city of Manzanillo
all Coahuila, except the southern part of the state at and below the
Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
 all Durango, except Durango City
all Guerrero, except the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco
in Guanajuato
Highway 45 between León and Irapuato
the area south of and including Highway 45D between Irapuato
and Celaya
all Michoacán, except the city of Morelia
in Morelos
the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park and surrounding areas
the municipality of Xoxocotla
in Nayarit
the area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango
the city of Tepic
all Nuevo León, except the city of Monterrey
all Sinaloa, except the city of Mazatlán
all Sonora, except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos
and Puerto Peñasco
all Tamaulipas
all Zacatecas

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Safety and security

Crime
Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico.
Arrest and detention rates are low and don’t deter criminal activity.

Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. C

‎ lashes between
cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common.

In some parts of the country, military, navy and federal police forces have
been deployed to combat organized crime and improve security
conditions. They maintain a visible presence by:

patrolling the streets

setting up roadblocks
conducting random vehicle checks

If you plan on travelling to Mexico:

remain vigilant at all times

stay in tourist areas
be very cautious on major highways
avoid travelling at night
monitor local media closely
If you’re the victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local
authorities. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal
complaint. Complaints must be made in person before leaving Mexico.
You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up
on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do may result in
incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.

Violent crime
There are high rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings,
carjacking and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as
the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and
Tulum), and Acapulco.

Criminal groups and drug cartels are present in tourist areas. Inter-gang
and cartel fighting has taken place in restaurants, hotels and nightclubs
frequented by tourists.

Innocent bystanders have been injured or killed. You may be in the

wrong place at the wrong time and become a victim of violent crime.

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence, including in
rural areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and
Mexican authorities continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks and illegal
roadblocks may occur without warning.

You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid international land border

crossings, particularly along the border with the United States, in the
following cities:

Ciudad Juárez
Nuevo Laredo
Reynosa

If crossing an international land border:

remain extremely vigilant

use only official border crossings
avoid travelling at night

Armed robbery
Armed robbery occurs. Foreigners have been targets of robberies that
sometimes involve assault.

Robbers will follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money at

airports, currency exchange bureaus (casas de cambio) or ATMs.

Stay in hotels and resorts with good security

If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist
Avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the
airport

Assault
Canadian travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some
cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular
tourist destinations were involved. In some cases, hotel staff are not
helpful and try to dissuade victims from pursuing the incident with
police.

Avoid walking after dark, especially alone

Avoid isolated or deserted areas
Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

Are you a victim of sexual violence? – Government of Canada and British

Embassy Mexico City

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs in Mexico. When using debit or credit
cards:

pay careful attention when others are handling your cards

use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overcharging
Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices.
Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and
security guards may force you to pay. Avoid running a tab or leaving your
credit card with bar or restaurant staff.

Overseas fraud

Extortion

Police officers
Legitimate police officers have extorted money from tourists or arrested
tourists for minor offences such as :

drinking alcohol on the street

urinating on public roads
traffic violations

They have requested immediate cash payment in exchange for their

release. Travellers driving rental cars have been targeted.

If this occurs:

don’t hand over your money or your passport

ask for the officer’s name, badge and patrol car number
ask for a copy of the written fine, which is payable at a later date, or
insist on going to the nearest police station
Virtual kidnappings
Extortion, including virtual kidnappings, is the third most common crime
in Mexico. Criminals use a variety of tactics to gather information about
potential victims for extortion purposes, including using social media
sites or eavesdropping on conversations

In a virtual kidnapping, criminals contact the victim’s hotel room landline

and threaten the victim to stay in their room. The criminals then instruct
the victim to provide information needed for the caller to use to contact
family and friends, to demand the immediate payment of ransom for
their release.

Don't discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal
information around strangers
Never leave your cellphone unattended
Ensure your cellphone is password protected
Don't divulge personal business details to strangers in person or
over the phone or on social media, especially when using hotel
phones
If you're threatened on the phone or hear screams, hang up
immediately
When you answer the phone, wait for the caller to speak. If the caller
asks who is speaking, hang up immediately.
Don’t answer unrecognized or blocked phone numbers
Don’t answer hotel landlines

Kidnappings
Mexico has one of the highest kidnapping rates in the world. Kidnapping,
including virtual and express kidnapping, is a serious security risk
throughout Mexico.

Kidnappers target all classes. Canadian citizens and contractors working

for Canadian businesses have been kidnapped, mostly in areas that are
not under the control of police and security forces.

If you're kidnapped:

comply with the kidnappers’ requests

don’t attempt to resist

Express kidnappings
Express kidnappings occur in large urban areas. This is a method of
abduction where criminals ask for a small and immediate ransom.

Thieves most commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi

drivers. They force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw
money from ATMs in exchange for their release.

Use only a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app

Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand (sitio)
Theft

Petty theft
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in
Mexico.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally

considered safe
Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other
travel documents, are secure at all times
Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as flashy jewellery, cell
phones, headphones and designer bags
Carry only small amounts of money
Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Home break-ins
Tourists staying in rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and
burglaries. Whether you're staying in private or commercial
accommodations, make sure you lock windows and doors securely.

Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment
and verbal abuse.

Some incidents of assault, rape and sexual assault against Canadian

women have occurred, including at beach resorts and on public buses.

Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent

acquaintances
Be wary of rides or other invitations
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be
wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new
acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk
of sexual assault and robbery.

Unregulated alcohol
Some bars, restaurants and resorts have served counterfeit alcohol.
Some travellers have reported getting sick or blacking out after drinking
alcohol.

Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol

Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Balconies
Height standards for balcony railings in Mexico can be considerably
lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries.

Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

Demonstrations
Demonstrations take place regularly throughout the country. Protests
and roadblocks are common in:

Mexico City, including to and from the airport

the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, Michoacán and Oaxaca

Such incidents may last a long time, leading to shortages of fresh food,
medicine and gasoline.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also
lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking

place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Swimming
Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several
drownings occur each year.

Many beaches don’t offer warnings of dangerous conditions and they

don’t always have lifeguards on duty.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

Consult local residents and tour operators for information on

possible hazards and safe swimming areas
Always obey warning flags at beaches
Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities

Water sports
Tour operators may not adhere to international standards. Many
operators don’t conduct regular safety checks on their sporting and
aquatic equipment.

Also, Canadians have been involved in accidents where operators of

recreational vehicles, such as watercraft, have demanded compensation
exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

If you undertake water sports, such as diving:

choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance

 ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities
you choose
wear the appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and life
jackets
ensure that equipment is available and in good condition
don’t consume alcohol before the activity

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use

them.

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism
Outdoor activities, such as white water rafting, kayaking, scuba diving,
snorkelling, bungee, zip lining, paragliding, hiking, mountain biking, etc
and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are
not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even
during summer.

Tour operators may not always adhere to international safety standards.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

never do so alone, and do not part with your tour companions

consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable
company
obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment
in which you will be setting out
buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical
evacuation
ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the
challenges of your activity
know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be
fatal
pay attention to the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke,
both of which can be fatal
avoid venturing off marked trails
ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a
hazard
refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their
safety
inform a family member or friend of your itinerary

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Road conditions can be dangerous due to:

 sharp curves
poorly marked or hidden road signs
construction sites
roaming livestock
slow-moving or abandoned vehicles

Toll highways are typically safer and better maintained than secondary
highways.

Mexican driving styles are very different from those in Canada. Many
drivers don’t respect traffic laws, and police don’t strictly enforce these
laws. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and may be aggressive or
reckless. Drinking and driving laws are not strictly enforced. Accidents
causing fatalities are common. Police don’t regularly patrol the highways.

Roadblocks and checkpoints

Illegal roadblocks and demonstrations are common. Heavily armed
gangs have attacked travellers on intercity highways. Criminals especially
target sport utility vehicles and full-size pickup trucks for theft and
carjacking.

The military searches for drugs and firearms at military checkpoints

throughout the country.

Avoid road travel at night between cities throughout the country

Ensure that you only stop in major centres, at reputable hotels or at
secure campsites
Keep your car doors locked and the windows closed, especially at
traffic lights
Avoid hitchhiking which is not a common practice in Mexico
Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle
Rent cars that don’t have stickers or other advertisements for the
rental company on them, as rental cars have been targets for
robbery, sometimes using force
Ensure operators provide insurance and helmets if renting scooters
Travel on toll roads to lower the risk of targeted roadblocks and
robberies
Never attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they appear unattended

Public transportation
Remain vigilant in airports, at bus stations, on buses and on the metro.

Metro
The Mexico City metro is often very crowded and a popular place for
pickpocketing. There are metro cars dedicated to women and children
during rush hours. They are located at the front of the trains.

Buses
The Metrobus in Mexico City, which has dedicated lanes and stops, is
relatively safe. There are sections dedicated to women and children at
the front of the buses.

The “colectivos” and “pesero” mini-buses that stop when hailed are
frequently targeted for robbery.

When travelling to other cities, use bus companies that offer VIP or
executive class transportation. These buses only travel on toll roads,
which lower the risks of targeted roadblocks and robberies, and follow a
speed limit.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Disputes between taxi and ridesharing application drivers may occur,
especially in Quintana Roo. They may result in:

blockades
altercations
assaults

Although tourists have not been targeted, you may be caught up in these
incidents and harassed or injured.

In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates

starting with “A” or “B.” Taxis from designated stands have both the logo
of their company and the plate number stamped on the side of the car.
Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can validate the
pink and white taxis on the CDMX app.

Avoid hailing taxis on the street

Don't share taxis with strangers

When arriving at an airport in Mexico, pre-pay the taxi fare at the airport
(inside or outside the terminal) and ask to see the driver’s official
identification. You can also use a ridesharing app to arrange for a pickup
at certain airports. Not all airports in Mexico allow ridesharing service
pickups.

If you use a trusted ridesharing app, confirm the driver’s identity and the
licence plate before getting in the car.

Mi Taxi – CDMX app (in Spanish)

Cruise ship travel

Plan carefully if you plan to take a cruise departing from or stopping in
Mexico.

Advice for cruise travellers

Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters of
the Bay of Campeche. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic
airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

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Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its
borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if
you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Mexican

authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for
travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about

passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more
stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in
Mexico.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender
identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other
countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not
recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the
closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary
passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with
the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links
Foreign Representatives in Canada
 Canadian passports

Visas
Tourist visa: not required
Business visa: required
Work visa: required
Student visa: required

Required documents
To enter Mexico, you must present a valid passport and a duly completed
tourist card (Multiple Immigration Form). Carry documents to prove the
purpose of trip, such as hotel or tour booking confirmations, as
immigration officers may request them.

Tourist card
You must obtain a tourist card to enter the country unless you stay in
Mexico for less than 72 hours within the northern border zone.

If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival, you may face:

fine
detention
expulsion

It is highly recommended to keep your digital tourist card, or tourist card

if entered by land, with you at all times as proof of your legal stay in
Mexico. You may be asked to show it to Mexican officials when exiting
the country or if you are stopped on an immigration check point.

If you are stopped at an immigration check point and you are unable to
prove your legal stay, you may be fined, detained or expelled from the
country.

Entering by land
If entering Mexico by land, you must stop at the immigration office
located at the border to obtain a tourist card, even if not explicitly
directed by Mexican officials. Immigration officials will write down on
your tourist card the number of days you are allowed to stay in Mexico.

You may complete the tourist card form online before your arrival.
However, you must print the form and present it to the migration official
at the port of entry.

Multiple Immigration Form - Government of Mexico

Entering by air
If entering Mexico by air, you are advised to download your tourist card
issued by Mexican officials upon entry.

Depending on your airport of entry:

 the immigration official will stamp your passport and note the
number of days you are allowed to spend in Mexico or
you will go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your
passport and self-register your entry in the country. Only use this
option if you are entering Mexico as a tourist.

Once in the country, whether you entered via a E-gate or not, you will be
able to access the digital tourist card online. You have 60 days to
download it.

If you are unable to show your tourist card or digital tourist card upon
departure, you will have to pay for a replacement at the immigration
office of any international airport before boarding.

Make sure to plan sufficient time at the airport to obtain a new card in
time for your flight.

Portal access for digital tourist card - Government of Mexico

Length of stay
An immigration official will determine the number of days you can
remain in Mexico and note it on your tourist card. The maximum length
granted for a tourism-related trip is 180 days; the maximum number of
days is not granted by default.

If you're seeking the maximum number of days, you may be required to:

explain the purpose of your trip to the immigration official

provide details about your trip (accommodations, funds, return
flight, etc.)

You won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of

your stay from inside the country.

Work visa
Canadians travelling to the northern border zone (within 21 kilometres of
the U.S. border) for work don’t require a visa for stays of 72 hours or less.

If you require a business or work visa, you should take care of the
process yourself. If a prospective employer is processing your visa for
you:

obtain copies of all correspondence between the employer

and Mexican immigration authorities
verify that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities
as proof that your papers are being processed
request a receipt from your employer for any document that you
provide for purposes of obtaining the visa
avoid surrendering your passport to your employer
Volunteer, religious, research and eco-tourism activities
You may not be able to undertake volunteer, religious/missionary,
research or certain forms of eco-tourism activities while visiting as a
tourist. Contact the Mexican Embassy or closest Mexican consulate for
information the type of visa required for these activities.

Tourism tax
Most visitors to Mexico must pay a tourism tax.

This fee is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by

road or sea will have to pay this fee at any bank in Mexico. There is a
bank representative at every port of entry. The bank receipt must be
attached to the tourist card for submission at departure.

You don't have to pay this tax if:

you're entering by land for tourism purposes, and your stay will
not exceed 7 days
you're travelling to the northern border zone for less than 72 hours
you're travelling to Mexico on a cruise ship

Dual citizenship
If entering and leaving Mexico as a dual citizen, you must identify
yourself as a Mexican citizen. You must carry valid passports for both
countries.

Laws about dual citizenship

Criminal records
Canadians with a criminal record or a warrant for arrest may be refused
entry and returned to Canada or to a third country on the next available
flight.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever
(vaccines section).
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Health

 Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 31 August, 2023
Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
COVID-19 and International Travel - 31 August, 2023
 Mpox (monkeypox): Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
Dengue: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023

This section contains information on possible health risks and

restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow
this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not
all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic

preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health
advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory,
are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR),

diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and
others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this
destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications
or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and
itinerary.

Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements

Hepatitis A

Measles

Hepatitis B

COVID-19

Influenza

Malaria

Rabies

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages
contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming
or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid

getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page.
Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
 Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming
or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes),
particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but
could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or
swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Travellers' diarrhea

Typhoid

Salmonellosis

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as
mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected
insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin

Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven
materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that
are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and
disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite
prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when
they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Chikungunya

Dengue

Zika virus

American trypanosomiasis

Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between
humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your
chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested
areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live
animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs,

livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to
avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with
animals.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette,
which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your
arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses
by:

washing your hands often

avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces,
crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events,
rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing
symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through
blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your
number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority
pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Medical services and facilities

The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Good health care is available in private hospitals and clinics, but it’s
generally expensive. Most private facilities won’t agree to deal directly
with medical insurance companies and will require payment with a credit
card in advance or a bank transfer/direct deposit.

Mental health services are extremely limited in Mexico, particularly

outside of Mexico City. Services and treatment standards may differ
substantially from those in Canada.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of
serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical
evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medical tourism
Medical tourism is common in Mexico. Canadian travellers have had
serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective
surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially
on:

the health and financial risks

the medical facility where the procedure will be performed
language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your
medical care and conditions
travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical
procedure you will be undergoing
You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare
provider in Canada before travelling. Most provincial and territorial
health care programs are extremely limited in their coverage offered
abroad.

Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized
by the Mexican health authorities
Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or
procedure

Useful links

Receiving medical care outside Canada

If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after
your return
Medical tourism – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Medication
If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining
their legality in Mexico.

Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you

Always keep your medication in the original container
Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Medication cannot be sent to Mexico from Canada via courier services.

Many types of medication—both over-the-counter and prescription—are

readily available with little oversight. Counterfeit medication is common
in certain parts of Mexico. If you need to purchase medication while in
Mexico, make sure to get it from a reputable location.

Federal Commission for protection against sanitary risk (in Spanish)

Air quality in Mexico City

In Mexico City, you may experience health problems caused by high
altitude or by air pollution, which is at its peak during the winter months.

Consult your doctor before booking your trip if you have lung, heart or
respiratory problems.

Death in Mexico
If you plan to retire or spend long periods of time in Mexico, or travel
there for medical procedures, you should:

share your plans or wishes with relatives

make sure important documents can easily be located
make arrangements in case of your death while in the country

Useful links
 What if I Die in Mexico? – Fact sheet
Death Abroad Factsheet

Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The
traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in

Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away
from major city centres.
 Back to top

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in
Canada, even for similar offences.

Foreign nationals are often held in pre-trial detention and there can be
lengthy delays before a trial.

Many petty crimes (such as public urination, failure to pay a bill or

disorderly behaviour) can result in a 72-hour detention by police. Paying
a fine can secure an early release from detention.

Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.

Useful links
Overview of the criminal law system in Mexico
Arrest and detention

Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.
Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences.

Useful links
Alcohol, drugs and travel
Cannabis and international travel

Cigarettes

Tobacco
Smoking is prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked
designated smoking areas. This includes but is not limited to:

beaches
parks
hotels
markets
 restaurants

You may be fined if you’re caught smoking in public.

Electronic cigarettes
It’s illegal to bring electronic cigarettes/vaping devices and solutions into
Mexico.

You could have these items confiscated by customs officials if you have
them in your possession. You could also be fined or detained.

It is strictly prohibited to sell or distribute these devices and solutions in

Mexico.

Imports and exports

Weapons
The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws concerning
possession, importation and trafficking of firearms.

Anyone entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without prior

written authorization from Mexican authorities is subject to
imprisonment.

It is also illegal to enter the country with certain types of knives.

Importing vehicles and boats

Mexico has very strict rules regarding the importation of foreign vehicles
and boats.

You may face a fine and have your vehicle seized if you enter Mexico
without the proper permit.

Don’t enter Mexico without obtaining the proper import permit and
insurance.

Useful links
Vehicle importation – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Temporary vehicle import application system – Banjército
Travelling to Mexico by land – Mexican Embassy in Canada

Cigarettes and alcohol

If you are older than 18, you are allowed to bring into Mexico up to:

10 cigarette packs
25 cigars or
200 grams of tobacco
3 litres of alcohol and
6 litres of wine

If you bring more alcohol and cigarettes into Mexico than allowed, even if
you declare your imported items, you will be subject to a high import fee.
You will still be subject to a significant fee if you decide to relinquish your
imported items

Artefacts
It’s illegal to possess archaeological artefacts or to export such items
from Mexico.

Useful links
Goods you can bring to Mexico as part of your personal luggage –
Government of Mexico
Goods you cannot bring into Mexico – Government of Mexico
Agricultural product restrictions – Government of Mexico (in
Spanish)

Political activity
It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including
participating in demonstrations.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers
Mexican law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the
same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Mexican
society, particularly in rural areas.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their

sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex
characteristics. Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are
disproportionately targeted for violence and can face discrimination.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression

and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mexico.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mexico, our ability to
offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may
also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child
Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of
children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in
violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and
Mexico.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mexico, and if
the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your
child to the Mexican court.
If you are in this situation:

act as quickly as you can

contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of
residence for information on starting an application under The
Hague Convention
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mexico to explore all the legal
options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office
abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs
Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a
lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal

matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links
List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
Travelling with children
The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International
Law
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Surrogacy
There are no clear procedures or regulations about surrogacy in Mexico.

If you're considering surrogacy, seek advice from legal professionals

knowledgeable in Canadian and Mexican laws and citizenship
procedures.

Identity documents
The names on your identity documents must be identical to those on
your birth certificate to obtain official Mexican documents, such as
marriage certificates, immigration documents or passports.

Middle names are often left off Canadian identity documents. This
has caused significant difficulties for many Canadians. If you plan on
residing in Mexico or dealing with the Mexican Civil Registry, obtain a
Canadian passport that will meet Mexican requirements.

Identification
You should carry photo identification.

Authorities can ask you to show identification and a proof of your legal
status in Mexico. They can demand to see your tourist card at any time.
You must carry the original at all times. You must carry the original at all
times, and should also carry a photocopy of the identification page of
your passport.

Investments
If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Mexico,
seek legal advice in Canada and in Mexico. Do so before making
commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated.

Choose your own lawyer

Avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Timeshares
Problems with timeshare arrangements occur.

Timeshare representatives may be very persistent. They use pressure

tactics and offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages.

It's illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that
prevents you from cancelling a contract. You're legally entitled to cancel
a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. Contracts
must be cancelled in writing directly with the timeshare company.

Before purchasing a timeshare:

gather as much information as possible

review carefully the contract; anything not included in the contract
will not be honoured
provide your credit card only if you are sure you want to make the
purchase
keep copies of all correspondence

If you suspect a fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Federal
Attorney’s Office of Consumer immediately.

Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer (PROFECO) – Mexican

Government (in Spanish)
Should I buy a timeshare in Mexico? - Embassy of Mexico in Canada
Should I sell my timeshare in Mexico? - Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Rental accommodations
Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a
private matter and are not regulated by the government.

If you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement, you must obtain the
services of a Mexican lawyer.

Driving
You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Auto insurance
Mexican liability insurance is mandatory. Canadian automobile insurance
is not valid in Mexico.

You can obtain insurance at the Mexican border. You should obtain full
coverage, including coverage for legal assistance.

Automobile insurance is much more expensive in Mexico than in Canada.

Many local drivers don’t have any form of car insurance.

If you’re involved in an accident, and you don’t have Mexican liability

insurance, you could be prevented from leaving the country until all
parties agree that adequate financial satisfaction has been received. If
you’re found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of
an accident, or if you don’t have a valid driver’s licence, your insurance
will be considered invalid.

Accidents
If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal
problems, including imprisonment. You could be taken into custody until
responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You
must report any accident you’re involved in to the police.

Driving restrictions in Mexico City

The Hoy No Circula (No Driving Today) program restricts some cars from
driving in Mexico City and in some municipalities of the State of Mexico,
from Monday to Saturday, from 5 am to 10 pm.

You will face driving restrictions depending on:

your car’s emission sticker

the last digit of your license plate
where your license plate was issued

Hoy No Circula program is strictly enforced. You may face heavy fines
and temporary confiscation of your vehicle if you don’t comply. Consult
the Hoy No Circula calendar before driving.

Electric and hybrid cars are exempted from these restrictions. Gas-fueled
cars of a 2008 model or later may obtain a tourist pass valid for selected
drive days.

Useful links
Hoy no circula – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Tourist pass – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Ministry of Environment – Government of (in Spanish)

Buying/selling a vehicle
You must be either a temporary or a permanent resident if you wish to
buy a car in Mexico.
It’s illegal to sell your imported vehicle in Mexico. If you do, your vehicle
may be seized and you may be subject to a fine and deportation.

Money
The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso.

In some parts of Mexico, particularly tourist destinations, hotels and

other service providers may advertise prices in USD.

There is a limit to the amount of U.S. dollars that residents and

foreigners can exchange in Mexico, depending on your immigration
status. The rule doesn’t apply to Canadian dollars but some financial
institutions, hotels and currency exchange bureaus don’t make the
distinction.

When carrying more than US$10,000 or the equivalent in other

currencies, cash, cheques, money orders or any other monetary
instrument, you must declare the amount exceeding US$10,000. Failure
to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in
detention.
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Natural disasters and climate

 Hurricane Norma
Hurricane Norma is expected to make landfall on the Baja California
peninsula, from Todos Santos to Los Barriles, on October 20, 2023.
The storm is likely to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds. It
may cause flash flooding and landslides and could severely disrupt
the following essential services:
transportation
power distribution
water and food supply
telecommunications networks
emergency services
medical care
Avoid non-essential travel to the region. If you are in the affected
areas:
exercise caution
monitor local news and weather reports
follow the instructions of local authorities
Latest advisories – U.S. National Hurricane centre

Mexico is subject to various natural disasters, such as:

hurricanes
earthquakes
 tsunamis
volcanic eruptions
torrential rains, floods and mudslides
forest fires

In the event of a natural disaster:

monitor local news to stay informed on the evolving situation

follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation
orders

Useful links
Secretary of Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection –
Government of Mexico City (in Spanish)
National Center for Disaster Prevention (CENAPRED) – Government
of Mexico (in Spanish)
Get prepared

Hurricane season
Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During
this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major
hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of
essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks

be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including
cutting short or cancelling your trip
stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour
operator
follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Useful links
Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
Large-scale emergencies abroad
Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings - United
States’ National Hurricane Center

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides. Roads may become
impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Mexico is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes, tsunamis and
volcanic eruptions can occur.
A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However,
the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first
tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the
region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Useful links:
National Seismological Institute – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Latest earthquakes - U.S. Geological Survey
Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
Centre for Studies and Research of Volcanology - University of
Colima (in Spanish)

Wildfires
Forest fires may occur. The air quality in areas near active fires may
deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a significant fire, stay away from affected areas, particularly if

you suffer from respiratory ailments.
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Need help?

Local services
Emergency services

Consular assistance
Mexico City - Embassy of Canada

Acapulco - Consular Agency of Canada

Cabo San Lucas - Consular Agency of Canada

Cancún - Consular Agency of Canada

Guadalajara - Consulate of Canada

Mazatlán - Consular Agency of Canada

Monterrey - Consulate General of Canada

Playa Del Carmen - Consular Agency of Canada

Puerto Vallarta - Consular Agency of Canada

Tijuana - Honorary consul of Canada

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to

Mexico, in Mexico City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may
also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
 Useful links
 Register as a Canadian abroad
 View travel insurance information
 Read our Traveller’s Checklist

Disclaimer

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your
personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians
abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our
Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding
your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we

make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as
is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The
Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be
liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort
to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability
of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services.

Date modified:
2023-10-19