Mexico travel adviceMexico travel adviceExercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.
Avoid non-essential travel to the following states due to high levels of violence and organized crime:
Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico.
If you’re a victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. Criminal investigations require that a formal complaint be made in person. You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do so may result in incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. Remain vigilant in airports, bus stations, buses and the Mexico City metro system.
Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common. Armed clashes between security forces and drug cartels can occur without warning.
In some parts of the country, the military, the navy and federal police forces have been deployed to maintain a visible presence and combat organized crime to improve security conditions. They maintain a visible presence and:
If you plan on travelling to Mexico:
Mexican authorities have made efforts to protect major tourist destinations, resulting in lower levels of gang-related violence in these areas. However, incidents of violent crime still occur in major cities, popular tourist areas and resorts. Fighting between criminal gangs and cartels has taken place in:
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.
Criminal activity and violence occur regularly in border areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and Mexican security forces continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks and illegal roadblocks may occur without warning.
The situation is tense in the border area between:
You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid criminal incidents at international land border crossings.
If you plan to cross an international land border:
Armed robbery occurs frequently. Criminals sometimes follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money.
Criminals on motorcycles often rob other motorists and pedestrians on the roads.
Canadian travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved. Sometimes, hotel staff are not helpful and try to dissuade victims from reporting the incident to the police.
There are reports of individuals posing as police officers and driving cars resembling police vehicles committing:
If you are in Mexico:
Are you a victim of sexual violence? – Government of Canada and British Embassy in Mexico City
Carjacking is common on roads along the Pacific coast and northern borders. Criminals mainly target:
If you believe that you’re being followed, go directly to a police station.
Kidnappings, including express kidnappings, occur frequently throughout Mexico. Kidnappers have targeted foreigners, including Canadians.
If you're kidnapped:
Express kidnappings may occur in large urban areas. Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. Victims may be held overnight to make a second withdrawal after midnight. Thieves often work in cooperation with or pose as taxi drivers.
Tourists staying in private and rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Make sure you lock windows and doors securely.
Disputes over timeshare arrangements occur. Timeshare sales representatives may be very persistent and often use pressure tactics to make a sale.
Members of criminal groups often pose as real estate representatives offering to buy your property for large amounts for use as a timeshare. They may never pay for the property or charge high administrative fees.
You're legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. It's illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. To cancel your contract, you must write directly to the timeshare company.
Before purchasing a timeshare:
If you suspect fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer immediately.
Travellers fall victim to online scams, including phishing emails and romance scams. Certain scams target senior citizens.
Scam victims are subject to:
Before travelling to Mexico to visit someone you met online:
Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently.
When using your debit or credit card:
Certain establishments, such as bars or nightclubs, may try to overcharge you.
Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill.
Extortion schemes are common in Mexico. Incidences of virtual kidnappings are increasing and are more common than traditional forms of kidnapping.
Virtual kidnappings are a form of extortion. Victims are neither captured nor detained. Criminals use threats and knowledge of their victim’s personal information to create the impression of a kidnapping and demand ransom from the victim’s friends and family.
Criminals gather information on their victims from a variety of sources, including:
Criminals use many tactics in virtual kidnapping. Many of these tactics involve criminals calling potential victims in their hotel rooms, posing as their friends or family members in distress, posing as government officials or claiming to represent criminal gangs.
Always protect your personal information, both in person and over communications networks.
If you believe a friend or family member is the victim of a virtual kidnapping, you should contact the Government of Canada to verify if the kidnapping is legitimate before taking any action or sending ransom money.
Legitimate police officers have demanded money from tourists or arrested tourists for minor offences such as:
They have requested immediate cash payment in exchange for their release. This practice is common in tourist areas.
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.
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+ persons 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.
There are reports of criminals adding drugs into items that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery.
Incidents are most likely to occur:
While you’re in Mexico
Some bars, restaurants and resorts have served unregulated alcohol. Some travellers have reported getting sick or blacking out after drinking alcohol.
Mexico's standards for the height of balcony railings are considerably lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries. Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings.
Demonstrations occur frequently and roadblocks are common during demonstrations. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation, as well as airport closures.
It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including participating in demonstrations. If you participate in demonstrations as a foreigner, you may face detention, deportation, and the denial of future entry into Mexico.
Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common and powerful waves make swimming and water sports dangerous. Several drownings occur each year.
Many beaches don’t have warning flags to indicate unsafe conditions and they don’t always have lifeguards on duty.
Lifeguard services do not always meet Canadian standards.
Tour operators do not always comply with Canadian standards, and many don’t conduct regular safety checks on their equipment.
Canadians have been involved in accidents where operators of recreational vehicles demand compensation exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.
If you undertake water sports:
Outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, scuba diving, and other extreme sports can be dangerous.
Tour operators may not meet Canadian safety standards.
If you intend to participate in adventure tourism activities:
Mexico sometimes experiences power shortages.
Power outages could impact essential services, such as:
The telecommunications network is not reliable in rural areas.
Canadian cell phones generally work in major cities.
Fatal accidents are frequent.
Police don’t strictly enforce traffic laws, including for drinking and driving. Police don’t regularly patrol the highways. Crime is common on highways, especially in rural areas.
Toll highways are typically better maintained than secondary highways.
Road conditions vary greatly throughout the country. Many common hazards, including construction and speed bumps, are unmarked and many roads or exits are unsigned.
Road conditions can be dangerous, especially on rural roads, due to:
Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and often:
Vehicles and bicycles often operate without sufficient lights and reflectors.
Illegal roadblocks are common. Heavily armed gangs have attacked travellers on intercity highways who fail to stop or pay a ‘toll’.
If you are threatened by criminals, stay calm and don’t resist.
The military and federal police search for drugs and firearms at checkpoints throughout the country.
Some public and private vehicles are poorly maintained.
The Mexico City metro is often very crowded and a popular place for pickpocketing. During rush hour, there are metro cars reserved for women and children at the front of the trains.
The Metrobus in Mexico City is generally reliable. There are sections reserved for women and children at the front of the buses.
Crime is common on intercity buses.
In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B.” Taxis from designated stands have a company logo and icence plate number on the side of the car.
Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can reserve these taxis on the CDMX app.
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.
My taxi – CDMX app (in Spanish)
Ridesharing apps are available at some airports.
Disputes between taxi and ride-share service drivers may occur. Although tourists have not been targeted, you may be caught up in these incidents and be harassed or injured.
If you use a ride-sharing app:
Pirates commit attacks and armed robberies against ships in coastal waters in the Bay of Campeche. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
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.
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.
Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Mexico.
Different entry rules may apply.
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.
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.
Tourist visa: not required
Business visa: required
Work visa: required
Student visa: required
Canadians travelling to the northern border zone (within 21 kilometres of the U.S. border) for work don’t need a visa for stays of 72 hours or less.
If your employer is processing your visa for you:
You may not be able to undertake the following activities while visiting as a tourist:
For information on the type of visa required for these activities, contact the Mexican Embassy or the closest Mexican consulate.
When you enter Mexico for a stay of less than 180 days, you are required to have a Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) or Tourist Card.
If you enter Mexico by air:
If you enter Mexico by land:
You must present a completed tourist card unless you stay in Mexico for less than 72 hours within the northern border zone. You can 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. You can also obtain a tourist card at the immigration office located at the border.
If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival, you may face:
You should keep your tourist card 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 at an immigration checkpoint. If you are unable to show your tourist card or digital tourist card upon departure, you will have to pay for a replacement.
An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico and note it:
You may not automatically be allowed to stay in Mexico for a maximum period of 180 days. If you're seeking the maximum number of days, you may be required to:
You won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of your stay from inside the country.
Most visitors must pay a tourism tax.
This tax is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road or sea will have to pay this tax at a bank following entry. The bank receipt must be attached to the tourist card for submission at departure.
You don't have to pay this tax if:
Immigration officials may ask you to show them:
Mexico has a list of tax-exempt items you can include in your luggage. If you exceed the allowed limits, you will be required to pay an expensive tax and your items may be confiscated. Customs officials pay particular attention to electronic devices, alcohol, and cigarettes. Make sure you carefully read the list of tax-exempt items before travelling to Mexico.
If you enter and leave Mexico as a dual citizen, you must identify yourself as a Mexican citizen and carry valid passports for both countries.
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.
To leave Mexico, children under 18 who are a citizen or resident of Mexico must carry:
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.
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.
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
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
Country Entry Requirement*
Recommendation
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.
There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination.
Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:
• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.
In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).
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.
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Salmonellosis is a common illness among travellers to this country. It can be spread through contaminated food or beverages, such as raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, as well as fruits or vegetables.
Practice safe food and water precautions . This includes only eating food that is properly cooked and still hot when served.
Pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, those over 60 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.
Cases of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella have been reported among Canadian travellers returning from Mexico. These strains of Salmonella do not respond to some of the recommended antibiotics if treatment is needed.
Most people recover on their own without medical treatment and from proper rehydration (drinking lots of fluids).
Travellers with severe symptoms should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.
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:
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.
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:
The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
Learn more:
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
During your trip:
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel.
American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease) is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.
Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.
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.
Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.
Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.
Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those:
All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.
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:
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.
The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Good health care is available in private hospitals and clinics in major cities, but health care services are limited in rural areas.
Health care from private hospitals and clinics is generally expensive. Most private facilities don’t 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.
Most healthcare providers speak Spanish.
Emergency and ambulance services are widely available. Response times vary widely depending on traffic and availability of services and may be slow in rural areas.
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.
Storm run-off, sewage or oil may affect the water quality at some beaches. Water can contain bacteria, parasites and viruses and cause illness.
Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.
Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, considering:
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.
Some prescription medications may not be available in Mexico.
If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in Mexico.
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 purchase medication in Mexico:
You may experience health problems caused by air pollution in major cities. In Mexico City, air pollution peaks between December to March.
Consult your doctor before booking your trip if you have lung, heart or respiratory problems.
Mexico City is 2240 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.
Altitude sickness can be life-threatening. It may require immediate medical evacuation.
If you plan to retire or spend long periods of time in Mexico, or travel there for medical procedures, you should:
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.
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.
Police may detain you for up to 72 hours for many petty crimes including:
Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.
Canada and Mexico are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Mexico to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Mexican authorities.
This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences.
The Mexican government enforces strict laws on the possession, importation and trafficking of firearms and ammunition.
Anyone entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without prior written authorization from Mexican authorities is subject to imprisonment.
It is illegal to enter the country with knives with blades longer than 6cm.
Mexico has very strict rules on importing foreign vehicles and boats.
You must enter Mexico with the proper import permit and insurance since it cannot be obtained once you are in Mexico. If you fail to provide the proper permit and insurance, you could:
You must present a paper document of your vehicle registration to obtain a vehicle importation permit from Mexican authorities. If you present a digital document of your vehicle registration, your vehicle may be refused entry into Mexico.
If you are over 18, you can bring into Mexico up to:
If you bring more than the allowed quantities, even if you declare or hand them over to authorities, you will have to pay a hefty import tax.
It’s illegal to remove archaeological artifacts or to export such items from Mexico.
Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. This includes the following places:
You may be fined or arrested if you’re caught smoking in public.
It’s illegal to bring, sell or distribute:
Customs officials could confiscate these items if you have them in your possession upon arrival. You could also be fined or detained.
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.
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:
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.
Authorities may request to see your identification at any time, including your, tourist card or proof of your legal status in Mexico. Carry your original identification at all times.
The names on your identification must match those on your birth certificate to obtain official Mexican documents, including:
Middle names are often not included in Canadian identity documents. This has caused significant difficulties for many Canadians planning to move to Mexico or dealing with the Mexican Civil Registry. Obtain a Canadian passport that will meet Mexican requirements prior to applying for residency.
Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated. Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.
If you plan to buy property or make other investments in Mexico:
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 local lawyer.
You should carry an International Driving Permit.
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.
If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. If 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.
You could be taken into custody and have your vehicle seized until responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You must report any accident you’re involved to the police.
Criminals may deliberately cause traffic accidents and threaten you with violence in order to make insurance claims or request cash from the other party.
To reduce air pollution, the Hoy No Circula (No Driving Today) program restricts some cars from driving in Mexico City from Monday to Saturday between 5 am to 10 pm.
Additional driving restrictions apply between February and June when pollution levels are high.
You will face driving restrictions depending on:
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.
You can only buy a car in Mexico if you are a temporary or permanent resident.
Selling your imported vehicle is illegal in Mexico and is subject to penalties including:
The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXN).
You must declare upon arrival and departure if you carry more than $10,000 USD or equivalent in other currencies in:
Failure to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in detention.
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.
Mexico is subject to various natural disasters, which can occur at any time.
In the event of a natural disaster:
Climate change is affecting Mexico. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.
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. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.
If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:
Severe heat waves occur during the hot season, from April to May in the south, and from July to September along the Pacific Coast.
Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.
Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, especially between June and November. They can hamper overland travel, especially in rural areas. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.
Mexico is located in an active seismic zone and there is a risk of earthquakes, aftershocks and landslides.
Earthquakes occur, particularly in Mexico City and the following states:
A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of a 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.
Forest fires may occur, particularly during the dry season from:
The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.
In case of a major fire:
Daily report on wildfires – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
Mexican authorities are closely monitoring multiple active volcanoes including:
Access to national parks in these areas could be restricted at any time without notice.
Eruptions could occur at any time. They sometimes lead to short-notice evacuations of surrounding areas, and ash clouds may also disrupt domestic and international flights.
Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can affect your health.
If you are planning to travel near active volcanoes:
In the event of a volcanic eruption:
In case of an emergency, dial 911.
The Angeles Verdes is a highway patrol service that provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
You can download the App on your mobile device.
In case of an emergency, you can also dial 078 or 800 006 8839 (toll-free in Mexico) to reach them.
Street Address Calle Schiller No. 529, Colonia Polanco, 11580 México, D.F., México Postal Address Calle Schiller No. 529, Colonia Polanco, 11560 México, D.F., México Telephone +52 55-5724-7900 Fax +52 55-5724-7943 Email mxicocs@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/mexico_city-mexico.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada to Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district
Aguascalientes, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Estado de Mexico, Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Michoacán, Morelos, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luís Potosí, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, Zacatecas.
Acapulco - Consular Agency of CanadaStreet Address Pasaje Diana, Avenida Costera Miguel Alemán 121, L-16, Fracc. Magallanes, 39670 Acapulco, Guerrero, México Telephone +52 55-5724-9794 Fax +52 744-484-1306 Email aplco@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/acapulco.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district Guerrero Appointment Book your appointment online
Cabo San Lucas - Consular Agency of CanadaStreet Address Carretera Transpeninsular Km. 0.5, Local 82, Col. El Tezal, 23454 Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, México Telephone +52 55-5724-9797 Fax +52 624-142-4262 Email lcabo@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/cabo_san_lucas.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district Baja California Sur Appointment Book your appointment online
Cancún - Consular Agency of CanadaStreet Address Centro Empresarial, Oficina E7, Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 12, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo, México Telephone +52 55-5724-9795 Email cncun@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/cancun.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district
Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo north of the municipality of Solidaridad, including Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Holbox
Guadalajara - Consulate of CanadaStreet Address World Trade Center, Av. Mariano Otero 1249, Torre Pacifico Piso 8, Col. Rinconada del Bosque, 44530 Guadalajara, Jalisco, México Telephone +52 33-1818-4200 Fax +52 33-1818-4210 Email gjara@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/guadalajara.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district Jalisco (except for Puerto Vallarta and coastal region) Appointment Book your appointment online
Mazatlán - Consular Agency of CanadaStreet Address Centro Comercial La Marina Business and Life, Blvd. Marina Mazatlán 2302, Office 41, Col. Marina Mazatlán, 82103 Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico Telephone +52 55-5724-9798 Fax +52 669-914-6655 Email mztln@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/mazatlan.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district Sinaloa Appointment Book your appointment online
Monterrey - Consulate General of CanadaStreet Address Torre Gomez Morin 955, Ave. Gomez Morin No. 955, Suite 404, Col. Montebello, 66279 San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Léon, México Telephone +52 81-2088-3200/3201 Fax +52 81-2088-3230 Email mntry@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/monterrey.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district Nuevo León Appointment Book your appointment online
Playa Del Carmen - Consular Agency of CanadaStreet Address Plaza Paraíso Caribe, Modulo C, Planta 2, Oficina C21 - 24, Av. 10 Sur entre Calle 3 y 5 Sur, M-35, Lote 1, Colonia Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, México Telephone +52 55-5724-9796 Fax +52 984-803-2665 Email crmen@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/playa_del_carmen.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district From Playa del Carmen (including the municipality of Solidaridad) to Chetumal, including Cozumel, in the state of Quintana Roo Appointment Book your appointment online
Puerto Vallarta - Consular Agency of CanadaStreet Address Plaza Peninsula, Local Sub F, Boulevard Francisco Medina Ascencio 2485, Zona Hotelera Norte, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, México Telephone +52 55-5724-9799 Email pvrta@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/puerto_vallarta.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district Coast of Jalisco, including Puerto Vallarta, and states of Colima and Nayarit Appointment Book your appointment online
Tijuana - Honorary consul of CanadaStreet Address Germán Gedovius No.10411-101, Condominio del Parque, Zona Río, 22010 Tijuana, Baja California Norte, México Telephone 664-684-0461 Email tjuna@international.gc.ca Internet https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/mexico-mexique/tijuana.aspx?lang=eng Facebook Embassy of Canada in Mexico Twitter @CanEmbMexico Other social media Canada.Mexico Embassy of Canada in Mexico Consular district
Baja California, Sonora
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.
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.
Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.
There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
IMPORTANT:The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.
Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.
You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.
