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1. RECENT UPDATES Section 1 has been updated (Current Issue added). Heavy rains have led to major flooding and landslides in the States of Tabasco and Chiapas. For more information, see our Current Issue. The hurricane season extends from June 1st to November 30th. For more information, please see our Current Issues on the hurricane season. Since January 23, 2007, all Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from Mexico by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more information, please see our Current Issues page. BACK TO TOP 2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS There is no Official Warning for this country. Mexico
Canadians travelling to OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency in a foreign country, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad. BACK TO TOP 3. SAFETY AND SECURITY The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety. The purpose of this Travel Report is to provide Canadians with up-to-date information to enable them to make well-informed decisions. General Safety Measures Demonstrations and protests occasionally occur in large cities. Canadians should avoid large gatherings where demonstrations could lead to violent incidents at all times. Canadians travelling to the state of Warnings on swimming conditions posted on beaches should be taken seriously. Many beaches are not supervised or do not offer warnings. When in doubt, consult the hotel staff. You should ensure the recreational activities you choose are covered by your travel insurance or by a local insurance. Ensure sporting and aquatic equipment is safe and in good condition, especially for scuba diving. Many operators do not conduct regular safety checks. There have been cases of Canadians who have been involved in accidents where operators demanded compensation in excess of the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Guide to Safe and Successful Travel. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely. Crime Visitors should be aware of their surroundings at all times while travelling throughout the country, even in areas generally considered safe. Crimes, including armed robbery, purse snatching, and pick-pocketing, occur frequently. Although they are not specifically targeted, Canadians have been victims of random shootings in areas notorious for drug trafficking. If you are the victim of a crime, report it immediately to the Agencia del Ministerio Público nearest to the crime scene. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint to Mexican authorities. You must present photo identification. It is especially important to report the loss or theft of your identification documents (to Mexican authorities and to the Embassy or the nearest consulate of Canada in Mexico), in order to protect yourself should the documents later be misused at the scene of a crime. Minor fees may apply to obtain the copy of a document. For emergency services, dial 060 or 066. Theft Thefts occur regularly. You should dress down, avoid wearing or carrying expensive jewellery, and carry only small amounts of cash. In resort areas, leave your passport and valuables in your hotel safe, not in your hotel room or on the beach while you are swimming. You should withdraw or exchange money at Automated Banking Machines (ABMs) or exchange bureaus (casas de cambio) during daylight hours only, and inside shops and malls rather than on the street. Keep your credit card in sight when paying. Assault Incidents of assault and sexual aggression against foreigners have been reported. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel have been implicated. Avoid walking after dark, especially alone, and avoid unpopulated areas. You should only frequent bars and night-clubs as part of a group and avoid separating from the group. In cases of sexual assault, police authorities will require a medical examination. Be careful accepting food, drinks or rides from strangers. Avoid leaving your food and drinks unattended in bars and restaurants. There have been cases of travellers being robbed or assaulted after being drugged. Travellers should exercise caution in dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, and be extremely careful about accepting rides or invitations. Kidnappings Kidnappings occur frequently in large urban areas. The most common practice involves thieves working in cooperation with, or posing as taxi drivers. The thieves force victims to withdraw money from ATMs with their debit or credit cards in exchange for their release. Kidnappers target both the wealthy and middle class. Foreigners are not specifically targeted. Scams Criminals posing as police officers have approached tourists and asked for their passports or for foreign currency. There have also been cases of legitimate police officers extorting money from tourists or arresting tourists for minor offences. If this occurs, you should not hand over your money or your passport. Instead, you should ask for the officer’s name, badge number and patrol car number, and proceed to the nearest Agencia del Ministerio Público and Tourism Office to file a complaint. Avoid divulging personal information to strangers. Scam artists have called parents of travelling Canadians to report that their child has been detained or hospitalized and have requested that money be wired to Mexico. If this occurs, parents or friends should request the name and number of the caller and contact the Emergency Operations Centre (toll‑free within Canada at 1-800-387-3124 or from Mexico at 001‑800-514-0129). Remain vigilant when using debit or credit cards, as card information can be copied by vendors. Ask to see your card swiped and ensure that it is only run through once. Make sure you obtain your copy of the transaction slip. Organized Crime In northern Mexico and all cities bordering the United States, organized crime and urban violence affect security. Crimes and murders linked to drug turf wars have risen substantially, especially in the states of Baja California, Chihuahua, Guerrero, Michoacán, Nuevo Leon and Sinaloa (Culiacán region). While Canadians are not specifically targeted, they risk being in the wrong place at the wrong time. In most urban areas of these states, military and federal police forces have been deployed in efforts to combat organized crime and improve security conditions. They maintain a visible presence patrolling the streets, setting up roadblocks and conducting random vehicle checks. BACK TO TOP 4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with Mexican authorities, and was valid on February 8, 2007. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change. It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties. Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the United Mexican States and its consulates, which you can contact to obtain further information on entry and exit requirements. Since January 23, 2007, all Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from Mexico by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more information, please see our Current Issues page. Canadians are not required to carry a passport to enter Mexico. However, in order to avoid delays and misunderstandings, we strongly recommend that you travel with a passport valid for six months after your arrival date. It is the only universally accepted identification document, and it proves that you have a right to return to Canada. A lost or stolen passport is also easier to replace when outside of Canada than other evidence of citizenship. Permanent residents and landed immigrants of Canada should check with Mexico’s immigration authorities (Instituto Nacional de Migración or INAMI). They can be contacted via their Web site. The Mexican government is vigorously enforcing immigration and entry laws. Persons seeking to enter Mexico for purposes other than tourism are required to have a proper visa. Foreigners involved in unauthorized activities will be expelled. Please visit the website of the Mexican Embassy in Canada for more information. Tourist card (FMT): required (Multiple Migratory Form provided by airlines or at points of entry) Business and work visa : required Student visa : required Visitor visa : required (for purposes other than tourism, including work) Tourist Card Canadian tourists do not require a visa or a tourist card for stays of 72 hours or less within the border zone (20 to 30 kilometres from the U. S. border). For travel to Mexico beyond the border zone, Canadians must be in possession of a tourist card, also called the Multiple Migratory Form (FMT). This document is provided by airlines or by immigration authorities at the country’s points of entry. Authorities can demand to see your tourist card at any time. You must therefore carry the original, or a copy, at all times and must surrender the original upon leaving Mexico. Failure to do so will result in a fine. In order to obtain a tourist card, Canadians are required to present valid official photo identification (such as a passport or driver's licence) and proof of citizenship (such as a passport, birth certificate or citizenship card). Mexican authorities require that Canadians born in the province of Quebec present a birth certificate issued after January 1, 1994, in order to prove Canadian citizenship. Your tourist card is stamped on arrival. If travelling by bus or car, ensure you obtain such a card and have it stamped by immigration authorities at the border. If you do not receive a stamped tourist card at the border, ensure that, when you arrive at your destination within Mexico, you immediately go to the closest National Institute of Immigration office, present your bus ticket, and request a tourist card. Travellers who fail to have their tourist card stamped may be fined, detained or expelled from the country. An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico. Do not assume that you will be granted the full 180 days. An extension of your stay can be requested for a fee. Tourism Tax Mexican authorities impose a tourism tax (approximately $25) for all visitors to Mexico. This fee is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road (car or bus) will be asked to pay this fee at any bank in Mexico (there is a bank representative at every port of entry). The bank will stamp your tourist card. Visitors to the northern border zone (20 to 30 kilometres from the U. S. border) and those going to Mexico on cruise ships are exempt. Work Visa It is recommended that you process your visa yourself. However, if a prospective employer is processing your business (or work) visa for you, ensure that you receive copies of all correspondence between the employer and Mexican immigration authorities, and that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities as proof that your papers are indeed being processed. You should also request a receipt from your employer for any documents (e.g. your Canadian passport) that you provide for purposes of obtaining the visa. It is not recommended that your employer keep your passport for you. Customs Tourists are allowed to bring in their personal effects duty-free. Failure to declare personal effects will result in their confiscation and a fine. Mexican customs provides information in English regarding entry into Mexico by air or land. Canadians travelling to Mexico with goods intended for donation should be aware that Mexican customs regulations prohibit the importation of certain clothing, textiles, and other used goods. These regulations also apply to charitable donations. You should verify the list of prohibited items with Mexican customs and hire an experienced customs broker to ensure compliance with Mexican law. If documentation is incorrect, you could have a fine imposed or have your goods confiscated. Contact the Embassy of Mexico in Canada for further information. Dual Nationals Mexico recognizes dual nationality for persons born in Mexico or abroad to Mexican parents. Under Mexican law, dual nationals entering and departing from Mexico must identify themselves as Mexican citizens. You should be aware that dual nationality status could hamper efforts of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada to provide you with consular protection. A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship (CCC) is not a travel document. Airlines are known to refuse boarding to dual national Canadian passengers returning to Canada, travelling on a passport that requires a visa to enter Canada, regardless of whether the passenger presents a valid CCC as proof of Canadian citizenship. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document for the purpose of international travel. It proves your admissibility to enter Canada. Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services. Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders. Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order. Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada. BACK TO TOP 5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses: Mexico - MEXICO CITY, Embassy of Canada Address: calle Schiller No. 529, Rincón del Bosque, Colonia Polanco, 11580, México, D.F. Postal Address: P.O. Box Apartado Postal 105-05, Mexico, D.F., Mexico City, 11580 Tel.: 52 (55) 5724-7900 Ext.: 3322 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (55) 5724-7943 E-Mail: embassy@canada.org.mx, mxico@international.gc.ca Internet: http://www.mexico.gc.ca Consular district: Aguascalientes, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Estado de México, Guanajuato, Morelos, México City, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luís Potosí, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, Tamaulipas Veracruz, Zacatecas If you are outside of Mexico City, you can reach the Embassy by dialling 01-800-706-2900. This toll free number is available throughout the entire country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is reserved for emergency calls concerning Canadians. Mexico - ACAPULCO, Consulate of Canada Address: Centro Comercial Marbella, local 23, Prolongación Farallon s/n, Esq. Miguel Alemán, Acapulco, Gro, Mexico 39670 Tel.: 52 (744) 484-1305, 481-1349 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (744) 484-1306 E-Mail: acapulco@canada.org.mx Consular district: Guerrero, Michoacán Mexico - CANCÚN, Consulate of Canada Address: Plaza Caracol II, 3er piso, local 330, Boulevard Kukulcán Km 8.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500, Cancún, Quintana Roo Tel.: 52 (998) 883-3360/1 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (998) 883-3232 E-Mail: cancun@canada.org.mx Consular district: Campeche, Quintana Roo, Yucatán Mexico - GUADALAJARA, Consulate of Canada Address: World Trade Center, Av. Mariano Otero 1249, Torre Pacifico Piso 8, Col. Rinconada del Bosque, Guadalajara, JaliscoE-mail: mxicogjara@international.gc.ca Postal Address: P.O. Box 44530, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Tel.: 52 (33) 3671-4740 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (33) 3671-4750 E-Mail: mxicogjara@international.gc.ca Consular district: Jalisco (except for Puerto Vallarta & Coastal Region) Mexico - MAZATLÁN, Consulate of Canada Address: Avenida Playa Gaviotas # 202, Zona Dorada, Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, 82210 Postal Address: P.O. Box 614, Mazatlán, Sinaloa, 82110 Tel.: 52 (669) 913-73-20 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (669) 914-66-55 E-Mail: mazatlan@canada.org.mx Consular district: Sinaloa Mexico - MONTERREY, Consulate General of Canada Address: Edificio Kalos, Piso C-1, Local 108-A, Zaragoza 1300 Sur y Constitución, 64000, Monterrey, Nuevo Léon Postal Address: P.O. Box 1300 sur y Constitución, Monterrey, N.L., 64000 Tel.: 52 (81) 8344-32-00, 27-53,29-06, 29-61, 8345-9105, 9045 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (81) 8344-30-48 Internet: mxicomntry@international.gc.ca Consular district: Nuevo León Mexico - OAXACA, Consulate of Canada Address: Pino Suarez 700, Local 11B, Multiplaza Brena, Colonia Centro, 68000, Oaxaca, Oaxaca Postal Address: P.O. Box Apartado Postal 29, Sucursal C, Colonia Reforma, Oaxaca, 68050 Tel.: 52 (951) 513-3777 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (951) 515-2147 E-Mail: oaxaca@canada.org.mx Consular district: Chiapas, Oaxaca Mexico - PUERTO VALLARTA, Consulate of Canada Address: Edificio Obelisco Local 108, Avenida Francisco Medina Ascencio 1951, Zona Hotelera Las Glorias, 48300, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco Tel.: 52 (322) 293-0098/9 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (322) 293-2894 E-Mail: vallarta@canada.org.mx Consular district: Coast of Jalisco, including Puerto Vallarta, Colima & Nayarit States Mexico - SAN JOSÉ DEL CABO, Consulate of Canada Address: Plaza José Green, Local 9, Boulevard Mijares s/n, Colonia Centro, 23400, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur Tel.: 52 (624) 142-4333 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (624) 142-4262 E-Mail: loscabos@canada.org.mx Consular district: Baja California Sur Mexico - TIJUANA, Consulate of Canada Address: Germán Gedovius No.10411-101, Condominio del Parque, Zona Río, 22320, Tijuana, Baja California Norte Tel.: 52 (664) 684-04-61 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129 Fax: 52 (664) 684-03-01 E-Mail: tijuana@canada.org.mx Consular district: Baja California, Sonora When making long-distance calls within Mexico, callers have to dial 01, the area code and the number; when calling internationally from Mexico to Canada or the United States, you must dial 001, the area code and the number; all other international calls from Mexico must be dialled with 00; when calling internationally to Mexico, the country code is 52. For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Mexico City and follow the instructions provided on the recording. You may also call the Operations Centre in Ottawa toll-free at 001-800-514-0129 or collect at 613-996-8885. BACK TO TOP 6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons. Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request. If you make a statement, you should by law be provided with a translator. Avoid making any arrangements with police or court officials unless your lawyer is present. Do not sign anything in Spanish, if you do not understand the language, without first reviewing the document with your lawyer. The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare. Under Mexican law, you are considered guilty until proven innocent. Illegal Activities Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. Penalties for drug offences are very strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences. You are strongly advised to avoid any involvement with illegal substances or those who deal with them. You are also strongly advised against borrowing a vehicle or picking up hitchhikers; drivers are legally responsible for their vehicle's contents, as well as for the legal status of passengers and the items carried by passengers. The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws concerning possession, entry and trafficking of firearms. Anyone (including foreign armed forces personnel) 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. It is illegal to drink alcoholic beverages in non-designated public areas. The minimum age at which people are legally allowed to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages is 18 years old. Participation in political activities (such as demonstrations) by foreigners is prohibited and should be avoided, as it may result in detention, deportation or the denial of future entry into Mexico. It is illegal to possess archaeological artefacts or to export such items from Mexico. Real Estate Canadians may acquire real estate in Mexico. However, there are three principal restrictions: - Mexican law restricts property size, depending on the type of land involved. Canadians cannot own mineral or water rights, or property for agricultural or forestry purposes (such as ejidos); - If buying property or land, Canadians must obtain a permit from the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores); and - Canadians may not own property within a 100-km band along the border and coastal zones. Indirect ownership can be arranged using a bank trust (fideicomiso). You should consult a lawyer, as real estate transactions, laws and practices can be complex and differ considerably from those in Canada. Canadians should research potential property purchases carefully, as irregularities occur. The most frequent irregularities include title challenges, which may result in litigation and possible eviction. Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated. Time-Share Agreements Reports of problems with time-share arrangements (including the cancellation of contracts) have increased. Be prepared for the possibility of being approached by persistent time-share representatives on the street, as well as at the airport or on the way to your hotel. Exercise caution as salespeople often offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages and can be aggressive and relentless in their sales techniques. A common pressure technique is to tell potential customers that promotions are only valid for that day. Before purchasing a time-share, gather as much information as possible, research the properties and even get a legal opinion. If you do decide to buy, be sure to carefully review the contract. Anything not included in the contract may not be honoured. Only provide your credit card if you are certain you wish to make the purchase. Time-share companies have requested that their clients sign a waiver that prevents them from cancelling the contract. Such practices are illegal. Mexican law stipulates that consumers are legally entitled to cancel a time-share contract without penalty; however, the cancellation must be done within five working days starting from the day following the original date of purchase. Cancellations of contracts must be done in writing and must be presented directly to the time-share company. Keep copies of any correspondence. If you experience any difficulties with a time-share company, you should immediately contact the Mexican consumer protection agency, the Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor (PROFECO). Further information, including points of service throughout Mexico, can be found (in Spanish and English) on PROFECO’s Website. Renting Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a private matter and are not regulated by the government. Should you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement and wish to take legal action, you will have to obtain the services of a Mexican lawyer. BACK TO TOP 7. LOCAL TRAVEL AND CURRENCY Road Safety Travel should be limited to daylight hours, and toll (cuota) highways should be used whenever possible, rather than less secure free (libre) roads, where armed robberies and carjackings are more frequent. Overnight stops should be made only in major centres, at reputable hotels or secure campsites. Road conditions in general are good; however, poorly marked construction sites, roaming livestock, abandoned vehicles and other obstacles pose hazards. Mexican styles of driving and road safety standards are very different from those in Canada. Police do not regularly patrol the highways. Be prepared for vehicles that fail to observe speed limits or indicate lane changes, and that do not stop at red lights. Pedestrians should be extremely cautious at all times. Fatal hit-and-run accidents occur. Keep your car doors locked and the windows rolled up, especially at traffic lights, where you can be a target for criminals. For emergency services, dial 060 or 066. In case of a vehicle breakdown or roadside emergency, a highway patrol service offered by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) called the Green Angels (Angeles Verdes) provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The telephone number in Mexico City is 3002-6300 ext. 8987 to 8989 (when dialling from outside Mexico City, dial 01 and 55 before the number). The 24-hour toll-free number is 01-800-987-8224. In case of emergency, you can also dial 078. Canadian driver's licences are valid in Mexico. The police sometimes ask foreigners to show identification and proof of their legal status in Mexico. You should always carry valid photo identification and photocopies of the identification page of your passport, visa and other documents, and keep the originals in a safe place. Do not hand over original documents to the police. Insurance Canadian automobile insurance is not recognized in Mexico. You must obtain additional insurance at the Mexican border. Full coverage is recommended, including coverage for legal assistance. Automobile insurance is much more expensive in Mexico than in Canada. Many local drivers do not have any form of car insurance. For more information on Mexican driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax or mandatory insurance, please contact the Mexican Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) at 01-800-903-9200 (from Canada). Accidents In case of an accident or theft of the vehicle, a police report should immediately be obtained from the nearest police station (hacienda), and presented to the nearest customs office no later than two days after the incident. Canadians involved in traffic accidents may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. They could be taken into custody until responsibility for the accident is determined and until all penalties are paid. If you do not have Mexican liability insurance, you could be prevented from leaving the country until all parties agree that adequate financial satisfaction has been received. Depending on the extent of injuries or damages, drivers may face criminal charges. Motor vehicle insurance is considered invalid in Mexico if the driver is found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident, or if the driver has no valid driver's licence. Driving Restrictions In order to reduce air pollution, there are time restrictions on driving in Mexico City and in certain regions of the country. Based on your licence plate number, there will be at least one day each week when you are not allowed to drive. This applies equally to permanent, temporary and foreign plates. These regulations are strictly enforced. Offenders face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of their vehicle. For more information, visit www.hoynocircula.com.mx (in Spanish only). Public Transportation Although public transportation is relatively safe, take precautions in airports, bus stations and the Mexico City metro, which are often very crowded and popular with pickpockets. Avoid travelling during rush hour if you can. Canadians have been robbed on buses, usually at night. Keep an eye on your luggage, money and personal documents at all times. Bus accidents occur frequently due to speeding, poor road conditions and mountainous terrain. You should travel during daylight hours and on first-class buses only. Hitchhiking is not a common practice in Mexico and is not recommended. Taxis Travellers should use only hotel taxis or taxis based at designated stands (sitios). In Mexico City, sitio taxis can be distinguished from other taxis by the letter “S” that precedes the identification number on the side of the car and on the licence plate. Always ask the dispatcher for the driver's name and the taxi's licence plate number, model and colour. Passengers arriving at Benito Juarez Airport in Mexico City should use airport taxis only (which are yellow and white, with an airport symbol on the door), after pre-paying the fare inside the airport. Request to see the driver's official ID. Vehicles a) Rentals The contract for a rental vehicle must be in the traveller's name and include a full description of the vehicle. b) Company-owned vehicles Travellers must produce proof of employment and of the vehicle’s ownership by the company. c) Importation Mexico has very strict rules regarding the entry of foreign motor vehicles. Do not enter Mexico without having obtained the proper vehicle permit and car insurance. Travellers without a permit may be fined and/or have their vehicle seized. Canadians wishing to travel beyond the border zone (20 to 30 kilometres from the U. S. border) with their car must obtain a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (solicitud de importación temporal de vehículos). Travellers are allowed to bring only one vehicle into the country at a time. Those travelling with a recreational vehicle are not entitled to tow a second vehicle, unless it is registered in the name of an accompanying traveller. It is the owner’s responsibility to obtain the permit at one of the Mexican consulates located in Austin, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Sacramento or San Francisco, at a customs office located along the U.S.-Mexico border or, in some cases, within an authorized border zone. Watch for signs indicating customs checkpoints and Banjercito Bank locations (where permits can be issued and cancelled). When applying for the Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit, present the original and a copy of all documents. Tourists are required to pay a fee and leave a guarantee in any of the following forms: - imprint of an international credit card (Visa, American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard) issued outside of Mexico; - bond purchased from an authorized company at the border; or - refundable cash deposit at Banjercito Bank. Travellers should contact the Embassy or a consulate of Mexico in Canada to verify the latest regulations and requirements regarding vehicle importations. Complete information (in Spanish and English) is available from Aduana México. If you stay beyond the date indicated on the Temporary Importation Permit, the vehicle may be seized. When leaving Mexico, you must return and cancel your Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit in person, and with the vehicle with which you entered the country with, at any customs office at the border. Keep a copy of the cancellation documents. Neither the Embassy of Canada in Mexico City nor the Embassy of Mexico in Ottawa can return these permits on behalf of Canadian citizens. It is not permissible to mail your permit to the border point, as it will remain in effect. As long as the permit remains in effect, you will be unable to import another vehicle into Mexico. You can cancel the permit on a future visit to Mexico if you enter at the same border point. However, a fine may be imposed. In cases when the permit holder cannot exit the country with the vehicle (e.g. in case of death or sickness), the person driving the car out of Mexico must have documentation to prove the relationship with the car owner, such as a marriage or birth certificate. d) Purchasing/Selling Foreigners wishing to purchase a car in Mexico must be holders of either a Visitor’s Visa or a Resident Visa as proof that they reside in Mexico and are therefore able to pay vehicle taxes and obtain Mexican licence plates. Tourists are not authorized to purchase vehicles in Mexico. It is illegal to sell your vehicle in Mexico. If you do, your vehicle may be seized and you could be subject to a fine and deportation. The currency is the Mexican peso (MXN/MXV). ATM services are available throughout the country. Canadian debit cards are widely used; however, Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted. Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on Automated Banking Machine ( BACK TO TOP 8. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE The hurricane season extends from June to the end of November, and may affect both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. You are advised to visit the Web site of the National Hurricane Center for information on weather conditions. You should stay informed of regional weather forecasts and heed the warnings of local authorities. Mexico is located in an active seismic zone. For further information, visit the website of the National Seismological Institute in Mexico (in Spanish only). Some volcanoes in Mexico are active. Updated information on the status of volcanoes can be found at http://www.ucol.mx/volcan (in Spanish) or from CENAPRED (in English). BACK TO TOP 9. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site. The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date. Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage. The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada. BACK TO TOP 10. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION Medical Services Medical services are easily available in large cities but limited in remote areas. Standards of patient care differ from those in Canada and vary greatly among medical facilities, especially in beach resorts. Private hospitals and clinics offer good-quality care but are generally expensive and expect payment in advance. Many will not agree to deal directly with medical insurance companies. Be prepared to pay for treatment yourself and then request a refund. Most of the major hotels have a doctor on staff or can refer patients to outside physicians or clinics. However, in recent years, Canadians have reported cases of overcharging and providing unnecessary medical care in health-care facilities. While prices should be publicly displayed by the hospital, they are not regulated by the government. If medical services are required, contact your tour representative or the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Canada (see Section 7 above) to obtain a list of reputable facilities or physicians in the area. More information is available on the Website of the Embassy of Mexico in Canada. Medication Pharmacies in main cities carry most medication. It is advisable to consult a physician before purchasing medicine manufactured in Mexico. If you take prescription medication, bring along an adequate supply and a copy of the prescription. Ensure that both the generic and trade names of the drug are stated. The list of controlled medication in Mexico differs from that in Canada. To determine whether a particular medication is controlled in Mexico, and requires a prescription from a doctor, consult the Website (in Spanish only) of the Mexican Federal Commission for Protection Against Health Risks. The Mexican Ministry of Health is extremely strict regarding the importation of medicine and medical equipment for personal use by mail, and requires previous authorization. Required procedures are lengthy and complicated. Further information is available on the Ministry’s Webpage. Health Tips Mosquito-borne diseases, including malaria and dengue fever, can be a threat, especially during the rainy season. Although health authorities are actively combating these diseases, travellers should cover up and use mosquito repellent. Tap water is not safe to drink. Purify it or buy bottled water, and avoid ice cubes. Fruits and vegetables washed in tap water should be disinfected, peeled or cooked. Purchase only reliably pasteurized and refrigerated products. Choose restaurants carefully. Avoid consuming food or beverages sold by street vendors. In addition to problems caused by high altitude, travellers to Mexico City may experience health problems caused by air pollution, which is at its peak during the winter months. Individuals with heart, lung or respiratory problems are advised to consult their doctor before booking their trip. BACK TO TOP 11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Returning to Canada Traveller's Checklist Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes. See Canada's Health Portal. Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government. BACK TO TOP 12. ANNEX N/A BACK TO TOP |
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