Risk level(s)

Safety and security

Crime

Violent crimes, including homicides, kidnappings, carjacking and extortions continue to increase year-after-year, nationwide in Mexico, even in popular tourist destinations. Remain extremely cautious if you’re travelling in Mexico City and surrounding municipalities in the State of Mexico where crime rates have been rising in recent years.

While most incidents appear to be gang-related, innocent bystanders may be injured or killed. You may be in the wrong place at the wrong time and become a victim of violent crime.

Arrest and detention rates are low and don’t deter criminal activity.  

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 are 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.

Organized crime

Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. ‎Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common, resulting in a high level of violence. Criminal activity is high nationwide, including in touristic states and cities.

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 and conducting random vehicle checks.

Borders and surrounding areas

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 cities of Tijuana, Ciudad Juárez, Nuevo Laredo and Reynosa. If crossing an international land border:

• remain extremely vigilant
• use only official border crossings
• avoid travelling at night

Kidnappings

Mexico has one of the highest kidnapping rates in the world. Kidnapping occurs nationwide.

Kidnappers target both the wealthy and middle class. Canadian citizens and contractors working for Canadian businesses have been kidnapped mostly in areas that are not under police and security forces control.

If you are kidnapped:

• comply with the kidnappers’ requests
• don’t attempt to resist

Express Kidnappings

Express kidnappings occur in large urban areas. They are 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.

• Only use a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi centre

Virtual Kidnappings

Virtual kidnappings also occur in Mexico.

This is a form of extortion where criminals steal a cell phone and then contact the victim’s family claiming that their loved one has been kidnapped. They then demand an immediate ransom for the release. Unable to reach their loved one, the family members assume that the person has been kidnapped.

Criminals use various means of gathering information about potential victims, including using social media sites or eavesdropping on conversations.

• Do not discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal information within earshot of strangers
• Do not divulge personal business details to strangers in person or over the phone, especially when using hotel phones
• If you are threatened on the phone, hang up immediately

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
• Carry only small amounts of money
• Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Violent theft

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

Home break-ins

Tourists staying in rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Whether you are staying in private or commercial accommodations, make sure you lock windows and doors securely at night and when you are away.

Assault

Canadians travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved.

• Avoid walking after dark, especially alone
• Avoid isolated or deserted areas
• Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

In cases of sexual assault, police authorities will order a medical examination.

Women’s safety

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

Some incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression 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

Safe-travel guide for women

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

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs in Mexico. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit 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

More about overseas fraud

Scams

Legitimate police officers have extorted money from tourists or arrested tourists for minor offences or traffic violations. 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

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly throughout the country. Protests and roadblocks are common in Mexico City, including to and from the airport, and in the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, Michoacán and Oaxaca. Such incidents may last a long time, leading to shortages of fresh food, medicine and gasoline. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Mexican law prohibits political activities by foreigners. You may be detained, deported or denied re-entry into the country if participating in demonstration.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

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. Several drownings occur each year.

Water safety abroad

Rentals

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 watercrafts, have demanded compensation exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

• Ensure that sporting and aquatic equipment is safe and in good condition, especially for scuba diving.

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’s Piracy Reporting Centre

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Dangerous curves, poorly marked or hidden road signs, construction sites, roaming livestock, slow-moving or abandoned vehicles and other obstacles pose hazards. 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; which are not strictly enforced by police. 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.

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
• Ensure operators provide insurance and helmets if renting scooters
• Travel on toll roads to lower the risk of targeted roadblocks and robberies

Public transportation

Public transportation is relatively safe.

Remain vigilant in airports, at bus stations and on buses.

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

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

Taxis

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.

When arriving at an airport in Mexico, pre-pay the taxi fare inside the airport and ask to see the driver’s official identification. You can also hire a taxi from a reputable online transportation network company.

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Use reputable taxi companies only or a trusted ride-sharing app

Air travel

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

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry/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 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

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 diplomatic mission 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

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

Tourist card

You must obtain a tourist card to enter Mexico. If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival, your entry will be considered illegal and you may be fined, detained or expelled from the country.

To obtain a tourist card, you must present a valid passport. Your airline will provide it if travelling by air. If entering Mexico by land, you are responsible to stop at the immigration facility located at the border. Ensure that immigration authorities stamp your tourist card upon arrival, regardless of your mode of transportation.

You must surrender your tourist card when leaving Mexico. If you lose your tourist card before your departure, you will face a fine to have it replaced.

You don’t require a tourist card for stays of 72 hours or less within the northern border zone.

Length of stay

An immigration official will determine the number of days during which you can remain in Mexico. In most cases, you will be granted the maximum 180 days. You won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of your stay from inside the country.

Tourism tax

All 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 are exempt from paying this tax if:

• you are entering by land for tourism purposes, and your stay will not exceed 7 days
• you are travelling to the northern border zone for less than 72 hours
• you are 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.

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 about travel with children.

Yellow fever

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

Health

Medical services and facilities

The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Private hospitals usually offer good-quality care but are generally expensive. Most won’t agree to deal directly with medical insurance companies and will require payment in advance.

Mental health care

Mental health services are extremely limited in Mexico, particularly outside of Mexico City.

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, particularly in Tijuana and towns bordering the United States. Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel:

• make sure you have done your research
• use competent health-care providers only

Receiving Medical Care in Other Countries

Surrogacy

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

If you are considering surrogacy, seek advice from legal professionals knowledgeable in Canadian and Mexican laws and citizenship procedures.

Prescription drugs

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Mexico. Bring along an adequate supply and a copy of the prescription. Ensure that both the generic and trade names of the drug are stated.

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

Federal Commission for protection against sanitary risk (in Spanish)

Air quality in Mexico City

When travelling to 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.

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.

Laws & culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

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

• Overview of the criminal law system in Mexico
• Arrest and detention

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.

Drugs

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

• Alcohol, drugs and travel
• Cannabis and international travel

Firearms

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.

Goods you cannot bring into Mexico – Mexican Government (in Spanish)

Artefacts

It is illegal to possess archaeological artefacts or to export such items from Mexico.

LGBTQ2 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 the rural areas.

Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are disproportionately targeted for violence and can face discrimination.

General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad

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.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

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 caused significant difficulties to 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.

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 is illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. You are 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.

More about the 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.

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 penalties are paid.

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.

Driving restrictions in Mexico City

There are driving restrictions in Mexico City.

Only selected vehicles bearing plates from the State of México (Estado de México) or the Federal District (Distrito Federal) are allowed to circulate, depending on the last number of their plate, from Monday to Saturday, from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

These regulations are strictly enforced. You may face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of your vehicle if you don’t comply.

An exemption may be obtained for cars with foreign plates by requesting a tourist pass. It is granted either for two periods of seven days or one period of 14 days within a six-month period.

• Do not circulate calendar – Mexican Government (in Spanish)
• Tourist pass - Mexican Government (in Spanish)
• Secretaría del Medio Ambiente – Mexico City’s environment ministry (in Spanish)

Importing vehicles and boats

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

Don’t enter Mexico without obtaining the proper import permit and insurance. Without a permit, you may be fined and have your vehicle seized.

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

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.

Natural disasters & climate

Mexico is subject to various natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, torrential rains, floods and mudslides.

In the event of a natural disaster, official information is available from the Mexican government.

Sistema Nacional de Protección Civil (in Spanish)

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

• Hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from June to November. Seasonal flooding and landslides can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Seismic activity

Mexico is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and volcano eruptions can occur.

• National Seismological Institute – Mexican Government (in Spanish)
• Centre for Studies and Research of Volcanology - University of Colima (in Spanish)
• National center for disaster prevention – Mexican Government (in Spanish)

Assistance

Local services

Consular assistance

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.