Fire and rescue services
Call 911.
Medical emergencies
Call 911 or go to the hospital.
Police
Call 911 or go to the local police station.
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall due to the threat of violent crime.
Higher levels apply in some areas.
Call 911.
Call 911 or go to the hospital.
Call 911 or go to the local police station.
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall due to the threat of violent crime.
Higher levels apply in some areas.
Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall.
Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall due to the threat of violent crime.
Reconsider your need to travel to Michoacán (except Morelia and Lázaro Cardenas and the Monarch butterfly reserves), Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains in southern Chihuahua and the states of Guerrero (including Acapulco), North-eastern Sinaloa, North-western Durango, South-eastern Sonora (except for the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway), Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.
Reconsider your need to travel to:
due to high levels of violent crime (including kidnapping and extortion) and their volatile security situation.
See Safety
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Petty crime is common, mainly pickpocketing and bag-snatching. You’re most at risk in big cities in Mexico.
Take extra care of your valuables in:
To prevent petty crime:
More information:
Violent crime is widespread in Mexico. This includes:
Criminals posing as police officers have committed sexual assault, extortion and robbery. They may drive fake police cars.
Gangs have attacked travellers after they've changed money at airports.
To protect yourself from violent crime:
Crime on intercity buses and highways is common in Mexico.
Violent carjackings have increased. The northern borders and along the Pacific coast are high-risk areas.
Criminals have attacked tourists on toll roads and highways. The Sonora, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and border regions are high-risk areas.
Organised crime groups have targeted large campervans and SUVs travelling in and out of the United States.
To reduce the risk of crime when travelling by road:
Watch out for drink and food spiking, which can occur in bars, clubs and restaurants. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.
Violent crimes related to the drug trade are widespread in Mexico.
Shoot-outs, grenade attacks and car bombings have occurred in public places.
Targeted attacks have increased on the military, government officials and journalists.
You may become a victim of violence directed against someone else.
Federal police and the military use roadblocks and random vehicle checks to deal with drug-related violence.
Drug cartels set up unofficial roadblocks in the northern areas of Mexico to obstruct military and police movement.
Stop at all roadblocks, or you risk getting killed. Comply with the instructions given.
Risks are higher in those areas most affected by drug-related and gang violence, including:
Violent crimes occur in many popular tourist areas, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Tijuana and Puerto Vallarta. To reduce your risks if travelling to violent areas, stay in:
To protect yourself from crime in violent areas:
You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.
Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.
More information:
Scams and credit card fraud are a risk.
Instances of credit card and ATM fraud can occur. Take precautions when using debit or credit cards.
Scam artists target foreign visitors and residents. The scams come in many forms and can cause great financial loss. Warn your friends and family to be sceptical if they’re asked to transfer funds to you in Mexico. Tell them to contact you to check that you’ve made this request.
Women traveling alone may encounter instances of sexual harassment and verbal abuse.
More information:
Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.
Kidnapping is a serious risk in Mexico. Kidnapping occurs throughout the country, with the highest number of cases recorded in and around Mexico City, along the Gulf Coast from Tamaulipas to Tabasco states, and in other large cities. Kidnappers target a broad demographic, including wealthy Mexicans, migrants seeking to cross the US borders as well as foreigners and expatriates. Motives are also varied, with political kidnappings and forced disappearance reported across the country. Victims of traditional kidnappings are physically abducted and held captive until a ransom is paid. In some cases, the captors receive a ransom and kill the victim.
Some victims claim police officers or other officials are involved in their kidnapping.
Virtual or scam kidnappings target people over the phone to extort money. Kidnappers pose as officials or cartel members and demand payments for the release of a family member they have allegedly detained. If you receive a call or message, contact local police. This opportunistic extortion attempt can also occur alongside public news.
Express kidnappings are also regularly reported in Mexico. Kidnappers force victims to withdraw funds from ATMs before being released, including being held in an unauthorised taxi.
If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.
To reduce the risk of kidnapping:
The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.
More information:
Demonstrations and protests against the government can occur. Some can turn violent, causing injuries and deaths. They may occur anywhere across the country and often affect public transport.
It's illegal for foreigners to take part in political demonstrations in Mexico.
To protect yourself during periods of unrest:
Protesters may blockade roads.
Public protests in Mexico City are common. Expect protests and potential roadblocks in the states of Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guerrero, Michoacán and main entrances to Mexico City.
More information:
Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.
Possible targets include:
To stay safe:
If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.
More information:
Even strong swimmers can be at risk from undertows and currents on both coasts of Mexico. Follow the beach warning flags.
Rescue services may not consistently meet international standards, and unpredictable tidal changes can result in powerful currents and common riptides. Lifeguards and warning flags may not be present on all beaches to signal hazardous conditions.
Tour operators and diving centres may not adhere strictly to international standards. When engaging in adventure sports such as diving, choose a reputable company with proper insurance coverage.
Mexico can experience natural disasters and severe weather, such as:
To protect yourself if a natural disaster is approaching:
Get local advice before visiting areas affected by a disaster.
Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.
The hurricane and rainy season is from June to November. Landslides, mudslides, and flooding can happen.
If you’re travelling during the rainy season, contact your:
Tropical storms and hurricanes can happen in other months. Hurricanes can change direction and strength suddenly.
If there's a hurricane or severe storm:
Severe weather may also affect:
To protect yourself if a hurricane is approaching:
Check the US National Hurricane and Tropical Prediction Center for weather forecasts.
Mexico experiences earthquakes and tremors each year. Aftershocks are common and can damage already weakened structures.
Earthquakes can disrupt power and communication systems.
Get to know the earthquake safety measures for each place you stay and visit.
Tsunamis may occur in Mexico.
Receive tsunami alerts by registering with the following:
If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:
Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, check local media.
Active volcanoes include the Popocatepetl and Colima volcanoes.
Volcanic ash from eruptions of these volcanoes can disrupt domestic and international flights and cause airport closures. Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can also affect your health, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments.
The Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System can give you general volcano alerts.
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location
More information:
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Mexico. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
More information:
Malaria is a risk in Mexico, particularly in:
Zika virus is widespread in Mexico. There's no vaccination for Zika virus.
Read the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care page on Zika virus for advice on how to reduce your risk.
If you're pregnant, the department recommends that you:
In Mexico, there's also a risk of:
To protect yourself from disease:
Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.
HIV/AIDS is a significant risk in Mexico.
Protect yourself if you are at risk of infection.
High altitude and air pollution can cause health issues in some regions. Pollution peaks in winter from December to February.
If you have heart, lung or respiratory problems, ask your doctor for advice before you travel.
Foodborne, waterborne and other diseases are widespread. These include:
Serious outbreaks occur from time to time.
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.
To protect yourself from illness:
If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.
Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.
More information:
Severe air pollution happens in Mexico during the dry season.
This can lead to respiratory problems. Before you travel, discuss the risks and how to manage them with your doctor.
Private hospitals in Mexico City and other major cities provide a reasonable standard of care. Services are limited in rural areas.
Treatment at private clinics and hospitals is very expensive. You will likely need to pay up front and claim back later from your insurer.
Doctors may only speak Spanish.
If you are seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with appropriate facilities. Medical evacuation can be expensive. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
You can find hyperbaric chambers in major cities and resort towns where scuba diving is popular.
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Penalties for drug offences, such as possession, use or trafficking are severe and include long prison sentences in local jails.
More information:
Smoking, including vaping, has been banned in all public places, including beaches, parks, hotels and restaurants. You may be fined or arrested.
If you're considering entering into a surrogacy agreement in Mexico, be aware that laws and regulations vary by state. While surrogacy is legal in some parts of Mexico, other areas have restrictions or outright bans, especially for foreign nationals. There is no legal framework to protect parents who pursue surrogacy in Mexico.
Before proceeding:
Spanish is the official language in Mexico, and you may need to engage the services of a translator for several different scenarios, including engaging with your lawyer and medical provider.
The Australian Embassy can't provide:
You may need to spend a significant amount of time in Mexico before and after the birth, to complete processes, such as issuing a birth certificate.
Don’t confirm travel plans until you’ve finalised citizenship and passport processes. If unforeseen legal complications arise, this period could be considerably prolonged.
More information:
Property laws and time-share agreements can be complex.
Before you buy or invest in property, do your research and get legal advice.
Public displays of affection may attract negative attention.
Same-sex relationships are legal in Mexico, but the country is conservative.
Same-sex marriages are recognised in Mexico.
More information:
In Mexico, it's illegal to:
If you need a firearm permit, apply at a Mexican Embassy or Consulate before you arrive.
You're responsible for any illegal items found in rented or borrowed vehicles. This applies even if you don't know they're there.
If you're the victim of a crime and want to report the incident, do so immediately to the nearest branch of the state prosecutor’s office (Agencia del Ministerio Público). A criminal investigation is not possible without a formal complaint to Mexican authorities. Complaints must be made in person before leaving Mexico.
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Mexico recognises dual nationality. If you are an Australian citizen, and also a Mexican citizen, the consular services we can provide to you may be limited.
More information:
Ask permission before taking photos or video of handicraft and art markets, as well as people, especially children.
Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
If you have an ordinary passport with a chip, you can use the e-gates at the airports of Mexico City (AICM), San Jose del Cabo and Cancun.
This authorises Australian citizens to stay for 180 days exclusively for tourism purposes. You will receive a receipt and have 60 days to download your e-tourist card.
The requirements to use e-gates are:
The e-gates are not able to be used by travellers who have a valid visa and/or immigration document issued by the Mexican Government, such as:
If you do not have an ordinary passport with a chip and you visit for 180 days or less as a tourist, you can get a visa on arrival. Be aware of the date that's stamped in your passport on arrival, as you may not receive the full 180 days. Your visa will expire on a date given by the immigration officer. This is usually for the amount of time you indicate to the immigration officer that you are staying in Mexico. This 180-day period is not guaranteed, and the decision is up to the immigration authorities’ discretion.
To avoid being detained or deported, you'll need to:
You can complete the FMM online before you arrive or on arrival.
If you're entering by road, make sure you get the stamp on your passport at the immigration office (Instituto Nacional de Migración: Spanish). These are usually located near, but not directly at, a border crossing.
Present your completed FMM for inspection at immigration if entering by air. You'll need to show it when you leave Mexico.
To cross the land border between Mexico and the US, you'll need to verbally provide the reason for your travel.
If you are entering Mexico from the United States, and no immigration officer is available to stamp your passport, locate the nearest immigration office before proceeding. These offices are typically close to the border, and customs officials can guide you. It’s usually more difficult to resolve immigration issues after leaving the border area.
Confirm your travel and transit arrangements directly with your airline or travel agent.
If the value of the goods exceeds the permitted amounts, you will have to pay a tax.
If you're travelling through the US, ensure you meet all current US entry or transit requirements, including if you're transiting through Hawaii.
If you travel through Canada, ensure you meet all entry and transit requirements.
Mexico charges all visitors an immigration fee.
If you arrive on a commercial flight, the cost of your ticket includes the fee.
If you enter by land, the immigration office will arrange for you to pay the fee at a nearby bank. There's no exit tax.
A child under 18 years who's also a citizen or resident of Mexico must carry a Mexican Minor Travel Consent Form (Spanish) or a notarised consent if travelling with anyone other than their parent or legal guardian.
You may need a permit if you arrive in Mexico by motor vehicle. Check with the Embassy of Mexico before you travel.
More information:
Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This may apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport isn't valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.
More information:
Mexico's official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN).
Declare amounts over US$10,000 or foreign currency equivalent. Do this on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.
US dollars are widely accepted in holiday resort areas. You can't generally exchange Australian currency and traveller's cheques in Mexico.
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. Take care as credit card fraud occurs.
Carry cash if you're travelling to rural areas.
Most international hotels and tourist facilities accept credit and debit cards.
Ask your bank whether your ATM card will work in Mexico.
You can use your valid Australian driver's licence to drive in Mexico.
Vehicles generally don't stop for pedestrians or indicate when they're turning. Intersections can be confusing, with vehicles coming from unexpected directions.
Strict laws cover insurance and reporting of accidents.
If you drive in Mexico:
If you're a victim of roadside robbery or stopped at a roadblock, do as you're asked.
Driving on rural roads in Mexico is dangerous due to:
Criminals target vehicles, including campervans and SUVs, especially in rural areas.
More information:
Use ride-share services, where possible, instead of taxis. If this isn't an option, it's best to use registered official taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your hotel. To avoid issues:
Crime levels on intercity buses and highways are high, and the risks increase after dark. See Safety
Use first-class buses.
Women travelling on public transport should be cautious.
More information:
Check Mexico's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
Call 911.
Call 911 or go to the hospital.
Call 911 or go to the local police station.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Read the Consular Services Charter. It details what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.
Ruben Dario #55
Corner of Campos Eliseos, Polanco
Colonia Bosque de Chapultepec
11580 CDMX Mexico
Phone: +52 55 1101 2200
Email: consularpassports.mexico@dfat.gov.au
Website: mexico.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australian Embassy, Mexico City
X: Australian Embassy, Mexico City
Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
EDIFICIO GRUPO VIVO
Calle Luciernaga esquina con Avenida Politécnico
Región 501, Manzana 13, Lote 7
Cancún, Quintana Roo
C.P. 77535, México
Email: aushonconcun@gmail.com
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
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