Mexico

Violent crime

Mexico has a high risk of violent crime, especially after dark.

Murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping are high risks. These crimes can occur at tourist spots and resorts.

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:

• avoid travelling at night outside major cities, including on major highways
• monitor the media for new safety risks
• don't change large amounts of money at the airport

Crime on intercity buses and highways is common in Mexico.

Thieves have robbed tourists on buses along the Pacific Highway, including from Acapulco to Ixtapa and Huatulco.

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.

There is increased law enforcement activity in the city of Culiacan, Sinaloa state. This is due to gunfights between security forces and drug cartel members in October 2019.

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:

• use ride share services where possible instead of taxis
• use official taxis from airports, and pre-pay your fare at an official taxi company booth in the airport terminal
• use radio taxis or taxis at assigned stands (sitios), especially in Mexico City
• use first-class buses
• only travel during daylight hours and allow enough time to get to your destination before dark
• drive via toll roads (cuota)

Watch out for drink and food spiking. This can occur in bars, clubs and restaurants. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, is common. Take care on public transport, at tourist spots, in airports, hotels and bus stations.

Thieves often work with or pose as taxi drivers. Be aware travellers have been robbed when using taxis hailed from the street. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.

More information:

• Preventing crime and petty theft

Drug and gang violence

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 being killed. Comply with the instructions given.

Risks are higher in those areas most affected by drug-related and gang violence, including:

• Northern border states – Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas
• Pacific coast states – Colima, Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacán, Nayarit and Sinaloa
• Central region states – Guanajuato, Durango, San Luis Potosi and Zacatecas
• State of Mexico and the State of Veracruz on the Gulf coast
• Major cities along Mexico's border with the United States – Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo, Matamoros, Nogales, Piedras Negras and Reynosa

State of Guanajuato

Violence and drug cartel activity are on the rise across the State. 

Gang members are known to erect roadblocks on major highways. Murders, including mass killings, occur regularly. 

Even as a tourist, you may be at risk of getting caught up in violence inadvertently. 

Avoid known hot spots such as Acámbaro, Celaya, Irapuato, León, Salamanca, Silao and Santiago. 

State of Guerrero

Government efforts to increase security in Guerrero haven't helped. The violent crime rate remains high, and the security situation is volatile.

Violent criminal gangs are more active in rural areas than cities.

Acapulco has high levels of violent crime, such as murder and shootings. The resort city is unsafe, especially outside tourist areas.

Crime risks are lower in the tourist areas of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo and Taxco, and on the toll road to Taxco, than in other parts of Guerrero.

Protesters can disrupt toll booths along the road to Taxco, causing delays.

State of Michoacán

Many 'self-defence' groups have formed in the state. They are unpredictable and the security situation is volatile.

Security near the Monarch butterfly reserves, including on the border with the State of Mexico, has deteriorated due to cartel activity.  

Crime is lower in the cities of Morelia and Lázaro Cardenas. 

State of Tamaulipas

Tamaulipas has widespread criminal activity linked to drug trafficking. Kidnapping and extortion are also common.

State of Quintana Roo

Violent crimes related to the drug trade have occurred in tourist areas of Quintana Roo such as Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Shoot-outs have occurred in public places injuring or killing tourists.

State of Zacatecas

Zacatecas has widespread criminal activity linked to drug trafficking. Violence is increasing due to clashes between competing drug cartels. Kidnapping and extortion are common.

Other violent areas

High levels of violent crime and lawlessness occur in:

• the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains in southern Chihuahua State
• north-eastern Sinaloa State
• north-western Durango State
• south-eastern Sonora State

Organised crime gangs operate in these regions. The Chihuahua-Pacific Railway is less affected.

The State of Mexico has a high level of violent crime. Murder, assault, armed robbery, extortion and kidnapping are common.

According to Mexican Government statistics, Baja California Sur and Quintana Roo have reported large increases in drug-related violence, particularly murder. The states with the highest homicide rates are Colima, Baja California, Zacatecas, Morelos, Sonora, Michoacan, Guanajuato and Chihuahua.

To reduce your risks if travelling to violent areas, stay in:

• tourist areas
• well-known and well-frequented public areas with good access to safe transport in the evenings

To protect yourself from crime in violent areas:

• avoid road travel, especially at night
• avoid isolated locations
• pay close attention to your personal security
• stay alert to possible threats around you
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media for safety or security risks

Kidnapping is a serious risk in Mexico. It's common in rural and inland areas.

Some victims claim police officers are involved in their kidnapping.

Express kidnappings target travellers on metro and public transport in Mexico City. Kidnappers force victims to withdraw funds from ATMs before they are released.

Virtual 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.

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• check for cameras directed at your screen or keyboard if you're using the internet in public
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Demonstrations and protests

It's illegal for foreigners to take part in political activity in Mexico.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. They're common, and often:

• disrupt public services
• cause traffic delays
• stop movement around affected areas

Protesters may blockade roads.

Public protests in Mexico City are ongoing. Expect protests and potential roadblocks in the states of Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guerrero and Michoacán.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• check local sources for details of possible strikes or unrest
• follow advice from local authorities
• change your travel plans in case of disruptions

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Even strong swimmers can be at risk from undertows and currents on both coasts of Mexico. Obey the beach warning flags.

Mexico experiences natural disasters and severe weather, such as:

• hurricanes
• earthquakes
• tsunamis
• volcanic activity

If you're involved in a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities
• contact your tour operator or airline

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Hurricanes and severe weather

Severe weather occurs in Mexico.

The hurricane season is from June to November. The direction and strength of hurricanes can change with little warning.

Landslides, mudslides and flash flooding can also occur, including in Mexico City.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• flights out may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

To protect yourself if a hurricane is approaching:

• listen to the instructions of local authorities
• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter
• monitor alerts and advice from the US National Hurricane Center and local authorities

If you're travelling to Mexico during hurricane season or after a natural disaster, check weather reports.

Earthquakes

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

Tsunamis may occur in Mexico.

Receive tsunami alerts by registering with:

• Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System
• Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, check local media.

Volcanoes

Active volcanoes include the Popocatepetl and Colima volcanoes.

Register with the Disaster Prevention Centre of Mexico (Spanish) for alerts on the Popocatepetl volcano.

The Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination 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 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

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:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
• COVID-19 vaccines (Department of Health and Aged Care)

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 take medication, check if it's legal in Mexico. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Mexico. 

For information on Mexico’s COVID-19 vaccination program, refer to the Ministry of Health (Spanish). You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.

More information:

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Global COVID-19 Health Advisory

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria is a risk in Mexico, particularly in:

• the State of Chiapas
• rural areas of Nayarit, Oaxaca and Sinaloa
• some parts of Chihuahua, Durango and Sonora.

Zika virus is widespread in Mexico. There's no vaccination for Zika virus.

Read the Australian Department of Health's Zika virus bulletin for advice on how to reduce your risk.

If you're pregnant, the department recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas.

In Mexico, there's also a risk of:

• dengue
• chikungunya
• chagas disease
• leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider medication to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Other health risks

Foodborne, waterborne and other diseases are widespread. These include:

• hepatitis
• typhoid
• tuberculosis
• rabies
• cyclosporiasis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• get vaccinated before you travel
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

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:

• Infectious diseases

Environmental issues

High altitude in some regions and air pollution can cause health issues. Pollution peaks in winter from December to February.

If you have heart, lung or respiratory problems, ask your doctor for advice before you travel.

Medical facilities

Private hospitals in Mexico City and other major cities provide a reasonable standard of care. Services are limited in rural areas.

Be aware that treatment at private clinics and hospitals is very expensive.

Doctors and hospitals are unlikely to work with your overseas travel insurer. You'll need to pay cash before they'll treat you, even in emergency care.

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.

Property laws

Property laws and time-share agreements can be complex.

Before you buy or invest in property, do your research and get legal advice.

Other laws

In Mexico it's illegal to:

• conduct political activity, including demonstrations
• possess ancient Mexican artefacts or export them from Mexico
• carry firearms or ammunition without a permit, including in Mexican waters
• drive a car without insurance
• fail to report a road accident.

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.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Check if being an Australian-Mexican dual citizen may affect your travel.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Mexico passed laws allowing same-sex marriage in 2015 in some states. But parts of the country are conservative.

LGBTI travellers should consider limiting public displays of affection.

Visas

If you're visiting for 180 days or less as a tourist, you will receive a visa on arrival. Be aware of the date that is stamped in your passport on arrival, as you may not receive the full 180 days. Your visa will expire on the entry stamp date. This is usually for the amount of time you indicate to the immigration officer that you are staying in Mexico.

To avoid being detained or deported, you'll need to:

• fill in a Multiple Immigration Form (FMM)
• make sure your passport is stamped by immigration officials on arrival

You can complete the FMM online before you arrive, or on arrival.

If you're entering by road, make sure you get the form at the immigration office (Instituto Nacional de Migración: Spanish). This is usually located near, not directly at, a border crossing.

Present your completed FMM for inspection at immigration if entering by air. Keep the form safe. You'll need to show it when you leave Mexico.

Information on other customs and import requirements are available from the Mexican government. 

Border measures

To cross the land border between Mexico and the US, you must be fully vaccinated. During the border inspection, you must provide proof of your COVID-19 vaccination and provide a verbal attestation for your reason for travel.

Periodic closures of Mexico's land borders with Guatemala and Belize may occur, check with local authorities before crossing the border or travelling by plane.

Confirm your travel and transit arrangements directly with your airline or travel agent. 

More information:

• Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers (Centre for Disease Control and Prevention)

Travel via the United States or Canada

If you’re travelling through the US, ensure you meet all current US entry, transit or COVID-19 requirements, including if you're transiting through Hawaii. If you're arriving in or transiting through the US, you'll need to show onwards flight tickets from not only the US but also any country that borders the US (ie. Mexico and Canada).

If you're travelling through Canada, you'll need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for Canada. Transit arrangements through Canada due to COVID-19 are strictly enforced.

Contact the Embassy of Mexico for details about visas, customs, currency and entry 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 aged under 18 years departing alone, or with anyone other than their parent or legal guardian, must carry their notarised consent.

Minors with Mexican dual nationality or residency will need a specific form (SAM/Mexican Minor Travel Consent Form). Contact the Embassy of Mexico to get the form.

You may need a permit if you arrive in Mexico by motor vehicle. Check with the Embassy of Mexico before you travel.

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Validity

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. It can 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 is not 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.

Lost or stolen 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:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you’re overseas, contact the nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate.

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.

Local restrictions

Measures will be determined on a state-by-state basis. The Government has established a ‘traffic light’ system to indicate the COVID-19 risk in each state. The scale has 4 colours, red (only essential activities allowed), orange (essential activities and in a reduced way non-essential activities allowed), yellow (activities that take place in public space and economic activity resume), and green (normal activities can resume).

Monitor the advice of local authorities as COVID-19 related measures can change quickly.

Driving permit

To drive in Mexico, you need a valid Australian driver’s licence.

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Mexico than in Australia.

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:

• learn local road use and driving rules
• keep doors locked and windows up, even when moving
• only travel during daylight hours and allow enough time to get to your destination before dark
• use toll roads (cuota) to reduce the risk of crime

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:

• poor road conditions.
• pedestrians and livestock on roads
• inadequate street lighting and signage

Criminals target vehicles, including campervans and SUVs, especially in rural areas.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

Use ride share services where possible instead of taxis. If this isn't an option, then it's best to use registered official taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your hotel. To avoid issues:

• use official taxis from airports
• pre-pay your fare at an official taxi company booth at the airport
• use radio taxis or taxis waiting at assigned stands (sitios), especially in Mexico City

Public transport

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:

• Transport and getting around safely
• Advice for women

Air travel

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:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

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.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

If you aren't happy with the response, you can lodge a complaint with PROFECO, the state-run consumer protection agency.

Read the Consular Services Charter. It details what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Mexico City

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

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate, Cancún

EDIFICIO GRUPO VIVO
Calle Luciernaga esquina con Avenida Politécnico
Región 501, Manzana 1, Lote 7
Cancún, Quintana Roo
C.P. 77535, México
Phone: +52 (998) 898 2299
Email: aushonconcun@gmail.com

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia