Mexico: Traveling restrictions and what you need to know before you go

If you’re planning to travel to Mexico in the near future, there are a few things you need to know before you go.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the travel restrictions that are currently in place in Mexico and what you need to do to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Before you travel

Before you travel to Mexico, be sure to check the travel advisories for both your home country and Mexico. Currently, the US State Department has a travel advisory in place for Mexico due to Covid-19. Travel restrictions are also in place for UK citizens.

If you’re traveling from the US, you’ll need to present a negative Covid-19 test taken within three days of your flight. You’ll also be required to fill out a travel declaration form and have a valid passport.

For UK citizens, there is a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in place for all arrivals. You’ll also need to provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of your arrival.

Both the US and UK have travel insurance requirements in place for travel to Mexico.

If you’re planning to travel to Mexico, be sure to check the travel advisories for both your home country and Mexico before you go. Currently, the US State Department has a travel advisory in place for Mexico due to Covid-19. The UK also has travel restrictions in place for citizens travelling to Mexico.

When travelling from the US, you’ll need to present a negative Covid-19 test taken within three days of your flight. You’ll also be required to fill out a travel declaration form and have a valid passport.

For UK citizens, there is a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in place for all arrivals. You’ll also need to provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of your arrival.

Both the US and UK have travel insurance requirements in place for travel to Mexico.

Be sure to check the travel advisories and requirements for your home country and Mexico before you travel to ensure a smooth trip.

After you arrive

Once you arrive in Mexico, there are a few things you need to do to make sure you comply with the travel restrictions that are currently in place.

If you’re coming from the US, you’ll need to present your negative Covid-19 test results and travel declaration form at the airport. You’ll also be required to fill out a health questionnaire and have your temperature taken.

For UK citizens, you’ll need to provide your negative Covid-19 test results and travel insurance information at the airport. You’ll also be required to fill out a health questionnaire and have your temperature taken.

Once you’ve arrived in Mexico, be sure to follow all local health and safety guidelines to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Entry and exit requirements

All travelers, including Mexican citizens, need a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of their arrival in Mexico. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you can also use a passport card or an enhanced driver’s license for entry into Mexico.

If you’re planning to stay in Mexico for more than 180 days, you’ll need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa from the nearest Mexican consulate before your trip. For stays of less than 180 days, you’ll be issued a FMM tourist card upon arrival in Mexico.

It’s important to note that if you’re planning to visit any of the restricted areas in Mexico (which we’ll discuss below), you’ll need to apply for a special permit from the Mexican government in advance.

Restricted areas in Mexico

There are certain areas of Mexico that are off-limits to travelers due to safety concerns.

The restricted areas include:

If you’re planning to visit any of these areas, you’ll need to apply for a special permit from the Mexican government in advance. Failure to do so could result in arrest and/or deportation.

Movement restrictions – national COVID stoplight system

As of January 2021, Mexico has a national stoplight system in place to control the spread of COVID-19. The system uses a traffic light color code (red, yellow, or green) to indicate the level of risk in each state.

The restrictions vary depending on the color code of the state you’re visiting. For example, if you’re traveling to a red light state, you may be required to show proof of a negative COVID test before entry and/or face a mandatory quarantine upon arrival.

Be sure to check the restrictions for the state you’re planning to visit before you travel.

A few things you need to know before traveling to Mexico. Be sure to research the entry and exit requirements, restricted areas within Mexico, and movement restrictions (national COVID stoplight system) to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Travel and testing requirements

Currently the travel and testing requirements to enter Mexico are as follows:

It is important to note that these requirements are subject to change at any time and it is advisable to check for updates before travel.

When traveling to Mexico, be sure to have a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of travel and research the travel and testing requirements for the state you plan on visiting.

Additionally, please be aware of the restricted areas in Mexico as well as the national COVID stoplight system in place to help control the spread of the virus.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Latest travel alert

As of January 2021, the U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory for Mexico due to crime and violence. The advisory urges travelers to exercise caution and avoid non-essential travel to Mexico.

If you do choose to travel to Mexico, be sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas, travel in groups when possible, and keep your valuables close to you at all times.

Additionally, it is important to be aware of the potential for protests and demonstrations throughout the country as well as the possibility of travel disruptions due to road closures or other unforeseen circumstances.

Local laws and customs

When traveling to Mexico, it is important to be aware of local laws and customs.

For example, public displays of affection are generally not allowed and visitors should dress modestly when in public.

Additionally, it is illegal to drink alcohol in public places and smoking is banned in all indoor public spaces, including restaurants and bars.

Failure to comply with these laws could result in arrest and/or deportation.

Before travel, be sure to research local laws and customs so you can avoid any potential problems during your trip.

Health and safety

Before travel, it is always advisable to consult with your doctor and/or travel insurance provider to ensure you are up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations and have the proper travel insurance in place.

When in Mexico, be sure to drink only bottled water and avoid ice cubes, uncooked fruits and vegetables, and unpasteurized dairy products.

It is also important to be aware of the risks of swimming in fresh water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and streams as they may contain harmful bacteria.

If you are injured or become ill while in Mexico, seek medical attention immediately.

For more information on health and safety while traveling, make sure to visit the CDC website.

FAQs

What are the current travel restrictions to Mexico?

All travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of travel.

Children under the age of six are exempt from this requirement.

Travelers who cannot present a negative test will be subject to a 14-day mandatory quarantine at their own expense.

Can I travel to Mexico if I have been vaccinated for Covid-19?

Yes, as long as you have a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of travel. Children under the age of 6 are exempt from this requirement. Travelers who cannot present a negative test will be subject to a 14-day mandatory quarantine at their own expense.

Can I travel to Mexico if I am unvaccinated for Covid-19?

Yes, as long as you have a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of travel. Travelers who cannot present a negative test will be subject to a 14-day mandatory quarantine at their own expense. Children under 6 are exempt from all Covid-19 vaccination requirements.

What do you need to know before traveling to Mexico?

Be sure to have a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of travel and research the travel and testing requirements for the state you plan on visiting.

Additionally, be aware of the restricted areas in Mexico as well as the national COVID stoplight system in place to help control the spread of the virus.

What are the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico?

Popular tourist destinations in Mexico include Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City. Other popular destinations include the Mayan Riviera, Cozumel, and the Yucatan Peninsula.

What are the best things to see and do in Mexico?

Some of the best things to see and do in Mexico include exploring ancient ruins, visiting colonial cities, going on wildlife safaris, and relaxing on the beach. Mexico is also home to many great museums, art galleries, and restaurants.

What are the best beaches in Mexico?

Some of the best beaches in Mexico include Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, Tulum, and Cancun. Other popular beaches include Los Cabos, Acapulco, and Cozumel.

What are the best hotels and resorts in Mexico?

Some of the best hotels and resorts in Mexico include the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, the Rosewood Mayakoba, the Shangri-La Hotel Cancun, and the JW Marriott Los Cabos Resort & Spa. Other popular hotels and resorts include the One&Only Palmilla, the Banyan Tree Mayakoba, and the Fairmont Mayakoba.

What is the best time of year to travel to Mexico?

The best time of year to travel to Mexico depends on your travel preferences. The climate in Mexico varies depending on the region, but generally speaking, the best time to travel is between December and April. However, travel to Mexico during the summer months (June-August) can also be pleasant as many areas of the country experience cooler temperatures.

What is the currency in Mexico?

The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso.

What are the best restaurants in Mexico?

Some of the best restaurants in Mexico include Pujol, Quintonil, Biko, and Contramar. Other popular restaurants include Los Danzantes, La Condesa, Mercado Roma, and Rosetta.

What are the best nightlife spots in Mexico?

Some of the best nightlife spots in Mexico include Zona Rosa in Mexico City, La Zona Galeria in Guadalajara, and Playa del Carmen. Other popular nightlife spots include Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Acapulco.

What are the best shopping places in Mexico?

Some of the best shopping places in Mexico include the San Angel neighborhood in Mexico City, the La Merced market in Mexico City, and the Reforma 222 mall in Mexico City.

What are the best activities for kids in Mexico?

Some of the best activities for kids in Mexico include visiting ancient ruins, going on safaris, and exploring colonial cities. Other popular activities include visiting museums, art galleries, and restaurants.

---

Nexym's editorial team handpicks all of the products and services it recommends, regardless of external influences. Affiliate links appear in some of our stories. We may receive an affiliate commission if you purchase something through one of these links, which helps us stay independent and support our great team.