Safety and Security

Crime and violence are prevalent throughout Mexico, and the security situation poses a risk for foreigners. You should therefore make sure you research your destination thoroughly, and take all the necessary precautions in all parts of Mexico.

Armed crime and violence has been growing in tourist areas, and all visitors should exercise caution when spending time in such locations. While tourists are not usually the targets of such crimes, the growing number of gang and drug related violence in tourist areas is of serious concern, and can affect tourists directly.

The security environment in Mexico can vary significantly between states, with rates of violence and organised crime higher in certain areas.

We advise against non-essential travel to the following states, due to high levels of crime (including opportunistic crime and organised crime) and violence:

• Chihuahua
• Colima (except Manzanillo – we recommend arriving by air)
• Coahuila (except Saltillo)
• Durango (except Durango City)
• Guerrero (except the cities of Taxco, Ixtapa-Zihuatenejo, Acapulco*)
• Michoacán (except Morelia)
• Nuevo León (except Monterrey)
• Sinaloa (except Mazatlán)
• Sonora (except Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco)
• Tamaulipas
• Zacatecas (except Zacatecas City – we recommend arriving by air)

If travelling to any of the cities in these states, we recommend travelling by air.

Crime had been particularly prevalent within and around the tourist areas in Acapulco (Guerrero State) and we advised extra vigilance while travelling in and around the area. However, as per the Latest Travel Alert, we currently advise against non-essential travel to Acapulco due to the level of damage caused to buildings and infrastructure in the area by Hurricane Otis.   

While tourists are not generally targets of organised or drug related crime and violence, bystanders and passers-by can be affected by such incidents. Since 2017, there has been an uptick in the number of reported shootings and other violent incidents in tourist areas across Mexico. In 2021, tourists were directly affected by such incidents.

The Mexican government makes efforts to protect major tourist destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta. If visiting any of these areas, you should monitor local advice, remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local authorities and your tour operator.

If travelling to Cancun, and the States of Quintana Roo and/or Yucatan, visitors should note that there have recently been taxi driver protests at Cancun Airport and in the hotel zone which have disrupted passengers travelling to and from the airport.  Further protests may arise in the coming period.

Please note that a number of tourist areas have dedicated tourist police on call to support tourists who are victims of crime or face issues when travelling abroad.

In the centre of the country, there has been a significant increase in violence and murders in the state of Guanajuato throughout 2019 and 2020. Violence occurs primarily in the south of the state. Criminal activity is also an issue in Mexico State (Estado de México), with continued reports of armed robbery and hijackings, as well as petty theft/crime. Organised crime is particularly prevalent in northern states of Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, Sinaloa and Durango. We recommend against non-essential travel to these states for that reason.

In the west of the country, there has been a rise in drug-related crime in the state of Baja California, including in the capital of Tijuana. There has also been a rise in drug-related crime in Baja California Sur.

Crime is also present in the East and South of the country, and citizens are encouraged to take care while travelling in all areas.

Drug-related violence

• Drug-related violence in Mexico has increased over recent years, with homicide rates in 2019 and 2020 the highest since record keeping began. The violence is concentrated in certain areas. Make sure you research your destination thoroughly.
• Although tourists are not usually targeted directly, the popular tourist destinations of Acapulco, Los Cabos, Taxco, Tijuana and Zihuatenejo are now classified as amongst the most dangerous locations in Latin America due to their homicide rates. A number of incidents in the Quintana Roo and Acapulco area in 2021 related to drugs/criminal gangs have directly affected tourists and passers-by.
• Visitors should not drive at night and should monitor the media and other local sources of information about security incidents and safety risks.  
• Irish visitors who consider it necessary to visit Tijuana should remain in the Zona Río and Av. Revolución areas of the city and avoid the Zonas Norte and Oriente. There are high levels of crime in Rosarito.
• Air travel should be favoured for travel to and within the northern border and Pacific states unless the safety of your preferred road route has been confirmed.

Demonstrations and protests

• Demonstrations and protests occur regularly throughout the country. Demonstrations and roadblocks are common in Mexico City (including to and from the airport) and in the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, Michoacán and Oaxaca. You should avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of the local authorities while travelling in an area where a protest is taking place.

Crime

There is a high level of violent crime in Mexico. Pay close attention to your security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks. Be aware that street crime is on the increase and take sensible precautions

• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place 
• Leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home
• In general, you should withdraw or exchange money at automated banking machines or bureaux de change (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. It is safer to limit withdrawals or currency exchanges to small sums. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafes, train and bus stations
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible

Reporting a crime

If you are the victim of a crime in Mexico, and wish to report it, you should contact the nearest office of the Agencia del Ministerio Público (State Prosecutor’s office) as soon as possible.  Complaints must be made in person, and you will need to present photo identification. Please note that  No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint to the authorities. 

It’s especially important to report the loss or theft of your passport and any other ID (to Mexican authorities and to the Irish Embassy in Mexico), or bank cards  in order to protect yourself should the documents later be misused.  For emergency services, dial 911.

The emergency number in Mexico is 911. You can also download the 911 CDMX app (for Mexico City) or the Guest Assist App (for Quintana Roo).

To contact Mexico City’s Tourist Police, you can either call them on (0052) 55 5207 4155 or you can whatsapp them on (0052) 55 4891 1166. The Cancun Tourist Police can be reached on +52 998 8852277

You can also contact us at the Irish Embassy in Mexico City or the Honorary Consulate in Cancún if you need help. 

Kidnapping

Kidnapping is a risk to be taken seriously, including in the main cities.  Victims tend to be Mexican citizens rather than foreign tourists, but basic precautions will reduce the risk of opportunistic targeting. For your own safety when travelling in Mexico, you should:

• Get advice from your local contacts about staying safe
• Follow advice below regarding use of taxis,, including in the main cities
• Be cautious and discreet about openly discussing your travel plans, and financial or business affairs
• Avoid travelling at night, particularly inter-city
• Avoid travelling alone
• When driving, ensure all car doors are locked and windows rolled up
• Vary your routes and departure times – avoid patterns which could be tracked
• Pay careful attention to local media for reports of kidnapping activities

There have been incidents of ‘express kidnappings’, where people are forced to withdraw funds from ATMs to secure their release.  If you are the victim of such an attack, you should comply with all the demands of the perpetrator.

Virtual Kidnapping is another risk to be aware of, perpetrated by scam artists. Visitors in Mexico should avoid answering unknown or private numbers. If you are threatened over the phone, the recommendation is to hang up and authenticate the safety of your family member or employee.

Driving

Road conditions in Mexico vary and can be poor in some areas. Dangerous curves, poorly-marked signs and construction sites, roaming livestock, slow-moving or abandoned vehicles, and other obstacles pose hazards. Illegal roadblocks have been reported, particularly in the states of Guerrero, Oaxaca and Chiapas, with local groups seeking unofficial local tolls.  If  driving in these states, travel during daylight hours and use toll roads, although you may still encounter disruptions.

Mexican styles of driving and road safety standards are very different from those in Ireland so be prepared for vehicles that fail to observe speed limits or indicate lane changes and that do not stop at red lights.

If you want to drive:

• Bring your full Irish driving licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance
• Road travel should be limited to daylight hours throughout the country and where possible use toll (cuota) roads rather than free (libre) roads
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught
• Keep your vehicle doors locked, windows rolled up and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you are  stopped at traffic lights
• There have been incidents of drug-trafficking organisations setting up vehicle ‘checkpoints’ in northern border states and Pacific states, leading to an increase in car-jackings in cities and on highways
• People who rent or borrow cars in Mexico are responsible for any illegal items found in those vehicles, even if they were unaware of their presence
• Be aware of local restrictions (for example certain limitations exist in Mexico City, where cars cannot circulate on certain days due to air pollution concerns).

Vehicle emergency assistance

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 8am to 8pm. The emergency number to request assistance from the Green Angels is 078.

Pedestrians

Pedestrians should be extremely cautious at all times as fatal hit-and-run accidents happen.

Hiring a vehicle

If hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security.  If  allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged). Mexico City and other States can, and have, introduced restrictions on driving. Cars may be forbidden from entering certain areas on particular days, based on their number plates. Please double check any restrictions with local authorities, and/or with your car hire company directly.

Taxis and Public Transport

Passengers have been robbed and/or assaulted by unlicensed taxi drivers, particularly in Mexico City. Do not hail taxis on the street. Either book taxis through Uber or similar ride-apps with the appropriate security measures, hotels or by phoning a reputable taxi company, or taxis based at stands (sitios). At airports, use only authorised prepaid airport taxi services; official taxi company booths are located in the arrivals hall at airport terminals. It is strongly recommended not to accept water, food or sweets from taxi drivers in Mexico.

It is important to be particularly alert on public transport. When travelling on inter-state public transport, travel on first-class buses and ensure that the route uses toll roads.

If travelling to Cancun, and the States of Quintana Roo and/or Yucatan, visitors should note that there have recently been taxi driver protests at Cancun Airport and in the hotel zone which have disrupted passengers travelling to and from the airport.  Further protests may arise in the coming period.

Petty theft

Pick-pocketing is common on the Mexico City Metro. Avoid travel during the rush hour if you can. Remain vigilant on long-distance bus journeys and pay attention to your hand luggage. It is advisable to use first-class bus services and travel during daylight. Crime levels on inter-city buses and on highways are high, and the risks increase after dark.

Lost or stolen passports

If your passport is lost or stolen, you’ll need to notify the Embassy in Mexico City to get a replacement. While most visitors should be able to request a new passport using the online system, the arrival and collection or delivery of your replacement passport can take several weeks due to time and distance factors. Please take extreme care with your passport and other personal documentation. Getting a replacement passport will be easier if you are able to provide a copy of the lost or stolen one, so keep photocopies of your passport.

Scams

You should be very cautious if approached by people who present themselves as police officers and try to fine or arrest you for no apparent reason. Visitors have become victims of theft, extortion or sexual assault by those who may or may not be police officers. When in doubt, ask for identification and if possible take note of the officer's name, badge number, and patrol car number. If you are stopped in these circumstances, try to remain in a busy area.

“Virtual Kidnapping” is an increasingly common trend in Mexico. This involves criminals calling, pretending to be a distressed relative/friend/employee that has been kidnapped and explaining the kidnappers have demanded a ransom for release. If this occurs, you should hang up immediately and verify the safety of the individual concerned.

Crossing the US-Mexico border

You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid international land border crossings, particularly along the border with the United States, in the following cities:

• Ciudad Juárez
• Nuevo Laredo
• Reynosa

If crossing an international land border:

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

Students in the US on J1 visas are strongly advised against leaving and re-entering the United States during your J1, unless there are compelling reasons for doing so. Students have encountered particular difficulties crossing the US-Mexico border, which has sometimes led to deportation and an end to their J1 visa. This will permanently impact on your ability to travel to the US in the future. Participants in a J1 programme must also ensure that their sponsor permits temporary travel outside the United States while on a J1 programme.

If you travel to Mexico and lose your passport here, you may be in real difficulty – immigration controls have tightened considerably and you won't be allowed re-enter the US without a valid machine readable passport. There is no Irish Consulate in Tijuana and Mexico City is a 3 hour flight away. Irish citizens who travel outside the US while participating in a J1 programme should expect to be subject to standard immigration procedures on re-entering the US.

There have been reports of kidnappings, muggings, and drink-spiking of people crossing from the US into Mexico – particularly the city of Tijuana. This type of crime appears to be increasing, and you should be extremely careful and avoid putting yourself in vulnerable situations.  Be aware that alcohol and drugs can lead to you being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment.

Hurricane season

The hurricane season in Mexico extends from June to the end of November and can severely disrupt transportation and utilities. Landslides, mudslides and flooding may occur. In the case of a hurricane, monitor local media reports and follow the instructions of local emergency officials. You should also monitor local and international weather updates for the region and check the Weather Channel or the National Hurricane Centre in Miami.

If you go to Mexico during the hurricane season you should leave a detailed copy of your travel plans with a family member or friend. You should also register with the Irish Embassy in Mexico City. In the event of an approaching hurricane, identify your local shelter. Flights in and out of affected areas could be delayed or suspended and available flights may fill quickly so contact your airline for the latest flight information.

The hurricane could also affect access to sea ports in the region. In some areas, adequate shelter from a severe hurricane may not be available to all who may choose to stay. You should familiarise yourself with your hotel or cruise ship evacuation plans. Carry your travel documents at all times (i.e. passport, picture identification, etc.) or secure them in a safe, waterproof location. You should also contact friends and family in Ireland with updates about your welfare and whereabouts.

Earthquakes

Mexico is in an active earthquake zone and is subject to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Tremors occur regularly, particularly in the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero; these tremors can sometimes be felt in other parts of the country, including in Mexico City. If travelling to or living in Mexico, make sure you know what to do in the event of an earthquake. If you are travelling to Mexico City, you can download the 911 CDMX app. This app warns of an earthquake approximately 60 seconds in advance. Note that alarms cannot always detect earthquakes in advance.

Volcanoes

There are several active volcanoes in Mexico, including the Popocatepetl and Colima volcanoes. Be aware that volcanic ash can cause serious disruption to travel services.

Terrorism

Although the threat from terrorism in Mexico is low, there is still a global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by tourists and expatriates.

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or even illegal.

Immigration

Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Mexico, but must ensure they satisfy the immigration entry requirements, available here. Permission to enter the country is at the discretion of Mexico’s Immigration Authorities.

Please note that the maximum stay for tourism purposes is 180 days, but this maximum is not granted by default. If you are seeking the maximum number of days (180), you may be required to explain the purpose of your trip to the immigration official as well as provide evidence to support your claim (accommodations, funds, return flight, etc.)

Mexico has implemented a new system for recording entry to the country – a passport stamp indicating the number of days that you are allowed to stay in the country. If you require a digital version, you can obtain it here Portal de Servicios INM, or online in advance from the National Institute of Immigration website.

To leave the country, you will have to present your passport with the stamp showing the number of days granted. If you lose your passport, you will need to pay a fee to replace the entry stamp. The cost of a replacement is approximately $600 Mexican Pesos, which is payable at a bank, migration officers do not accept cash. You can do it at the immigration office at any international airport in Mexico.

Visitors should be aware that implementation of this system can vary across the country, so if you are required to complete an FMM form which is then stamped by the immigration official, please keep this paper with you at all times until departure from the country.

Visitors with any form of visa or residence in the country should proactively present this, as incorrectly being registered as a tourist on the system may void or reset your status.

Please note that you won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of your stay from inside the country, and overstays can result in detention and/or deportation.

The Mexican Police have the authority to ask for proof of legal status in Mexico. You should carry your passport, as well as your stamped immigration form (FMM) if received upon arrival to Mexico at all times. If you are a resident, you may be asked to provide your residency card issued by the Mexican government.

If you are unable to produce these documents, you may be detained held at an immigration holding centre, and ultimately deported.

Visitors should be aware that spot-checks are frequent, particularly in the South of the country, and Irish citizens have been held in detention centres for a few days until their immigration status could be clarified.

If you are detained, you can ask the detention centre to notify the Embassy of Ireland in Mexico City, and request consular assistance. Please be aware that the majority of immigration authorities can only be contacted during office hours Monday-Friday.

Illegal drugs

Don’t get involved with drugs of any kind in any way. Penalties for drug offences are severe. Convictions carry very long sentences – up to 25 years.

Public order offences

Drinking alcohol in public places is strictly prohibited.

LGBTQIA+

Although civil unions between same-sex partners are now legal in Mexico City and the state of Coahuila, homosexuality in Mexico is generally tolerated, rather than accepted. Public displays of affection between same sex couples may be frowned upon, particularly outside of the Capital, or in more remote areas of the country.

If you require more information on procedures, local laws, development of current events or social services you can contact LOCATEL at 5658 1111. They have English-speaking staff available.

Assisted human reproduction, including surrogacy, might only be recognised in some Mexican states. If you’re considering a surrogacy arrangement in Mexico, you should familiarise yourself with the relevant laws and regulations and make sure you’ll meet all legal requirements to take the newborn child out of Mexico before you start the process. You should seek independent legal advice before entering into any surrogacy arrangement. 

Health

COVID-19

Local restrictions and public health measures in response to the pandemic are managed at the State level according to a nationwide traffic light system. Further information is available on the website of the local government of the relevant state, or for visitors in Mexico City, at this link.  Passengers should adhere to local guidance on avoiding and mitigating contagion.

Local Health Providers

All visitors to Mexico should take out a comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of all medical eventualities, up to and including repatriation.

Not all hospitals will agree to deal directly with medical insurance companies however, and may insist on payment “up front” from the patient, friend, or family member. Visitors should be prepared to pay for treatment in advance and then seek a refund from their health insurance provider. If you require treatment or surgery, you should contact your medical assistance/health insurance provider promptly to identify healthcare providers in the country, and clear any possible costs in advance of payment.

Vaccinations

Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for this country.

Malaria and dengue fever

Malaria and dengue fever are endemic in low-lying rural areas of Mexico and outbreaks can occur throughout the year. If you plan to visit these areas, consult your doctor before travelling about suitable anti-malarial medication and on arrival take adequate precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes. Mosquito repellent and clothing covering as much skin as possible provides some protection.

Zika Virus

There may be a risk of Zika Virus in Mexico. Irish Citizens especially those with a weakened immune system or women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).

Safety and Insurance

If you wish to take part in adventure sports, you should ensure adequate safety precautions are in place and ensure you have adequate insurance cover.

Health Risks

On arrival in Mexico City and other high altitude areas, you may feel a lack of energy, shortness of breath or headaches.

High levels of air pollution can occur in Mexico City and may aggravate heart, lung or respiratory conditions. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions may be especially affected. You can check the pollution index levels for many cities in real time.

Drink only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

Many pharmacies have an onsite GP who can assess a patient and prescribe medication if required. In large cities pharmacies often provide 24/7 service, as well as home deliveries of medication.

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and ask for an ambulance.

While the Embassy cannot provide medical advice or recommendations, we can also assist you in identifying English speaking doctors or healthcare providers in your area.

Additional information

Visas/entry stamp

If you’re visiting Mexico as a tourist you don’t need to apply for a visa in advance, but you do need a stamped ‘Forma Migratoria Múltiple’ (FMM) which you will receive on arrival by completing an immigration form available at border crossings or on-board flights to Mexico. You need this FMM to leave the country. If you lose your FMM you can get it replaced at the immigration office at any international airport in Mexico. The cost of a replacement is $295 Mexican Pesos which usually needs to be paid in cash.

Irish citizens need a visa to take part in human rights activities in Mexico. Even if you only plan to undertake voluntary human rights activities during a holiday in Mexico, you should contact your nearest Mexican Embassy prior to travel in order to determine the type of visa you require.

It is no longer possible to switch immigration status in-country. You can’t enter Mexico as a tourist and then convert to a work visa. You must apply at the Mexican Consulate of your normal place of residence in plenty of time before you are due to travel.

Mexican immigration law is strictly enforced and it is essential you do not overstay the 180 day visa free period during which Irish citizens can visit Mexico for tourist or business purposes. 

If you are traveling by land to Mexico, particularly from Guatemala, it is essential to ensure that your passport is stamped with an entry stamp. If you are planning to stay in Mexico for a longer period of time it is vital to ensure you have the correct visa and that your residency status is up to date, or you risk being detained and deported. Detention conditions can be poor.  The Embassy cannot regularise your immigration status for you, nor can we intervene with the Mexican authorities to prevent you from being detained in advance of deportation.

Passports

The Mexican Police have the authority to ask for proof of legal status in Mexico and, on occasion, have detained EU nationals without documents. We advise you to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport and of the stamped ‘Forma Migratoria Múltiple’ (FMM) given to you on arrival in Mexico at all times. Your passport should be valid for 6 months from the last day of your stay in Mexico.  If you’re a resident you may be asked by the Mexican Police to provide your residency card issued by the Mexican government.

Travel between Mexico and the United States

If you are flying to/from the USA and Mexico, or crossing the land border, you must ensure you satisfy all entry requirements. For further information on entry to the USA, you can consult the travel advice for the USA. Those planning to travel are also advised to monitor the websites of the US Embassy in Dublin and the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for further updates and to consult your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet the US’ requirements.

Travel between Mexico and Guatemala

We advise a high degree of caution at the Guatemala-Mexico land border. Disruption and closures are common, so you are advised to check with local authorities before attempting to cross. Passengers should avoid crossing at night, and take extra care at walking border crossings.

Travelling with children

According to the Mexican Migration Act, which came into effect in May 2011, to enter or leave the country, children under 18 years ‘must be accompanied by any of the parents or the persons exercising parental responsibility or guardianship over them...’

There’s no specific requirement for authorisation by the absent parent in the case of single parents. However, if you’re travelling with a child who is not, or who appears not to be your child (e.g. if they have a different family name) you may be asked to show a notarised authorisation signed by the parent who is not travelling with the child, or by both parents where neither is travelling with the child.

If you can’t provide this, you should be able to show evidence of your relationship with the child and/or the reason why you’re travelling with them (e.g. a birth or adoption certificate, divorce or marriage certificates, or Parental Responsibility Order). This will minimise the risk of problems when entering or leaving Mexico.

Children under 18 years old travelling alone or accompanied by an adult who is not the parent or a legal guardian must present to the immigration officer in Mexico with a valid passport and a notarised authorisation from the parent(s) granting their permission for the child to enter/exit the country. This must be translated into Spanish.

LGBT

Although civil unions between same sex partners are now legal in Mexico City and the state of Coahuila, homosexuality in Mexico is generally tolerated, rather than accepted. Public displays of affection between same sex couples outside the main cities and tourist resorts in Mexico would be unusual and may attract negative attention.

Political activities

The Mexican Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners, and participation in activities such as demonstrations may result in detention and/or deportation.