The U.S. Embassy in Mexico has issued new recommendations for American tourists planning to visit the country during the holiday season. According to ABC News, the warning urges travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to the presence of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping, citing the current Level 2 travel advisory in effect for much of Mexico.
According to the ABC News report, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico emphasized that citizens should strictly adhere to the State Department’s travel advisories, which identify 17 states at Level 2, requiring increased precautions.
The embassy noted that “crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including popular tourist and expatriate destinations.” In its advisories, the U.S. government stressed that “there is a risk of terrorist violence, including attacks and other activities in Mexico.”
A spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy, quoted by ABC News, warned that “fleeing or ignoring instructions at a roadside checkpoint can result in injury or death” and emphasized that emergency services in rural or remote areas are limited in availability or may even be unavailable.
The official information provided further details on the situation in each state: Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, and Sonora remain under a Level 3 travel advisory, with a strong recommendation to reconsider travel plans. Six other states—Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas—are classified as Level 4, which entails a direct travel ban for U.S. citizens. According to the news outlet, even U.S. government employees are not permitted entry to these areas.
Regarding required documentation, the embassy explained that all travelers must carry a valid passport and a Multiple Immigration Form (FMM), which can be obtained online or in person at Mexican immigration offices. The current cost, around $47, will increase to $54 starting in January 2026.
This document is essential for both entry and exit and must be carefully safeguarded. The consular authority emphasized: “Pay attention to the date written on the entry stamp. Violating the terms of stay may lead to fines and detention.”
Regarding the legal situation, the U.S. Embassy warned of the serious consequences of carrying firearms, ammunition, or any type of bladed weapon without the proper permits. They explained that “carrying weapons or even minimal quantities of ammunition, casings, empty magazines, knives, fireworks, explosives, daggers, swords, and brass knuckles is illegal and can result in lengthy prison sentences.”
US authorities issued a series of additional recommendations, such as declaring cash amounts exceeding $10,000, as well as goods exceeding $300 when entering by land or $500 by air.
The embassy also specified that the possession and consumption of drugs is illegal in Mexico, including marijuana-derived medications. According to official information, “criminal organizations, including cartels and terrorist groups, are engaged in a violent struggle for control of trafficking routes.”
Source: infobae
