mexico tourist card fake

Mexican Tourist Cards and How to Get One

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Who Needs a Mexico Tourist Card?

How to get a tourist card in person, how to apply online, length of validity, what to do if you lose your card, how to extend your tourist card.

• Frequently Asked Questions

Mexico tourist cards ( Forma Migratoria Multiple,  also known as FMT) are a government form declaring that the stated purpose of a visit to Mexico is tourism. Although more than one kind of Mexico visa exists, a Mexico tourist card essentially says the holder has the intention of vacationing in Mexico for no more than 180 days. The form requires minimal information including name, nationality, date of birth, the purpose for visiting, flight details, and the address of the place you'll be staying in Mexico. and address of stay in Mexico.

Travelers can think of it as a visa on arrival, as it functions in the same way, even though it's not technically a visa. Foreign nationals who will be working in Mexico are required to obtain a work visa from the National Immigration Institute (INM).

Be sure to hold on to your tourist card and keep it in a safe place, as you will need to hand it in when you are departing the country.

In the past, travelers who were remaining within the United States border zone for up to 72 hours did not need a tourist card. However, now the tourist card is required for most non-Mexican visitors to the country, including infants, who will remain for fewer than 180 days. 

Exceptions are granted, however, to travelers staying in Mexico for fewer than 24 hours. As of August 2022, Cancun International Airport has done away with tourist cards and customs forms for most foreign visitors, including U.S. passport holders. The 180-day rule still applies, however; travelers will instead receive a stamp upon arrival, ensuring that they stay no longer than what's allowed.

If flying into Mexico, passengers will be given a tourist card and instructions for filling it out onboard their plane—the cost of a tourist card (about $25) is included in the fare, so travelers won't need to pay upon arrival. The card is stamped at customs/immigration in the Mexico airport, showing the visitor is in the country legally. Should your flight attendant not hand you a tourist card, you can pick one up at an immigration desk at a Mexico airport.

If you're  driving ,  taking the bus , or walking into Mexico, the tourist card is given at the border inspection station/immigration office after showing your ID or passport  proving your U.S. citizenship. Visitors need to go to a bank and pay the card fee, and it will be stamped to show the payment was made. The next step is returning to a border immigration office to have the card stamped again—proof the holder is visiting the country legally.

Tourists can also get a tourist card at a  Mexico consular office  or  Mexico government tourism office  in a U.S. city before heading to Mexico.

To ensure a smooth customs process, you may find it easier to complete your immigration online via the Mexico Tourist Card website . You can apply for one within 30 days of your trip; unlike tourist cards that you can get in person, these are free.

Once you've filled out the application, you will receive your card—which consists of an entry form and exit form—via e-mail. You will need to print both; upon arrival in Mexico, you will present them to an immigration official, who will stamp your exit form and write in the number of days that you are allowed to stay in the country. The official will keep the entry form, but you will need to hold onto the exit form for the duration of your trip.

The tourist card is valid for a maximum of 180 days or six months; however, the time actually given is at the discretion of the immigration official. Often, only 30, 60, or 90 days are granted. If you wish to stay in Mexico for longer than the time allotted on your tourist card, you will either need to leave and re-enter the country, extend your card, or apply for a tourist or work visa.

If you lose your Mexico tourist card, or it gets stolen, you will have to pay to replace it, which should be done as soon as possible. Go to the  nearest immigration office  in the country, or try the immigration office at the nearest airport, to pay a fine (reports vary from $40-$80) and receive a new card. It shouldn't take more than a few hours in total. Bring all relevant documentation, including travel tickets, receipts, and your passport should the officials request proof of length of stay.

Technically, it is possible to be deported from a country without a passport stamp or the proper visa and documents, but reports are rare that this step is taken for travelers who have misplaced their tourist cards. The majority typically pay a fine and are reissued a new card without issue.

If wish to travel around Mexico for a bit longer, and the immigration official cleared you for a stay of fewer than 180 days, you can apply for an extension at the National Institute of Immigration Office ; be sure to bring your passport and proof of income to your appointment. For those planning to stay longer than 180 days, you will need to apply for a tourist visa.

If you are a foreign citizen and are traveling to Mexico for pleasure or short-term business, you will need a tourist card. Exceptions are made to those arriving in Mexico by way of Cancun International Airport.

You can get a Mexican tourist card online, at a Mexico airport (or at a Mexico port of call if arriving by sea), or at your home country's Mexico embassy.

It depends on where you get yours. If you're flying, your airline may provide you with a tourist card, which is included in the cost of your ticket. You can also get a card for free online. If you're applying at an immigration office, however, it will cost you about $25.

U.S. Department of State. "Mexico International Travel Information." Accessed January 12, 2023.

iVisa. "How to Obtain a Mexico Tourist Card Online Quick and Easy." November 24, 2022.

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• The Most Common Scams To...

The Most Common Scams to Avoid in Mexico

With its unblemished beaches, elegant towns and buzzing cities, Mexico is an incredible country for tourists. But as with many popular travel destinations, there are plenty of dishonest schemes and swindles that are best to consider before you land in the country. With that in mind, here are a few of the scams to watch out for on your trip to Mexico.

Card skimming scams.

Be careful when paying by card in Mexico because there has been a huge upsurge in card cloning, or “skimming” scams in recent years. Watch out at petrol stations and bars. Even cashiers at omnipresent convenience stores such as OXXO have been known to skim cards. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to avoid falling victim to this scam. In most places, we would recommend paying in cash. If that is not an option, it is usually best to use a credit rather than a debit card. Major credit card issuers are usually quicker to cover the costs of fraud.

Last but not least, make sure to regularly monitor your accounts and make sure there are no unrecognized transactions.

Extortionate taxi van fees

At some airports or bus stations in Mexico you may be approached by taxi drivers offering you a ride. But if you decide to take them up on the offer you may find yourself alone in a huge taxi van – and paying for the privilege. This is a common scam to overcharge you for the use of a van when a regular taxi would be more suited to your needs. Taxi van drivers may charge tourists up to three times as much for a ride in a van.

To avoid this scam, we would highly recommend only ordering a taxi from official airport or bus station taxi booths, where prices and car sizes are fixed.

Hailing a cab is also a risky move in Mexico. There are thousands of unregistered taxi drivers in every major Mexican city and even licenced drivers have been known to rent out their taxis to professional criminals or gang members. In recent years, there has been a surge in “express kidnappings” in which drivers force customers to withdraw money from an ATM – often at knife or gun point. It’s generally safer to use a ridesharing app such as Uber or Cabify. Busy tourist areas also often have official taxi sites where you pay a fixed price at the booth.

Timeshare scams

At major tourist hubs you may be greeted by enthusiastic agents looking to convince you to attend a talk. They will often offer free breakfasts, taxi rides or tourist attraction discounts to rope you in, occasionally even claiming that you have won some sort of prize. Never attend any of these talks – they often last more than an hour and are designed to push a pricey timeshare property. On occasions, agents will even ask for a money deposit up front to make sure you attend the talk. You are very unlikely to be refunded this cash and you will waste precious vacation time at a timeshare presentation.

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To avoid this scam, stay clear of anyone claiming you have won a prize for a competition you have not entered. Never give your name or contact details to strangers and avoid unusual talks at all costs.

Watered down or adulterated alcohol

The alcohol at major Mexican resorts is often watered down, and in recent years there have even been cases of tourists dying after consuming adulterated drinks. To avoid drinking watery cocktails (or worse) on vacation you should ask the waiter which brands they have and specify the brand that you want. A “gin and tonic” order will often result in you being given a watered down, cheap or even adulterated gin. Ask for a “Tanqueray and tonic” and you will be given what you order.

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10 Common Scams in Mexico & How to Avoid Them

Mexico is a great place to visit, with great beaches, tasty food and friendly people. Despite some misconceptions, Mexico isn’t a dangerous country, but like in any other touristy destination, the presence of scammers is unavoidable .

Some shady people take advantage of clueless tourists, who might not even realize what’s happened to them.

Everyone can be caught off guard and get ripped off on their holidays, but don’t freak out yet. Despite preconceived assumptions, most scams are more annoying than life-threatening. This is why I decided to give you some more Mexico travel tips by showing a few common scams in Mexico & how to avoid them as part of

Common Scams in Mexico & How to Avoid Them

1. fake taxis.

Fake taxis can take a number of forms. Regular cars can be disguised as taxis or criminals may “borrow” a taxi specifically to pick up tourists to scam.  

The scam can also be relatively harmless such as overcharging for the ride , but it can also lead to express kidnapping. 

Express kidnapping happens when the taxi driver takes you to an ATM and demands you withdraw a large sum of money. Usually, they let you go after you have handed over the money and you are free to continue on your way but this is still quite a scary experience. 

To avoid getting into an unlicensed or fake taxi, always make sure to hail taxis only at their designated taxi rank , or call and organize a taxi ahead with a recognized company (see photo above from taxis in Playa del Carmen !). 

If you find a taxi driver you trust, it’s also a good idea to take down their direct number so you can always travel with the same driver. 

2. Airport Handlers & Timeshare

As soon as you have made your way through the airport, especially in Cancun or Puerto Vallarta) you are likely to be bombarded with people offering you services. Some of these will want to assist you with your bags and/or transfers, others will be offering accommodation or asking you to attend a talk (mostly for timeshares). 

Always research the best way to get to your destination from the airport so you are prepared.

Those wanting to assist you in any way are fairly harmless but they will most likely ask you to pay an exorbitant amount for carrying your bags a few meters but they could also very easily steal them. It’s best to hold onto your belongings and refuse any help. 

Timeshare reps are even more persistent, they may offer you anything from free meals, transfers or discounts to tourist attractions to lure you in, and some even tell you that you’ve won a prize. 

Always simply say “no gracias” and continue moving . The talk they ask you to attend is simply a long extended sales pitch for an expensive timeshare and they will often ask you to pay a deposit to ensure you attend the talk before giving you the free transfer.

3. Fake Alcohol

Many resorts and bars in Mexico are guilty of watering down your alcoholic drinks . So while you pay the full price for alcohol, they will mix weak amounts or even none at all. 

To avoid this, ask what brands of alcohol they serve and ask for a specific brand in your mixed drink. 

In the worst-case scenario, bars may taint drinks with counterfeit or illegally produced alcohol . Since this alcohol is produced to be low cost, they sometimes mix in hazardous chemicals which can cause blindness or even death in the most extreme circumstances. 

To avoid this risk, stick to wine or bottled beverages and watch carefully as your drink is prepared . You can also do your research and read reviews to find the best bars and restaurants and check for any complaints about the bar you want to attend. 

4. Rigged ATM

ATMs around the country (particularly in petrol stations and bars) are commonly rigged with car skimming devices. These devices record all the details of your credit or debit card which are then used to make large purchases . 

The easiest way to avoid this scam if you are visiting on a short vacation is to take out enough cash to cover your out or resort purchases and convert it at home before traveling to Mexico. Of course, make sure to store it in secure places and avoid traveling with all your cash as much as possible!

If you are living in Mexico or you simply have to use a card, try to use a credit card rather than a debit, as credit cards are generally better at refunding you for security breaches, and only use ATMs located inside of banks. 

Regardless of where you are, you should also always monitor your bank statement f or fraudulent charges. Sometimes skimmers only spend very small amounts to avoid detection, but this means they can repeat this for a long time which will add up. 

5. The Place is Closed

This is another taxi driver scams in Mexico that is very easy to fall for but also simple to avoid. 

As you get into your taxi and ask them to take you to your destination, whether that be an attraction or hotel, your driver will promptly convince you that it’s closed today, overbooked, or simply not good. 

If you fall for this scam they will suggest a different destination or simply drive you around for a long time, racking up the taxi bill when in fact the place you wanted to go originally was open this whole time. 

As convincing as they may be, stay strong and demand to go there anyway . Eventually, they will have to give in and take you where you want to go for the regular price. 

6. Banknote Switch

This scam can occur anywhere you are paying in cash in Mexico. When paying for anything from tours to taxis or even in a shop, the scammer will take your money, inspect it and then promptly hand it back to you informing you that it is fake. 

What they have actually done is take your real note and swap it with a fake one . This leaves you with a counterfeit note which is now worthless, and also having to pay double since the vendor still needs to be paid. 

Unfortunately, there is not much you can do in this situation as it is your word against theirs. However, when paying in cash it doesn’t hurt to make it known that you are watching them closely as they deal with your notes. This may deter the scammer from attempting the switch on you. 

7. Gas Station Scam

There are a number of different scams that commonly happen at gas stations in Mexico. 

The first scam is not resetting the pump before filling up your tank . At many gas stations in Mexico, an attendant will pump the gas for you, but this makes it easy for them to quickly begin pumping before they have reset the pump. So if you ask for 400 pesos worth of gas, you will pay 400 pesos but may only get 200 pesos worth of gas. 

Sometimes they may pull an even more elaborate scam on you by showing you that the pump is at 0 before beginning, but actually pulling the gas from the pump behind yours . This way you can’t see the numbers which may be adding up on top of the previous person’s charge. 

Lastly, they may continue the money-switching trend. You will hand over a large note and they will quickly swap it for a smaller one and tell you that you didn’t give them enough . 

Always be vigilant around gas stations , take note of the numbers on the pump before and after filling your tank to ensure you have received the same amount of gas you have paid for and never accept additional services such as topping up your fluids (they will charge you but not do it). 

8. Car Rental

If you want to visit some of the real hidden gems in Mexico , it’s likely you will be renting a car at some stage. As with any country, there are always things to know before renting a car , and in Mexico that includes knowing about the scams. 

Aside from the gas station scams above, you also have to be wary of the rental car companies themselves. The most common way rental cars can be a scam is because of insurance (this is true anywhere in the world). 

Mexican ca r rental insurance is required but many companies do not include it in the initial cost of the rental. This means when you turn up to pick it up, you will be required to pay exorbitant insurance fees before being able to drive away. 

They may also pressure you into paying many different insurances on top of the required third-party personal liability insurance . Many credit cards offer rental car insurance and if you have good travel insurance, you probably don’t need anything for anything more than the required insurance with the rental car company. 

When researching rental car companies, always use a reputable brand and read all the fine print before booking to know exactly what you are paying for, what is required and what may not be (such as spare tires). 

9. Xochimilco Doll Island Scam

Visiting La Isla de las Muñecas, one of the most haunted places in the world is a popular thing to do in Mexico City but what many don’t realize is that there are countless tour operators who tell you they will take you here, but instead, take you to a tiny replica.

It’s required to arrange a special permit to visit La Isla de las Muñecas which is why this scam exists. After promising you Doll Island and taking your money, some tours will take you to the closer (and cheaper) fake Doll Island and pocket the difference . 

Getting to Doll Island from Xochimilco takes quite some time (around 2 hours), so if your trip is quicker than this it’s likely you’ve been scammed. Note that not all boats in Xochimilco go to the Island of the Dolls so make sure to ask for the right one before boarding and ask how long it will take before setting off . 

10. Police Scam

There are too many different types of police scams in Mexico that it would be impossible to list. But the main thing to keep in mind is that there is an abundance of fake or corrupt police in certain parts of Mexico. 

Some people dress up and pose as police officers, approaching tourists asking for documents, or to follow them back to the police station. When they search your belongings they will take the money from your wallet. 

Other policemen will approach you and demand you pay a fine for your “illegal actions”. This most often happens while driving but can also happen on the street for actions like urinating on the street (even if you haven’t). 

The easiest thing to do in this situation is just to pay the money, but know that there usually is room for negotiation. Don’t carry large sums of cash on you and if they ask for $100, tell them you only have $10-20. Hopefully, they will accept the lower amount and move on to another target.  

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Mexico Tourist Cards (FMM)

• A FMM or (Forma Migratoria Multiple) is a document allowing any citizen of any country with a passport entry into Mexico.  A stamped FMM is required and mandatory for each traveler and all foreign tourists that enter Mexico.
• The FMM document is essentially an Entry Immigration Form that details information about your visit to Mexico. The form will obtain your name, nationality, DOB, purpose of visit, destination, and point of entry.
• The requirement for obtaining an FMM is you must have a valid passport or passport card.
• To obtain a FMM you have 2 options.  Option 1:  Simply stop at the immigration office (INM) at any border crossing and fill out the paperwork.   Option 2: Fill out the online tourist card (FMM) application and pay online and print it out. If you choose to get it online you still must stop at the border within 30 days and have it stamped.
• An FMM is free if you are traveling 7 days or less.  More than 7 days the cost is $43.00.  You can obtain a FMM for up to 180 days.
• You do not have to return the FMM when you cross back into the US and for Baja Norte only you can use the same FMM for multiple entries into Mexico.
• If you lose your FMM you simply stop at the border and get a new one.  They will not be able to retrieve a card purchased or obtained in the past.

FAQ's about Mexican Tourist Cards (FMM):

Will they ask me for a FMM when I cross the border into Mexico? 

When driving across the border,  Mexican border officials will not ask for FMM's and they will not remind you to obtain one.  When you cross by car it is up to you to stop at the border and get your FMM.  If you are walking across the border they will ask you for your FMM and getting one will be part of the crossing process.  At airports they will also ask you for your FMM and getting one is part of the check-in process.  Obtaining an FMM is legally required and there have been reports of checkpoints in Mexico requesting to see them.

Can my FMM be renewed or extended? 

They do not renew or extend a visitors visas (FMM).  Once your current FMM expires you simply get a new one.  Each FMM will have a start and finish date for you to follow.

What is the process of getting a FMM at the border?  

All border crossings have an JNM office for obtaining your FMM.  You simply park and walk into the office and there will be a desk with agents ready to assist you.  They will have you fill out the FMM application and they will check your passport and stamp your card.  If you are staying longer than 7 days you will be charged a fee.           

Does not having a FMM mean my auto insurance is invalid? 

It is important to realize that not all insurance carriers are the same.  Our top rated carrier HDI Seguros has informed us that they would never deny a claim or not back a policy if a customer failed to get an FMM.   With that being said that does not mean a different Mexican insurance carrier would not use the lack of FMM against you to not pay you on a claim.  We highly encourage all of our customers to follow the Mexican laws and get your FMM online or in person at the border. 

What if I lose my tourist visa card? 

If you lose your FMM don't panic. Simply visit the nearest Mexican INM office and get a new one.  If you are asked for it during your travels let the Mexican official requesting it know that it was lost. Mexican officials understand accidents do happen.  

Isn't there free zones or areas close to the border where a FMM is not required?  

There are no longer any free zones.  A stamped visitors visa (FMM) is required and mandatory for each traveler and all foreign tourists that enter Mexico.   

Does everyone in my car need a FMM or just the driver? 

Each individual crossing the border will need to obtain their own FMM. Each individual will also need to provide their passport.  If you do not have a valid passport you will not be able to get a FMM and you could be denied entry into Mexico. 

How long is my visitors visa good for? 

The paid FMM is valid for up to 180 days and you can enter and exit multiple times.  You never have to return your FMM.  When it expires you can simply throw it away.  The free FMM is valid for 7 days.  When you get your FMM in person the Mexican agent at the border or airport will ask you how many days you will be in Mexico and where you are going.  Usually the agent will give you the # of days you request to cover your trip.  There are reports that 180 day permits are not given out automatically unless you can show you will be in Mexico for that duration.

Do I also need a FMM when I fly? 

A FMM is mandatory when flying to Mexico.  The airline will provide you with a FMM to insure you can travel with no interruption.  Just like driving across you will need to provide a valid passport in order to get the permit.    

I see many websites to buy a FMM online.  Are they safe? 

Be aware there are many fake websites online that claim they are providing FMM's.  There are many reports of people paying these fake sites and having their money taken.  There is only one site we recommend for this transaction. If you are concerned about fraud simply get your FMM in person at any border crossing.   Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) Online      

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Scams to Avoid in Mexico: A Friendly Guide for Wise Travelers

By: Author Abigail Lewis

Posted on Published: August 1, 2023  - Last updated: August 20, 2023

Dreaming of the sun-soaked shores and spirited cities of Mexico?

Hey, who could blame you?

But here’s the deal: every paradise has its quirks.

And when it comes to scams to avoid in Mexico, it’s always better to be in the loop than out of your pesos.

Mexico is like a colorful tapestry—vibrant, rich, and oh-so-inviting.

But, just like any hotspot, there’s a flip side.

You just need to be a tad wise and a lot more informed.

In this article, we’ll give you the low-down on staying scam-smart.

Ready to navigate Mexico with savvy and style?

Let’s dive deep and set you up for an unforgettable, smooth-sailing Mexican escape.

Key Takeaways

• Stay vigilant and informed to avoid common scams like ATMs and transportation.
• Prioritize tourist safety, including being cautious while shopping and dining.
• Be aware of more elaborate schemes, like timeshare and kidnapping scams, and always trust your instincts.

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Scams to Avoid in Mexico: ATM Scams

Imagine this: you’re strolling through a picturesque Mexican town, and you realize you need cash.

You spot an ATM that looks a bit out of place.

But it has the Visa and MasterCard logos, so it seems legit, right?

Be cautious.

Fake ATMs are designed to look like the real deal but are often installed by scammers who want to steal your bank card info and PIN.

To avoid falling victim to a fake ATM, only use ATMs inside banks or in well-lit, busy areas.

Also, pay attention to the machine’s appearance; never use it if it looks tampered with.

Stick with ATMs affiliated with reputable Mexican banks, and you’ll be good to go.

Card Skimming

Card skimming is another common scam affecting ATMs in Mexico.

Skimming devices, which can be small and difficult to see, attach to the card slot and collect your card’s data.

Sometimes there are even hidden cameras or fake keypads set up to record your PIN as you enter it.

To protect yourself against card skimming, always shield your hand as you enter your PIN, obscuring the keypad from potential hidden cameras.

Also, look for suspicious-looking attachments to the card slot or the machine as a whole.

If anything seems off, find another ATM.

Transportation Scams

Taxis are a convenient mode of transportation when traveling.

But watch out for scams, especially while in Mexico.

Fake taxis are common in popular tourist destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Puerto Vallarta.

To avoid falling victim to these sneaky scams, always order a taxi from the official airport or bus station booths, where prices and car sizes are fixed.

Inside the cab, ensure the taxi meter is running and avoid drivers that insist on a fixed price.

Keep small change handy, as some drivers may claim they do not have change for large bills.

Uber has become a popular alternative to traditional taxis.

But, unfortunately, scams have surfaced in that realm too.

Fake Uber drivers are known to target travelers near airports, hotels, and attractions.

To avoid getting scammed, always double-check the driver’s name, photo, and license plate number before entering the vehicle.

Don’t rely solely on the color or model of the car.

Scammers can easily replicate those.

To pay for your Uber ride, use the app, and never hand over cash to the driver directly.

Be cautious of drivers who request additional payment due to a “faulty app” or “Uber technical problems.”

Trust the app for secure transactions.

Restaurant Scams

Overcharging.

Mexico is a fantastic destination for its rich culture and delicious cuisine.

One common scam some tourists may face at restaurants is overcharging.

To avoid this, be cautious of establishments with no prices listed on the menu.

If prices aren’t visible, kindly ask the staff to provide a menu with prices before placing your order.

When you receive your bill, double-check it to ensure everything you ordered is accurately reflected with no extra or hidden charges.

Also, consider carrying a calculator or using your smartphone to calculate the correct conversion rate from pesos to your home currency, ensuring you’re paying a reasonable price.

Free Drinks

Who doesn’t love a complimentary drink?

But in some cases, they might not be as “free” as you think.

At bars and restaurants, be wary of accepting drinks from friendly strangers or offers for free samples from staff.

These may lead to a surprisingly high bill at the end of your visit.

Stick to ordering your drinks and specifying your preferred brand, as some bars might try to switch to a more expensive brand without your knowledge.

Also, paying with cash is always better to avoid having your credit card information stolen.

Another tip is to avoid street food stands serving alcoholic beverages, as these might be more likely to scam tourists.

Timeshare Scams

Misleading offers.

Ever received an enticing offer for a heavily discounted or free vacation, only to find out that it was too good to be true?

That’s a common scenario in timeshare scams.

Many scammers pose as representatives of brokerage firms, travel agencies, or title companies and may offer you a fabulous deal on a Mexican timeshare property.

Then, they will disappear with your money or charge hidden fees later.

To avoid this, be cautious of:

• Deals that seem too good to be true
• Unsolicited phone calls or emails
• Requests for upfront fees or payment information before getting details

To protect yourself, always research the company offering the timeshare and check its reputation before considering the offer.

High-Pressure Sales

High-pressure sales tactics are another common feature of timeshare scams in Mexico.

Scammers often use presentations, gifts, or limited-time offers to lure you into a sense of urgency and make you feel like you need to make a decision immediately.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Don’t be rushed into making a decision.
• Take your time to review the contract and understand the terms.
• It’s okay to walk away if you’re uncomfortable.

Remember, a legitimate timeshare company won’t try to force you into purchasing without giving you time to think it through or ask questions.

Tourist Safety

Beware of pickpockets.

When exploring the best things to do in Mexico , it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings.

Pickpocketing may occur in crowded areas like markets, metro stations, and tourist zones.

Stay cautious and avoid keeping your wallet and phone in easily accessible places like your back pocket.

Similarly, be wary of people who approach you with unexpected sob stories or unsolicited offers.

These encounters may be attempts to distract you while someone else tries to rob you.

It’s always better to keep a safe distance and maintain a friendly but cautious demeanor.

Secure Your Valuables

Securing your belongings is crucial when experiencing the best beaches in Mexico .

While enjoying the sun and surf, don’t leave your bags unattended, as opportunistic thieves might seize the chance to snatch them.

Invest in a waterproof pouch for your phone, wallet, and passport, so you can keep them close while swimming.

When shopping for souvenirs, pay smaller bills and ensure you’re dealing with legitimate vendors.

This precaution will help you avoid accidental encounters with counterfeit money or overcharging.

Asking locals for recommendations on where to shop safely is a great way to minimize this risk.

Kidnapping Scams

Express kidnapping.

Express kidnapping is a type of scam where criminals quickly abduct victims and seek a small ransom in exchange for their release.

Often, this involves forcing the victim to withdraw money from ATMs immediately.

These incidents can be terrifying, but there are ways to stay vigilant and protect yourself.

When choosing an ATM, opt for those located in well-lit, busy areas or inside shopping malls.

Avoid withdrawing money at night, and try to use ATMs accompanied by a travel partner if possible.

Finally, don’t share your travel plans or personal information with strangers.

And as always, trust your instincts.

Fake Police

Another kidnapping scam involves criminals posing as police officers.

These fake officers may approach you with claims of a violation and request to see your identification or accompany you to the police station.

They will then demand a bribe or, even worse, try to kidnap you.

To avoid falling victim to this scam, familiarize yourself with Mexican law enforcement uniforms and vehicles.

If you’re stopped by someone claiming to be an officer, ask to see their credentials and keep your distance while doing so.

If you’re unsure about the situation, kindly offer to follow them to the nearest police station yourself.

In Mexico, genuine police officers won’t ask for bribes.

If the individual asks for money directly, it’s likely a scam.

Don’t be afraid to say no or request assistance from a local or nearby shop owner.

Shopping Scams

Counterfeit souvenirs.

One thing to watch out for when shopping around in Mexico is counterfeit souvenirs.

Do you see that fancy, handmade, traditional-looking piece of art?

Mexico is known for its beautiful handicrafts.

But some unscrupulous sellers may try to pass off fake, low-quality items as authentic treasures.

A good rule of thumb is to verify the item’s origin and ask for details about the artist or manufacturer.

If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right.

Overpricing Tourist Items

Tourist destinations are known for their inflated prices, and Mexico is no exception.

As a visitor, you might not be familiar with the typical cost of goods.

Some vendors take advantage of this by overpricing the items they sell.

To avoid paying more than necessary, make sure to compare prices at different shops and even ask locals for advice.

Also, don’t forget that haggling is a common practice in Mexico, so feel free to negotiate and put your bargaining skills to the test!

Parting Words

When planning your family vacation to Mexico, it’s essential to be informed about potential scams to avoid.

One of the most crucial scams to avoid in Mexico is fake taxis.

Always hire an authorized taxi from an official rank or call for one.

Additionally, pay with cash whenever possible and use small notes to avoid issues with incorrect change.

Your safety comes first, but don’t let these warnings deter you from enjoying Mexico’s fantastic experiences.

By staying vigilant and informed, you and your family can have a memorable trip.

Follow these tips, and create long-lasting memories while keeping your belongings and finances secure.

Now, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore beautiful Mexico.

Related: What Should You Not Do In Mexico?

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i prevent getting ripped off in mexico.

To avoid getting ripped off in Mexico, always pay attention to your surroundings and use common sense. Be cautious at ATMs, use cash wherever possible, and watch out for card skimming scams. Additionally, choose the right taxi service and use legitimate vendors for services and activities.

What Are Common Mexico Police Scams?

Common police scams in Mexico involve fake police officers asking for bribes or “fines” for nonexistent offenses. If approached by a police officer asking for money, ask for their identification, remain calm, and try to take the officer’s name and badge number if possible.

What Should I Watch Out For In Cancun?

In Cancun, you should be vigilant about pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Also, watch out for water sports scams where vendors charge excessive fees or provide subpar service. Always use reputable companies and read reviews before booking any activities.

What Scams Are Prevalent In Puerto Vallarta?

Scams prevalent in Puerto Vallarta may include taxi overcharging, counterfeit merchandise, and aggressive sales tactics, especially in tourist areas. To avoid being scammed, always negotiate prices upfront, compare multiple vendors, and double-check the authenticity of products before purchasing.

ScamOrGenuine

Verify Scam Or Genuine

Tourist Scams in Mexico: What You Need to Know

Tourist Scams in Mexico involves Fake Taxis, Fake Souvenirs, Fake Police, Airport Sales Pressure, Currency Exchange Cons, Rental Rip-offs, Dining Deceptions, and so on.

Mexico offers an exciting travel experience, but, like any destination, there are scams to be aware of. Hence, here, we'll inform you about Tourist Scams in Mexico and ways to safeguard yourself to enjoy your trip.

Introduction

Staying safe and avoiding tourist scams in mexico, some additional measures to avoid the tourist scams in mexico, faqs on tourist scams in mexico, our closing statement on tourist scams in mexico.

Mexico is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning attractions, vibrant culture, as well as delicious cuisine. From the magnificent beaches to the historical wonders and bustling cities, there's no shortage of incredible experiences to be had.

Exploring is wonderful, but being aware of possible scams that could impact your trip is crucial. Therefore, read our article below to get all the details.

1. Watch Out for Fake Taxis: Ensure a Safe Ride

Beware of unauthorized or fake taxi drivers who may overcharge, or, in some cases, take you to an ATM and demand money.

So, use official taxi stands or call one from your hotel. Also, keep a trusted driver's number for future rides.

2. Identifying Fake Souvenirs: Avoid Getting Cheated

Vendors may sell mass-produced, low-quality souvenirs at high prices, including counterfeit handicrafts and even tequila.

Therefore, look for artist names on handicrafts and check for "925" markings on silver jewelry. On the other hand, bargain respectfully to ensure a fair price.

3. Stay Alert for Fake Police: Stay Safe

Impersonators posing as police officers might approach you, especially if you're a solo traveler.

That's why, always verify the officer's credentials. Moreover, contact emergency services (dial 112) if you're unsure.

4. Airport Sales Pressure: Avoid Overpriced Offers

Upon landing, salespeople may push high cost deals on hotel and services, leaving you unsatisfied.

So, politely decline and do your research before arriving to ensure a comfortable and budget-friendly stay.

5. Protect Your Money at ATMs: Be Cautious With This Tourist Scams in Mexico

Some ATMs may have skimming devices to steal your bank info or retain your card.

That's why, use ATMs located inside banks or reputable places. Besides, regularly monitor your account for any suspicious activity.

6. Guard Against Rental Rip-offs: Safeguard Your Equipment

Renting equipment like jet skis can lead to accusations of damage and threats of involving the police.

So, research reputable rental operators and document equipment condition before use.

7. Dining Deceptions: Avoid Restaurant Scams

Restaurants may attempt to overcharge by adding unrequested items, avoiding tips, or offering pricier menus.

That's why, choose local eateries as well as double-check your bill for accuracy.

8. Currency Exchange Cons: Secure Your Cash

Money changers may offer unfavorable rates or cashiers might replace real banknotes with fakes.

So, exchange money at trustworthy places, verify exchange rates beforehand. Despite this, carefully examine your change.

9. Unmasking Timeshare Scams: Be Prepared

Beach resort promoters may offer freebies to entice you into timeshare presentations, which can involve high-pressure sales tactics.

So, politely decline these offers or be ready for lengthy sales pitches.

10. Misleading Maps: Stick to Your Destination

Deceptive taxi drivers might falsely claim that your chosen destination is closed or overcrowded.

Therefore, insist on going where you want and avoid redirection.

11. Mayan Money Myth: Seek Clarity

Some vendors may quote prices in "Mayan dollars" near ancient ruins to deceive tourists.

So, ask for prices in recognized currencies and clarify costs to avoid falling for this myth.

12. Gas Station Games: Ensure Fair Fueling

Gas station attendants might fail to reset the pump accurately, leading to overcharging for fuel.

Hence, remember pump numbers and check the amount dispensed. However, reject additional services.

13. Beware of Counterfeit Goods: Stay Alert From This Tourist Scams in Mexico

Vendors may offer "designer" goods that are actually counterfeits.

Thus, purchase from reputable stores and inspect items carefully.

14. Unwanted Help: Protect Your Belongings

Individuals offering to assist with your luggage may demand high fees or attempt theft.

So, politely decline assistance and keep a close eye on your belongings.

15. Tequila Trickery: Monitor Your Drinks

Some bars and resorts might serve weak or fake alcoholic beverages.

To avoid this scam, specify the brand in your drinks, order bottled ones, and further, choose bars with positive reviews.

16. Cash Swap Con: Check Your Change

Scammers may swap your real banknote for a fake one, making you pay double.

So, exercise caution when using cash and carefully scrutinize your change.

17. Friendly Stranger Stories: Be Skeptical About This Tourist Scams in Mexico

Travelers may encounter strangers with fake stories asking for money.

To avoid this scam, don't give money to unsolicited requests as well as verify claims before offering assistance.

18. Dodgy Water Sports: The Jet Ski Scam

]Operators at beach destinations may rent jet skis and then accuse tourists of damaging them.

So, rent from reputable providers and document the equipment's condition. Also, avoid manipulation.

19. Phone Call Ploy: Keep Your Phone Secure

Scammers may request to use your phone for an emergency call and not return it.

Hence, refrain from lending your phone to strangers and offer to make the call for them.

20. Hotel Booking Hoax: Verify Your Reservations

Upon arrival, you may be informed that your reservation is canceled, leading to a shift to a different, often inferior, accommodation.

So, confirm reservations directly with the hotel. Moreover, be cautious about sudden lodging changes.

By adding these measures to your travel plan, you can further protect yourself:

• Use GPS and Maps: Before getting into a taxi, use GPS on your smartphone or a map to track the route to your destination. As a result, you can ensure that you're not being taken on an unnecessary detour.
• Research Local Prices: Get an idea of the average prices for goods and services in the area you're visiting. Hence, this will help you recognize when you're being overcharged.
• Use Reputable Tour Operators: When booking tours or activities, choose operators with positive reviews and reputable websites. Additionally, look for recommendations from fellow travelers.
• Avoid Empty ATMs: If you arrive at an ATM, and there are no other people around, consider using a different one. However, empty areas can be more vulnerable to skimming devices.
• Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: Knowing some basic Spanish phrases can help you communicate more effectively. However, this appear less vulnerable to scammers.
• Stay at Established Accommodations: Book your stay at well-known hotels or accommodations with a good reputation. Accordingly, they are less likely to have scams.
• Use Secure Baggage: Invest in anti-theft bags or locks to secure your belongings when traveling. As a result, this will make it harder for pickpockets to access your items.
• Avoid Impromptu Stops: If your taxi driver suggests making impromptu stops at shops or businesses, decline. Consequently, these stops are often to pressure you into making purchases.
• Keep Important Documents Secure: Make photocopies of important documents like your passport and keep them separate from the originals. As a result, it can be helpful in case of theft or loss.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts. However, don't be afraid to walk away from situations that make you uncomfortable.

1. Can I take a taxi in Mexico safely?

Yes, you can safely use an authorized taxi from official taxi stands (sitios) or order one from your hotel. Besides, avoid unofficial or fake taxis.

2. How can I spot fake souvenirs in Mexico?

To identify fake souvenirs, check for the artist's name on handicrafts and look for "925" markings on real silver jewelry. Moreover, remember to haggle politely for fair prices.

3. Are there imposters pretending to be police officers in Mexico?

Yes, there have been reports of people impersonating police officers. Therefore, always verify the officer's identification. Furthermore, call emergency services (dial 112) if you're uncertain.

4. What should I do when salespeople at the airport try to push services on me?

Politely say "no, gracias" to their offers and conduct your research in advance to have a comfortable as well as cost-effective stay.

5. How can I protect my money when using ATMs in Mexico?

Safeguard your money by using ATMs inside banks or reputable locations. Furthermore, regularly check your account for any suspicious activity.

6. How do I stay safe from rental scams for things like jet skis?

Avoid scams by researching trustworthy rental providers, taking photos of equipment before use, and selecting established operators.

7. What should I do if a restaurant attempts to overcharge me?

Opt for local restaurants, review your bill for accuracy. Additionally, be aware of common tricks used by some eateries.

8. Are there Tourist Scams In Mexico involving currency exchange?

Currency changers may offer unfavorable rates or switch real banknotes with fake ones. However, exchange money at reliable places and carefully examine your change.

9. How can I steer clear of timeshare Tourist Scams in Mexico?

Politely decline offers from promoters at beach resorts or prepare for extended sales presentations.

10. What if a taxi driver tells me my chosen destination is closed?

Insist on going to your original destination and avoid being rerouted by misleading taxi drivers.

11. What are the most common Tourist Scams in Mexico?

Common Tourist Scams in Mexico include fake taxis, fake souvenirs, fake police, airport scams, fake ATMs, dodgy operators, restaurant scams, currency exchange scams, timeshare scams, taxi diversion scams, and so on.

In conclusion, while Mexico is a beautiful and vibrant travel destination, it's essential to be aware of potential tourist scams. However, from fake taxis and souvenirs to restaurant fraud and timeshare pitches, knowledge is your best defense.

By staying informed, using reputable services, as well as being cautious with your money and belongings, you can explore Mexico safely and enjoy all the wonders this country has to offer.

Now that you know our final verdict for Tourist Scams in Mexico, here’s what we suggest you do:

Check comments:.

To discover more about Tourist Scams in Mexico, look at the comments below. If there are no comments, use the points mentioned earlier to assess it yourself, or read our "Tourist Scams in Mexico" article, as mentioned above.

Spread Word:

One of the most effective ways to help fellow travelers stay informed about Tourist Scams in Mexico is by sharing this article through your social media networks. In doing so, you can actively contribute to creating a community of well-informed travelers.

Report Scams:

If you want to report other scams, file complaints, or share reviews about different travel or tourist scams, please visit our “ Report A Scam, File Complaint, Or Post Your Review ” section. There, you can share your reviews or complaints regarding those specific companies or activities.

More About Tourist Scams in Mexico

You can find more info in these articles:

• travelpulse.com
• tripadvisor.com
• travelinglifestyle.net
• eatlikealocal.com.mx

We appreciate your dedication to ensuring safe and enjoyable travel experiences. Travel wisely, and have a wonderful trip!

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UponArriving

Mexico Tourist Card (FMM) Ultimate Guide

If you’ve ever travelled to Mexico then you know that in order to get access into the country you will have to fill out and submit a “Mexico tourist card.”

The problem is not every airline will issue you one of these cards while you are on the plane and so in many cases you will have to wait until you arrive at the airport to fill it out.

Some Mexican airports, especially the popular ones such as Cancun, can receive an overwhelming amount of tourists hopping off flights which means that you will be trying to beat the crowds while filling out your Mexico tourist card.

That can be quite a stressful experience but luckily you can avoid some of that stress by taking care of your immigration card ahead of time.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about filling out this form including how to do it and also give you some other tips.

Table of Contents

What is a Mexico tourist card?

The Mexico tourist card aka Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM) is an immigration form that must be filled out prior to your entry in Mexico.

It’s a form that you will submit to immigration once you arrive at the airport and is required for every person including children.

It is recommended to fill out the form and register online in order to make it more convenient for yourself when you are making your way through immigration at the airport.

Update: this form is no longer needed for US tourist visits to Cancun.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

Are you eligible for a Mexico tourist card?

The first question that you need to answer is are you actually eligible for a Mexico tourist card?

If the following situations apply to you then the answer is yes.

• You are a foreign citizen traveling to Mexico
• You have a valid passport
• You will travel to Mexico in less than 30 days
• You will not stay in Mexico more than 180 days
• You are traveling to Mexico for pleasure, vacation, or recreational purposes
• You are NOT going to Mexico to seek employment 

So if you are a standard American heading to Mexico for a nice week long vacation then you will fall into the category of being eligible for a Mexico tourist card.

I think the most important factor to consider is that you need to be traveling in less than 30 days in order to fill out the form and register.

Related: How to Easily Get to Tulum Mexico (for Cheap)

How to get a Mexico tourist card

You can now fill out your immigration form online via a very convenient and straightforward process.

Here is what you will need to fill out your form completely:

Contact information

Flight information.

• Address or name of the hotel you were staying at

Email address

This will be basic information like your name and address.

For the form, you will need to provide your passport number along with dates such as the issue date and expiration date.

When filling out your passport details, Make sure that you have at least six months of valid time on your passport when visiting Mexico, regardless of how long you plan to stay in the country.

If your passport expires in under six months, you will have to fill out a manual form once you arrive at the airport. Also, according to some reports it’s possible that you may be denied entry into the country.

To be 100% on the safe side I would advise for your passport to have at least six months of eligibility left.

You will need to provide your flight number and airline.

This can be found on your boarding pass or when you check your itinerary via the airline’s website or app.

Look for a number that has two letters in front of it and then numbers following after that.

For example, if you were flying on United Airlines flight 125 your flight number would look like “UA125.”

When you input your details, typically you will input the airline separate from the number.

So using that UA125 example above, You would input your details as follows.

• Airline: United Airlines
• Number: 125

Hotel information

Many people often arrive at the airport with no idea about the address of the hotel and some people don’t even know the name of the hotel.

By filling out this form ahead of time you can avoid any confusion at the airport.

While it is not necessarily required to input the full address of your hotel and you could simply include the name, since you are filling this out ahead of time you might as well input all of the relevant information regarding the address.

It’s also always a great idea to have the address of your hotel saved somewhere in your phone or on a piece of paper just in case you need to reference that while traveling.

Your tourist card will be emailed to you so make sure that you have a working email address.

Tip: Sometimes there will be issues with the email system so it is recommended that you download and print the tourist card as soon as you have that option.

Finally, you will need to print off your tourist card. Make sure that your printer is working well so that you can avoid any issues with legibility.

Filling out the tourist cards

You can find a link to register for the Mexico tourist card here.

The first part of the process is filling out some basic information which I will break down below.

The form that you will be filling out will look like this:

Country of citizenship

This will be the country of your passport.

Port of entry

You will be able to select from a drop-down menu of different airports.

You should be able to find your airport on the menu if it is one of the major airports but if you are flying into a smaller city then you may have to just select “other.”

Here are the airports you will find:

• Acapulco International Airport
• Cancun International Airport
• Cozumel International Airport
• Guadalajara International Airport
• Huatulco International Airport
• Los Cabos International Airport
• Manzanillo International Airport
• Mazatlan International Airport
• Merida International Airport
• Mexico City International Airport
• Puerto Vallarta International Airport
• Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa Airport

Note that some airports may refuse to accept your online tourist card and might require you to submit a manual card. This might be more common at smaller airports.

Arrival and departure dates

You will need to select your arrival and departure dates which are the dates that you will actually be entering and leaving the country.

The dates should line up with your airline’s itinerary if you are flying.

Name or address of hotel

As stated above, supply your name or preferably the address of your hotel. You can likely just copy and paste the address from something like Google Maps.

Contact name

Simply input your name.

Total number of people traveling to Mexico

You will need to select the total number of individuals traveling to Mexico including yourself. This number should include all children and also infants.

Main contact email

Make sure you input a valid email address.

Simply enter in your postal or ZIP Code.

Things to consider

After you submit your details, there will be a confirmation page that goes over some of the key points of consideration.

Here is a summary of these points:

• Every individual must fill out an individual tourist card
• The cards are free for all passengers traveling by air with a major commercial airline
• You can only apply for a tourist card within 30 days of your arrival to Mexico
• Your passport must be valid for 180 days to apply for a card online otherwise she will have to fill it out manually when you arrive
• The information on your application must exactly match the information on your passport
• The flight information that you will input is only for your arrival flight
• Sometimes there are issues with the email systems so you should download and print your card when given the option
• After you download the first card you finish you will have the option to begin a new application
• You can print your tourist card in color or black-and-white
• You will print out two pages and do not cut or alter the forms in any way
• On rare occasions, an immigration officer may not accept a tourist card and may require you to fill out a manual form.

In addition to the points above, be sure to retain the portion of the card that the immigration officer returns to you.

In many cases, you will need to show this stub when you depart the country. If you lose this then you might be delayed at the airport when departing and you might even get fined.

Finally, you will have to fill out a customs form when you arrive regardless of if you have already filled out your tourist card.

Related: Cabo vs Cancun: Which is Better for You?

Registration form

After you input your preliminary details you can then proceed to the next stage of registration. You will need to input some of the same details you already did but this is the final step to register.

You will begin by selecting the type of travel you are doing which could be air or land.

After you select your type of travel (let’s say you selected air) you will then need to input more details.

Tip: if you will be making multiple land crossings into Mexico you should consider applying for SENTRI ).

Once again, you will need to fill out the point of entry, which is the airport you are arriving to, your travel dates, airline name, and flight number.

You will then need to input your personal information which would include your name surname (which is your last name), gender, date of birth, nationality, and country of birth.

Then you will need to fill in the details regarding your identification document which in most cases will likely be your passport.

Select the type of document that you have and then enter in your document number which would be your passport number, country of issue which will be the US for a lot of readers, date of issue, and expiration date.

Keep in mind that the format for your dates is date, month, year.

Then we need to input your place of residence which would be the US and your current home address.

Next you will select the reason of your trip.

Then select the state and address that you will be staying at which would be the hotel.

Finally, provide your email address and submit the verification code.

Once you have finished processing your form, you can download and print it out and bring it along with you on your flight. It should also arrive in your email inbox.

Coronavirus update

Due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, you may encounter additional requirements when entering the country. For example, you may be required to complete a health questionnaire.

In addition to contact and trouble information, it will ask you questions such as “have you been in contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus?”

It will also inquire about potential symptoms such as temperatures, coughing, headaches, and difficulty breathing.

Global Entry

If you would like to expedite your entry back into the US when traveling from an international destination, you should highly consider getting Global Entry.

It will allow you to bypass the main immigration line which can often be very long and you can also get expedited entry through customs as well.

If you have the right credit card, you can get it for free and it will be good for five years.

Obtaining a Mexico tourist card is a great idea because it will make your travels much more convenient when arriving at the airport.

It is easy to fill out the form and register and so I would strongly recommend anybody traveling to Mexico to go ahead and complete the registration online.

You might also be interested in the following article:

• Is Cabo, Mexico Safe?

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

Unfortunately, it isn’t as easy as you claim….or at least not in my case. I’m planning on flying into the Queretaro International Airport…but that isn’t offered in the Point of Entry drop down box….yes, I initially put in Other, but then it proceeds to the next page and again asks for Point of Entry where “Other” is not offered, nor is Queretaro International Airport. I see that Ing. Fernando Espinoza Gutiérrez Airport is offered as a selection, but as per Wikipedia…

“Ing. Fernando Espinoza Gutiérrez Airport (IATA: formerly QRO, ICAO: formerly MMQT) was located in Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico. This airport was inaugurated in 1955.[2] Due to the construction of the new Querétaro International Airport in 2004, the airport is no longer used. The buildings and land that formed the airport are now government buildings, and were donated to the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro.”

…so what’s a guy to do??? So frustrating and this is only my first step on this journey…it’s not looking promising!!

I would like to be FULLY ready and prepared when we travel to Cancun next week. How do I know which forms/webistes are true and safe to submit. Is there a place I can print out a blank hard copy of a form and fill it out manually? Is it safe to submit it online? In the past, we have always been given the forms on the plane and had them filled out when we landed. We have had 3 trips canceled because of COVID so I know things have changed. Now facing possible cancellation again next week. Thank you in advance for any help to make our trip go smoothly. Also, this was a very good and informative webiste. Thank you!!!

Thanks, not all sights (even the government one) mentions “within 30 days” I was trying to fill out the application but it wouldn’t accept my arrival date. I’m just trying to get as much done as I can now to alleviate anxiety later… but I’ll wait a few more days to apply!

Comments are closed.

Privacy Overview

Half Of All Tourism Fraud In Mexico Happens In & Around Cancun – Here’s How To Avoid It

By: Author James Chabin

Posted on Published: July 5, 2023

Share The Article

Last Updated 12 months ago

450,000 instances of tourist fraud took place in Mexico in 2022, half of which happened in Quintana Roo. 

Nevertheless, the Mexican Secretariat of Tourism and the Association of Travel Agencies are attempting to protect Mexican companies and international visitors. 

This week, they will begin an information campaign on how to avoid tourism fraud. 

“Our main objective is to inform the consumer about the situation with ‘grandiose’ names, such as cyber fraud,” said Felipe Cervantes Vega, president of the Mexican Association of Travel Agencies (AMAV). 

“We want to be on the side of consumers to inform them what is serious and what is not so that the effort of a whole year does not disappear.”

In April, nearly four thousand Mexico Tourism Bureau-affiliated travel agencies created a strategy to reduce fraud against tourism by fake companies. 

“We want to close the gap in frauds, particularly in online purchases and for those that realize the company does not exist upon arrival, which affects vacations, as well as the destination’s image,” said José Moreno, president of the Mexico Tourism Bureau. 

With tourism fraud rising across the Mexican Caribbean, let’s look at ways to avoid falling for a scam . 

Don’t Book Through Social Media

Social media websites are one of the top places for scam artists to trick unsuspecting tourists. 

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Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

Facebook and Instagram feeds may have ads or posts promising beautiful getaways at great prices, but these websites are not well-regulated and host many scams. 

If you want to book a vacation through social media, check the company and verify it is confirmed before booking. 

Airbnb is a more reliable option for booking accommodation, but it can also be risky at times. 

While most travelers have no trouble with Airbnb, the site does not have the same guarantees as traditional hotels, and therefore tourists can be the victims of last-minute cancellations if they are unlucky. 

Don’t Book Deals That Are “Too Good To Be True”

A good rule of thumb while booking in the Riviera Maya is that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. 

Many scams promise well below market prices for tours and luxury services. 

While this might excite tourists who think they are getting a great deal, chances are they are falling for a trap. 

If you find a deal below market price, it is extra vital to double-check the source of the booking and make sure that the company is verifiable and trustworthy. 

Book Through An Established Travel Agency

An easy solution for tourists who want to ensure they are not being scammed is to book through an established travel agency. 

Booking through a travel agency allows experts familiar with the region to book your travel. 

Travel agents’ special knowledge about the Riviera Maya makes them far less likely to get scammed. 

Check The Reviews

One of the easiest ways to ensure you are not falling for a scam is to google search the company you are booking with. 

Reading the reviews on Google or another website will allow you to see what other people have said about the company. 

If the company is not real, chances are you are not the first to fall for it, so let other travelers’ experiences inform your travel planning.

Even when checking reviews, tourists must remain vigilant. In some cases, scammers will even leave fake reviews for their services.

Nevertheless, there are several ways to be sure that even fake reviews do not trick you. 

If the website has an appropriate number of positive reviews, it is probably okay to book with it.  

Also, by reading the lowest ratings given to a company, you can read what the least happy customers have to say. 

If nobody is accusing the company of fraud, chances are the company is legitimate. 

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Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory august 22, 2023, mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime.
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state.  Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

• Taxco:  U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations.  Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders.  Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.  U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo.  In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Tourist Card

Cancun Airport  >>  Airport Info >> Tourist Card

When you arrive at Cancun Airport , you present your printed Tourist Card, your passport, and since your information is already in the system, the Immigration Officer just needs to stamp your Tourist Card and that’s it. Enjoy your stay in Cancun!

How to get my Tourist Card?

It is really easy you can fill it out online. We highly recommend do it at home before your flight to avoid long ranks when you arrive at Cancun Airport. We will show you all the steps to get your tourist card.

WHAT YOU NEED:

• Contact information
• Passport information
• Full Name of the Hotel or address in Mexico
• Arrival flight information
• Email to send you the Tourist Card
• A printer to print the Tourist Card

You have to click on this to fill out your  Tourist Card it is the government’s official website