Mexico - US State Department Issues Travel Advisory To Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping (in some areas)

[Commonground]

May 29, 2026

Exercise increased caution in Mexico due toterrorism, crime, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory summary


For Americans traveling to Mexico for FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, follow the latest guidance from the U.S. Embassy in Mexico.

• Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, sexual assault, and robbery. There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.
• The U.S. government has limited ability to help in many parts of Mexico, a large country in which conditions can vary widely from state to state and even within a state. U.S. government employees may not travel to certain high-risk areas, which may be within states that include low-risk areas.
• Due to security risks, U.S. citizens should follow the same restrictions as U.S. government employees while traveling.
• Emergency services are limited or unavailable in remote or rural areas.
• If you encounter a road checkpoint, you should comply. Fleeing or ignoring instructions can lead to you being hurt or killed.
• Check the maps of restricted areas.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions (U.S. citizens are strongly advised to follow):

• May not travel between cities after dark.
• Must rely on dispatched vehicles from regulated taxi stands or app-based services like Uber or Cabify and may not wave down taxis on the street.
• Should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas.
• May not drive between Mexican border cities and the interior of Mexico, with limited exceptions.

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Mexico.
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information for Mexico.
• Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Traveler's Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

​https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/mexico.html


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