TIPS FOR TRAVELERS TO MEXICO..continued
Rental Cars
Renting in the United States. Many car rental companies in the United
States have clauses in their contracts prohibiting drivers from
traveling out of the country. The Mexican police are aware of these
regulations, and will sometimes impound rental vehicles driven from the
United States. When renting a vehicle in the United States, check with
the company to see if your contract allows you to drive it into Mexico.
Renting a Car in Mexico. The standard insurance included with many car
rental contracts in Mexico provides only nominal liability coverage,
often as little as the equivalent of $200. Because Mexican law permits
the jailing of drivers after an accident until they have met their
obligations to third parties and to the rental company, renters should
read their contracts carefully and purchase additional liability and
comprehensive insurance if necessary.
Bringing Your Own Plane or Boat to Mexico
Private aircraft and boats are subject to the same Mexican customs
regulations as are motor vehicles. When you arrive at a Mexican port in
your private boat, you can obtain a temporary import permit similar to
the one given for motor vehicles. Flying your own plane to Mexico,
however, is more complicated. Well before your trip, inquire about
private aircraft regulations and procedures from a Mexican consulate or
Mexican Government Tourist Office.
Crime Street crime is common, especially in urban areas. Persons
driving on some Mexican roads, particularly in isolated regions, have
been targeted by bandits who operate primarily after dark. Criminals,
particularly in Sinaloa, sometimes represent themselves as Mexican
police or other local officials. The U.S. Embassy advises its personnel
not to travel on Mexican highways after dark. Highway 15 and Express
Highway 1 (limited access) in the state of Sinaloa are particularly
dangerous areas where criminal assaults and murders have occurred,
during the day and night. If You Are in Danger. Call the Mexican
Ministry of Tourism's emergency hotline, [91] (5) 250-0123, for
immediate assistance. Or, in Mexico City, dial 06 for police
assistance.
If You Have Been the Victim of a Crime. Immediately contact the U.S.
Embassy or the nearest U.S. consulate or consular agency. For addresses
and telephone numbers, see the end of this pamphlet. You should also
report the crime to the local police immediately.
Avoiding Legal Problems
While traveling in Mexico, you are subject to Mexican laws and not U.S.
laws. Tourists who commit illegal acts have no special privileges and
are subject to full prosecution under the Mexican judicial system.
Avoid drug offenses. Mexico rigorously prosecutes drug cases. Under
Mexican law, possession of and trafficking in illegal drugs are federal
offenses. For drug trafficking, bail does not exist. Convicted
offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines. Sentences for
possession of drugs in Mexico can be as long as 25 years plus fines.
Just as in the U.S., the purchase of controlled medication requires a
doctor's prescription. The Mexican list of controlled medication
differs from the U.S. list, and Mexican public health laws concerning
controlled medication are unclear. Possession of excessive amounts of a
psychotropic drug such as valium can result in your arrest if the
authorities suspect abuse. Mexican law does not differentiate between
types of narcotics: heroin, marijuana, and amphetamines, for example,
are treated the same. Offenders found guilty of possessing more than a
token amount of any narcotic substance are subject to a minimum sentence
of 10 years, and it is not uncommon for persons charged with drug
offenses to be detained for up to 1 year before a verdict is reached.
Remember, if narcotics are found in your vehicle, you are subject to
arrest and your vehicle can be confiscated.
Avoid public drunkenness. It is against the law to be drunk in public
in Mexico. Certain border towns have become impatient with teenaged
(and older) Americans who cross the border to drink and carouse. This
behavior can lead to fights, arrests, traffic accidents, and even
fatalities.
Do not bring firearms. Possession of any gun or rifle without proper
authorization by the Mexican authorities is considered a "Firearms
Offense" in Mexico and carries stiff penalties. Possession of a single
non-assault weapon carries a penalty of up to five years in Mexican
prison. Sentences for possession of firearms in Mexico can be as long
as 30 years. A permit from a Mexican consulate in the U.S. is required
to import firearms or ammunition into Mexico, whether or not the firearm
is legally registered in the U.S. The U.S. Embassy has noted an
increase of Americans being detained for illegally smuggling arms into
Mexico. U.S. citizens should comply with all Mexican laws on arms,
including any arms they may wish to bring in for hunting. Some Mexican
cities have ordinances prohibiting the possession of knives or anything
that might be construed as a weapon.
Be aware that, even when you enter Mexican waters on your private boat,
you are subject to the ban on importing firearms.
Some cities, such as Nuevo Laredo, have ordinances prohibiting the
possession of knives and similar weapons. Tourists have even been
arrested for possessing souvenir knives. Most arrests for knife
possession occur in connection with some other infraction, such as drunk
and disorderly behavior.
Failure to pay hotel bills or for other services rendered is considered
fraud under Mexican law. Those accused of these offenses are subject to
arrest and conviction with stiff fines and jail sentences.
Be cautious when purchasing real estate. U.S. citizens who become
involved in time-share or other real property purchases should be aware
that Mexican laws and practices regarding real estate are markedly
different from those in the United States. Foreigners purchasing real
estate or time-shares in Mexico have no protection under Mexican law and
should be aware of the high risks involved. Foreigners may be granted
the right to own real property only under very specific conditions and
the purchase of real property in Mexico is far more complicated than in
the United States. For example no title insurance is available in
Mexico for the purchaser and the builders frequently go bankrupt leaving
the investors with little recourse to recoup their funds. The U.S.
Embassy strongly recommends the use of competent local legal assistance
for any significant real property or business purchase. A list of local
attorneys can be obtained from the U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate
in Mexico.
To Avoid Disputes With Merchants, Be a Careful Shopper. Make sure the
goods you buy are in good condition and always get a receipt. There is
a federal consumer protection office, the Procuraduria Federal del
Consumidor, to assist you if you have a major problem with a faulty
product or service. However, if the problem is with a service of the
tourist industry, you should bring the matter to the Mexican Government
Tourist Office (Secretaria de Turismo).
U.S. Assistance in Mexico
Where To Turn If You Have Serious Legal, Medical, or Financial
Difficulties
Legal Problems. If you find yourself in serious difficulty while in
Mexico, contact a consular officer at the U.S. Embassy or the nearest
U.S. consulate for assistance. U.S. consuls cannot serve as attorneys
or give legal assistance. They can, however, provide lists of local
attorneys and advise you of your rights under Mexican laws. Worldwide,
Mexico has the highest number of arrests of Americans abroad, over 1,000
per year, and the highest prison population of U.S. citizens outside of
the United States, about 450 at any one time. If you are arrested,
ask permission to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. consulate.
Under international agreements and practice, you have the right to talk
with an American consul. Although U.S. consuls are limited in what they
can do to assist you in legal difficulties, they can monitor the status
of detained U.S. citizens and make sure they are treated fairly under
local laws. They will also notify your relatives or friends upon your
request. An individual is guaranteed certain rights under the Mexican
constitution, but those rights differ significantly from U.S.
constitutional guarantees. The Mexican judicial system is based on
Roman and Napoleonic law and presumes a person accused of a crime to be
guilty until proven innocent. There is no trial by jury nor writ of
habeas corpus in the Anglo-American sense. Trial under the Mexican
system is a prolonged process based largely on documents examined on a
fixed date in court by prosecution and defense counsel. Sentencing
usually takes 6 to 10 months. Bail can be granted after sentencing if
the sentence is less than 5 years. Pre-trial bail exists but is never
granted when the possible sentence upon conviction is greater than 5
years.
Medical or Financial Problems. If you become seriously ill, U.S.
consular officers can assist in finding a doctor and in notifying your
family and friends about your condition. Consular officers can also
help arrange the transfer of emergency funds to you if you become
destitute as a result of robbery, accident, or other emergency.
Advice on Dual Nationality
U.S. law recognizes that Americans may also be citizens of other
countries.
Under Mexican law, an individual born in Mexico of an American parent or
parents may acquire both nationalities at birth. Also, a U.S. citizen
born in the United States of a Mexican fathe, or after December 26,
1969, of a Mexican mother, may have dual nationality.
If you are a U.S.-Mexican dual national, you must have evidence of your
U.S. citizenship with you when you travel between the United States and
Mexico. Such evidence can be a U.S. passport, naturalization
certificate, consular report of birth abroad, certificate of
citizenship, or a certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate. If you
are a dual national, be aware that you will not lose your U.S.
nationality if you obtain a Certificate of Mexican Nationality. Loss of
U.S. citizenship would only occur if you sign a statement relinquishing
U.S. citizenship. The Mexican government recognizes a child's dual
nationality from birth to age 18 without requiring an oath of
allegiance. Starting at age 18, in order to obtain a Mexican passport
or to obtain other benefits, such as the right to own property in a
restricted zone, to pay a favorable resident tuition rate at a Mexican
university, or to vote in a Mexican election, a dual national is
required by Mexican law to obtain a Certificate of Mexican Nationality
(CMN). If you are contemplating obtaining a CMN, it is recommended that
you first consult the U.S. Embassy or the nearest U.S. consulate or the
Office of Overseas Citizens Services at the Department of State.
A Guide to Entry and Exit Regulations
Getting Into Mexico
U.S. citizens visiting Mexico for no more than 72 hours and remaining
within 25 kilometers of the border do not need a permit to enter. Those
wishing to travel past the 25 kilometer border area of Mexico must be
properly documented. Those transiting Mexico to another country need a
transit visa which costs a nominal fee and is valid for up to 30 days.
Tourist Cards. All U.S. citizens visiting Mexico for tourism or study
for up to 180 days need a document, called a tourist card in English or
FMT in Spanish, to enter and leave Mexico. The tourist card is free and
may be obtained from Mexican consulates, Mexican tourism offices,
Mexican border crossing points, and from most airlines serving Mexico.
If you fly to Mexico, you must obtain your tourist card before boarding
your flight; it cannot be obtained upon arrival at an airport in Mexico.
The tourist card is issued upon presentation of proof of citizenship,
such as a U.S. passport or a U.S. birth certificate, plus a photo I.D.,
such as a driver's license. Tourist cards are issued for up to 90 days
with a single entry, or if you present proof of sufficient funds, for
180 days with multiple entries.
Upon entering Mexico, retain and safeguard the pink copy of your tourist
card so you may surrender it to Mexican immigration when you depart. You
must leave Mexico before your tourist card expires or you are subject to
a fine. A tourist card for less than 180 days may be revalidated in
Mexico by the Mexican immigration service (Direccion General de
Servicios Migratorios).
Visas. If you wish to stay longer than 180 days, or if you wish to do
business or conduct religious work in Mexico, contact the Mexican
Embassy or the nearest Mexican consulate to obtain a visa or permit.
Persons conducting religious work on a tourist card are subject to
arrest and deportation.
Residing or Retiring in Mexico. If you plan to live or retire in
Mexico, consult a Mexican consulate on the type of long-term visa you
will need. As soon as possible after you arrive in the place you will
live, it is a good idea to register with the U.S. Embassy or the nearest
U.S. consulate or consular agent. Bring your passport or other
identification with you. Registration makes it easier to contact you in
an emergency. (Registration information is confidential and will not be
released to inquirers without your express authorization.)
Traveling Minors. A child under the age of 18 traveling with only one
parent must have written, notarized consent from the other parent to
travel, or must carry, if applicable, a decree of sole custody for the
accompanying parent or a death certificate for the other parent.
Children traveling alone or in someone else's custody must have
notarized consent from both parents to travel, or if applicable,
notarized consent from a single parent plus documentation that the
parent is the only custodial parent.
Operation of Citizen's Band (CB) Equipment
American tourists are permitted to operate CB radios in Mexico. You
must, however, obtain a 180 day permit for a nominal fee by presenting
your U.S. citizen's band radio authorization at a Mexican consulate or
Mexican Government Tourist Office. This permit cannot be obtained at
the border.
Transmissions on CB equipment are allowed only on channels 9, 10, and
11, and only for personal communication and emergency road assistance.
Any device which increases transmission power to over 5 watts is
prohibited. CB equipment may not be used near radio installations of the
aeronautical and marine services.
What You May Bring Into Mexico
Customs Regulations. Tourists should enter Mexico with only the items
needed for their trip. Entering with large quantities of an item a
tourist might not normally be expected to have, particularly expensive
appliances, such as televisions, stereos, or other items, may lead to
suspicion of smuggling and possible confiscation of the items and arrest
of the individual.
Mexican regulations limit the value of goods brought into Mexico by U.S.
citizens arriving by air or sea to $300 U.S. per person and by land to
$50 U.S. per person. Other travel-related items may also be brought in
duty-free. Amounts exceeding the duty-free limit are subject to a 32.8
percent tax.
Unless you prepare ahead, you may have difficulty bringing computers or
other expensive electronic equipment into Mexico for your personal use.
To prevent being charged an import tax, write a statement about your
intention to use the equipment for personal use and to remove it from
Mexico when you leave. Have this statement signed and certified at a
Mexican consulate in the United States and present it to Mexican customs
as you enter Mexico.
Land travelers should verify from Mexican customs at the border that all
items in their possession may be legally brought into Mexico. You will
be subject to a second immigration and customs inspection south of the
Mexican border where unlawful items may be seized, and you could be
prosecuted regardless of whether or not the items passed through the
initial customs inspection.
Currency. The Mexican government permits tourists to exchange dollars
for pesos at the fluctuating free market rate. There are no
restrictions on the import or export of bank notes and none on the
export of reasonable quantities of ordinary Mexican coins. However,
gold or silver Mexican coins may not be exported.
Take travelers checks with you because personal U.S. checks are rarely
accepted by Mexican hotels or banks. Major credit cards are accepted in
many hotels, shops, and restaurants. An exchange office (casa de
cambios) usually gives a better rate of exchange than do stores, hotels,
or restaurants.
Pets. U.S. visitors to Mexico may bring a dog, cat, or up to four
canaries by presenting the following certificates at the border:
(1) a pet health certificate signed by a registered veterinarian in the
United States and issued not more than 72 hours before the animal
enters Mexico; and
(2) a pet vaccination certificate showing that the animal has been
treated for rabies, hepatitis, pip, and leptospirosis.
Certification by Mexican consular authorities is not required for the
health or vaccination certificate. A permit fee is charged at the time
of entry into Mexico.
Shopping: Some Things To Beware of Buying
Wildlife and Wildlife Products. Beware of purchasing souvenirs made
from endangered wildlife. Mexican markets and stores abound with
wildlife, most of it prohibited from international traffic. You risk
confiscation and a possible fine by U.S. Customs if you attempt to
import virtually any wildlife from Mexico. In particular, watch out for
and avoid:
- All products made from sea turtles, including such items as turtle
leather boots, tortoise-shell jewelry, and sea turtle oil cosmetics.
- Fur from spotted cats.
- Mexican birds, stuffed or alive, such as parrots, parakeets, or birds
of prey.
- Crocodile and caiman leather.
- Black coral jewelry.
- Wildlife curios, such as stuffed iguanas.
When driving across state lines within Mexico, you can expect to be
stopped at agricultural livestock inspection stations.
Antiques. Mexico considers all pre-Colombian objects to be the
"inalienable property of the Nation" and that the unauthorized export of
such objects is theft and is punishable by arrest, detention, and
judicial prosecution. Under U.S. law, to import pre-Colombian
monumental and architectural sculpture and murals, you must present
proof that they were legally exported from the country of origin. U.S.
law does not prohibit the import of nonmonumental or nonarchitectural
artifacts from Mexico.
Glazed Ceramics. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, it
is possible to suffer lead poisoning if you consume food or beverages
that have been stored or served in improperly glazed ceramic ware.
Analysis of many ceramic pieces from Mexico has shown them to contain
dangerous levels of lead. Unless you have proof of their safety, use
glazed ceramics purchased in Mexico for decorative purposes only.
Returning to the United States
You must present the pink copy of your tourist card at your point of
departure from Mexico. If you are returning by motor vehicle, you will
need to show your vehicle import permit when you cross the border. At
the time of publication, the airport departure tax is $10 or the
equivalent in Mexican currency for those returning by commercial
airline.
The U.S. Customs Service currently permits U.S. citizens returning from
international travel to bring back $400 worth of merchandise, including
1 liter of alcohol, duty free. The next $1,000 worth of items brought
back is subject to a duty of 10%.
In addition to U.S. Customs regulations, be aware that some U.S. border
states (most notably, Texas) have imposed state restrictions on liquor,
wine, and beer imports from Mexico. If you are planning to bring back
alcoholic beverages, inquire about these restrictions from the liquor
control office of the state through which you plan to return.
Useful Addresses and Telephone Numbers
American Embassy
Paseo de la Reforma 305
Colonia Cuauhtemoc
Mexico 06500, D.F.
Tel [52] (5) 211-0042
U.S. Export Development Office/U.S. Trade Center
31 Liverpool
Mexico 06600, D.F.
Tel [52] (5) 591-0155
U.S. Consulates General
American Consulate General
Avenue Lopez Mateos 924-N
Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua
Tel: [52] (16) 11-3000
American Consulate General
Progreso 175
Guadalajara, Jalisco
Tel [52] (3) 825-2998/2700
American Consulate General
Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente
Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, 64000
Tel [52] (8) 345-2120
American Consulate General
Tapachula 96
Tijuana, Baja California
Tel [52] (66) 81-7400
American Consulate
Calle Monterrey 141, Poniente
U.S. Consulates
American Consulate
Ave. Monterrey 141 Pte.
Hermosillo, Sonora
Tel [52] (62) 17-2375
American Consulate
Ave. Primera 2002
Matamoros, Tamaulipas
Tel [52] (88) 12-44-02
American Consulate
Paseo Montejo 453,
Merida, Yucatan
Tel [52] (99) 25-5011
American Consulate
Calle Allende 3330, Col. Jardin
Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas
Tel [52] (87) 14-0512
U.S. Consular Agents
Resident consular agents have been designated in 10 other locations in
Mexico to assist U.S. citizens in serious emergencies. Each consular
agent is supervised by one of the above-listed offices and may be
contacted through it or by calling the consular agent's direct number.
Acapulco, Hotel Club del Sol
[52] (748) 5-7207
Cabo San Lucas, Blvd. Marina y Perdregal, Local 3,
Zona Central
[52] (114) 3-35-66
Cancun, Avenida Nader 40, Edificio Marruecos
3rd Floor, Office 31
[52] (988) 4-24-11
Mazatlan, Hotel Playa Mazatlan, Rodolfo T. Loaiza 202
Zona Dorada, 82110
[52] (69) 134-444 Ext. 285
Oaxaca, Alcala 201
[52] (951) 4-3054
Puerto Vallarta, Libertad y Miramar, Local 12-A
[52] (322) 2-0069;
San Luis Potosi, Francisco de P. Moriel 103-10
[52] (481) 2-1528
San Miguel de Allende, Dr. Hernandez Marcias 72
[52] (465) 2-2357
Tampico, Ejercito Mexicano No. 503-203, Col. Guadalupe
[52] (12) 13-2217
Vera Cruz, Victimas del 25 de Junio #388
[52] (29) 31-01-42
Back to VacationParadise.com Travel Tips
Renting in the United States. Many car rental companies in the United
States have clauses in their contracts prohibiting drivers from
traveling out of the country. The Mexican police are aware of these
regulations, and will sometimes impound rental vehicles driven from the
United States. When renting a vehicle in the United States, check with
the company to see if your contract allows you to drive it into Mexico.
Renting a Car in Mexico. The standard insurance included with many car
rental contracts in Mexico provides only nominal liability coverage,
often as little as the equivalent of $200. Because Mexican law permits
the jailing of drivers after an accident until they have met their
obligations to third parties and to the rental company, renters should
read their contracts carefully and purchase additional liability and
comprehensive insurance if necessary.
Bringing Your Own Plane or Boat to Mexico
Private aircraft and boats are subject to the same Mexican customs
regulations as are motor vehicles. When you arrive at a Mexican port in
your private boat, you can obtain a temporary import permit similar to
the one given for motor vehicles. Flying your own plane to Mexico,
however, is more complicated. Well before your trip, inquire about
private aircraft regulations and procedures from a Mexican consulate or
Mexican Government Tourist Office.
Crime Street crime is common, especially in urban areas. Persons
driving on some Mexican roads, particularly in isolated regions, have
been targeted by bandits who operate primarily after dark. Criminals,
particularly in Sinaloa, sometimes represent themselves as Mexican
police or other local officials. The U.S. Embassy advises its personnel
not to travel on Mexican highways after dark. Highway 15 and Express
Highway 1 (limited access) in the state of Sinaloa are particularly
dangerous areas where criminal assaults and murders have occurred,
during the day and night. If You Are in Danger. Call the Mexican
Ministry of Tourism's emergency hotline, [91] (5) 250-0123, for
immediate assistance. Or, in Mexico City, dial 06 for police
assistance.
If You Have Been the Victim of a Crime. Immediately contact the U.S.
Embassy or the nearest U.S. consulate or consular agency. For addresses
and telephone numbers, see the end of this pamphlet. You should also
report the crime to the local police immediately.
Avoiding Legal Problems
While traveling in Mexico, you are subject to Mexican laws and not U.S.
laws. Tourists who commit illegal acts have no special privileges and
are subject to full prosecution under the Mexican judicial system.
Avoid drug offenses. Mexico rigorously prosecutes drug cases. Under
Mexican law, possession of and trafficking in illegal drugs are federal
offenses. For drug trafficking, bail does not exist. Convicted
offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines. Sentences for
possession of drugs in Mexico can be as long as 25 years plus fines.
Just as in the U.S., the purchase of controlled medication requires a
doctor's prescription. The Mexican list of controlled medication
differs from the U.S. list, and Mexican public health laws concerning
controlled medication are unclear. Possession of excessive amounts of a
psychotropic drug such as valium can result in your arrest if the
authorities suspect abuse. Mexican law does not differentiate between
types of narcotics: heroin, marijuana, and amphetamines, for example,
are treated the same. Offenders found guilty of possessing more than a
token amount of any narcotic substance are subject to a minimum sentence
of 10 years, and it is not uncommon for persons charged with drug
offenses to be detained for up to 1 year before a verdict is reached.
Remember, if narcotics are found in your vehicle, you are subject to
arrest and your vehicle can be confiscated.
Avoid public drunkenness. It is against the law to be drunk in public
in Mexico. Certain border towns have become impatient with teenaged
(and older) Americans who cross the border to drink and carouse. This
behavior can lead to fights, arrests, traffic accidents, and even
fatalities.
Do not bring firearms. Possession of any gun or rifle without proper
authorization by the Mexican authorities is considered a "Firearms
Offense" in Mexico and carries stiff penalties. Possession of a single
non-assault weapon carries a penalty of up to five years in Mexican
prison. Sentences for possession of firearms in Mexico can be as long
as 30 years. A permit from a Mexican consulate in the U.S. is required
to import firearms or ammunition into Mexico, whether or not the firearm
is legally registered in the U.S. The U.S. Embassy has noted an
increase of Americans being detained for illegally smuggling arms into
Mexico. U.S. citizens should comply with all Mexican laws on arms,
including any arms they may wish to bring in for hunting. Some Mexican
cities have ordinances prohibiting the possession of knives or anything
that might be construed as a weapon.
Be aware that, even when you enter Mexican waters on your private boat,
you are subject to the ban on importing firearms.
Some cities, such as Nuevo Laredo, have ordinances prohibiting the
possession of knives and similar weapons. Tourists have even been
arrested for possessing souvenir knives. Most arrests for knife
possession occur in connection with some other infraction, such as drunk
and disorderly behavior.
Failure to pay hotel bills or for other services rendered is considered
fraud under Mexican law. Those accused of these offenses are subject to
arrest and conviction with stiff fines and jail sentences.
Be cautious when purchasing real estate. U.S. citizens who become
involved in time-share or other real property purchases should be aware
that Mexican laws and practices regarding real estate are markedly
different from those in the United States. Foreigners purchasing real
estate or time-shares in Mexico have no protection under Mexican law and
should be aware of the high risks involved. Foreigners may be granted
the right to own real property only under very specific conditions and
the purchase of real property in Mexico is far more complicated than in
the United States. For example no title insurance is available in
Mexico for the purchaser and the builders frequently go bankrupt leaving
the investors with little recourse to recoup their funds. The U.S.
Embassy strongly recommends the use of competent local legal assistance
for any significant real property or business purchase. A list of local
attorneys can be obtained from the U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate
in Mexico.
To Avoid Disputes With Merchants, Be a Careful Shopper. Make sure the
goods you buy are in good condition and always get a receipt. There is
a federal consumer protection office, the Procuraduria Federal del
Consumidor, to assist you if you have a major problem with a faulty
product or service. However, if the problem is with a service of the
tourist industry, you should bring the matter to the Mexican Government
Tourist Office (Secretaria de Turismo).
U.S. Assistance in Mexico
Where To Turn If You Have Serious Legal, Medical, or Financial
Difficulties
Legal Problems. If you find yourself in serious difficulty while in
Mexico, contact a consular officer at the U.S. Embassy or the nearest
U.S. consulate for assistance. U.S. consuls cannot serve as attorneys
or give legal assistance. They can, however, provide lists of local
attorneys and advise you of your rights under Mexican laws. Worldwide,
Mexico has the highest number of arrests of Americans abroad, over 1,000
per year, and the highest prison population of U.S. citizens outside of
the United States, about 450 at any one time. If you are arrested,
ask permission to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. consulate.
Under international agreements and practice, you have the right to talk
with an American consul. Although U.S. consuls are limited in what they
can do to assist you in legal difficulties, they can monitor the status
of detained U.S. citizens and make sure they are treated fairly under
local laws. They will also notify your relatives or friends upon your
request. An individual is guaranteed certain rights under the Mexican
constitution, but those rights differ significantly from U.S.
constitutional guarantees. The Mexican judicial system is based on
Roman and Napoleonic law and presumes a person accused of a crime to be
guilty until proven innocent. There is no trial by jury nor writ of
habeas corpus in the Anglo-American sense. Trial under the Mexican
system is a prolonged process based largely on documents examined on a
fixed date in court by prosecution and defense counsel. Sentencing
usually takes 6 to 10 months. Bail can be granted after sentencing if
the sentence is less than 5 years. Pre-trial bail exists but is never
granted when the possible sentence upon conviction is greater than 5
years.
Medical or Financial Problems. If you become seriously ill, U.S.
consular officers can assist in finding a doctor and in notifying your
family and friends about your condition. Consular officers can also
help arrange the transfer of emergency funds to you if you become
destitute as a result of robbery, accident, or other emergency.
Advice on Dual Nationality
U.S. law recognizes that Americans may also be citizens of other
countries.
Under Mexican law, an individual born in Mexico of an American parent or
parents may acquire both nationalities at birth. Also, a U.S. citizen
born in the United States of a Mexican fathe, or after December 26,
1969, of a Mexican mother, may have dual nationality.
If you are a U.S.-Mexican dual national, you must have evidence of your
U.S. citizenship with you when you travel between the United States and
Mexico. Such evidence can be a U.S. passport, naturalization
certificate, consular report of birth abroad, certificate of
citizenship, or a certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate. If you
are a dual national, be aware that you will not lose your U.S.
nationality if you obtain a Certificate of Mexican Nationality. Loss of
U.S. citizenship would only occur if you sign a statement relinquishing
U.S. citizenship. The Mexican government recognizes a child's dual
nationality from birth to age 18 without requiring an oath of
allegiance. Starting at age 18, in order to obtain a Mexican passport
or to obtain other benefits, such as the right to own property in a
restricted zone, to pay a favorable resident tuition rate at a Mexican
university, or to vote in a Mexican election, a dual national is
required by Mexican law to obtain a Certificate of Mexican Nationality
(CMN). If you are contemplating obtaining a CMN, it is recommended that
you first consult the U.S. Embassy or the nearest U.S. consulate or the
Office of Overseas Citizens Services at the Department of State.
A Guide to Entry and Exit Regulations
Getting Into Mexico
U.S. citizens visiting Mexico for no more than 72 hours and remaining
within 25 kilometers of the border do not need a permit to enter. Those
wishing to travel past the 25 kilometer border area of Mexico must be
properly documented. Those transiting Mexico to another country need a
transit visa which costs a nominal fee and is valid for up to 30 days.
Tourist Cards. All U.S. citizens visiting Mexico for tourism or study
for up to 180 days need a document, called a tourist card in English or
FMT in Spanish, to enter and leave Mexico. The tourist card is free and
may be obtained from Mexican consulates, Mexican tourism offices,
Mexican border crossing points, and from most airlines serving Mexico.
If you fly to Mexico, you must obtain your tourist card before boarding
your flight; it cannot be obtained upon arrival at an airport in Mexico.
The tourist card is issued upon presentation of proof of citizenship,
such as a U.S. passport or a U.S. birth certificate, plus a photo I.D.,
such as a driver's license. Tourist cards are issued for up to 90 days
with a single entry, or if you present proof of sufficient funds, for
180 days with multiple entries.
Upon entering Mexico, retain and safeguard the pink copy of your tourist
card so you may surrender it to Mexican immigration when you depart. You
must leave Mexico before your tourist card expires or you are subject to
a fine. A tourist card for less than 180 days may be revalidated in
Mexico by the Mexican immigration service (Direccion General de
Servicios Migratorios).
Visas. If you wish to stay longer than 180 days, or if you wish to do
business or conduct religious work in Mexico, contact the Mexican
Embassy or the nearest Mexican consulate to obtain a visa or permit.
Persons conducting religious work on a tourist card are subject to
arrest and deportation.
Residing or Retiring in Mexico. If you plan to live or retire in
Mexico, consult a Mexican consulate on the type of long-term visa you
will need. As soon as possible after you arrive in the place you will
live, it is a good idea to register with the U.S. Embassy or the nearest
U.S. consulate or consular agent. Bring your passport or other
identification with you. Registration makes it easier to contact you in
an emergency. (Registration information is confidential and will not be
released to inquirers without your express authorization.)
Traveling Minors. A child under the age of 18 traveling with only one
parent must have written, notarized consent from the other parent to
travel, or must carry, if applicable, a decree of sole custody for the
accompanying parent or a death certificate for the other parent.
Children traveling alone or in someone else's custody must have
notarized consent from both parents to travel, or if applicable,
notarized consent from a single parent plus documentation that the
parent is the only custodial parent.
Operation of Citizen's Band (CB) Equipment
American tourists are permitted to operate CB radios in Mexico. You
must, however, obtain a 180 day permit for a nominal fee by presenting
your U.S. citizen's band radio authorization at a Mexican consulate or
Mexican Government Tourist Office. This permit cannot be obtained at
the border.
Transmissions on CB equipment are allowed only on channels 9, 10, and
11, and only for personal communication and emergency road assistance.
Any device which increases transmission power to over 5 watts is
prohibited. CB equipment may not be used near radio installations of the
aeronautical and marine services.
What You May Bring Into Mexico
Customs Regulations. Tourists should enter Mexico with only the items
needed for their trip. Entering with large quantities of an item a
tourist might not normally be expected to have, particularly expensive
appliances, such as televisions, stereos, or other items, may lead to
suspicion of smuggling and possible confiscation of the items and arrest
of the individual.
Mexican regulations limit the value of goods brought into Mexico by U.S.
citizens arriving by air or sea to $300 U.S. per person and by land to
$50 U.S. per person. Other travel-related items may also be brought in
duty-free. Amounts exceeding the duty-free limit are subject to a 32.8
percent tax.
Unless you prepare ahead, you may have difficulty bringing computers or
other expensive electronic equipment into Mexico for your personal use.
To prevent being charged an import tax, write a statement about your
intention to use the equipment for personal use and to remove it from
Mexico when you leave. Have this statement signed and certified at a
Mexican consulate in the United States and present it to Mexican customs
as you enter Mexico.
Land travelers should verify from Mexican customs at the border that all
items in their possession may be legally brought into Mexico. You will
be subject to a second immigration and customs inspection south of the
Mexican border where unlawful items may be seized, and you could be
prosecuted regardless of whether or not the items passed through the
initial customs inspection.
Currency. The Mexican government permits tourists to exchange dollars
for pesos at the fluctuating free market rate. There are no
restrictions on the import or export of bank notes and none on the
export of reasonable quantities of ordinary Mexican coins. However,
gold or silver Mexican coins may not be exported.
Take travelers checks with you because personal U.S. checks are rarely
accepted by Mexican hotels or banks. Major credit cards are accepted in
many hotels, shops, and restaurants. An exchange office (casa de
cambios) usually gives a better rate of exchange than do stores, hotels,
or restaurants.
Pets. U.S. visitors to Mexico may bring a dog, cat, or up to four
canaries by presenting the following certificates at the border:
(1) a pet health certificate signed by a registered veterinarian in the
United States and issued not more than 72 hours before the animal
enters Mexico; and
(2) a pet vaccination certificate showing that the animal has been
treated for rabies, hepatitis, pip, and leptospirosis.
Certification by Mexican consular authorities is not required for the
health or vaccination certificate. A permit fee is charged at the time
of entry into Mexico.
Shopping: Some Things To Beware of Buying
Wildlife and Wildlife Products. Beware of purchasing souvenirs made
from endangered wildlife. Mexican markets and stores abound with
wildlife, most of it prohibited from international traffic. You risk
confiscation and a possible fine by U.S. Customs if you attempt to
import virtually any wildlife from Mexico. In particular, watch out for
and avoid:
- All products made from sea turtles, including such items as turtle
leather boots, tortoise-shell jewelry, and sea turtle oil cosmetics.
- Fur from spotted cats.
- Mexican birds, stuffed or alive, such as parrots, parakeets, or birds
of prey.
- Crocodile and caiman leather.
- Black coral jewelry.
- Wildlife curios, such as stuffed iguanas.
When driving across state lines within Mexico, you can expect to be
stopped at agricultural livestock inspection stations.
Antiques. Mexico considers all pre-Colombian objects to be the
"inalienable property of the Nation" and that the unauthorized export of
such objects is theft and is punishable by arrest, detention, and
judicial prosecution. Under U.S. law, to import pre-Colombian
monumental and architectural sculpture and murals, you must present
proof that they were legally exported from the country of origin. U.S.
law does not prohibit the import of nonmonumental or nonarchitectural
artifacts from Mexico.
Glazed Ceramics. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, it
is possible to suffer lead poisoning if you consume food or beverages
that have been stored or served in improperly glazed ceramic ware.
Analysis of many ceramic pieces from Mexico has shown them to contain
dangerous levels of lead. Unless you have proof of their safety, use
glazed ceramics purchased in Mexico for decorative purposes only.
Returning to the United States
You must present the pink copy of your tourist card at your point of
departure from Mexico. If you are returning by motor vehicle, you will
need to show your vehicle import permit when you cross the border. At
the time of publication, the airport departure tax is $10 or the
equivalent in Mexican currency for those returning by commercial
airline.
The U.S. Customs Service currently permits U.S. citizens returning from
international travel to bring back $400 worth of merchandise, including
1 liter of alcohol, duty free. The next $1,000 worth of items brought
back is subject to a duty of 10%.
In addition to U.S. Customs regulations, be aware that some U.S. border
states (most notably, Texas) have imposed state restrictions on liquor,
wine, and beer imports from Mexico. If you are planning to bring back
alcoholic beverages, inquire about these restrictions from the liquor
control office of the state through which you plan to return.
Useful Addresses and Telephone Numbers
American Embassy
Paseo de la Reforma 305
Colonia Cuauhtemoc
Mexico 06500, D.F.
Tel [52] (5) 211-0042
U.S. Export Development Office/U.S. Trade Center
31 Liverpool
Mexico 06600, D.F.
Tel [52] (5) 591-0155
U.S. Consulates General
American Consulate General
Avenue Lopez Mateos 924-N
Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua
Tel: [52] (16) 11-3000
American Consulate General
Progreso 175
Guadalajara, Jalisco
Tel [52] (3) 825-2998/2700
American Consulate General
Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente
Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, 64000
Tel [52] (8) 345-2120
American Consulate General
Tapachula 96
Tijuana, Baja California
Tel [52] (66) 81-7400
American Consulate
Calle Monterrey 141, Poniente
U.S. Consulates
American Consulate
Ave. Monterrey 141 Pte.
Hermosillo, Sonora
Tel [52] (62) 17-2375
American Consulate
Ave. Primera 2002
Matamoros, Tamaulipas
Tel [52] (88) 12-44-02
American Consulate
Paseo Montejo 453,
Merida, Yucatan
Tel [52] (99) 25-5011
American Consulate
Calle Allende 3330, Col. Jardin
Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas
Tel [52] (87) 14-0512
U.S. Consular Agents
Resident consular agents have been designated in 10 other locations in
Mexico to assist U.S. citizens in serious emergencies. Each consular
agent is supervised by one of the above-listed offices and may be
contacted through it or by calling the consular agent's direct number.
Acapulco, Hotel Club del Sol
[52] (748) 5-7207
Cabo San Lucas, Blvd. Marina y Perdregal, Local 3,
Zona Central
[52] (114) 3-35-66
Cancun, Avenida Nader 40, Edificio Marruecos
3rd Floor, Office 31
[52] (988) 4-24-11
Mazatlan, Hotel Playa Mazatlan, Rodolfo T. Loaiza 202
Zona Dorada, 82110
[52] (69) 134-444 Ext. 285
Oaxaca, Alcala 201
[52] (951) 4-3054
Puerto Vallarta, Libertad y Miramar, Local 12-A
[52] (322) 2-0069;
San Luis Potosi, Francisco de P. Moriel 103-10
[52] (481) 2-1528
San Miguel de Allende, Dr. Hernandez Marcias 72
[52] (465) 2-2357
Tampico, Ejercito Mexicano No. 503-203, Col. Guadalupe
[52] (12) 13-2217
Vera Cruz, Victimas del 25 de Junio #388
[52] (29) 31-01-42
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