“Expect big crowds, heavy traffic, and longer travel times.”
The FIFA World Cup starts next week. The popular soccer tournament is spread across 16 cities in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, and millions are expected to attend the matches. Before the frenzy begins, the U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Mexico, advising people to exercise caution in the country.
Mexico is under a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory due to terrorism and kidnapping. The advisory warns, “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.”
The State Department also notes that it has limited ability to assist in many parts of Mexico, and travelers should follow the same guidelines as government employees and avoid high-risk areas. Do not travel after dark between cities or drive from border towns to the interior of Mexico. Also, avoid traveling alone, especially in remote locations.
It’s important to note that Mexico is a large country and, like any other destination, it has both safe and unsafe areas. Tourist cities are generally safe, and you can avoid problems by taking precautions while you travel.
According to the advisory, the high-risk areas are the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. It warns of armed groups, terrorism, and gang violence in these states. There is also a Level 3: Reconsider Travel warning for Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, and Sonora. The advisory recommends that travelers stay on main highways and avoid street taxis.
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The U.S. embassy and consulates in Mexico said in its FIFA World Cup travel recommendations that the Mexican government is expecting to host more than 5.5 million visitors. People should book accommodations well in advance and expect large crowds and heavy traffic. They also caution that “the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico do not sell FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets.” It is also illegal to resell tickets in the country.
The embassy has released a pocket guide with its contact information for U.S. citizens. For those driving to Mexico, it recommends mapping the route carefully. Among other requirements, you will need Mexican auto insurance and an import permit for your vehicle. You should also cross the border with a full tank of gas to avoid fuel delays on the other side.
You will need your passport book or passport card, including for children. If only one parent is traveling with a child, you must have a notarized authorization letter of permission from the other parent.
Whether you are traveling by land or air, remember not to bring any illegal or restricted items with you. Mexico does not allow tourists to bring vapes or electronic cigarettes; drugs (including marijuana) are also strictly prohibited. In addition, U.S. gun permits are not valid in Mexico, and possession of a firearm is a serious offense. Travel insurance is a wise investment, as standard U.S. healthcare plans will not cover emergencies in Mexico.
For safety alerts and updates, you can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). “This free resource is available for U.S. citizens traveling abroad to receive updates on everything from local security conditions, protests and demonstrations, or severe weather warnings. STEP also helps us contact you in case of an emergency.”