The advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information under Safety and Security: Crime (travel on toll roads in Sonora and Sinaloa, sporadic bombings). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Summary

Safety and Security

Terrorism

Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.

Civil Unrest/Political Tension

You should avoid all large public gatherings, protests and demonstrations as they may turn violent or be the target of random attacks. Participation in demonstrations by foreigners is prohibited. Protests and demonstrations are common in Mexico and also have the potential to cause major traffic congestion and restrict movement around the affected areas. Travellers should monitor the local media for developments and follow the advice of local authorities.

Since 2008, the city of Oaxaca has experienced periods of violent civil unrest. Underlying tensions and a large police presence remain in the city.

Armed rebel and civilian groups are present in the state of Chiapas, particularly in remote areas including jungle areas near the Guatemalan border. If you are considering travel to remote areas of Chiapas, you should remain in well-frequented tourist areas and familiarise yourself with the local security situation.

Crime

We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico because of the high level of violent crime. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks. If you are the victim of a crime, particularly if you wish to proceed with a criminal investigation, you should immediately report the crime to the police.

Extortion and robbery have been committed by persons posing as police officers, sometimes driving automobiles resembling police vehicles.

Violent crime, including sexual assault, armed robbery and kidnapping, occurs in popular tourist destinations and beach resorts. Drink and food 'spiking' occurs in bars and restaurants. There have been reports of sexual assault and other serious crimes, including assault and robbery, committed by individuals presenting themselves as police officers. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is prevalent at tourist destinations, airports, bus stations and on the metro in Mexico City. Security risks increase after dark.

The number of 'express kidnappings', where individuals are forced to withdraw funds from ATMs to secure their release, continues to increase, particularly in urban areas. People travelling on the metro in Mexico City have also been targeted. The use of ATMs located inside shopping malls during daylight hours may reduce risk.

The incidence of kidnapping people for longer periods for financial gain is increasing and there have been allegations of complicity by police officers. You should be cautious and discreet about discussing your financial or business affairs.

Thieves often work in cooperation with or pose as taxi drivers. Travellers have been robbed when using taxis hailed from the street. You should only use radio-despatched taxis or taxis based at a designated stand (sitios), particularly in Mexico City. Use only official taxis (yellow/white with an aircraft symbol on the door of the vehicle) from the airport after pre-paying the fare inside the airport.

There have been a number of incidents involving travellers changing money at Mexico City airport. Gangs are known to have arranged attacks on travellers departing the airport after they have changed money. You should avoid changing money at the airport if possible or change only small amounts to avoid attracting attention.

Crime levels on inter-city buses and on highways are high. Travellers should avoid unnecessary travel at night. Using toll (cuota) roads may reduce the risk of crime when driving but you should remain vigilant, particularly when travelling on toll roads in Sonora and Sinaloa. There have been a number of reported robberies of tourists travelling by bus from Acapulco to Ixtapa and Huatulco.

It is increasingly common for extortionists to call prospective victims on the telephone, often posing as law enforcement or other officials, and demand payments in return for the release of an arrested family member. If you receive such calls you should contact local police.

Over the past two years, there has been a significant increase in drug-related gang violence. Violent crime, often related to the illegal drug trade, has now become more widespread and targeted attacks on military personnel, criminal justice officers and journalists have increased. In response, the Mexican Government has deployed large numbers of military personnel and federal police to various Mexican States (including Baja California, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacan, Nuevo Leon and Quintana Roo) to patrol the streets, set up roadblocks and conduct random vehicle checks. In July 2009, drug-related gang violence increased further in the states of Chihuahua and Michoacan.

The capital cities of each of the States bordering the United States of America, in particular, Tijuana, Cuidad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo, Matamoras and Reynosa have been affected by this increase in drug-related violence. Other affected cities include popular tourist destinations such as Mexico City, Acapulco, Cancun and Zihuatenejo. Although the violence is not normally targeted at foreigners, foreign residents and tourists have been among the victims.

Since September, there have been sporadic bombings targeting public buildings in Mexico City and Morelia. Travellers could be caught up in the violence directed at others and should therefore be vigilant about their personal security at all times.

Local Travel

Driving on rural roads in Mexico is dangerous due to poor road conditions, the presence of livestock and pedestrians on roads, and inadequate street lighting and signage. For further advice, see our bulletin on Overseas Road Safety.

The standards maintained by diving schools, dive operators and other adventure activity companies may not be high or comparable to those in Australia. Carefully check the operator's credentials beforehand and ensure that your insurance policy covers you for all activities that you undertake.

Standards maintained by search and rescue services may not be as high or comparable to those in Australia. These services may not be available in some locations.

Visitors to beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts of Mexico should follow the warning flags. Local undertows and currents may endanger even strong swimmers.

Airline Safety

Passengers on international flights to and from Australia are only allowed to carry a small amount of liquids (including aerosols and gels) in their carry-on baggage. You can find out more information at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government website. Similar restrictions apply to flights in an increasing number of countries. Contact your airline for further information.

If you have concerns about the safety standards of a particular airline or aircraft, we recommend you research the airline or aircraft through organisations such as Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government has published fact sheets on security for air travellers. When staff at Australia's overseas missions are advised not to use particular airlines due to safety concerns, this will be included in the travel advisory.

The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that are subject to operating bans or restrictions within the EU. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through its foreign assessment program focuses on a country's ability, not the individual airline, to adhere to international standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations and maintenance established by ICAO.

Natural Disasters, Severe Weather and Climate

The hurricane season is June to November when landslides, mudslides and flash flooding may occur, including in Mexico City. In the case of a hurricane, monitor local media reports and follow the instructions of local emergency officials.

The direction and strength of hurricanes can change with little warning. You can check the latest hurricane information at the National Hurricane Center website.

In the event of an approaching hurricane, you should identify your local shelter. Flights in and out of affected areas could be delayed or suspended. Available flights may fill quickly. You should contact your airline for the latest flight information. The hurricane could also affect access to sea ports in the region. In some areas, adequate shelter from a severe hurricane may not be available to all who may choose to stay. You should familiarise yourself with your hotel or cruise ship evacuation plans. You should carry your travel documents at all times (i.e. passport, picture identification, etc.) or secure them in a safe, waterproof location. We also suggest that you contact friends and family in Australia with updates about your welfare and whereabouts. For further information, see our Travel Bulletin: Severe Weather – Cyclones, Hurricanes and Typhoons.

Mexico is subject to earthquakes. There were a number of earthquakes in early 2008, including one in Oaxaca measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale.

There are several active volcanoes, including the Popocatepetl and Colima volcanoes. The Popocatepetl volcano currently has a Yellow (phase two) alert following significant recent activity. Information on volcanic activity can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service.

All oceanic regions of the world can experience tsunamis, but in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, there is a more frequent occurrence of large, destructive tsunamis because of the many large earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches. See the Tsunami Awareness brochure.

If a natural disaster occurs, you should monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Wildlife

Australians are advised to respect wildlife laws and to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife, including marine animals and birds. You should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens' advice.

Money and Valuables

Before you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Australian currency and travellers' cheques are not accepted in many countries. Consult with your bank to find out which is the most appropriate currency to carry and whether your ATM card will work overseas. US dollars are widely accepted in holiday resort areas of Mexico. For security reasons, you should only use ATMs during daylight hours.

Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers' cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home. Store your passport and other valuables in the hotel safe where possible and carry a copy of your passport for identification purposes.

While travelling, don't carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.

As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.

You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.

For Parents

For general information and tips on travelling with children see our Travelling Parents brochure.

If you are planning on placing your children in schools or childcare facilities overseas we encourage you to research the standards of security, care and staff training within those establishments. You should exercise the same precautions you would take before placing children into schools or childcare facilities in Australia.

Ideas on how to select childcare providers are available from the smartraveller Children's Issues page, Child Wise and the National Childcare Accreditation Council.

Local Laws

When you are in Mexico, be aware that local laws and penalties, including ones that appear harsh by Australian standards, do apply to you. If you are arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you but we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. In Mexico, suspects may be considered guilty until proven innocent.

Information on what Australian consular officers can and cannot do to help Australians in trouble overseas is available from the Consular Services Charter.

The Mexican constitution expressly prohibits political activity by foreign nationals while they are in Mexico. This includes participation in protests or demonstrations. Such activity may result in detention or expulsion from Mexico for up to 10 years.

Mexico City and the state of Coahuila have passed a law allowing civil unions between same sex partners, however other states have not. Homosexuality is tolerated rather than accepted and public displays of affection between same sex couples should be avoided.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include lengthy prison sentences in local jails.

People who rent or borrow cars in Mexico are responsible for any illegal items found in those vehicles, even if they were unaware of their presence.

You can be arrested for possession of Mexican archaeological artefacts.

Australians residing in Mexico and planning to acquire property or invest in time-share agreements should undertake thorough research and seek the advice of a qualified lawyer before making any financial commitments.

Some Australian criminal laws, such as those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials, terrorism and child sex tourism, apply to Australians overseas. Australians who commit these offences while overseas may be prosecuted in Australia.

Australian authorities are committed to combating sexual exploitation of children by Australians overseas. Australians may be prosecuted at home under Australian child sex tourism laws. These laws provide severe penalties of up to 17 years imprisonment for Australians who engage in sexual activity with children under 16 while outside of Australia.

Information for Dual Nationals

Our Travel Information for Dual Nationals brochure provides further information.

Entry and Exit Requirements

Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Mexico for the most up-to-date information.

Children (under 18) travelling with one parent, regardless of their nationality, are required to present a notarised, written consent of the non-travelling parent to enter Mexico. Australians travelling with children are advised to contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Mexico for further information

If you are travelling to Mexico through the United States of America (USA), or if you are transiting in Honolulu or other USA points of entry, you are required to meet USA entry/transit requirements. Make sure you check with your nearest US Embassy or Consulate your visa requirements well in advance of your travel. You should also read our travel advice for the United States of America. For information about some recent changes to United States border entry procedures, including the use of Emergency Passports and Documents of Identity, please see our travel bulletin on entry into the United States.

Visitors crossing by land at the US/Mexico border should ensure they obtain a tourist card on arrival to Mexico from the closest National Institute of Migration (Instituto Nacional de Migracion) to the land border crossing. All tourists are required to have their passport stamped for entry into Mexico. This will help to avoid problems if the passport is checked by authorities at a later stage during travel in Mexico, and will also ensure that no fine is payable on departure.

Make sure your passport has at least six months' validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.

Health Issues

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 has spread throughout the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides useful information for individuals and travellers on its website. For further information and advice to Australians, including on possible quarantine measures overseas, see our travel bulletin on Pandemic (H1N1) 2009.

Travellers to Mexico should continue to practice hand hygiene (washing and drying hands regularly) and respiratory etiquette (covering the mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing). You should consult a doctor or the nearest hospital immediately if you develop flu like symptoms.

We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. The Australian Government will not pay for a traveller's medical expenses overseas or medical evacuation costs.

Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about preventive measures, immunisations (including booster doses of childhood vaccinations) and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides information for travellers and our 'Travelling Well' brochure also provides useful tips for travelling with medicines and staying healthy while overseas.

The standard of medical facilities provided by private hospitals in Mexico and other major cities is reasonable. Outside major cities, however, facilities can be very limited. Treatment at private clinics and hospitals is expensive. Doctors and hospitals expect cash payment prior to providing medical services, including for emergency care. Island resorts may lack comprehensive medical facilities.

Hyperbaric chambers are available in major cities and in resort towns where scuba diving is popular.

Malaria is a risk throughout the year in some rural areas, including resorts in these areas. There is a high risk of transmission in some locations in the states of Chiapas and Oaxaca; moderate risk in the states of Chihuahua, Sinaloa and Tabasco; and low risk in Campeche, Durango, Guerrero, Michoacán, Jalisco, Nayarit, Quintana Roo, Sonora, Veracruz and Yucatan. Dengue fever and other insect-borne diseases (including Chagas' disease and leishmaniasis) are also a risk to travellers. You should consult your doctor or travel clinic about prophylaxis against malaria and take measures to avoid insect bites, including using insect repellent at all times.

Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases (including hepatitis, typhoid, tuberculosis and rabies) are prevalent with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time. We encourage you to consider having vaccinations before travelling. We advise you to boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, and avoid ice cubes and raw or undercooked food. Seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea.

In addition to difficulties caused by high altitude, visitors to Mexico City may experience health problems caused by air pollution, which is at its peak during the winter months. Visitors with heart, lung or respiratory problems are advised to consult their doctors before travelling.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed cases of avian influenza in birds in a number of countries throughout the world. For a list of these countries, visit the OIE website. For information on our advice to Australians on how to reduce the risk of infection and on Australian Government precautions see our travel bulletin on avian influenza.

Where to Get Help

In Mexico, you can obtain consular assistance from the:

Australian Embassy
Ruben Dario #55
Corner of Campos Eliseos, Polanco
Colonia Bosque de Chapultepec
11580 Mexico DF Mexico
Telephone (52 55) 1101 2200
Facsimile (52 55) 1101 2201
E-mail: embaustmex@yahoo.com.mex
Website: http://www.mexico.embassy.gov.au/

Australia has a Consulate in Nuevo Leon headed by an Honorary Consul. The Consulate provides limited consular assistance which does not include the issue of Australian passports. Contact details are:

Australian Honorary Consul
Parque Corporativo Equus
Mezanine de la Torre Sur
Av. Ricardo Margain No. 444
Col. Valle de Campestre
CP 66265, San Pedro Garza Garcia
Nuevo Leon, Mexico
Telephone (52 81) 8158 0791 or 8158 0793
Facsimile (52 83) 681609

If you are travelling to Mexico, whatever the reason and however long you'll be there, we encourage you to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You can register online or in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. The information you provide will help us to contact you in an emergency -whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family issue.

In Australia, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.