Ruth Haines
If you're planning a trip to Mexico, it's important to be aware of what you can and cannot bring into the country. Certain items are prohibited, and failing to declare certain items can result in fines or confiscation. Here's an overview of some key things to keep in mind when packing for your trip to Mexico and going through customs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Passport requirements | A passport book is required to enter Mexico by air. A passport book or card is required to enter Mexico by land. |
| Vehicle import permits | Required for U.S.-registered vehicles traveling beyond the border zone. Permits can be obtained from Banjercito (office of temporary vehicle import) and a refundable deposit must be paid. |
| Items declaration | All articles acquired in Mexico must be declared. Goods worth over $300 USD (arriving by land) or $500 USD (arriving by air) must be declared to avoid fines or confiscation. |
| Prohibited items | Firearms, ammunition, and knives without permits issued by the Mexican government. U.S. fruits and meats. |
| Permitted items | One new or used portable computer (e.g., laptop, tablet) per person. Books and magazines for personal use. Medical equipment. |
| Alcohol restrictions | One liter of alcohol and one case of beer may be imported per person every 30 days, provided the person is 21 years of age or older. |
| Tobacco restrictions | One carton of cigarettes may be imported if the person is 18 years of age or older. |
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What You'll Learn
Bringing pets into Mexico
Health Certificates
As of 2019, health certificates are no longer required for dogs and cats entering Mexico. However, some airlines may still ask for health certificates for pets travelling in the cargo hold. It is important to contact your airline directly to confirm their specific requirements. If your pet is flying in the cabin as an emotional support animal or service animal, different rules may apply.
Vaccinations and Veterinary Checks
Upon arrival in Mexico, your pet will undergo a physical inspection by SENASICA to ensure it is free of ticks, worms, and any signs of illness. It is important to ensure your pet is up to date on all necessary vaccinations and treatments, such as rabies and deworming, and to have documentation of these treatments readily available.
Food and Water
A reasonable amount of dry food for your pet is allowed into Mexico, but it must be in its original packaging and labelled in English or Spanish. It is recommended to pack food in a ziplock bag inside your checked luggage. Water containers should be kept sealed until arrival.
Transportation
If travelling by car, it is essential to take sufficient supplies, especially water, for longer road trips. Pets should not be left alone in a locked car on hot days. If using public transportation, bus companies will transport cats and dogs in the hold, provided they are travelling in a pet crate.
Import and Export Requirements
Mexico permits the import of up to two pets (cats, dogs, or one of each) per person. If importing more than three pets, additional fees may apply. An exit permit is required for pets leaving Mexico, issued by SAGARPA, the Mexican agricultural ministry. This permit is only valid for six months. If you plan to be outside of Mexico for more than six months, you will need to obtain new health certificates and vaccinations before returning with your pets.
Frequent Traveler Programs
If you travel regularly with your pet between the United States and Mexico, you may register for the "Pet Program - Frequent Traveler" or the "Frequent Traveler Pet Program" to streamline the entry process and simplify requirements.
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Bringing agricultural products
When bringing agricultural products into Mexico, there are several restrictions to be aware of. Firstly, it is illegal to carry firearms, ammunition, or drugs into the country. There are also restrictions on certain types of food and other agricultural items.
For meat products, wholly processed food preparations with meat content (excluding ruminants) are allowed, as long as they are packaged and labelled. This includes items such as stuffed pasta, cheesecake, pates, and canned or bottled fish with the appropriate labels. However, sandwiches, burgers, and fried chicken that are not in their original packaging and contain beef or dairy are prohibited.
Fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables are generally subject to inspection at agricultural checkpoints. While some sources indicate that citrus fruits may be of particular concern, it is best to be prepared to have any fruits and vegetables inspected. Additionally, alcohol is no longer duty-free when brought into Mexico, and a 114% import tax will be applied.
Pharmaceutical, chemical, and biological products for animal use or consumption are forbidden. This includes products designed for therapeutic or research purposes. Any garments stained with animal blood or tissue, such as those used for bullfighting or horsemanship, are also prohibited.
It is important to declare all agricultural products you are bringing into Mexico to avoid any penalties. You can contact the local Mexican consulate or the Mexico customs office for the latest information on specific items.
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Bringing medicine
If you are bringing medication into Mexico, it is important to be aware of the relevant laws and regulations. While it is easy to buy prescription medication in Mexico, there are different rules for bringing medication into the country.
Firstly, it is illegal to bring some over-the-counter medicines that are commonly used in the US. This includes inhalers and some allergy and sinus medications, especially those containing pseudoephedrine or codeine. It is recommended to check the official Mexican government websites for lists of controlled substances.
If you are bringing medication for personal use, you must have a medical prescription or a letter from your doctor. This letter should include the amount of the substance required, the amount you will bring, and the daily dose. It is also recommended to bring a copy of your prescription, including the generic name of the medicine. If you are bringing controlled substances or injectable medicines, such as EpiPens or insulin, you should ask your healthcare provider for a note.
It is also important to keep medicines in their original, labelled containers. The labelling should include your full name, the name of the medicine, and the dosage. It is also recommended to leave a copy of your prescription at home, in case you lose your copy or need an emergency refill.
If you are bringing medication into Mexico by car, it is important to be aware that you may face legal complications if you do not follow the relevant rules. If you are shipping medication into Mexico, the Mexican Health Department requires a permit.
Finally, it is worth noting that the public healthcare system in Mexico may be less comprehensive than what you are used to. US travelers often carry their own medications, but with good judgment and forethought, this need not be a problem.
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Bringing electronics
Mexico enforces strict customs rules, particularly around electronic devices, to prevent the resale of electronics and control the number of devices entering the country. When entering Mexico, travellers are allowed to bring one portable computing device, such as a laptop, notebook, tablet, or iPad, without incurring an import tax. Previously, travellers could face a duty of 19% or higher of the item's value if they carried multiple devices. However, this policy has been cancelled, at least for Cancun, by the local authorities and the Quintana Roo government.
For other destinations in Mexico, such as Cabo, Tulum, and Mexico City, the previous rules still apply. Travellers are allowed one portable computing device, three cell phones, one GPS, camera, or portable printer. Bringing additional devices beyond the permitted allowances may result in a tax based on the device's value.
It is important to note that customs officials pay extra attention to electronic devices, and bringing more than allowed may result in unexpected fees or delays at customs. To avoid this, travellers should plan ahead and only bring the necessary devices. Additionally, travellers should be aware that customs inspections may include searching through electronic devices, and refusing an inspection may result in the device being confiscated, travel delays, or denial of entry.
To prevent being charged an import tax, travellers can prepare a statement declaring their intention to use the equipment for personal use only and that they will remove it from Mexico when they leave. This statement can help clarify that the devices are not intended for resale.
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Bringing cash
It is advisable to carry a mix of cash and credit cards when travelling to Mexico. While credit cards are widely accepted in the country, particularly in tourist areas, upscale establishments, and large cities, carrying cash is also important. Cash is useful for making purchases from smaller, cash-only businesses and street vendors, and in rural areas where credit cards may not be accepted. It is also handy for tipping.
There is no limit to the amount of money you can bring into Mexico. However, if you are carrying more than $10,000, you must notify customs officials upon arrival. Failure to do so may result in fines or confiscation of funds above the limit. It is recommended that you keep a record of the source of your funds and the reason for bringing them into the country to avoid any complications.
When deciding how much cash to bring, it is important to consider your budget, the length of your stay, the size of your group, and the activities you plan to do. A good rule of thumb is to bring 25% of your overall budget in cash to avoid carrying large amounts. For example, if your daily budget is $50 and you will be in Mexico for six days, plan to bring $60-70 in cash. If you are staying in an all-inclusive resort, you may not need as much cash as many purchases can be charged to your room. However, it is still recommended to bring some cash for tips and incidentals.
When bringing cash to Mexico, it is recommended to have a mix of US dollars and Mexican pesos. US dollars are widely accepted in many tourist places, such as Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cabo San Lucas. However, some places may not be able to make change for bills larger than $20, so it is advisable to bring smaller denominations. You can exchange money at a bank or currency exchange office, or withdraw pesos from an ATM using a debit card with low international fees. These options typically offer better exchange rates than airports or hotels.
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Frequently asked questions
You can bring up to three litres of alcoholic beverages and six litres of wine, and one litre of alcoholic beverages per person over 21 every 30 days. You can also bring a maximum of 10 packs of cigarettes, 25 cigars or 200 grams of tobacco, and $10,000 in cash. If you are bringing medication, you must have a prescription or a letter from your doctor and the amount must not exceed what you need for your stay. You must also bring a passport book.
Firearms and ammunition are illegal to bring into Mexico. E-cigarettes are also prohibited.
You must declare any cash or bearer negotiable instruments that exceed $10,000 USD. You must also declare any articles that are different from your luggage or any articles that are worth more than $500 USD.
