Fly to Mexico Requirements: Your Quick Checklist

Planning a trip to Mexico? Before you book that last-minute flight, grab a pen and check off the basics. The right paperwork saves you from airport headaches and lets you enjoy the beaches, tacos, and culture without a hitch.

Passport, Visa, and Entry Forms

First things first – a valid passport. It must be good for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Most travelers from the UK, EU, US, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa for stays up to 180 days, but you’ll still have to fill out a tourist card (FMM). You can do the FMM online before you leave or get a printed copy at the airport. Keep the card handy; you’ll need it when you leave the country.

Health and Safety Checks

Mexico doesn’t require a vaccination certificate for most visitors, but it’s smart to be up to date on routine shots like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. If you’re heading to areas with a higher risk of Zika or dengue, bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves at dusk. As of now, there are no COVID‑19 entry tests, but a negative test or proof of vaccination can speed up the process if rules change.

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but a solid policy covering medical emergencies, lost luggage, and trip cancellations is worth the peace of mind. Keep a digital copy of your policy and emergency numbers in your phone.

Customs in Mexico are straightforward. You can bring in up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 250 g of tobacco, and 1 L of alcohol duty‑free. Anything over those limits needs a declaration and may be taxed. Fresh fruit, meat, and dairy are prohibited unless you have a special permit, so avoid packing those in your checked bag.

When you arrive, expect a quick inspection of your passport and the FMM. If you’re traveling with a large amount of cash (over $10,000 USD), you must declare it. Failure to do so can lead to fines.

Driving in Mexico? You’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license isn’t in Spanish. Car rentals often ask for a credit card and proof of insurance. Remember that many roads have speed limits in km/h, not mph.

Money matters: the Mexican peso is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in most tourist spots, but keep some cash for markets, small towns, and tips. ATMs are plentiful in cities but can be scarce in remote areas.

Finally, keep copies of your passport, visa (if applicable), travel insurance, and FMM in a separate bag from the originals. That way, if anything gets lost, you still have the info to get a replacement.

With these steps done, you’re set to board your flight, land in Mexico, and dive straight into the adventure. Safe travels!